Overview

Effective March 31 2026, Amazon will stop allowing commingled inventory across its entire Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) network. The shift introduces separate barcode rules for brand‑registered owners and for third‑party resellers, making it the most consequential operational change for FBA sellers in recent memory. Understanding the new labeling mandates and adjusting inventory processes now is essential to avoid shipment rejections and extra costs.

Key Points

• Commingle elimination date — From 31 March 2026, Amazon will only use the seller‑owned units that are stored in its warehouses to fulfill orders, ending the practice of mixing identical items from different sellers.
• Brand‑owner barcode relief — Sellers who are listed as the brand representative in Amazon Brand Registry can ship products that already carry a valid UPC, EAN or ISBN without adding an Amazon FNSKU label.
• Reseller labeling requirement — Resellers who are not brand representatives must affix an Amazon‑generated FNSKU sticker to every unit, even if the item already has a manufacturer barcode.
• Unbranded or private‑label items — Products lacking any manufacturer barcode continue to require an Amazon FNSKU label for both brand owners and resellers, mirroring current practice.
• Inventory already in Amazon’s centers — Stock that arrived before the March 2026 deadline will remain eligible for fulfillment under the old rules; the new labeling standards apply only to units shipped on or after the effective date.

How the New Barcode System Works

1. Determine seller classification — Log into Brand Registry and verify whether you hold the “brand representative selling role.”

   • Example: A company that registered “EcoGear” as its trademark sees a green checkmark next to “brand representative,” confirming it qualifies for the relaxed barcode rule.

2. Select the appropriate barcode —

   • Brand owners: If the product bears a legitimate manufacturer barcode (e.g., a 12‑digit UPC), ship the item with that barcode alone.