In the world of logistics, Amazon is a name that needs no introduction. It is a force to be reckoned with. Their supply chains are spread across the globe, and their fulfillment services include every form of sales channel and vendor that one can imagine. In fact, their FBA, Fulfilment By Amazon, targets small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Sellers on Amazon need to adhere to the regulations of Amazon to provide customers with the best shopping experience. Having the right FBA Prep services is one of the best ways to ensure the same. The participation of a third-party logistics company can benefit your business in ways more than you can imagine.
If you are a seller on Amazon, you should definitely think about having a third-party prep partner to make business easy and streamlined. However, there are a few questions you should ask companies before partnering with them for FBA.
Are they aware of the SLA requirements of Amazon?
SLA, also known as Service Level Agreements, means what Amazon expects out of its retailers and sellers as a partner.
Enrolling in the FBA program brings along a contractual obligation. In other words, you have to adhere to the rules and regulations set by the eCommerce giant if you want to participate. Obviously, the SLA of Amazon includes the fine print, some of which is context-driven and customized according to the exact situation of your company. In reality, the entirety of the FBA program provides a deep level of tailored options making Service Level Agreements situational in nature.
Is there any Amazon portal expert to ensure orders are processed correctly and labels printed according to the requirements?
Working experience and familiarity are different things. Your potential prep partner should be well-aware of FBA, having at least a basic understanding of the whole process. Still, they should have the practical experience to ensure quality and timely jobs. You should make sure your prospective third-party partner can navigate the interface of FBA to make sure all boxes and labels are correct. In other words, prep service providers should have hands-on experience working with the eCommerce company.
Does the company have experienced and trained individuals for labeling and packaging requirements?
Well, if you are considering partnering with an FBA service provider, you need to know that it is not as easy as rolling an OTR transport with your inventory right to their doors. There are some labeling and packaging requirements that have to be met before enrolment. While Amazon can complete quality-driven processes for a fee, a 3PL prep partner can accomplish them merely at a fraction of cost.
When sourcing an FBA prep partner, make sure they have complete knowledge and understanding of the labeling and packaging requirements of Amazon. When it comes to regulation, it is a full set of books, however, with packing, attention should be paid to several factors like:
- Loose Products
- Boxed sets
- SKU Information
- Odd shaped/ oversized products
- Additional packing materials – tape, fill and bubble, among others
- Polybagged items
So, if you are all set to outsource FBA prep to a 3PL company, do ask the above-mentioned questions.
