5 FBA Prep Mistakes Canadian Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

By avoiding these common mistakes and staying informed, you can navigate the maple-syrup maze with confidence and watch your business flourish.

5/17/20242 min read

5 FBA Prep Mistakes Canadian Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)
5 FBA Prep Mistakes Canadian Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Ah, the siren song of Amazon FBA! It beckons Canadian sellers with the promise of vast customer reach and booming sales. But navigating the intricacies of FBA fulfillment can feel like trekking through a dense maple-syrup maze – and let's face it, who wants to end up stuck to a sticky situation due to prep errors?

To help our Canadian FBA warriors avoid common pitfalls, we're here to shed light on 5 FBA prep mistakes Canadian sellers often make (and how to avoid them):

Mistake #1: Label Languor – HS Code Hiccups:

Ever shipped a product only to have it held up in customs due to incorrect HS (Harmonized System) coding? It happens more often than you think! Here's how to avoid it:

  • Identify the right code: Use resources like Canada's CBSA website or consult a customs broker to ensure your product has the correct HS code.

  • Label clearly: Display the full 10-digit HS code prominently on the packaging and any accompanying invoices.

  • Double-check, triple-check: Mistakes on HS codes can be costly, so review everything carefully before shipping.

Mistake #2: Prohibited Product Peril:

Not all products are eligible for FBA! Selling prohibited items can lead to account suspension and lost inventory. Steer clear of these no-go zones:

  • Dangerous goods: Items like flammable liquids, hazardous materials, and food with specific temperature requirements are generally off-limits.

  • Counterfeit goods: Don't even think about it! Selling fake or unauthorized products is illegal and can have serious consequences.

  • Restricted items: Certain product categories, like weapons, alcohol, and certain plants, require special approvals for FBA.

Mistake #3: Packaging Ponderings:

Inadequate packaging can damage your products and lead to unhappy customers. Here's how to pack like a pro:

  • Use sturdy boxes: Choose the right size and weight capacity for your product and use good-quality corrugated cardboard.

  • Secure with care: Ensure everything is properly cushioned and protected from movement during shipping.

  • Follow Amazon's guidelines: Refer to Amazon's specific packaging requirements for different product categories.

Mistake #4: Labeling Lapses:

Missing or inaccurate labels can cause delays and confusion. Make sure your products are clearly labeled with:

  • Amazon barcodes (FNSKU): These are essential for Amazon to track and identify your products.

  • Manufacturer labels: Include any necessary product information, warnings, and branding elements.

  • Shipping labels: Clearly mark the destination fulfillment center and ensure all shipping documents are accurate.

Mistake #5: Inventory Inattention:

Losing track of your inventory can be a costly headache. Stay organized with effective inventory management:

  • Label and track everything: Maintain detailed records of what's been prepped, shipped, and sold.

  • Use Amazon's inventory tools: Leverage Amazon's FBA inventory reports and tools to stay updated on stock levels.

  • Plan ahead: Forecast demand and prepare your inventory accordingly to avoid stockouts.

Bonus Tip: Partner with a reliable Canadian FBA prep service! They can handle all the prep work for you, ensuring your products are Amazon-ready and minimizing the risk of errors.

Remember, Canadian FBA warriors, proper preparation paves the path to Amazon success! By avoiding these common mistakes and staying informed, you can navigate the maple-syrup maze with confidence and watch your business flourish.

Share your FBA prep experiences and questions in the comments below! Let's build a supportive Canadian FBA community and conquer the Amazon jungle together!

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