What’s Changing?
Amazon has officially announced that, starting January 1, 2026, it will end all FBA prep and labeling services in the United States. This is a fundamental operational shift that affects every seller using Fulfillment by Amazon — including shipments sent directly to FBA and inventory flowing through Amazon Warehousing & Distribution (AWD), Amazon Global Logistics (AGL), SEND, or the Supply Chain Portal. Amazon Seller Central
Under the current system, Amazon offered optional prep services — like labeling, polybagging, bubble wrapping, and other handling — on behalf of sellers. After January 1, those services are gone entirely. Every item must arrive fully prepped and labeled before shipment creation, or it won’t be accepted. Qualfon
Why Amazon Is Making This Change
Amazon says the majority of sellers already handle their own prep, and discontinuing the service helps streamline fulfillment center operations and improve efficiency. The company wants inventory to arrive “ready to store and ship,” eliminating internal prep steps and speeding check-in. Amazon Seller Central
For sellers this means no more safety net — the responsibility for compliance is now entirely on you or whoever handles your shipping.
The Big Risks for Sellers
If sellers fail to adapt, the consequences can be costly:
❌ Rejected or Returned Shipments
Shipments created after Jan 1, 2026 that aren’t properly prepped may be refused or returned at your expense. Qualfon
❌ Non-Compliance Fees
Inadequate prep can trigger chargebacks and non-compliance fees, increasing cost and slowing down your inventory flow. Qualfon
❌ Delayed Check-In
Improper prep means delayed check-in times, longer lead times, and potential inventory shortages during peak selling windows. Qualfon
❌ Lost Sales & Rank
If your inventory is stuck, products can go Out of Stock — harming Buy Box performance and organic rank. Qualfon
Your Options Moving Forward
Here are the main strategies sellers must consider:
1. In-House Prep
Build your own prep capabilities: print FNSKU labels, polybag, bubble wrap, kit or bundle products, and inspect them before shipment. This gives you full control, but requires labor, space, equipment, and quality control processes. Qualfon
2. Supplier-Handled Prep
Some sellers ask their manufacturer or supplier to prep items at the source before shipment. This can work, but many suppliers lack Amazon expertise and often mislabel or mispackage products — leading to higher risk of errors. Qualfon
3. Partner With a 3PL or Prep Provider
Third-party prep companies can handle all requirements, ensure compliance, and free up your time — but you must choose early, as demand will surge ahead of the 2026 deadline. Qualfon
Action Plan: 30/60/90 Days to Get Ready
| Timeframe | Focus | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Next 30 Days | Audit Your SKUs | Identify which products require specialized prep (fragile, hazmat, apparel, etc.) and document current processes. |
| 30–60 Days | Test Solutions | Run pilot shipments with in-house prep or trusted providers to refine workflows and avoid mistakes. |
| 60–90 Days | Secure Partners | Lock in a 3PL or vet suppliers for prep, secure pricing, and confirm capacity before peak seasons. |
Note: Shipments created before January 1, 2026 will still receive Amazon’s prep services even if they arrive after the deadline — so plan transitional shipments early. Qualfon
5 Tips to Stay Compliant
- Document all prep requirements — Amazon’s standards haven’t changed; enforcement will be stricter. Qualfon
- Train your team — prep mistakes can cost time, fees, and sales. Qualfon
- Use professional label printers — inaccurate labels are a common compliance failure. Qualfon
- Invest in quality packaging supplies — fragile items need proper wrapping and warnings. Qualfon
- Vet multiple 3PLs — don’t wait until the last minute; capacity will fill fast. Qualfon
Final Thoughts
Ending FBA prep services is one of the most impactful logistics changes in years. It shifts compliance responsibility squarely onto sellers — meaning careful planning now will protect your account, your sales velocity, and your profit margins long after the deadline.
The clock is ticking — act early, adapt strategically, and don’t let this policy change disrupt your business.
