Amazon FBA Sellers Guide to Air Freight Shipping

For cross-border e-commerce sellers, efficiently and compliantly delivering products to Amazon's FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) warehouses is crucial for achieving sales targets. FBA air freight, as a common logistics method, differs significantly from standard air freight operations. This comprehensive guide examines the operational workflow, key distinctions from regular air freight, and practical considerations to help sellers optimize their logistics strategy and enhance operational efficiency.

I. Understanding FBA Air Freight

FBA air freight refers to the service that transports sellers' products from origin countries to Amazon FBA warehouses via air transportation. It is not merely standard air freight but rather a customized logistics solution designed to meet Amazon's stringent receiving requirements. The primary objective is ensuring compliance with Amazon's standards to facilitate smooth warehouse acceptance, thereby preventing unnecessary delays and additional fees.

Among FBA transportation options—including ocean freight, air freight, and express shipping—air freight offers distinct advantages of speed and security, making it particularly suitable for time-sensitive products.

II. Detailed FBA Air Freight Process

1. Product Preparation and Packaging

• Product Readiness: Prepare inventory according to sales forecasts and stock requirements, ensuring product quality meets standards to prevent returns or unsold inventory. Special handling is required for fragile items or liquids.
• FNSKU Labeling: Each unit must bear a clear, properly affixed FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit) label—Amazon's unique product identifier. Variants (e.g., different colors/sizes) require distinct FNSKUs.
• Master Carton Requirements: Use durable corrugated boxes with adequate cushioning (bubble wrap, foam inserts). Each carton must display:
  • Amazon warehouse code
  • Complete recipient/consignee information
  • Consignor details
  • Carton numbering for tracking
  • "Made in [Country]" origin marking
• Dimensional Compliance: Maximum weight per carton: 22.5kg (50 lbs); dimensions must not exceed Amazon's limits to avoid rejection or surcharges.

2. Logistics Channel Selection

• Air Freight + Final Mile Delivery: Freight forwarders handle airport-to-warehouse transportation including customs clearance—ideal for sellers lacking overseas logistics expertise.
• Pure Air Freight (Airport-to-Airport): Forwarders only deliver to destination airports; sellers arrange final delivery to FBA warehouses—cost-effective but requires local logistics capability.
• FBA Dedicated Lines: Specialized forwarders with Amazon partnerships offer integrated services (air transport, clearance, delivery) for streamlined operations.

3. Customs Procedures

• Export Documentation: Prepare commercial invoices, packing lists, and product declarations; forwarders typically manage export filings.
• Import Clearance: Verify destination country requirements (e.g., importer registration). Some forwarders offer "DDP" (Delivered Duty Paid) services covering clearance and taxes.

4. Air Transport and Arrival

• Goods are transported via air to destination airports
• Forwarders coordinate customs clearance and duty payments

5. Final Delivery

• Local carriers (e.g., UPS, DHL) deliver to designated FBA warehouses following Amazon's appointment scheduling
• Warehouse confirmation appears in seller central upon receipt

III. Key Differences: FBA Air Freight vs. Standard Air Freight