Amazon recently changed its SP-API Inbound Fulfillment API, which affects how we create shipments to Amazon. These changes have led to delays, adjustments in our process, and some challenges as we work through the transition.
We want to explain what’s happening, how it impacts your shipments, and what we’re doing to minimize disruptions.
What is an API, and Why Did This Change Affect Us?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is how different software programs communicate with each other. Amazon updated its API, which required third-party app developers—like the one we use—to completely rewrite the shipment workflow.
Unfortunately, Amazon gave developers very little time to build and test the new system before the old one was turned off. As a result, we are learning and troubleshooting the new system as we go, which has led to delays and extra work.
How This Has Changed Our Shipment Process
The new shipment workflow is now similar to Amazon’s “Send to Amazon” process in Seller Central, which is very different from how we previously created shipments.
Because of this, we have had to:
- Adjust our internal processes
- Learn the new system while managing shipments
- Troubleshoot errors and work through software bugs
We appreciate your patience as we continue refining the process.
What This Means for You
A major change is that Amazon now provides “Placement Options” when we create a shipment. These options show:
- Placement fees, which are the cost of distributing inventory across multiple fulfillment centers
- The total shipping cost is not shown at this stage
By default, we will choose the option that gets your inventory available for sale the fastest and at the best overall cost. In some cases, this may mean paying higher placement fees to send inventory to a closer location.
If you prefer us to always choose the lowest placement fee option, please let us know.
How to Avoid Placement Fees
Amazon waives placement fees only if we pack five identical shipments. This is only possible if you purchase inventory in quantities divisible by five.
If your orders allow us to pack shipments this way, we will take advantage of it whenever possible to help you avoid placement fees.
Request for Amazon Seller Central Access
To reduce delays and make the shipment process smoother, we are requesting limited user access to your Amazon Seller Central account.
This access will allow us to:
- Troubleshoot shipment issues faster
- Minimize back-and-forth emails
- Improve efficiency in processing your inventory
We will email you directly with instructions on how to grant this access. If you have any concerns, feel free to reach out.
Final Thoughts
We understand these changes have caused some challenges, and we appreciate your patience as we work through them.
- If you want us to always use the lowest placement fee option, please let us know
- If you want to avoid placement fees, consider ordering in multiples of five
- Watch for our email with instructions on granting Amazon access
Thank you for trusting Prep Ninjas with your FBA shipments. We are committed to making this process as smooth as possible for you.