FCL Palletization Guide: Amazon & Global Warehouse Requirements
Avoid Costly Refusals: Your Guide to Amazon FCL Palletization Requirements
Sending a full container to an Amazon fulfillment center? One critical detail can determine whether your shipment is accepted or turned away: proper palletization. Understanding Amazon’s strict pallet requirements is essential to avoid expensive refusal fees, redelivery charges, and supply chain disruptions. This guide clarifies when palletization is mandatory and outlines the specific requirements for major markets including the US, EU, and China.
To Palletize or Not to Palletize?
The general rule is straightforward:
Standard Commercial Addresses: Palletization is typically not required.
Amazon Fulfillment Centers: Palletization is highly recommended and often mandatory. Failure to comply risks complete refusal of the entire container at the delivery dock.
The High Cost of Non-Compliance
If an unpalletized FCL shipment is refused by Amazon, the resulting costs and delays fall entirely on the shipper. These can include:
Redelivery Fees
De-stuffing/Unloading Charges
Palletization Fees (now required at a local warehouse)
Additional Warehouse Handling Fees
To mitigate this risk, we strongly advise arranging for palletization before the container leaves the origin port. We can facilitate this either:
At origin in China before loading.
At destination, where we arrange for de-stuffing, palletizing, and re-delivery.
Palletization Requirements by Region
Adhering to these specifications is non-negotiable for a smooth delivery.
United States Amazon FCs
Pallet Type: Standard GMA (Groceries Manufacturers Association) pallet.
Dimensions: 48″ x 40″ (approx. 122cm x 102cm).
Maximum Height: 72 inches (1.8 meters) including the pallet base.
Maximum Weight: 1,500 lbs (680 kg) per pallet.
Critical Loading Note: Pallets must not be stacked so high that they press against the container ceiling. This makes unloading dangerous and difficult, and is a common reason for refusal, even for palletized goods.
European Union Amazon FCs
UK: 120cm x 100cm x 170cm (H)
Germany, Italy, Spain: 120cm x 80cm x 160cm (H)
France: 120cm x 80cm x 180cm (H)
China Amazon FCs
For shipments within China to Amazon FCs, standard Chinese pallet sizes are generally accepted, but it is crucial to confirm the specific requirements of the destination warehouse in advance.
Warehouse-Specific Policies (U.S.)
While palletization is the safest policy, some U.S. FCs have been known to accept unpalletized FCL shipments, though this is never guaranteed. High-risk FCs that frequently refuse unpalletized loads include CAE1, GSP1, EWR6, IND5, and PHX5.
Ensure Your Shipment is Accepted the First Time
Don’t leave your Amazon delivery to chance. Our logistics experts specialize in FCL shipments to fulfillment centers worldwide and will ensure your cargo is prepared and documented to meet all requirements, preventing costly delays and fees.
>> Get a Compliant FCL Quote and Secure Your Supply Chain Today!
Contact us for a consultation. We manage the palletization process for you, whether at origin or destination, guaranteeing a smooth and accepted delivery to Amazon.
