Hello Sellers!

As an Amazon seller, the process of getting your inventory received and stocked at Amazon's fulfillment centers is critical for maintaining product availability and driving sales. Recently we have seen threads relating to delays in your inventory being received.

Consider this 8-step checklist to ensure your products are processed quickly and accurately. Paying close attention to inventory preparation, shipping instructions, and proactive monitoring are key to a seamless receiving experience at Amazon.

1. Create an inbound shipment in Seller Central, start by logging into your Amazon Seller Central account and creating a new inbound shipment. Provide details like the ship-from address, the items being shipped, and the estimated shipping date. Ensuring an accurate estimated ship date is key!

2. Prepare inventory according to Amazon's requirements. Carefully review Amazon's packaging, labeling, and shipping guidelines for FBA inventory. This includes using the correct box sizes, applying the right barcode labels, and routing shipments to the specified fulfillment center address. Proper preparation is essential for efficient receiving.

3. Ship inventory to the assigned Amazon fulfillment center. Once your shipment is ready, send it to the specific Amazon fulfillment center location provided in your inbound shipment details. Make sure to use the carrier and service level that ensures on-time delivery.

4. Monitor shipment status in Seller Central. Track the status of your inbound shipment in Seller Central as it moves through the receiving process. You'll see the status cycle through "In Transit," "Delivered," "Checked-In," "Receiving," and finally "Closed" as Amazon processes your inventory.

5. Ensure accurate inventory count and reconciliation. When your inventory arrives, Amazon's receiving teams will meticulously scan and count every item, reconciling the actual quantities against your shipment details. They'll document any discrepancies for investigation and resolution.

6. Understand Amazon's different storage types. Amazon utilizes various storage methods to accommodate different product characteristics and sales volumes. Your items may be placed in bulk storage for standard, slower-moving products, pick storage for faster-moving items, or special storage for hazardous, perishable, or high-value goods that require secure or climate-controlled conditions.

7. Track inventory levels and replenishment in Seller Central. Use the robust inventory reporting tools in Seller Central to monitor your current stock levels, historical activity, and inventory performance metrics like turns and days of supply. This will help you identify when it's time to replenish items from bulk to pick storage to maintain availability.

8. Address any inventory adjustments or damage claims. If you notice any inventory discrepancies or damage, work quickly to reconcile them in Seller Central. Amazon has well-defined processes to investigate and provide reimbursement for lost or damaged items that occurred under their control. Be sure to file any claims within the 30-day window.

Please let us know if you have any questions!

Best,

Dominic