Overview

When sending inventory to Amazon Warehousing and Distribution (AWD), sellers must print and apply box labels as part of the shipment creation workflow. This is Step 3 in the multi-step "Send to AWD" process, and it's a requirement that must be completed before your shipment can be received and processed at an AWD facility. Getting box labels right helps prevent delays, additional fees, or rejected shipments.

Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know

• Box labels are mandatory — Every box in your AWD shipment must have a unique, scannable label applied before it ships. Without proper labels, your inventory may be delayed or refused at the receiving facility.
• Labels are generated in Step 3 — After confirming your shipment details in Step 2 of the Send to AWD workflow, the system generates downloadable box labels that correspond to each box in your shipment.
• Label format matters — Box labels are typically provided as PDF files that can be printed on standard shipping label paper or directly onto adhesive labels. They include barcodes that Amazon's warehouse systems use to identify and route your inventory.
• Each box gets a unique label — Labels are specific to individual boxes within a shipment. Do not photocopy or reuse labels across multiple boxes, as this will cause receiving errors.
• Pallet labels may also be required — For truckload (LTL/FTL) shipments, sellers may also need to print and apply pallet labels in addition to box labels as part of a subsequent step in the workflow.

The AWD Shipment Workflow

The Send to AWD workflow guides sellers through a structured series of steps to prepare inventory for shipment. Step 1 involves selecting which inventory to send. Step 2 covers confirming shipping details such as quantities and shipping mode. Step 3 is where box labels are generated and printed. For truckload shipments, additional steps include selecting a carrier and printing pallet labels. Small parcel delivery (SPD) shipments and partnered carrier truckload shipments may also require entering shipment details such as tracking numbers and delivery appointments. Each step must be completed in order before you can proceed to the next.