When This Applies
This guide is for Indian sellers exporting to Amazon FBA warehouses in the USA, UK, Europe, and UAE. FBA exports require specific packaging, labelling, documentation, and compliance with Amazon's inbound requirements.
Documents Needed
- Amazon FBA shipment creation and box labels (from Seller Central)
- Commercial Invoice and Packing List
- Shipping Bill filed by CHA
- Export licence or regulatory certificate (if applicable)
- IEC and GSTIN
- LUT for zero-rated IGST export
- Certificate of Origin (for preferential duty at destination)
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect FBA labels — Amazon may question or reject shipments without proper box and pallet labels
- Exceeding Amazon's box weight limits — 23 kg for standard, 30 kg for oversize
- Not palletising for sea FBA — Amazon requires palletised delivery for LTL/FTL
- Missing destination customs documentation — duties and VAT must be prepaid or arranged
- Using incorrect HS codes — affects destination duty and Amazon's compliance records
Estimated Timeline and Process
Pre-shipment (3–5 days): Create shipment in Seller Central, print labels, prepare cargo.
Origin clearance (1–2 days): CHA files Shipping Bill, customs clears cargo.
International transit (air 5–7 days; sea 25–35 days): Freight to destination port.
Destination clearance and delivery (3–7 days): Customs, drayage, and delivery to FBA warehouse.
How Sea Air Cargo Systems Can Help
We specialise in Amazon FBA exports from India. Our team handles packaging compliance, label verification, customs clearance, and delivery appointment scheduling with Amazon fulfilment centres. Learn more about our FBA service.
Pre-Shipment Checklist for Amazon FBA
- Create the shipment plan in Seller Central and download the FBA box labels
- Confirm product labels (FNSKU) are printed correctly and affixed to every unit
- Verify carton weight and dimensions match Amazon's acceptance limits
- Check Hazmat review status if your product contains batteries, liquids, or aerosols
- Obtain export documents (Shipping Bill, GST invoice, LUT bond)
Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements
- Cartons must be rigid, six-sided, and sealed with tape (no stretch wrap as primary closure)
- Maximum carton weight: 23 kg (50 lbs) for most markets
- Maximum carton dimensions vary by marketplace — check Amazon's current guidelines
- Fragile items need individual bubble wrap or box-in-box packing
- Each carton needs an FBA box label on the outside
Cost Factors to Plan For
Amazon FBA freight includes export clearance, international freight, import duty at destination, Amazon inbound transport, and FBA storage fees. Sea freight to USA/UK FBA warehouses costs $800–$2,000 per CBM. Air freight is $4–$8 per kg. Use our Landing Cost Calculator to model FBA landed costs.
Common Mistakes
- Wrong FNSKU labels — Amazon may refuse the shipment or charge relabelling fees
- Exceeding weight limits — cartons over 23 kg may be rejected at the fulfilment centre
- Missing export documents — customs holds delay inbound delivery to Amazon
- Hazmat without approval — batteries and liquids need pre-approval before shipping
When to Contact a CHA
FBA exports require precise documentation and packaging. A CHA with FBA experience ensures your shipment clears export customs and arrives at the Amazon warehouse on schedule. Contact Sea Air Cargo Systems for Amazon FBA export support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What labels does Amazon FBA require?
Amazon requires FBA box labels, shipment IDs, and pallet labels (if applicable). Labels must be scannable and placed on a flat surface.
Can I ship directly to Amazon FBA by sea?
Yes, but sea FBA shipments must be palletised and delivered via LTL/FTL. Air FBA can use small parcel delivery.
Who pays customs duty at the destination country?
The Indian exporter typically arranges DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) or the Amazon seller account handles VAT/duty prepayment.
What is the weight limit for Amazon FBA boxes?
Standard boxes must not exceed 23 kg. Oversize boxes can go up to 30 kg but must be marked 'Team Lift'.
Need help with your shipment? Sea Air Cargo Systems is a licensed CHA in Bengaluru since 1999. Contact us for a free consultation or use our Landing Cost Calculator to plan your budget. WhatsApp us for a quick reply.
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