If you’re relying on Amazon to handle your FBA prep, here’s a wake-up call:
Starting January 1, 2026, Amazon will officially discontinue all in-house FBA prep services. That means no more labeling, poly-bagging, bundling, or packaging assistance from the world’s largest e-commerce platform.
For many sellers, this is more than just a policy update — it’s a seismic operational shift.
What’s Changing?
As of January 2026, Amazon will no longer provide:
FNSKU labeling
Polybagging and bundling
Packaging compliance guidance
Quality control and inspection services
Sellers who previously leaned on Amazon for these services will now be fully responsible for prepping their products before they enter the FBA network. And while that might sound like a small logistical change, it has major implications for brands operating at scale.
Prep Isn’t Just Barcodes — It’s Strategy
Prep work is often underestimated. It’s not just about slapping a barcode on a box — it’s a labor-intensive, compliance-heavy process that requires precision and speed. Done right, it keeps your Amazon account healthy and your customers happy. Done wrong, it leads to:
Shipment rejections
Delays in inventory availability
Increased return rates
Potential account health issues
As prep responsibilities shift back to the seller, brands without infrastructure or experience could face costly errors.
Why Brands Are Bringing Prep Back to the Manufacturer
As Amazon steps away from FBA prep, smart sellers are taking a closer look at where their supply chain begins — and many are realizing that the most efficient place to prep inventory is at the source.
By shifting prep responsibilities directly to the manufacturer, brands can:
Eliminate redundant shipping steps
Ensure packaging and labeling compliance before the product even ships
Streamline operations for faster FBA check-in
Maintain tighter quality control
Instead of relying on overseas prep centers or low-cost third-party providers, integrating prep into your manufacturing process means fewer handoffs, lower costs, and greater control. It’s not just about saving time — it’s about building a smarter, leaner supply chain from the ground up.
What Should Sellers Do Now?
2026 might sound far off, but building the right prep infrastructure takes time.
Here’s how to stay ahead:
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Audit your current process – What services are you relying on Amazon for today?
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Estimate the operational lift – Do you have the in-house ability to take this on?
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Explore 3PL partnerships – A reliable prep partner can help you scale without losing control.
The prep process is about more than efficiency — it’s about protecting your account, your margins, and your brand’s reputation. As Amazon’s role shifts, your strategy needs to evolve with it.
Ready to maximize profits? What to explore more about Aged Amazon Seller accounts? Talk to our team and get your Amazon Store back to the black!