Selling on Amazon can be a lucrative venture, but it comes with specific compliance requirements that sellers must understand. One of the most critical—and sometimes misunderstood—aspects is Amazon’s FNSKU label requirements. Failing to meet these guidelines can result in delayed shipments, additional fees, or even suspension of your Amazon seller account. This article will unlock the secrets of Amazon FNSKU labels, guiding you step by step so you can label your products correctly and efficiently.
What Is an FNSKU?
Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit (FNSKU) is the unique identifier Amazon uses to trace products stored and shipped through its fulfillment centers. When you enroll a product in Amazon’s FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) program, Amazon assigns an FNSKU to that specific item, linking it directly to your seller account. This ensures that you receive proper credit for your inventory, especially when multiple sellers offer the same product.
An FNSKU label is not the same as a UPC or EAN—you must use Amazon’s assigned barcode to meet their internal requirements.
When and Why Are FNSKU Labels Required?
Amazon requires FNSKU labels in the following circumstances:
- You are using Amazon FBA to store and ship your products.
- Your product has no manufacturer barcode (UPC) or it’s not eligible under Amazon’s stickerless commingled inventory option.
- You wish to maintain brand or seller-specific product tracking, ensuring no mix-up with other sellers’ inventory.
By printing and affixing the correct FNSKU label, you maintain the integrity of your inventory and minimize operational issues.
How to Generate and Print FNSKU Labels
To generate your FNSKU label:
- Log in to your Amazon Seller Central account.
- Go to the Inventory tab and select the item you are sending to FBA.
- Choose Print Item Labels.
- Select the appropriate label format (typically 30-up labels are used).
- Click Print to download a PDF of the label sheets.
Labels must be printed clearly, scannable, and affixed to each individual retail unit. Amazon recommends professional-grade laser printers to ensure quality.
Amazon FNSKU Label Specifications
To be accepted at fulfillment centers, each FNSKU label must meet the following technical specifications:
- Be placed on the outside of the packaging and easily accessible.
- Cover any existing manufacturer or UPC barcodes unless using stickerless commingled inventory.
- Include product title, condition (e.g., new), and a clearly printed barcode (FNSKU).
- Have a white background for optimum scan contrast.
Failure to meet these specifications might result in Amazon charging you with a per-unit labeling fee or rejecting the shipment entirely.
Label Placement and Best Practices
Proper placement is just as important as accuracy. Follow these best practices:
- Place the label on a smooth surface—avoid corners or curves that can distort the barcode.
- Make sure the entire label is visible and not cut off or overlapped by tape, shrink wrap, or other packaging materials.
- Do a test scan before shipping if available. This helps catch errors before Amazon finds them.
FNSKU vs. UPC: What’s the Difference?
While both barcodes contain product-identifying information, they function differently in Amazon’s ecosystem:
- UPC Code: Issued by GS1 and used universally across retailers.
- FNSKU: Unique to Amazon and ties the product directly to your seller account.
If your listing uses a UPC but you choose to use FBA, Amazon might relabel it with an FNSKU unless you opt-in for commingled inventory. Avoiding label issues requires that you clearly understand this distinction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are frequent pitfalls sellers encounter during FNSKU labeling:
- Using inkjet printers that result in smudged or unreadable barcodes.
- Failing to cover the original UPC when required.
- Placing the label on package seams or textured surfaces.
- Sending bulk units without individual labels (unless pre-approved by Amazon).
Final Thoughts
Understanding and properly implementing Amazon’s FNSKU label requirements is not just a technicality—it’s an essential step in safeguarding your reputation and operational efficiency as an Amazon FBA seller. Use the right tools, follow Amazon’s exact specifications, and treat the labeling process with diligence.
If you want streamlined operations and fewer surprises in your Amazon business, mastering FNSKU labeling should be a top priority.
