Common Labeling Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

🧭 Overview

Proper labeling is critical when sending items to FBA. Even small mistakes can lead to:

Shipment delays
Inventory discrepancies
Additional fees

👉 This guide covers the most common mistakes and how to fix them.

⚠️ Most Common Labeling Mistakes

❗ 1. Missing FNSKU Labels

Problem:

Items are sent without FNSKU labels

Impact:

Amazon cannot identify your inventory
Items may be rejected or relabeled (with fees)

Fix:

Ensure every unit has a scannable FNSKU label

❗ 2. Barcode Not Covered

Problem:

Original UPC/EAN barcode is still visible

Impact:

Amazon may scan the wrong barcode
Inventory may be assigned incorrectly

Fix:

Cover or remove all other barcodes
Only the FNSKU barcode should be visible

❗ 3. Incorrect Label Placement

Problem:

Labels placed on curved, uneven, or hard-to-scan areas

Impact:

Scanning issues
Processing delays

Fix:

Place labels on a flat, visible surface
Avoid edges, seams, or corners

❗ 4. Poor Print Quality

Problem:

Blurry, faded, or low-resolution labels

Impact:

Barcode won’t scan properly
Manual processing delays

Fix:

Use a thermal printer or high-quality print settings
Ensure labels are clear and sharp

❗ 5. Wrong Labels Applied

Problem:

Applying the wrong FNSKU to an item

Impact:

Inventory mismatches
Customer complaints
Potential account issues

Fix:

Double-check labels before applying
Label items immediately after scanning

❗ 6. Switching Items Between Boxes After Labeling

Problem:

Moving items between boxes after labels are assigned

Impact:

Box content mismatch
Shipment errors (e.g., “additional quantities encountered”)

Fix:

Always update box content first
Reprint labels if changes are made

❗ 7. Missing Box Labels

Problem:

Shipping boxes are not labeled

Impact:

Shipment may be delayed or rejected

Fix:

Apply correct box labels to each shipment box

❗ 8. Damaged Labels

Problem:

Labels are torn, wrinkled, or smudged

Impact:

Scanning failures

Fix:

Reprint and replace damaged labels
Keep labels clean and protected

❗ 9. Using the Wrong Label Type

Problem:

Confusing FNSKU with internal (merchant) labels

Impact:

Amazon cannot track your items

Fix:

Always use FNSKU labels for FBA shipments
Merchant labels are optional only

🔧 Quick Labeling Checklist

Before shipping, confirm:

✅ FNSKU label on every unit
✅ No other barcodes visible
✅ Labels are clear and scannable
✅ Correct label on correct item
✅ Box labels applied properly

💡 Pro Tips

Label items immediately after scanning
Use consistent placement for all items
Keep extra labels ready in case of damage

✅ Quick Summary

Most labeling issues come from:

Missing or incorrect labels
Poor placement or quality
Mismatched box content

👉 Proper labeling ensures smooth receiving and accurate inventory tracking.