Overview

Amazon Warehousing and Distribution (AWD) provides sellers with a bulk storage and distribution solution that feeds inventory into the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) network. However, getting your shipments into AWD distribution centers requires strict adherence to packaging, labeling, and shipping standards. Failing to meet these requirements can result in inventory rejection, returns, or even restrictions on future shipments — making it essential for sellers to understand the rules before shipping.

Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know

• All shipments must be in closed boxes — AWD distribution centers do not accept loose, unboxed, or open items regardless of your chosen shipping method. Every unit must arrive properly boxed and sealed.
• FBA prep and labeling services are ending — Starting July 1, 2026, Amazon will no longer offer prep and item labeling services for FBA shipments in the US store, including inventory flowing from AWD into FBA. Sellers must handle all prep and labeling themselves before shipping.
• Sharp product packaging is seller-owned — Amazon no longer offers prep services for sharp products. Sellers are fully responsible for end-to-end packaging of all sharp items before sending them to any facility.
• Non-compliance carries real consequences — Shipments that fail to meet AWD preparation requirements, safety standards, or product restrictions may be refused, returned, or result in blocks on future shipments to the distribution center.
• FBA product prep standards apply — All units sent to AWD must be prepped according to Amazon's standard FBA shipping preparation requirements, as inventory stored in AWD ultimately flows through the FBA fulfillment network.

Packaging and Box Requirements

Every shipment destined for an AWD distribution center must arrive in properly closed and sealed boxes. Amazon does not accept shipments with loose items, open containers, or unboxed products — this applies universally regardless of whether you're shipping via small parcel, less-than-truckload (LTL), or full truckload (FTL). Sellers should ensure that boxes are sturdy enough to withstand standard warehouse handling and that contents are secured to prevent shifting during transit. Because AWD inventory eventually moves into the FBA fulfillment network, all product-level preparation must meet FBA's existing guidelines for item packaging, poly bagging, bubble wrapping, and other protective measures as outlined on Amazon's product prep requirements page.