Shipping from China to Amazon FBA (2025) | Cost, Direct FBA Delivery, Forwarding

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Shipping to Amazon FBA

How to Ship Inventory to Amazon Fulfillment Centers from China and Beyond

If you’re an Amazon seller aiming to streamline your logistics and scale efficiently, mastering the process of shipping to Amazon FBA is essential. With millions of products being delivered daily through Amazon’s fulfillment network, sellers are under pressure to meet strict shipping standards—whether they’re based in the USA or sourcing from countries like China.

Amazon FBA is a powerful solution for ecommerce businesses looking to streamline logistics and scale their selling online operations.

Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) allows sellers to store inventory in Amazon fulfillment centers, where Amazon handles storage, packaging, and delivery to end customers. But to take full advantage of FBA, you need to ship your products correctly, meet Amazon’s shipping requirements, and manage costs strategically.

From preparing a shipment plan in Seller Central, to labeling boxes, selecting a freight forwarder, and navigating FBA shipping costs, this guide will walk you through every step of the shipping process—especially for those importing from China.

Whether you’re a new FBA seller or looking to optimize international fulfillment, this complete 2025 shipping guide will cover the key advantages for those selling online and running an ecommerce business:

How to ship to Amazon FBA (step by step)
Best freight forwarding options from China
Cost of shipping to Amazon FBA
FBA shipping requirements and mistakes to avoid
FAQ about inventory shipments and warehouse locations

Let’s begin by understanding how the FBA shipping process works—and how you can do it right from the start.

Table of Contents

What is Amazon FBA and How Does It Work?

Amazon FBA, or Fulfillment by Amazon, is a powerful logistics solution that enables sellers to outsource warehousing, packaging, and delivery directly to Amazon. Fulfillment by Amazon FBA is a comprehensive service for sellers, simplifying order fulfillment, enhancing shipping efficiency, and enabling multi-channel sales through features like MCF. Once you enroll in the FBA program as an Amazon FBA seller, you sign up for an account, enroll in the program, and create or convert your product listings to be fulfilled by Amazon. Your inventory is stored at Amazon fulfillment centers, where Amazon staff handle the entire order fulfillment process—right down to customer service and returns.

Key Benefits of FBA for Sellers

Prime Shipping Access: Your products become Prime-eligible, reaching customers faster and increasing conversion rates.
Automated Logistics: Amazon takes care of inventory storage, packing, and delivery.
Simplified Customer Service: Amazon handles inquiries, returns, and refunds on your behalf.
Scalability: Focus more on marketing and sourcing, while Amazon scales your logistics automatically.

This system is ideal for eCommerce businesses, Amazon private label sellers, and even international sellers importing stock into the U.S. or EU.

Once your items are enrolled in the FBA program, you’ll manage your shipments inside Amazon Seller Central—a dashboard that lets you create shipping plans, print labels, and track shipment status across all your FBA warehouses.

Whether you’re a new seller or a professional seller expanding your operation, Amazon FBA offers a seamless way to grow without the fulfillment headaches.

How to Ship to Amazon FBA (Step-by-Step Process)

Successfully shipping to Amazon FBA requires strict attention to detail. Choosing the right shipping companies is crucial to ship products efficiently and cost-effectively to Amazon FBA. From creating a shipping plan in Seller Central to printing box labels and choosing a carrier, each step in the FBA shipping process affects your inventory’s speed, compliance, and cost.

Here’s how to properly ship inventory to Amazon fulfillment centers in 2025:

Create a Shipping Plan in Amazon Seller Central

Login to your Amazon Seller Central account, navigate to the “Send to Amazon” workflow, and start by selecting the products you want to ship. You’ll be prompted to:

Choose individual units or case-packed products
Enter the ship-from address (your factory, 3PL, or freight forwarder)
Indicate box weight and box dimensions
Assign FBA warehouse destinations (often multiple fulfillment centers)

Tip: Amazon may split your inventory across different warehouses. Use “Inventory Placement Service” if you want to ship everything to one center (fees apply).

Label Your Products and Boxes

Amazon has strict labeling requirements. You’ll need to:

Print FNSKU labels for each unit
Apply Amazon shipping labels to each box
Use thermal printers for better scan accuracy
Avoid mixed-SKU boxes unless approved

Click “Print box labels” during the final step of your plan. You’ll get a PDF with scannable barcodes and shipment IDs.

Choose a Shipping Carrier

At this stage, you can select from:

Amazon Partnered Carrier Program – often cheaper and faster within the U.S.
Your own freight forwarder – ideal for international shipments (like from China)
Freight carrier – best for LTL (Less than Truckload) or large consignments; allows you to manage bulk deliveries and provides tracking information
Small parcel delivery (SPD) for under 150 lbs
Less than Truckload (LTL) or Full Truckload (FTL) for bulk deliveries

You can also choose a non partnered carrier if you have an established relationship or find better rates. Shipping with a non partnered carrier may require different procedures for label printing and shipment confirmation.

Be sure to confirm shipping weight and shipping method (air, sea, express) before booking.

Confirm Shipment and Send Your Inventory

Once labeled and packed, confirm the ship date and shipping mode. You can track everything under the “Manage FBA Shipments” tab in Seller Central.

Amazon will update your shipment status, and once received, the inventory will become active and available for sale.

Shipping from China to Amazon FBA

If you’re sourcing products from China, you’ll need a reliable shipping strategy to move inventory efficiently to Amazon FBA warehouses in the U.S. or Europe. The process of sending inventory to an Amazon FBA warehouse involves creating a shipping plan, preparing your products according to Amazon’s requirements, and coordinating with Amazon warehouse staff for delivery appointments. Choosing the right freight forwarding partner and understanding your available shipping options will directly impact your delivery speed, compliance, and FBA shipping cost. It is important to understand how to ship to Amazon’s FBA warehouses for efficient inventory management and to ensure your products arrive at the correct Amazon warehouse as assigned by Amazon.

There are three main ways to ship from China to Amazon FBA:

Air Freight

Fastest delivery option (5–10 days)
Suitable for light or urgent shipments
Charged by volumetric weight

Sea Freight (LCL or FCL)

Cost-effective for bulk shipments
Takes 25–40 days on average
Ideal for high-volume sellers

Express Courier (e.g., UPS, DHL, FedEx)

Fast and trackable
Best for first FBA shipment or small batch orders
More expensive per kg

For both air and sea freight, you’ll need to work with a freight forwarder experienced in Amazon FBA shipping procedures.

Shipping to Amazon FBA with Tonlexing

Tonlexing provides end-to-end Amazon FBA freight forwarding services from China to the USA, UK, and EU. With deep experience in Amazon logistics, we simplify the FBA shipping process for sellers of all sizes.

Our services include:

Freight Forwarding: Door-to-door delivery by air or sea, including booking, tracking, and customs liaison.
Customs Clearance: Professional handling of export/import declarations, including US Tax ID or VAT support.
Labeling & Packaging: In compliance with Amazon’s strict labeling and packing requirements.
FBA Products Preparation: Preparing, labeling, and shipping FBA products to Amazon fulfillment centers, ensuring your inventory meets all requirements.
Inventory Management: Real-time tracking, shipment IDs, and reporting for your FBA inventory.
Delivery Arrangements: Scheduling appointments with Amazon fulfillment centers, ensuring on-time check-in and acceptance.

We also help sellers plan and consolidate future shipments to streamline inbound logistics, optimize inventory management, and reduce costs.

With Tonlexing, you gain a trusted partner to ship your FBA inventory from China with full transparency, speed, and compliance.

Need help calculating your shipping cost to Amazon FBA? We offer free quotes and tailored solutions.

Amazon FBA Shipping Costs: What to Expect in 2025

One of the most common questions from Amazon sellers is: “How much does it cost to ship inventory to Amazon FBA?”

The answer depends on several factors, and the Amazon FBA shipping cost is influenced by shipping distance, box size, and weight, as well as whether you are shipping domestically or internationally:

Shipping method (Air freight, Sea freight, Express courier)
Weight and dimensions (chargeable weight applies)
Shipping origin (e.g., China, Vietnam, USA domestic)
FBA warehouse location
Carrier type (Amazon Partnered Carrier vs. independent forwarder)

Here’s a general breakdown of Amazon FBA shipping costs from China to the USA:

Shipping Method	Weight / Volume	Estimated Cost (USD)	Transit Time
Air Freight	100 kg	$2.50 – $4.50 / kg	5–10 days
Air Freight	300 kg	$1.90 – $3.80 / kg	6–12 days
Sea Freight (LCL)	1 CBM (150–180 kg)	$60 – $120 / CBM	25–35 days
Sea Freight (FCL)	1x20FT container	$1,800 – $2,400	25–40 days
Express Courier	< 50 kg	$4.00 – $6.00 / kg	3–7 days

Note: Costs may vary depending on fuel surcharges, port congestion, and seasonal demand.

In addition to shipping costs, Amazon sellers should also consider selling fees, such as the monthly subscription fee for a professional selling plan and other selling fees that apply to different sales activities, as these impact the total expenses of selling on Amazon.

Key Cost Components to Watch:

Shipping Labels & Packaging Fees
Customs Clearance Charges
Duties & Import Taxes (if DDP is not used)
Amazon Long-Term Storage Fees (if inventory sits too long)
Amazon’s Fulfillment Logistics & Shipment Preparation: Accurate shipment preparation and logistics are crucial when using Amazon’s fulfillment network, as they help manage costs and ensure efficient order processing.

For more accurate pricing, it’s recommended to work with an experienced FBA freight forwarder who understands both international freight and Amazon receiving rules.

FBA Shipping Requirements: Labels, Packaging, and Common Mistakes

To avoid delays, rejections, or penalties, it’s critical that every FBA shipment follows Amazon’s strict guidelines. Many new sellers overlook labeling or packaging rules—leading to shipment status errors, stranded inventory, or warehouse refusal. Another common mistake is not preparing for the challenges of shipping to different fulfillment centers, as Amazon may require you to send inventory to multiple locations. Failing to follow these requirements can result in additional fees or shipment issues.

Here’s what you need to know:

Tracking and Managing FBA Shipments

Efficiently tracking and managing your FBA shipments is essential for maintaining smooth operations and ensuring your products reach Amazon fulfillment centers on time. Amazon provides robust tools within your Amazon Seller Central account to help you oversee every stage of the shipping process, from the moment you create a shipment to its final delivery.

The “Manage FBA Shipments” page in Seller Central is your command center for all things related to FBA shipments. Here, you can view the status of each shipment, access detailed tracking information, and monitor delivery dates. This dashboard allows you to quickly identify any issues, such as delays or missing boxes, so you can take action before they impact your inventory or sales.

Proper use of shipping labels and box labels is crucial for accurate tracking. Each label contains unique shipment IDs and barcodes, enabling Amazon to scan and update the shipment status as your inventory moves through the supply chain. By ensuring your shipping labels are correctly applied and scannable, you help prevent lost or delayed shipments and keep your inventory flowing smoothly into Amazon’s network.

Additionally, Seller Central offers notifications and shipment history logs, making it easy for any Amazon seller to review past shipments, analyze performance, and adjust future shipping plans. Staying proactive with these tools not only streamlines your shipping process but also helps you maintain high seller performance metrics and customer satisfaction.

FBA Shipping Strategies for 2025

To stay ahead in the competitive world of ecommerce, Amazon FBA sellers must continually refine their shipping strategies. In 2025, the most successful sellers will be those who leverage the latest tools and best practices to optimize every aspect of their FBA shipping process.

One of the most effective strategies is to utilize Amazon’s partnered carriers. These carriers offer discounted shipping rates and seamless integration with Amazon’s systems, making it easier to generate shipping labels and box labels that meet all requirements. By choosing partnered carriers, you can reduce your FBA shipping costs and benefit from reliable, trackable deliveries to Amazon fulfillment centers.

Another key approach is to maximize the advantages of Amazon’s fulfillment centers. By strategically shipping inventory to multiple fulfillment centers, you can ensure faster delivery times to customers across different regions, which can boost your Prime eligibility and sales potential. Using the right shipping process and keeping your box labels accurate helps minimize errors and avoid costly delays.

Investing in advanced inventory management tools is also crucial for 2025. These tools help you monitor stock levels, forecast demand, and automate replenishment, reducing the risk of stockouts or excess inventory. Effective inventory management not only lowers storage costs but also improves your ability to respond to market trends and customer needs.

Finally, regularly reviewing your shipping process and analyzing performance data will help you identify areas for improvement. By staying informed and agile, you can adapt to changes in Amazon’s policies, shipping rates, and customer expectations—ensuring your FBA shipping strategy remains efficient and profitable in the year ahead.

1. Shipping Labels

Each outer carton must have Amazon shipping labels applied. These contain shipment IDs and scannable barcodes. Follow these rules:

Labels must be printed clearly (preferably thermal)
Use “Print box labels” in your shipping plan
Place labels on a flat surface (not on edges or seams)
Avoid wrinkles, smudges, or faded ink

If using Amazon Partnered Carrier, labels must match their shipping integration exactly.

2. Packaging & Box Dimensions

Amazon requires every box in your FBA shipment to meet the following:

Maximum weight: 50 lbs per box (unless single unit exceeds this weight)
Box dimensions: Max 25″ on any side recommended
No mixed-SKU boxes unless explicitly allowed
Use strong, double-walled corrugated boxes

Each box must include complete packing details in the shipping plan—accurate box weight, box dimensions, and number of units.

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using unscannable or incorrect labels
Missing or wrong ship-from address
Failing to update shipment status after carrier pickup
Shipping to the wrong fulfillment center
Combining SKUs not approved for mixed packaging
Ignoring drop-down menus in Seller Central for shipping method
Not using Amazon’s partnered carriers, which can help you obtain discounted rates and streamline the shipping process for small parcel and LTL freight shipments

Amazon may charge non-compliance fees, reject your boxes, or even suspend FBA privileges if you repeatedly violate requirements.

For worry-free compliance, many sellers work with freight forwarders or 3PLs that specialize in Amazon FBA shipments.

FAQ: Common Questions About Shipping to Amazon FBA

How do I ship to Amazon FBA from China?

To ship from China to Amazon FBA, you can use a freight forwarder who handles cargo pickup, customs clearance, labeling, and delivery to Amazon’s warehouse. This includes air freight, sea freight (LCL/FCL), or express courier. Many sellers prefer door-to-door shipping with DDP terms to avoid customs delays.

What is the cheapest way to ship to Amazon FBA?

If you’re shipping a large volume, sea freight (LCL or FCL) is the most cost-effective method. For smaller shipments under 300 kg, air freight offers a good balance of speed and cost. Avoid using express couriers for bulk shipments—they’re fast but expensive.

Can I send my first FBA shipment myself?

Yes, but Amazon requires specific labeling, packaging, and scheduled delivery appointments. Most sellers use a third-party prep center or Amazon FBA freight forwarder to handle their first FBA shipment, especially when sourcing from overseas.

Do I need to ship to one warehouse or multiple?

By default, Amazon may assign multiple fulfillment centers across different states. When shipping inventory to Amazon’s warehouses for FBA fulfillment, you need to follow specific procedures and consider factors such as labeling, packaging, and shipping requirements. If you’d like to send all units to a single location, enable the Inventory Placement Service in Seller Central (extra fees apply).

What are the common problems with FBA shipments?

Shipment rejection due to incorrect shipping labels
Mixed SKUs packed in the same box
Shipment delays from missing shipment IDs
High long-term storage fees from unsold stock
Carrier failing to schedule a warehouse delivery window

Partnering with an experienced logistics provider can help you avoid these issues and ensure your inventory is received without delay.

Conclusion: Ship Smarter to Amazon FBA with Expert Support

Successfully shipping to Amazon FBA takes more than just printing labels—it requires the right freight strategy, platform knowledge, and compliance with Amazon’s ever-evolving requirements. Whether you’re sending your first FBA shipment or scaling monthly orders, getting it right from the start means saving time, money, and inventory headaches.

If you’re sourcing products from China, working with a reliable freight forwarder for Amazon FBA can make all the difference.

Ship to Amazon FBA with Tonlexing

As a trusted Amazon FBA freight forwarder based in China, Tonlexing provides complete, door-to-door logistics support for sellers worldwide.

Why choose Tonlexing?

Freight by air, sea, or express – optimized for Amazon requirements
Full DDP shipping service – no customs stress
FBA labeling, carton checking, and compliance prep
Appointment scheduling with Amazon’s fulfillment centers
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Whether you’re shipping from Shenzhen, Ningbo, or Yiwu, we help you deliver inventory on time, on budget, and Amazon-compliant.

Ready to ship your products to Amazon FBA?

📩 Request a Free Shipping Quote → (Link your inquiry form or WhatsApp)

Let Tonlexing be your logistics backbone—so you can focus on selling, not shipping.