FBA vs Overseas Warehouses for Cross-Border Sellers

2024-05-28

How to use Overseas Warehouses Reasonably

Are Overseas Warehouses Important? "Many cross-border e-commerce sellers feel that they cannot use overseas warehouses and give up using overseas warehouses. However, in cross-border e-commerce logistics, overseas warehouses are still necessary. Knowing the importance of overseas warehouses, sellers We will definitely choose overseas warehouses.Next, the editor will explain whether overseas warehouses are important and how to use overseas warehouses reasonably.Is Overseas Warehouse Important? 1. Overseas warehouses can reduce logistics costs: cross-border e-commerce exports goods to overseas warehouses in the form of general trade, and completes the first-leg transportation in the form of batch shipments. It will be more cost-effective to use international express delivery in scattered forms.2. Overseas warehouses can return and exchange goods, which improves the shopping experience of overseas buyers: Buyers attach great importance to after-sales service. If you use overseas warehouses, it will be much more convenient for customers to return or exchange goods to overseas warehouses. Overseas warehouses can provide buyers with return and exchange services, improve buyers' shopping experience, and increase buyers' repeat purchase rate. For returned products, some overseas warehouses also provide relabeling services. Auto shipping overseas warehouses provide services such as relabeling, FBA product testing, and duty payment to make your products worry-free after sale.3. Overseas warehouses can effectively avoid cross-border logistics peaks: During holidays, sellers will focus on shipping a large number of goods after the holidays, which will inevitably seriously affect the speed of logistics operation and thus affect the buyer's receiving time. When using overseas warehouses, sellers must prepare goods in advance and send them to overseas warehouses in batches. When placing orders, they only need to issue instructions for delivery. There is no need to worry about slow logistics during peak periods.So regarding how to use overseas warehouses reasonably, there are different answers for large, medium and small sellers.How Different Sellers Should Reasonably use Overseas Warehouses.1. For small-scale sellers:For small sellers, the function of overseas warehouses should focus more on returns and exchanges. We all know that Amazon’s return and exchange rate has always been high. As a small seller, we should reasonably use overseas warehouses for secondary processing of returns and exchanges. When a return or exchange occurs and resale is not possible, Amazon will generally let you choose to discard or send it to a certain address. Due to Amazon's strict rules, many products will be directly listed as non-resaleable products by Amazon after being returned or exchanged by customers.At this time, if we have our auto overseas warehouse, we can send these goods to our overseas warehouse. Our overseas warehouse service personnel can repackage and label the goods for secondary sales, and send them back to the Amazon warehouse, so that You can recover the losses to the greatest extent.2. For medium-sized sellers:For medium-sized sellers, returns and exchanges are a basic need and a must-have condition. In addition, medium-sized sellers have more urgent needs for overseas warehouses.① Medium sellers may have more than one account. In order to save shipping costs, they may send the goods to overseas warehouses for storage at once. Otherwise, sending them all together to FBA will cause correlation.② Not all accounts will have the same performance, so it is necessary to place them in overseas warehouses for allocation. Therefore, medium-sized sellers need a stable and reliable overseas warehouse to help them allocate and plan resources.3. For large-scale sellers:For large-scale sellers, they may have chosen to build their own overseas warehouses because they have a huge demand for overseas warehouses. In addition to the same needs as small and medium-sized sellers, they may also need to identify, repair and upgrade damaged goods. Upgrading, etc. At this time, the overseas warehouse is equivalent to a support center for this seller abroad.According to the importance of overseas warehouses compiled by the editor and how different sellers can reasonably use overseas warehouses, no matter how large a cross-border seller is, there is actually a demand for overseas warehouses. Different sellers have different levels of demand for products. Therefore, when the majority of cross-border e-commerce sellers lay out their Amazon seller stores, it is best to take overseas warehouses into consideration.

2024-12-03

Essential Tips for Shipping Oversized Items to U.S. Amazon FBA

Shipping oversized items to Amazon FBA isn’t as straightforward as just packing your goods and sending them off.Whether you’re handling your own shipments or working with a China freight forwarder, there are rules and regulations you absolutely need to follow to avoid costly mistakes.Imagine this: You ship a 120-pound couch without the right labels or packaging, and it gets rejected at the FBA warehouse.Or, even worse, you end up paying hefty fees for non-compliance. This isn’t just a hassle – it’s a drain on your profits.That’s why it’s crucial to know the ins and outs of oversized shipping before you even pack your boxes. Let’s dive into the essential tips for making sure your oversized items make it to Amazon’s FBA warehouse without any issues.Understand Amazon’s Size and Weight RulesAmazon loves rules, and oversized items have their own playbook. Mess this up, and your shipment could get rejected, cost more, or take forever to check in. Here’s what you need to know:Size LimitsStandard-sized boxes: Any side can’t exceed 64 centimeters.Oversized items: Must ship in individual boxes – no bundling multiple oversized products together.Packaging after assembly: If your item is already pushing size limits, make sure the packaging doesn’t tip it over Amazon’s maximum size requirements.Weight RegulationsItems over 100 lbs (45 kg): Add a “Mech Lift” label so everyone knows a machine is required.Items 50–100 lbs (22.5–45 kg): Use a “Team Lift” label to indicate team handling.Jewelry and watches: Keep the box weight under 40 lbs (18 kg). Yeah, they’re picky like that.Nail the Packaging – No Room for ErrorsPackaging isn’t just about looking professional – it’s about surviving the journey.Here’s How to Pack Like a Pro:Use six-sided hard boxes – no floppy cardboard that crumbles under pressure.Clear old labels before slapping on new ones. Trust me, mixed-up barcodes are a nightmare.Add Amazon-specific labels on every box – these are non-negotiable.For bulk shipments? Label both the outer big box and every inner box.Bonus Tip:Fill empty spaces with high-quality padding to prevent internal movement. Shipping is like bumper cars – your items will take a hit, but good padding keeps them intact.Pre-Label and Prep Like It’s Your Job (Because It Is)Amazon’s system relies on labels. Without proper prep, your inventory could disappear into the void.Individual item packaging: Use bubble wrap, foam, or whatever it takes to keep your products secure.Right-sized boxes: Avoid oversized boxes with too much empty space – they’re more prone to damage.Unique labels: Every item and box needs its own unique label to avoid mix-ups.If You’re Using Pallets, Do It RightPallets aren’t just for giant warehouses. They’re your best friend for heavy-duty shipping. But Amazon’s picky about this too:Pre-schedule your pallet delivery. Show up unannounced? That’s a quick way to get turned away.Make sure your pallets meet Amazon’s size and material standards.Label both pallets and individual boxes.Cost Control – Don’t Bleed MoneyShipping oversized items is already pricey, but you can still control your costs. Here’s how:Dimensional weight pricing: Carriers charge by size AND weight. Pack efficiently to avoid paying for wasted space.Use freight forwarders that specialize in FBA to save on international shipments.Try using Amazon’s partnered carrier programs for bulk discounts.Avoid Rookie MistakesDon’t learn the hard way. Here are the most common mistakes sellers make – and how to avoid them:Ignoring weight and size rules: Even 1 cm over the limit could trigger extra fees or rejection.Old labels: Forgetting to clear them leads to massive delays.Insecure packaging: Fragile items WILL get damaged if not properly packed.Always Follow Amazon’s Rules – No ShortcutsAmazon doesn’t mess around. If you cut corners, expect rejected inventory, hefty fees, or worse – your account suspended.Follow their rules for:Safety requirementsLabeling and prepSpecific product restrictionsLet’s Make This RealImagine this: You ship a 120 lb couch to Amazon without a “Mech Lift” label. It arrives damaged, gets flagged as unsafe, and you’re charged return fees. Ouch, right?Now imagine you followed the rules. Same couch arrives intact, Amazon stocks it seamlessly, and you start making money. The choice is obvious.FAQsCan I bundle multiple oversized items in one box?Nope. Amazon requires oversized items to ship individually.What’s the most cost-effective way to ship oversized items?Use freight forwarders or Amazon’s partnered carrier programs. These can save you money, especially for international shipments.What happens if my shipment doesn’t meet Amazon’s requirements?Your items could be rejected, returned, or even destroyed – and you’ll foot the bill.Final WordsShipping oversized items to Amazon FBA isn’t rocket science, but it does take some effort.Get the size and weight right. Nail the packaging. Follow Amazon’s rules like your business depends on it – because it does.Start small, test your process, and keep optimizing.Shipping smarter means happier customers, smoother operations, and more money in your pocket.And who doesn’t want that?

2024-11-26

Important Points to Note During FBA Full Container Loading

When preparing for FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) full container loading, it's crucial to follow these key steps to ensure the safety of your goods and smooth delivery to Amazon warehouses. By adhering to these guidelines, you can minimize risks, streamline the process, and ensure compliance with Amazon’s requirements.1. Product PackagingProper packaging is the foundation of safe and efficient transport.Use Durable Cartons:Ensure products are packed in sturdy corrugated cartons that can withstand the rigors of transit. Reinforce the interior with custom foam or padding to prevent deformation or damage during shipping.Check for Damage:Inspect all packaging for rips, tears, or other damage. Amazon often rejects goods with damaged or deformed packaging.Seal Securely:Use strong packing tape to seal cartons, avoiding any chance of accidental opening during transit.2. Correct LabelingAccurate labeling is essential for Amazon to process your shipment smoothly.FBA Labels:Ensure every product and carton has the correct FBA label, which must be scannable and free of smudges or scratches.Special Handling Labels:For cartons weighing over 50 pounds, apply a "Team Lift" label.For those exceeding 100 pounds, use a "MechLift" label.These labels are mandatory for compliance with Amazon’s handling requirements.Placement Tips:Avoid placing labels on carton seams or edges. They should be on a flat surface, fully visible.3. Compliance with Size and Weight LimitsAdhering to Amazon’s size and weight restrictions reduces the risk of delays or rejections.Weight Limits:No single carton should weigh over 50 pounds unless explicitly allowed for specific products or warehouse policies. Always verify weight regulations for your designated fulfillment center.Volume Restrictions:Ensure that cartons are not excessively large, as oversized boxes can create handling challenges and attract additional fees.Mark Oversized Cartons:If a carton exceeds standard dimensions or weight, clearly mark it as oversized to alert handlers and prevent mismanagement.4. Efficient Loading TechniquesProper loading techniques are critical to protecting your goods during transport and ensuring efficient unloading at the warehouse.Avoid Overloading or Underloading:Load cartons with balanced spacing. Avoid packing too tightly or too loosely to minimize movement during transit.Stair-Step Pattern Near Doors:Arrange the last two rows in a stair-step pattern. This configuration facilitates smoother unloading at Amazon’s docks.Leave Space at the Top:Maintain at least 8 inches (20 cm) of clearance at the top of the container to avoid issues with overhead beams or forklift access.Carton Gaps:Leave at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) between cartons to prevent them from getting stuck during handling.5. Implement Safety MeasuresTo prevent damage or shifting during transit, secure your shipment thoroughly.Space Between Last Row and Door:Leave a buffer zone of at least 8 inches (20 cm) between the last row of cartons and the container doors.Stabilizing Equipment:Use tools like dunnage bags, non-metal strapping, bracing rods, or safety nets to secure the cargo and prevent it from shifting. Avoid using sharp materials that might damage cartons.6. Prepare Necessary DocumentationBefore shipping, ensure that all required documents are completed and accurate.Customs Clearance Documents:Include detailed product descriptions, invoices, and any other paperwork necessary for customs processing.FBA Shipment Plan:Confirm that the shipment is accurately documented in your Amazon Seller Central account to avoid discrepancies.Backup Copies:Keep digital and physical copies of all shipping documents in case of emergencies.7. Understand FBA FeesHaving a clear understanding of FBA fees helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises.Storage Fees:Amazon charges storage fees based on the time your goods stay in their warehouse. Familiarize yourself with both standard and peak-season rates.Handling Costs:Oversized, heavy, or non-compliant shipments may incur extra handling charges.8. Insurance and Inventory MonitoringProtecting your shipment and tracking its journey are vital for peace of mind.Shipping Insurance:Purchase transportation insurance to cover any potential loss or damage during transit.Real-Time Monitoring:Use inventory tracking tools to monitor the shipment status and confirm its safe arrival at the designated FBA warehouse.Additional Tips for SuccessPartner with a reliable freight forwarder experienced in FBA shipments.Conduct a final inspection of the container before sealing it for transit.Maintain open communication with your logistics provider to address any last-minute issues.By following these steps, you can significantly reduce risks and streamline the process of delivering your FBA shipments to Amazon’s warehouses. Proper planning and meticulous execution will not only ensure compliance but also enhance your operational efficiency.FAQsWhat is the maximum weight allowed for FBA cartons?The maximum weight for FBA cartons is typically 50 pounds unless otherwise specified by Amazon.Why should I leave space at the top of the container?Leaving 8 inches of space helps prevent handling issues and ensures compliance with Amazon’s unloading procedures.What safety measures can prevent cargo shifting?Use dunnage bags, straps, or safety nets to secure goods and maintain stability during transit.

FBA vs Overseas Warehouses for Cross-Border Sellers

Quick Overview

Amazon FBA

Third-Party Overseas Warehouses

FBA Requirements

Overseas Warehouse Flexibility

FBA Logistics

Overseas Warehouse Logistics

FBA Costs

Fixed Costs

Variable Costs

Overseas Warehouse Costs

Fixed Costs

Variable Costs

FBA Inventory Control

Overseas Warehouse Control

FBA Benefits

Overseas Warehouse Considerations

FBA Customer Service

Overseas Warehouse Support

FBA Risks

Overseas Warehouse Risks

Best for FBA

Best for Overseas Warehouses

Making Your Decision

Consider These Factors

Action Steps

Conclusion

Additional Resources