Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Signing up for a Seller Account
3. Managing Inventory
4. Choosing a Carrier
5. Shipping from Manufacturer vs. Personal Storage
6. Case Pack Template and Box Dimensions
7. Prepping Units for Shipment
8. Including Seller Information
9. Printing Box Labels
10. Confirming Hazardous Products
Introduction
In this article, we will guide you through the process of sending an inventory to Amazon. Whether you're a new seller or an experienced one, understanding the steps involved is crucial for a successful shipment. We'll cover everything from signing up for a seller account to printing box labels and avoiding common mistakes. So let's dive in and get started!
**1. Signing up for a Seller Account**
The first step in sending an inventory to Amazon is to sign up for a seller account. This process is straightforward and can be done on the Amazon seller account page. You'll need to provide all the necessary information about yourself and your business. If you're unsure about how to sign up, we have a video tutorial that explains the process in detail. It's beneficial to create your seller account early, even before you have a product, to familiarize yourself with the platform and understand the associated costs.
**2. Managing Inventory**
Once you have a seller account, it's essential to have inventory ready. Knowing the details about your products is crucial for a smooth shipment process. Amazon will ask for specific information about your products when you want to start an inventory shipment to their warehouses. To access the inventory page, click on "Inventory" in your seller account. From there, you can add products and provide all the necessary information. It's important to manage your inventory properly and keep track of stock levels to avoid any issues.
**3. Choosing a Carrier**
When sending your inventory to Amazon, you'll need to choose a carrier. The most common carrier used is UPS. You'll have to arrange for your products to be shipped to the UPS store, from where they will be sent to Amazon warehouses across the country. It's crucial to include accurate information about the shipping origin, whether it's your hometown or directly from the manufacturer. Depending on the size of your order and your preferences, you can decide whether to ship from your location or have the manufacturer send it directly to Amazon.
**4. Shipping from Manufacturer vs. Personal Storage**
Deciding whether to ship from the manufacturer or store the inventory yourself is an important consideration. If you have a large order or prefer not to handle the storage and shipping logistics, having the manufacturer send the products directly to Amazon can be a viable option. However, if you want more control over your inventory and want to avoid storage costs, storing the products yourself and gradually adding inventory as needed might be a better choice. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons based on your specific situation.
**5. Case Pack Template and Box Dimensions**
When preparing your inventory for shipment, you'll need to be aware of the case pack template and provide accurate box dimensions. The case pack template allows you to auto-add units each time you send inventory. If it's your first time shipping, you'll need to include the units per box individually. Additionally, you must include the correct box dimensions, usually in inches, as this affects the shipping costs. Accuracy is crucial to avoid any additional charges or complications during the shipment process.
**6. Prepping Units for Shipment**
Amazon offers a service to prep units for shipment, but it comes with an additional cost. If your products don't require any prep, such as adding your own SKU unit numbers, you can indicate that no prep is needed on the inventory page. However, if your products require specific preparation, Amazon can handle it for you. It's important to consider the associated costs and decide whether you want to take care of the prep yourself or have Amazon do it.
**7. Including Seller Information**
As the seller, you'll need to provide your information on the inventory form. This step is straightforward, as the form will guide you through each page, asking for the necessary details. If you miss any required information, the form will prompt you to fill it in. Make sure to include all the requested information accurately to avoid any delays or issues with your shipment.
**8. Printing Box Labels**
Once you've filled out all the necessary information about your units, you'll be able to print the box labels. These labels contain important details such as box weight, dimensions, and the barcode for your product. It's crucial to cut out the labels and attach them to the side of each box, following Amazon's guidelines. This ensures that the information aligns with the actual shipment and helps with tracking and inventory management.
**9. Confirming Hazardous Products**
If your product falls under the category of hazardous items, it's essential to follow Amazon's guidelines and regulations. During the inventory form filling process, you'll come across a screen where you need to confirm that your products are not hazardous. It's crucial to adhere to these guidelines and, if required, consult with your carrier to ensure compliance. Some carriers may require you to leave the boxes open for inspection, so it's worth checking their specific requirements.
**10. Avoiding Common Mistakes**
To wrap up, let's discuss the three most common mistakes sellers make when sending their shipments to Amazon. First, it's crucial to obtain a receipt for the printed labels. This receipt serves as proof of inventory sent and can be helpful if any issues arise. Second, avoid sending large boxes weighing over 50 pounds, as it can result in higher charges. Lastly, be mindful of sending excessive inventory to Amazon, as storage costs can add up. Regularly monitor your inventory levels and optimize them based on demand and storage fees.
Highlights
- Signing up for a seller account is the first step in sending an inventory to Amazon.
- Managing inventory and providing accurate product information is crucial for a smooth shipment process.
- Choosing a carrier, such as UPS, is necessary to transport your products to Amazon warehouses.
- Deciding between shipping from the manufacturer or personal storage depends on your preferences and cost considerations.
- Pay attention to the case pack template, box dimensions, and accurate weight to avoid
