Starting January 1, 2026, Amazon will officially end all Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) prep and labeling services in the U.S. This significant change means that sellers shipping inventory into Amazon’s fulfillment centers—whether directly or via programs like AWD (Amazon Warehousing and Distribution), AGL (Amazon Global Logistics), SEND, or the Supply Chain Portal—must ensure all products arrive fully prepped and labeled according to Amazon’s strict requirements.
For sellers in industries such as consumer goods, electronics, apparel, health & beauty, and retail distribution, this shift requires a thorough re-evaluation of supply chain processes. Without fully compliant prep, inventory risks rejection, costly returns, or disposal.
To meet these challenges head-on, FulfillMe has expanded its robust, Amazon-compliant 3PL network, with strategically located fulfillment centers in Florida, Tennessee, and the Midwest (Kansas City). These facilities are designed to help sellers across the country maintain seamless, efficient operations—and stay competitive as Amazon’s requirements evolve.
What Exactly is Changing with Amazon’s FBA Prep Services?
Historically, Amazon offered optional prep and labeling services to help sellers meet inbound requirements. This support especially benefited smaller sellers and those new to the platform, helping to reduce barriers to entry by managing labeling, polybagging, bubble-wrapping, and kitting on the seller’s behalf.
However, beginning January 1, 2026, Amazon will no longer provide these services in the U.S. market. This means:
All inventory sent to FBA must be fully prepped and labeled before arrival.
Non-compliant shipments will be rejected, returned at the seller’s expense, or disposed of without recourse.
No exceptions or in-network fixes will be allowed.
This move is part of Amazon’s broader effort to increase warehouse efficiency and reduce costs by eliminating the “firefighting” needed to fix improperly prepped inbound shipments.
Why is Amazon Ending FBA Prep?
Amazon explains that the vast majority of sellers now handle prep internally, through manufacturing partners, or via specialized third-party logistics (3PL) providers. As the seller ecosystem matures and grows, Amazon is shifting focus to speed, accuracy, and cost control in its fulfillment centers.
By ending its in-house prep services, Amazon encourages sellers to take full ownership of compliance while improving throughput and lowering operational complexity.
What Does This Mean for Sellers?
For Amazon sellers, this change brings several critical implications:
1. No More Safety Net
Sellers who previously relied on Amazon’s prep services—whether regularly or as a backup—must now find trusted partners or build internal capabilities to handle all prep steps.
2. Compliance is Mandatory
Amazon’s requirements for FNSKU labeling, polybagging, bundling, and packaging will be strictly enforced. Errors mean rejected shipments, costly chargebacks, and lost sales.
3. 3PL Demand Will Surge
Millions of sellers will seek reliable 3PL partners with proven Amazon compliance expertise. Those who secure prep capacity early will avoid bottlenecks and inventory delays.
How FulfillMe Supports Sellers in a Post-2026 FBA Prep Landscape
FulfillMe is uniquely positioned to help sellers transition smoothly and confidently with a comprehensive, Amazon-compliant prep and fulfillment solution.
Strategic Fulfillment Locations
Our fulfillment centers in Florida, Tennessee, and Kansas City provide geographic advantages:
Florida offers fast access to East Coast customers and Latin American imports.
Tennessee serves as a logistics hub with excellent connectivity to major U.S. markets.
Kansas City provides cost-effective coverage of the Midwest and central U.S.
Comprehensive FBA Prep Services
FulfillMe’s capabilities include:
FNSKU labeling and barcode application—ensuring products scan correctly at Amazon.
Polybagging, shrink wrapping, and bubble wrapping—protecting products and meeting Amazon’s packaging guidelines.
Bundling and kitting—assembling multi-unit packages or promotional sets.
Carton forwarding and cross-docking—efficiently moving inventory through our network.
Quality inspections and compliance audits—minimizing risks of rejection.
Industry Expertise
We serve sellers in key categories including:
Consumer electronics
Apparel and footwear
Health, wellness & beauty
Home goods and décor
Specialty retail and wholesale distribution
Why Choose FulfillMe?
Amazon-Compliant Prep Services: FulfillMe minimizes the risk of rejected or stranded inventory by adhering strictly to Amazon’s guidelines.
Strategic Locations: Our fulfillment centers are positioned to optimize shipping costs and reduce transit times.
Scalable Capacity: Whether handling seasonal spikes or high-volume ongoing shipments, FulfillMe can flex with your business needs.
Multi-Channel Support: Beyond Amazon FBA, we support direct-to-consumer (DTC), business-to-business (B2B), and retail channel fulfillment.
What Sellers Should Do Now
To prepare for the January 2026 deadline:
Conduct a Supply Chain Audit: Identify gaps and weaknesses in your current FBA prep and labeling process.
Secure FulfillMe’s 3PL Capacity Early: Avoid last-minute bottlenecks by partnering now.
Run Test Shipments: Validate compliance with Amazon’s new inbound standards to prevent disruptions.
Conclusion
Amazon’s decision to end in-house FBA prep services represents a significant operational shift. Sellers who plan proactively and partner with a trusted provider like FulfillMe will avoid costly delays, rejected shipments, and lost revenue.
With our expert prep services and strategically located fulfillment centers in Florida, Tennessee, and the Midwest, FulfillMe ensures your business stays compliant, competitive, and ready to grow well beyond 2026.
Contact FulfillMe today to secure your FBA prep solution and keep your Amazon supply chain moving seamlessly.
