Amazon FBA Pallet Requirements and How to Avoid Them

Many companies have doubts about the requirements for pallets when preparing goods to be shipped to Amazon warehouses. Especially about Amazon FBA's pallet size, loading regulations, and cost calculations. This article will answer popular questions about Amazon FBA pallet requirements and provide solutions to help you ship smoothly.

Are you also unclear about the requirements for pallet size when preparing to ship to Amazon FBA warehouses? What are Amazon's requirements for pallets?

Amazon Pallet Size Requirements

According to Amazon's official regulations, the size of pallets shipped to the US station must be 80cm x 120cm, and "EUR" and "EPAL" must be printed on both sides of the corners. The boxes on the pallet must not exceed the edge of the pallet by 25mm (but there is also a saying that it must not exceed the edge of the pallet by 1 inch, which is about 2.54 cm, which may be related to the leniency in actual operation). It is worth noting that Amazon sites in different countries may have different pallet size requirements, such as the European standard of 120cm x 80cm, so be sure to confirm the specific requirements of the target site before shipping.

Here are the pallet size requirements for Amazon FBA in different regions:

EU: 80 x 120cm

UK: 100 x 120cm

Japan: 110 x 110cm

Amazon requires the use of 4-way aisle pallets, which are flexible, durable, easy to operate by forklifts, while optimizing space and carrying heavy loads.

Amazon FBA requirements for pallets:

Pallet size: The standard size is 40×48 inches (about 101.6×121.9 cm).

Pallet height: The total height including the pallet must not exceed 72 inches (about 182.88 cm).

Pallet weight: The maximum weight of each pallet is 1,500 pounds (about 680.4 kg). Pallet material: Wooden pallets must be used and meet ISPM-15 standards.

What mistakes should be avoided when choosing pallets?

When choosing pallets, companies often overlook some key factors, resulting in pallets that do not meet Amazon's requirements.

Avoid using broken pallets

Damaged pallets not only affect the safety of the goods, but may also be rejected for storage.

Pay attention to the weight and thickness of the pallet

Choose a pallet with moderate weight and sufficient thickness to ensure that it is strong and durable. A pallet that is too light may not be strong enough, while a pallet that is not thick enough is easy to deform.

Avoid using inflexible plastic pallets

Such pallets are prone to aging and breaking, and do not meet Amazon's pallet requirements.

Amazon requires that the pallet material must be wood and meet the ISPM-15 standard to prevent pests from damaging goods and the environment. Plastic pallets are not accepted in Amazon FBA warehouses.

How to load pallets correctly to meet Amazon's requirements?

Height limit

The height of the pallet plus the goods must not exceed 160cm (US station regulations) to ensure smooth warehouse operations.

Weight limit

The total weight of the pallet cargo must not exceed 600kg (some regulations are 500kg, depending on the site).

Marking requirements

Mark "Pallet#_of_Pallets" in the upper right corner of each pallet cargo and affix the required labels on the four sides of the pallet. The shipping label on the shipping box must face up so that Amazon warehouse staff can efficiently scan the barcode and register your goods.

Use protective film

Although the document mentions that the protective film needs to be marked "do not break down", this is not a hard and fast rule. However, using a transparent protective film to tie the pallet can provide additional protection.

Goods stacking

The heaviest boxes should be placed at the bottom of the pallet to create a more stable base and prevent lighter products from being crushed. Goods must be stacked firmly and evenly to prevent shifting during transportation.

Can plastic or second-hand pallets be used?

Plastic pallets are a viable option, but be aware of their quality and durability. As for second-hand pallets, they can also be used as long as they meet Amazon's requirements and are not damaged. However, in order to ensure the safety and smooth warehousing of goods, it is recommended that companies choose new, compliant pallets when possible.

How high can Amazon pallets be?

Regarding the height restrictions of pallets, there may be differences between different sites. The height limit of pallets in the US site is 160cm, but other sites may be different. Be sure to check the specific requirements of the target site before shipping.

How to calculate FBA shipping fees and Amazon restocking fees?

FBA shipping fees

Usually calculated based on the volume and weight of the goods. Ocean freight quotes are usually quoted by volume, with the volume-to-weight conversion ratio being 1 cubic meter (CBM) = 300 kilograms (KG).

Amazon Restocking Fees

Are a percentage of the product price (excluding shipping costs), depending on the type of product and the condition of the product when it is returned. If the product is unwanted by the buyer and is returned within 30 days and is unsaleable or significantly different from the original product, the buyer may be charged more than 50% of the product value. If the returned goods cannot be resold, the seller may charge a higher fee based on the condition of the goods. This policy is intended to compensate sellers for the inspection and repackaging costs and reduce unnecessary returns.

Following Amazon's pallet requirements can effectively ensure that goods enter Amazon warehouses smoothly and reduce additional costs. If you need more information or want to work with ChinaDivision, a professional third-party logistics service provider, please visit our official website https://chinadivision.com/.

Through the detailed analysis of this article, I believe that B2B companies have a clearer understanding of Amazon FBA Pallet Requirements. If you encounter any problems or confusion when preparing to ship to Amazon FBA warehouses, please feel free to contact Chinadivision. We will provide you with professional logistics solutions and one-stop services to ensure that your goods are delivered to their destination smoothly and safely.

Want to learn more about pallets? Take a deep dive through the following blog content:

Maximize Efficiency: Choosing the Right Standard Pallet Type and Size

How to Maximize Warehouse Space with Pallet Racking Systems

Pallets and Skids in Transportation: Differentiation and Application