Overview
Amazon FBA uses several types of labels to identify products, track inventory, and ensure shipments are received correctly. Depending on the product and shipment type, sellers may need to apply one or more labels before sending inventory to Amazon fulfillment centers.
Understanding these labels can help prevent receiving delays, inventory issues, and compliance problems.
FNSKU Labels
The FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit) is Amazon's unique barcode used to identify inventory belonging to a specific seller.
Purpose
Identifies seller-owned inventory.
Allows Amazon to track products throughout the fulfillment process.
Prevents inventory from being mixed with another seller's inventory when required.
When Used
Products requiring Amazon labeling.
Inventory not using manufacturer barcode tracking.
Sellers who prefer inventory separation.
Manufacturer Barcode Labels
Some products can use existing manufacturer barcodes such as:
UPC
EAN
ISBN
Purpose
Allows Amazon to identify products using the manufacturer's barcode.
Reduces the need to apply additional FNSKU labels.
Common Examples
Books
DVDs
CDs
Eligible products enrolled in Amazon's virtual tracking program.
Shipment Box Labels
Shipment labels are applied to every box sent to Amazon.
Purpose
Identifies the inbound shipment.
Routes inventory to the correct fulfillment center.
Allows Amazon to track shipments during receiving.
Requirements
One label per shipment box.
Must remain visible and scannable.
Pallet Labels
Required when inventory is shipped on pallets using LTL or FTL freight services.
Purpose
Identifies palletized inventory.
Helps Amazon receive and process pallet shipments.
Requirements
Typically placed on all four sides of a pallet.
Prep and Compliance Labels
Some products require additional labels to meet Amazon's prep requirements.
Examples
Polybag warning labels
Suffocation warning labels
Sold as Set labels
Fragile labels
Team Lift labels
Purpose
Ensure products are handled safely and correctly.
Expiration Date Labels
Required for products with expiration dates.
Common Categories
Grocery
Supplements
Health products
Beauty products
Purpose
Displays expiration information clearly for inventory management.
Summary
The most common labels used in Amazon FBA are:
FNSKU Labels
Manufacturer Barcode Labels
Shipment Box Labels
Pallet Labels
Prep Labels
Expiration Date Labels
Using the correct labels helps ensure compliance and allows Amazon to accurately receive, track, and fulfill your inventory.