Overview

Amazon has clarified how UPS shipping labels generated through its Merchant Fulfillment API should be interpreted. The notice, released in early 2024, stresses that although the PDF bears Amazon’s logo, UPS remains the carrier of record—a distinction that can affect tracking, claims, and compliance for sellers using third‑party shipping tools.

Key Points

• Label branding — Labels printed via Amazon’s shipping interface show the “Amazon Shipping” header and logo, but the underlying carrier information (barcode, tracking number) belongs to UPS.
• Carrier responsibility — All pickup schedules, delivery updates, and claim processes are handled exclusively by UPS, not by Amazon’s seller support.
• API output unchanged – The Merchant Fulfillment API still returns the same PDF file and tracking‑number fields; no additional data elements have been added to signal the carrier.
• Seller confusion – Many sellers assume the Amazon branding means Amazon will manage any service issues, leading them to contact developers for clarification.
• Compliance duty – Developers must ensure that any user‑interface text, help articles, or tooltips explicitly state that the label is a UPS document, even though Amazon formats the PDF.

How UPS Labels Purchased via Amazon Work

1. Label request submitted — The seller initiates a purchase through the “Buy Shipping” button in Seller Central or via a third‑party application that calls the Merchant Fulfillment API.

   • Example: A retailer based in Texas selects UPS Ground for a 7‑lb parcel, enters the package dimensions in their inventory‑management software, and clicks “Buy Shipping.”

2. Amazon forwards request to UPS — Amazon relays the shipping details to UPS, receives the carrier‑generated PDF, and then overlays Amazon’s branding before sending the file back to the seller.

   • Example: The returned PDF contains the UPS barcode, service code, and tracking number, while the top of the page displays the Amazon logo and the words “Amazon Shipping.”