Overview

Amazon has released a comprehensive set of packaging requirements aimed at lowering the rate of product damage for sellers using the Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA) program. The guidelines, which cover everything from cushioning thickness to carton strength, went live in early 2024 and are mandatory for all inbound shipments. Sellers who adopt the standards can expect fewer damaged units, fewer reimbursement claims, and a healthier seller‑performance profile.

Key Points

• Full‑perimeter protection required — Every face of an item must be wrapped or cushioned; relying only on stretch‑wrap or a poly bag is not acceptable.
• Two‑inch cushioning buffer for fragile goods — Breakable products such as glass, ceramics, or electronics must have at least 2 inches of protective material on all sides inside the box.
• Carton strength tied to weight — Items under 100 lb must be placed in a single‑wall box with a minimum 44 ECT rating, while heavier shipments need a double‑wall box rated at least 48 ECT.
• Approved sealing methods — Use 3‑inch wide packaging tape or water‑activated tape that tears the fibers when removed; this keeps cartons sealed throughout handling.
• Rebound‑type cushioning preferred — Materials that return to their original shape after compression (e.g., high‑density foam, air pillows) are favored because they absorb repeated shocks.
• Corner boards recommended for strapping — Adding reinforced corner pieces when banding cartons distributes pressure and reduces edge crushing during pallet stacking.

How the Packaging Process Works

1. Select the correct carton — Determine the product’s weight; for a 75‑lb widget, choose a single‑wall box with a 44 ECT rating, while a 120‑lb appliance requires a double‑wall 48 ECT box. Verify the box dimensions leave no more than 1‑2 inches of empty space on any side.
2. Add full‑perimeter cushioning — Place a layer of rebound foam or air pillows on the bottom of the box, then position the product so that at least 2 inches of the same material surround it on the left, right, front, back, and top. For a glass vase, this might involve a molded pulp tray plus additional foam sheets to meet the two‑inch rule.