How to print FBA labels for your products

What are FBA Labels?

FBA labels are barcodes that Amazon uses to track products in their fulfillment centers. Each item you send to Amazon must be labeled correctly to ensure it can be located, picked, packed, and shipped to customers without any issues. The labels carry an Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN) that is unique to each product and they help streamline the logistics process within Amazon’s extensive fulfillment network.

Why are FBA Labels Important?

1. Inventory Management: FBA labels allow Amazon to manage inventory efficiently. Each product can be tracked throughout the inventory storage and shipping process.
2. Reduction of Errors: By using unique barcodes, FBA labels minimize the risk of errors, ensuring that the right product is sent to the right customer.
3. Compliance with Amazon’s Policies: Amazon has strict compliance requirements for sellers using FBA. Not adhering to labeling requirements can lead to delays, additional fees, or even removal from the program.
4. Speed Up Processing: Labeled products are processed more quickly at Amazon fulfillment centers because the barcodes can be scanned automatically.

Preparing Your Products for FBA

Before you can print FBA labels, ensure your products are ready for shipment:

1. Create Your FBA Shipment: Log into your Amazon Seller Central account, navigate to the “Inventory” tab, and select “Manage FBA Inventory.” You can choose which products you want to fulfill via FBA.
2. Select and Package Your Products: Determine the items you want to send to Amazon and ensure they are properly packaged. Amazon has specific requirements for packaging to prevent damage during shipment.
3. Choose Labeling Option: During the shipment creation process, Amazon will provide you with the choice to either label the products yourself or have Amazon label them for a fee. Opting for self-labeling requires you to print your labels.

How to Generate and Print FBA Labels

Now that your products are prepared and your shipment is created, let’s dive into the steps to generate and print your FBA labels.

Step 1: Create a Shipping Plan

1. Log into Amazon Seller Central: Access your Seller Central account.
2. Navigate to FBA: Hit the ‘Inventory’ tab and select ‘Manage FBA Inventory’.
3. Create a Shipping Plan: Click on ‘Create a Shipping Plan’. Enter essential details like:
   • Ship From Address: This is where your products will be shipped from.
   • Select the products: Choose the items you want to send to Amazon.
4. Review Your Plan: Check the information and confirm the products being shipped.

Step 2: Prepare Your Products

1. Label Your Products (if self-labeling): Choose ‘Sticker Labels’ and review the guidelines on labeling requirements.
2. Packaging Requirements: Ensure you’re using proper materials that meet Amazon’s packaging requirements. Always refer to Amazon’s guidelines which can change periodically.

Step 3: Print FBA Labels

1. Download FBA Labels:
   • After you create your shipping plan, you’ll be directed to a page where you can print your FBA labels. Generally, this page will present you with two options: Small Label or Large Label (depending on the size of your product).
   • Click on the option that appears based on your product dimensions.
2. Review Label Compliance: Before printing, you should ensure that:
   • Each label has a scannable barcode.
   • No other barcodes or labels interfere with the FBA label.
   • Labels are printed in compliance with Amazon’s color and sizing specifications.
3. Select Your Printing Preferences:
   • Amazon provides your FBA labels in PDF format. Make sure you have a PDF viewer like Adobe Acrobat Reader.
   • You can print from a standard printer (inkjet or laser).
4. Print the Labels:
   • Open the PDF containing your labels and print directly from your PDF viewer.
   • Ensure the print settings are set to “Actual Size” or “100%” to avoid any scaling issues.
5. Label Application:
   • Carefully cut out the labels and attach them to your products, ensuring that they are affixed flat and securely. Each label must not be obstructed, and it should be easily visible for scanning.

Step 4: Final Checks Before Shipping

1. Check Quantity: Verify that you have printed the correct number of labels corresponding to the quantity of products.
2. Inspect Labels for Scannability: Use a barcode scanner (if available) to ensure labels are scannable.
3. Prepare Your Shipment: Once your products are labeled, pack them according to Amazon’s shipping and packaging guidelines.

Tips for Successful Label Printing

1. Invest in Label Sheets: If you frequently send products to Amazon, consider using dedicated labels (like 30-up labels) manufactured for shipping. These eliminate the need to cut out labels manually.
2. Quality of Print: Always use a good-quality printer with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi to ensure that the barcodes are clear and scannable.
3. Label Placement: Ensure that the labels are placed in the right location, typically on the largest flat surface of the packaging.
4. Keep Track of Inventory: Use inventory management tools to keep track of your products and their corresponding shipping details.
5. Double-Check for Updates: Amazon regularly updates its policies regarding FBA and labeling. Make sure that you revisit Seller Central frequently to stay informed about new guidelines.

In summary, printing FBA labels is an essential part of the process for sellers using Amazon’s fulfillment services. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your products are accurately labeled and compliant with Amazon’s requirements. Remember that attention to detail is key—from creating the shipping plan to labeling and packaging your products. Taking the time to get this right will not only enhance your operational efficiency but also contribute to positive customer experiences on Amazon. By streamlining your FBA process, you can focus more on scaling your business and delighting your customers with speedy and reliable service