The Onboarding Steps Sellers Often Miss When Partnering With a 3PL

3PL Services, FBA Prep /

Partnering with a 3PL (third-party logistics) company can make managing your FBA inventory much easier. But many sellers overlook important steps during the onboarding process with a 3PL company, which can lead to delays, mistakes, or extra fees. Knowing what to check before sending your stock ensures a smoother experience.

Here are the onboarding steps that sellers often miss:

  1. Providing Complete Product Information
    If possible, try to have each carton contain only one SKU and be properly labeled by your supplier before it arrives at the 3PL. This makes it easier for the 3PL to prep and store your stock correctly. When cartons contain multiple SKUs or missing labels, it can cause delays, extra handling, or errors when preparing shipments for Amazon. Clear, consistent labeling upfront helps prevent problems later.
  2. Confirming Labeling Requirements
    Even if your stock is labeled by your supplier, double-check Amazon’s rules for any additional prep or labeling requirements. Knowing exactly how labels should be applied prevents rejected shipments and keeps your inventory moving smoothly.
  3. Choosing the Right Shipment Type
    Clarify whether stock will be sent as loose cartons or pallets. Using the wrong shipment type can slow processing and may create extra handling fees. Proper planning ensures your inventory is ready for efficient movement through the warehouse.
  4. Understanding Software or Reporting Access
    Some 3PLs provide dashboards or reporting tools. Make sure you have access and know how to check stock status, pending shipments, and prep issues. Missing this step can leave you in the dark until problems arise.
  5. Confirming Arrival Schedules and Communication Channels
    Specify when shipments will arrive and how you prefer updates. Clear communication prevents items from being misplaced, held, or delayed and keeps your FBA process on track.

By following these steps, you can avoid common onboarding mistakes and ensure your inventory reaches Amazon efficiently. If you want help getting your stock prepped and shipped correctly, Easy FBA Prep works with Australian sellers to make the 3PL onboarding process simple and stress-free. Contact us today to get started.