Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements: Key Guidelines to Know
Starting your own Amazon business can be exciting—until a rejected shipment or account warning catches you off guard. Amazon FBA has clear packaging requirements, and failing to comply with them can lead to delays, extra fees, or even bigger problems. Fortunately, once you know what to expect, these rules are fairly easy to follow.
In this article, we’ll explain Amazon FBA packaging requirements for 2025 and share tips to help ensure that you know how to pack your products the right way.
Amazon FBA Packaging Requirements
There are several standards you must follow when shipping your inventory to Amazon FBA centers for storage and fulfillment. While the complete list is available on Amazon’s official website, here are the top four pillars of proper packaging:
Box Dimensions
Box size: Maximum 25 inches/side
Box weight: Maximum 50 lb
Boxes over the 50 lb limit require a “Team Lift” label, and those weighing over 100 lb need a “Mechanical Lift” label.
Packaging Materials and Sealing
Use strong corrugated cardboard (e.g. Regular Slotted Carton)
Acceptable fillers: Bubble wrap, foam, air pillows, or full sheets of paper
Not allowed: Styrofoam peanuts, biodegradable fillers, crinkle wrap, shredded paper
All box flaps should be sealed securely with strong tape, ideally using the H-pattern method.
Number of Units per Box
The number of units inside each box must match your shipment plan exactly. If you're sending sets or multipacks, they should be packaged together as a single sellable unit and labeled accordingly. Ensure that all items are packed tightly to prevent movement or damage during transit.
Labeling Requirements
Scannable barcode
FNSKU (check more about FNSKU, ASIN, SKU, and more here)
Product title and description
Condition (e.g. New or Used)
Optional info (like color or size, if applicable)
Labels must be clearly visible and not placed over edges or seams.
Be sure to check the packaging rules for the country where you plan to sell, as box weight limits in the USA are higher than those in the UK, for example.
How to Make Your Packaging Stand Out
While following Amazon’s packaging rules is vital, this doesn’t mean your packaging has to be boring. Great packaging not only protects your product but also leaves a lasting impression that can turn a one-time buyer into a loyal customer. Here are a few tips:
Branded packaging: If you're selling your own brand (private label), your packaging should reflect your brand’s identity. A consistent, recognizable look reinforces your image and helps build customer loyalty.
Attractive design and quality materials: Place a test order to check if the manufacturer uses durable, presentable materials. If possible, work with a designer to create appealing packaging that enhances perceived value and matches your product niche.
Thoughtful extras: While Amazon doesn’t allow surprise gifts, you can still mention a free item in the product description and bundle it legally. A thank-you card with a QR code linking to your social media or review page is also a great way to boost engagement.
Packaging plays a big role in how customers perceive your product. Many shoppers leave lower ratings if an item arrives damaged or poorly packed. On the other hand, standout packaging can leave a lasting impression and even turn first-time buyers into loyal customers, as this is the first touchpoint in their experience.
To better align your packaging with customer expectations, it’s important to analyze product reviews—both your own and those of similar items.
Analyze Customer Reviews to Improve Your Packaging
Sorting manually through hundreds of reviews is time-consuming, and it’s not always easy to separate real insights from personal opinions. That’s where the AMZScout AI Review Analyzer can help, by quickly identifying common praises and complaints, so you can make smart improvements and stand out in your niche.
Here’s how to use it:
1. Go to the AI Review Analyzer page. Enter your email address to start a free trial (includes one free product check).
2. Enter the ASIN. Click "Analyze Product by ASIN," input the product’s ASIN, and hit "Get Review Analysis."
3. Get the results. The tool will generate detailed statistics, graphs, and text-based insights based on customer reviews.
With this data, you can easily identify what buyers appreciate (and what frustrates them), so you can make targeted improvements that boost satisfaction and sales.
Specific Packaging Rules
Some types of inventory require special preparation before shipping to Amazon FBA. This includes adult products, sharp objects, and other types of goods. Here are a few key packaging tips:
Fragile Items
Fragile units must be packed to prevent breakage or safety risks during storage and shipping. Use either a six-sided box or fully secure the item in bubble wrap.
Permitted materials: Strong boxes, bubble wrap, dunnage, scannable barcodes
Liquids
Liquids must be sealed securely to avoid leaks. If items are not double-sealed, they must be placed in polybags or shrink wrap. Products over 16 oz require polybagging, even if they’re double-sealed. Permitted materials: Boxes, polybags, shrink wrap, bubble wrap, dunnage, product labels
Products with Expiration Dates
The expiration date must be clearly visible to Amazon employees. Products must have at least 105 days of shelf life from the date they reach the fulfillment center.
Warning labels: If you’re using polybags, don’t forget to add a suffocation warning—this is required for any bags with openings larger than five inches.
If your supplier is handling your shipments, make sure they’re fully aware of Amazon’s packaging requirements. Otherwise, consider repacking the items yourself or using specialized repackaging services that can help sellers stay compliant with Amazon’s guidelines.
Conclusion
While it’s crucial to follow packaging requirements for Amazon FBA, it’s just as important to consider your customers’ expectations. Consider using the AMZScout toolkit to analyze customer reviews and find out what buyers appreciate—or can’t stand—about product packaging. This enables you to remain compliant with Amazon’s rules and create an improved unboxing experience that can lead to increased sales.
