In a major update to its fulfillment program, Amazon has announced it will stop offering FBA prep and labeling services in the U.S. starting January 1, 2026. This change affects thousands of Amazon sellers who currently rely on Amazon to handle packaging and compliance tasks at its fulfillment centers.
If you sell via Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), this is a crucial change that will impact how you prepare your inventory.
What Is Amazon FBA Prep and Labeling Service?
Amazon’s FBA prep service was a paid, optional service that helped sellers meet fulfillment requirements without having to handle packaging themselves. These services included:
- Applying FNSKU barcode labels.
- Poly bagging or bubble wrapping items
- Attaching safety labels (e.g., suffocation warnings)
Bundling multiple units into one sellable set.
These services were often used by new or international sellers, or those without warehousing or packing teams.
When Will FBA Prep Services End?
Amazon will officially end FBA prep and labeling services on January 1, 2026.
- Shipments created before January 1, 2026 can still request prep services.
- Shipments created on or after January 1, 2026 must be fully prepped and labeled before reaching Amazon’s fulfillment centers.
This means sellers must be fully transitioned to self-managed prep by the end of 2025.
How Ending FBA Prep Services Affects Amazon Sellers
Once the policy goes into effect, Amazon will no longer perform prep or labeling on behalf of FBA sellers, and all products must arrive at fulfillment centers:
- Fully labeled with scannable FNSKU barcodes
- Packaged correctly (e.g., bagged, wrapped, or boxed)
- Bundled and compliant with Amazon’s FBA product preparation guidelines
Sellers who send unprepped inventory risk:
- Rejected or returned shipments
- Delays in inventory check-in
- Stranded or noncompliant inventory
- No reimbursement for damage or mishandling
How FBA Sellers Can Prepare for 2026 Prep Service Changes
To avoid disruption, Amazon sellers should begin making changes now. Here’s what to focus on:
- Review SKUs – Identify products that currently rely on Amazon for labeling, bagging, or bundling, you’ll need new prep solutions in place before 2026.
- Choose Your Prep Method – Decide between prepping in-house or using a third-party (3PL). Ensure whichever option you pick can meet all Amazon FBA labeling and packaging requirements.
- Run Test Shipments – Trial your new prep process now. Check that labels are accurate, packaging is compliant, and shipments pass Amazon checks.
- Train Your Team or Suppliers – Make sure everyone handling your inventory understands Amazon’s updated prep rules and can follow them consistently.
- Secure 3PL Support Early – If you’re using a prep center, reach out early. Demand will spike closer to the 2026 deadline — especially before Q4.
Key Dates for Amazon FBA Sellers
- Now – Dec 31, 2025 – FBA prep services are available for eligible shipments.
- Jan 1, 2026 onward – Amazon stops offering prep/labeling; sellers must prep before shipping.
Amazon’s decision marks a major shift in how FBA sellers handle inventory. While it brings new responsibilities, it also gives sellers greater control over packaging, compliance, and shipping costs. Preparing early is key to staying competitive and avoiding disruptions in 2026.
