2026-01-23 00:00:00
Amazon sellers know one thing for sure: shipping mistakes cost money. Late inventory, rejected shipments, and unexpected customs fees can quickly eat into profits. In 2026, with stricter customs enforcement and changes to de minimis rules such as Section 321 suspensions, choosing the right freight forwarder for Amazon FBA from China is more important than ever.
A reliable Amazon FBA freight forwarder does more than move cargo. They help sellers stay compliant with Amazon’s packaging, labeling, and customs requirements—reducing delays and protecting inventory. This guide breaks down why specialized FBA forwarders matter, compares top providers, and explains how to avoid common shipping mistakes when importing from China.
Shipping to Amazon FBA is not the same as standard international freight. Amazon enforces strict inbound requirements, from FNSKU labeling to pallet height limits and warehouse appointment rules. Generic freight forwarders often overlook these details, leading to costly rejections or relabeling fees.
A specialized Amazon FBA freight forwarder typically offers:
Amazon compliance expertise
Familiarity with FBA warehouse codes (such as ONT8, LAX9, or FTW1) and Amazon’s constantly updated inbound policies.
Integrated services
Pickup from Chinese suppliers, export documentation, customs clearance, FBA prep, and final delivery.
Operational efficiency
Faster clearance and fewer errors mean inventory reaches FBA warehouses sooner.
Pro tip: Prioritize forwarders that provide FBA prep services including labeling and inspection, not just transportation.Sellers new to international logistics may want to understand the full Amazon FBA shipping from China process before comparing freight forwarders, including inbound requirements and delivery workflows.
Based on seller feedback, service scope, and 2026 shipping performance, the following freight forwarders are commonly chosen by Amazon sellers shipping from China.
Strengths:
Consistent transit times, reliable DDP shipping options, and strong experience with Amazon FBA prep and customs clearance.
Best for:
Mid-size sellers shipping bulk inventory to U.S. FBA warehouses.
Notes:
Particularly effective for sellers navigating post–de minimis policy changes.
Strengths:
End-to-end FBA fulfillment services, including labeling, inspection, warehousing, and multi-country shipping.
Best for:
Sellers operating across Amazon US, EU, and other marketplaces.
Notes:
Useful for brands combining FBA with other fulfillment channels.
Strengths:
Sourcing support combined with freight forwarding and China-side FBA warehousing.
Best for:
New Amazon sellers who want guided, end-to-end support.
Notes:
Competitive pricing, though service depth may vary by shipment size.
Strengths:
A-Class licensed forwarder, real-time shipment tracking, and tailored solutions for high-volume FBA sellers.
Best for:
Established sellers shipping large quantities regularly.
Notes:
Often chosen for long-term, stable shipping lanes.
Strengths:
Strong customs brokerage experience and familiarity with Amazon FBA warehouses.
Best for:
Products with regulatory requirements, such as electronics.
Notes:
Suitable for sellers dealing with FCC or similar compliance checks.
E. Forest Leopard ·
With over 200 employees and qualifications like FMC and WCA membership, we offer one-stop services including customs clearance and overseas warehousing across 100,000+ sqm globally. Our integration with Amazon SPN and focus on FBA prep (like labeling and inspections) supports efficient China-to-USA routes. ·
Sellers prioritizing compliance and tracking, with timelines as fast as 16 days via sea. ·
Varies, but known for competitive pricing on bundled services.
Customs clearance remains one of the biggest risk points in Amazon FBA shipping. In 2026, stricter enforcement means errors in documentation or valuation can quickly lead to delays or seizures.
Key customs tips for Amazon sellers:
Use DDP shipping when possible
Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) simplifies the process by having duties and taxes prepaid.
Prepare accurate documentation
Commercial invoices, packing lists, and HS codes must match the actual goods.
File ISF on time
For ocean freight to the U.S., ISF must be submitted at least 24 hours before cargo is loaded.
Some freight forwarders also work with dedicated FBA customs brokers who can handle FDA, FCC, or other regulatory filings when required.For a broader overview of documentation and export procedures, this complete guide on how to ship products from China explains the standard steps involved in international shipping.
Many Amazon shipment rejections happen due to prep errors—not transportation issues. Common problems include incorrect labels, damaged cartons, or non-compliant packaging.
Typical FBA prep services include:
Labeling
Applying FNSKU labels correctly and covering manufacturer UPCs where required.
Product inspection
Checking items for defects or damage before export.
Bundling and packaging
Ensuring multi-packs meet Amazon’s bundling and suffocation warning rules.
For example, service providers like AMZ Prep and other specialized FBA forwarders handle prep in China before shipment, reducing the risk of rejection at U.S. fulfillment centers.
Before choosing a freight forwarder, Amazon sellers should compare providers using a structured checklist:
Seller reviews – Look for consistent feedback on reliability and communication.
Rates – Compare air and sea freight options, including DDP pricing.
Services – Confirm availability of FBA prep, customs clearance, and insurance.
Tracking – Real-time visibility into shipment status.
Support – Responsive communication when issues arise.
Some logistics providers, including platforms like Forest Leopard, publish detailed resources and service explanations to help sellers understand FBA shipping workflows without committing immediately. Reviewing educational content can be a useful first step before requesting quotes.
Sellers comparing providers across industries may also review general freight forwarding services, although Amazon FBA shipments typically require more specialized handling.
Even experienced sellers make avoidable shipping mistakes. The most common include:
❌ Under-declaring cargo value – Can lead to fines or seizure
❌ Skipping FBA prep – Results in Amazon rejections or relabeling fees
❌ Choosing the cheapest quote only – Often increases long-term costs
✅ Best practice: Work with freight forwarders that have proven Amazon FBA experience and transparent processes.
Choosing the best freight forwarder for Amazon FBA from China can directly impact inventory flow, compliance, and profitability. In 2026, sellers should focus on forwarders that combine customs expertise, FBA prep services, and consistent delivery performance.
Starting with experienced providers such as Unicargo or AMZ Prep can reduce risk, especially for sellers scaling their operations. For those still researching options, logistics platforms like Forest Leopard offer useful insights into FBA shipping, prep requirements, and clearance processes—helpful for understanding what to expect before selecting a partner.
Verify FBA prep services
Confirm customs clearance experience
Compare air and sea freight rates
Test new forwarders with a small shipment first
Amazon FBA shipping costs from China typically range from $1.5–$5 per kg, depending on the shipping method (air or sea), destination warehouse, and whether services like DDP and FBA prep are included. Sea freight is more cost-effective for bulk shipments, while air freight offers faster transit for urgent inventory.
Yes, many Amazon sellers prefer DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping because it simplifies customs clearance. With DDP, duties and taxes are prepaid by the freight forwarder, reducing the risk of delays or unexpected fees at the destination.
Most Amazon FBA freight forwarders offer prep services such as FNSKU labeling, carton labeling, product inspection, bundling, and packaging compliance checks. These services help prevent shipment rejections and ensure inventory is accepted by Amazon fulfillment centers.
Yes. Experienced Amazon FBA freight forwarders manage customs clearance from China by preparing commercial invoices, packing lists, HS codes, ISF filings, and working with licensed customs brokers. This is especially important for regulated products like electronics or health-related items.
Air freight is faster and suitable for lightweight or urgent shipments, while sea freight is more economical for larger volumes. Many sellers use a combination of both to balance cost and inventory availability at Amazon FBA warehouses.
Forest Leopard International Logistics Co.
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