How to Use Multi-Channel Distribution (MCD) Through Amazon Warehousing and Distribution
Amazon's Multi-Channel Distribution (MCD) feature lets AWD sellers replenish inventory to warehouses, wholesalers, and other non-Amazon destinations in the US, with setup guides, label requirements, and order tracking details.
Overview
Amazon's Multi-Channel Distribution (MCD) feature allows sellers using Amazon Warehousing and Distribution (AWD) to replenish inventory beyond the Amazon fulfillment network. With MCD, sellers can ship bulk inventory from AWD storage facilities to their own warehouses, third-party logistics providers, wholesalers, distributors, and other off-Amazon destinations. This capability transforms AWD from a single-channel storage solution into a centralized inventory hub for multi-channel sellers.
Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know
- Centralized inventory management — MCD lets you use AWD as a distribution hub to send inventory to destinations outside of Amazon's fulfillment network, including your own warehouses and third-party partners.
- US-only support currently — MCD orders are currently limited to destinations within the United States, shipped in unbranded packaging via non-Amazon-branded carriers.
- Two shipping methods available — Orders can be shipped via small parcel or palletized (LTL/TL) shipments, though not all orders may qualify for both methods depending on SKU quantities.
- Custom labeling supported — For channels requiring specific carton and pallet labels, sellers can upload custom shipment labels during order creation.
- Average 14-day transit time — Replenishments from AWD distribution centers to your destination take approximately 14 days on average, with actual timelines varying by distance.
- Orders cannot be canceled — Once an MCD order is submitted, it cannot be reversed, so sellers should verify all details before confirming.
Setting Up Channels and Destinations
Before creating MCD orders, sellers must first configure their distribution channels and destinations within the AWD program page. Navigate to the section for replenishing SKUs to non-Amazon destinations and select the option to set up and manage channels. You will need to enter channel details such as the channel name and shipment labeling preferences. For channels that require custom carton and pallet labels, select the option indicating you will provide labels at the time of order creation. After configuring the channel, fill in the destination information including the warehouse address and save your settings. Sellers can create multiple channels and add additional destinations within saved channels at any time.
Analysis & Recommendations
Why This Matters
Sellers using AWD can now distribute inventory to non-Amazon channels from a single hub, reducing warehousing complexity and potentially lowering logistics costs for multi-channel operations.
Key Takeaways
- AWD can serve as a centralized inventory hub for both Amazon and non-Amazon sales channels
- MCD orders average 14 days transit time and cannot be canceled once submitted
- Custom shipment labels must be 4x6 inch PDFs with barcodes and matching destination details
- Currently limited to US destinations with unbranded packaging via non-Amazon carriers
Recommended Actions
- →Set up your MCD channels and destinations in the AWD program page before creating your first distribution order
- →Plan inventory replenishments with a minimum 14-day lead time and verify all order details before submission since orders are irreversible
- →Contact [email protected] for support or submit a Selling Partner Support case including 'AWD' and 'MCD' keywords for shipment discrepancies
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