Detailed explanation of Amazon FBA first-leg logistics: methods, costs and optimization strategies

1. Overview of FBA first-leg logistics

FBA first-leg logistics refers to the entire transportation process from suppliers or factories to Amazon FBA warehouses, including customs clearance, tariff payment, etc. Depending on the destination (such as Europe, Japan, North America), it is important to choose the appropriate transportation method (such as air transportation, sea transportation).

2. Main modes of transportation

1. Air transportation

(1) Process and timeliness

The air freight process includes domestic pick-up→departure from domestic airport→air freight to destination port→zoned delivery to FBA warehouse. Although it is fast, the cost is relatively high.

(2) Fee structure

The main costs are shipping and customs duties. Freight charges vary according to different international logistics companies; tariffs vary according to different countries’ policies. For example, the United States has increased the tax exemption from US$200 to US$800 since March 2016.

2. Shipping method

(1) Process and timeliness

Ocean shipping needs to go through a series of steps such as the seller preparing the product and related documents → booking space → releasing the space → arranging a trailer → customs declaration → confirming the release → express delivery to the FBA warehouse. Although cost-effective, it takes a long time (for example, it takes at least 25 days from China to the United States).

(2) Fees and Documents

The cost includes shipping, taxes, customs clearance fees, etc. The required documents include bill of lading, contract, packing list, invoice, etc.

3. Reasons for logistics delays or slow shipping

Common problems include shipping/flight delays, customs clearance delays, delivery delays, and excessive Amazon warehouse processing volume.

4. How to find reliable FBA first-leg logistics

1. Search engine query: Enter keywords such as “FBA first-leg logistics service” to search.
2. Amazon Recommended: Check the officially recommended service providers in the “Global Sales” section of the backend.
3. E-commerce Forum: Find discussions on related topics and learn about other people’s experiences.
4. Consult peers: Ask other sellers about the service providers they use.

Prices, timeliness, service quality, transparency and reliability should be considered when choosing.

5. Analysis of first-leg fees for Amazon FBA in the United States

Components

• Transportation costs: Covers international transportation, land/air transportation, insurance and customs clearance costs.
• Warehouse charges: priced based on volume or weight.
• Additional charges: such as destination delivery fees, transfer fees, taxes, etc.

Cost reduction strategy

• Choose the right supplier.
• Optimize packaging and reduce volume and weight.
• Integrate transportation and batch operations.
• Plan your reservations in advance.
• Look for discounts.

6. FBA first-leg logistics steps

1. Select logistics.
2. Prepare documentation to ensure compliance.
3. Arrange first-leg transportation.
4. Amazon warehouse receives inspection.
5. Storage management.

Through the above content, sellers can better understand and respond to various situations that may arise during the FBA first-leg logistics process, and effectively improve operational efficiency.