Domestic vs International Supplier Shipments
How prep needs differ when inventory comes from a local distributor versus overseas manufacturer.
Domestic supplier shipments are usually easier to coordinate because they often arrive through parcel carriers, LTL freight, or local delivery.
International shipments may involve additional steps, including freight forwarders, customs clearance, delivery appointments, container unloading, and repalletizing.
A prep center that accepts domestic cartons may not automatically accept containerized freight or overseas manufacturer-direct shipments.
Domestic shipment considerations
- Parcel or LTL tracking
- Carton condition
- Supplier packing accuracy
- Faster transit time
- Easier communication
International shipment considerations
- Freight forwarder coordination
- Customs release timing
- Delivery appointment requirements
- Pallet or container unloading
- Higher risk of carton damage
- More detailed receiving verification
More in Seller Guides
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FBA Prep Checklist for Sellers
A checklist covering labeling, poly bagging, bundling, carton labels, shipment plans, storage, and forwarding.
Prep Center Pricing Guide
Common pricing models: per unit, per carton, per pallet, storage, labeling, poly bagging, bundling, inspection, forwarding.
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