The Ultimate Guide to Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements UK

Selling successfully on Amazon UK requires more than simply sourcing great products. To thrive as an FBA (Fulfilment by Amazon) seller, you must also meet Amazon’s strict operational standards, particularly when it comes to packaging and labelling. These rules are in place to protect products, streamline fulfilment processes, and ultimately deliver an excellent customer experience.

However, navigating Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements can feel overwhelming for new sellers, and even experienced sellers often stumble on the finer details. Mistakes can lead to rejected shipments, delays, costly penalties, or in the worst case, account suspensions.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements in 2024 from general packaging rules to labelling, pallet preparation, weight restrictions, and common pitfalls to avoid. Along the way, we’ll share actionable tips to help you stay compliant and explain how FastPackFBA’s specialist packaging services can save you time, money, and headaches.

Why Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements Matter

Amazon handles millions of products daily across its fulfilment network. To maintain efficiency, safety, and accuracy, it enforces strict packaging and labelling standards. These requirements aren’t suggestions—they’re mandatory.

Here’s why they matter:

• Product protection – Durable packaging prevents breakages, leaks, and damage during storage and delivery.

• Inventory accuracy – Clear labelling ensures Amazon can track and scan stock seamlessly.

• Customer experience – Proper packaging reduces the risk of customers receiving damaged goods, leading to fewer returns and better reviews.

• Avoiding penalties – Non-compliance can result in extra prep fees, rejected shipments, or suspension from the FBA programme.

In short, packaging correctly is just as important as sourcing a profitable product.

General Amazon FBA Packaging Guidelines

At a baseline, all products sent to Amazon fulfilment centres must follow these universal packaging rules:

1. Durable MaterialsProducts should be packed securely in strong boxes, poly bags, or protective mailers that can withstand the journey. Weak packaging increases the likelihood of rejection.

2. Sealed ProductsAnything that could leak or spill must be sealed to prevent damage to other goods. Liquids, powders, and gels often require double-sealing or specialised containers.

3. Poly Bag RequirementsTransparent poly bags must be used for certain products (such as textiles or loose items). If the opening is larger than 5 inches, a suffocation warning label is mandatory.

4. Non-Hazardous PresentationProducts must not pose risks to warehouse staff. Sharp items need protective covers, and items with loose parts must be contained properly.

   
   

👉 For the full, most up-to-date guidance, sellers should always cross-reference Amazon Seller Central UK Packaging Guidelines.

Product-Specific Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements

Amazon also sets additional rules depending on the product category. Examples include:

• Fragile Items – Must be wrapped in bubble wrap or placed in protective boxes to avoid breakage.

• Sharp Objects – Knives, tools, or anything with a sharp edge must be covered with secure packaging.

• Loose Multipacks or Sets – Products sold as a set must be clearly marked with “Sold as Set – Do Not Separate” and packaged together.

• Textiles & Apparel – Typically require poly bags to avoid dust and handling damage.

Failing to follow product-specific rules can result in extra fees, as Amazon may repackage items themselves—or reject your shipment entirely.

Amazon FBA Labelling Requirements

Packaging alone isn’t enough. Labelling plays a vital role in Amazon’s ability to process, store, and ship your inventory correctly.

FNSKU Labelling

• What is FNSKU? The Fulfilment Network Stock Keeping Unit is Amazon’s unique identifier linking each product to your seller account.

• Placement – The label must be placed on the outside of each item, in a flat and easily scannable position.

• Quality – Ensure the label isn’t smudged, faded, or placed over existing barcodes.

Stock & Shipment Labelling

• Visibility – Labels must be clearly visible, never hidden under tape or packaging.

• Cartons – Each box you ship must have a unique box ID label, generated from Seller Central.

• Pallets – If shipping via pallet, four identical pallet labels must be applied (one on each side).

Labelling mistakes are one of the most common reasons for shipment rejection. At FastPackFBA, we specialise in FBA-compliant labelling, ensuring your inventory flows smoothly into Amazon’s system.

Amazon FBA Weight and Dimension Rules

Weight and size limits help protect Amazon staff, couriers, and fulfilment processes. In the UK, the main rules are:

• Individual Box Weight Limit – No box should exceed 23 kg unless it contains a single oversized item.

• Heavy Package Marking – Any box over 15 kg must have a clear “Heavy Package” label on both top and sides.

• Pallet Weight Limit – Typically capped at 500 kg including pallet weight, though some fulfilment centres may have lower thresholds.

Ignoring these rules can result in rejected deliveries or costly surcharges.

Pallet Preparation and Stacking Rules

For bulk shipments, pallets must be prepared carefully:

• Standard Pallets – Amazon UK accepts 1,200 x 1,000 mm (UK standard) or 1,200 x 800 mm (Euro standard).

• Maximum Height – 1.8 metres, including the pallet itself.

• Stacking Method – Heavier boxes at the bottom, lighter on top. No overhanging boxes allowed.

• Shrink-Wrapping – Entire pallet must be wrapped securely so goods don’t shift during transit.

• Labelling – Apply four identical pallet labels (one on each side).

At FastPackFBA, we provide compliant pallet preparation services that ensure your stock passes Amazon checks without issue.

Common Mistakes Sellers Make with FBA Packaging

Even experienced sellers fall foul of Amazon’s requirements. Some of the most frequent errors include:

• Placing labels over box seams, tape, or curves, making them unscannable.

• Forgetting to apply “Heavy Package” warnings.

• Sending in mixed-product cartons without proper identifiers.

• Using weak cardboard that collapses under pallet stacking.

• Failing to use suffocation warnings on poly bags.

Avoiding these mistakes saves both money and reputation.

Tips for Staying Compliant with Amazon FBA Packaging Standards

To give your business the best chance of success, follow these best practices:

1. Always Double-Check GuidelinesAmazon regularly updates its requirements. Before each shipment, review Seller Central.

2. Invest in Quality MaterialsSturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and reliable tape prevent damage. Cutting corners here is false economy.

3. Standardise Your ProcessesCreate checklists for packaging, labelling, and shipping to ensure consistency.

4. Outsource to ExpertsIf packaging isn’t your strength—or you’re scaling quickly—outsourcing to an Amazon prep and packaging partner like FastPackFBA can save time and eliminate costly mistakes.

   
   

FastPackFBA: Your Partner in Amazon FBA Packaging

At FastPackFBA, we understand how daunting Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements can be. That’s why we offer end-to-end packaging services tailored specifically for Amazon sellers.

Our services include:

• FBA-compliant product packaging (boxes, poly bags, bubble wrap).

• Labelling services (FNSKU, carton, and pallet labels).

• Pallet preparation and shrink-wrapping.

• Inspection and quality control before stock leaves our facility.

By outsourcing packaging to FastPackFBA, you free up valuable time to focus on sourcing and growing your business, while we handle the operational details.

Conclusion: Stay Ahead with the Right Packaging Partner

Complying with Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements isn’t optional—it’s a cornerstone of building a sustainable Amazon business. From durable packaging and precise labelling to correct pallet preparation, every detail matters.

While you can manage this yourself, outsourcing to a trusted partner like FastPackFBA ensures your products meet Amazon’s exacting standards every time. With our expertise, you’ll reduce costly errors, speed up the fulfilment process, and protect your reputation with customers.

📦 Ready to simplify your Amazon FBA packaging? Contact FastPackFBA today and let us handle the compliance, so you can focus on scaling your business.