Overview

Sending inventory to Amazon fulfillment centers via less than truckload (LTL) or full truckload (FTL) shipping requires sellers to follow specific preparation, labeling, and delivery protocols. Understanding these requirements is essential for avoiding costly rejections, delays, and additional fees at the receiving dock. This reference covers everything sellers and their carriers need to know when shipping palletized freight to Amazon.

Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know

• Shipment types — LTL shipments share trailer space with other shippers and are ideal for 6 or more pallets, while FTL shipments fill an entire trailer and are suited for high-volume inventory replenishment.
• All box-level prep still applies — Every individual box on a pallet must meet the same packaging and labeling standards required for small parcel shipments, including scannable FBA box labels on the outside of each carton.
• Pallet specifications matter — Amazon requires standard GMA-grade pallets (40 x 48 inches) in good condition, with no broken boards, protruding nails, or excessive damage.
• Delivery appointments are mandatory — Carriers must schedule delivery appointments through Amazon's carrier appointment system. Unscheduled arrivals will be turned away.
• Bill of Lading (BOL) accuracy — The BOL must include the correct Amazon shipment IDs, fulfillment center address, and total pallet count. Errors on the BOL can result in refused shipments.
• Weight and height limits — Individual pallets generally cannot exceed 1,500 pounds or stand taller than 72 inches (including the pallet), though specific fulfillment centers may have different limits.

Pallet Preparation Requirements

Proper pallet preparation is one of the most common areas where sellers run into trouble. Each pallet must be built on a standard 40 x 48-inch wooden GMA pallet that is structurally sound with no broken or missing deck boards. Boxes should be stacked in a stable, interlocking column pattern, and the total pallet height — including the pallet itself — must not exceed 72 inches in most cases. Each pallet needs to be stretch-wrapped securely to prevent shifting during transit, and a pallet label with the corresponding FBA shipment ID must be placed on all four sides of the wrapped pallet. Overhang beyond the pallet edges is not permitted, as it creates safety hazards and can damage inventory during handling.