China Sourcing for Amazon FBA: Complete Checklist
Amazon FBA sourcing is more than finding a product and placing an order. The product, packaging, labels, inspection, and delivery plan must all work together before inventory reaches Amazon.
1. Define the exact product
Create a clear product brief: materials, dimensions, colors, finish, logo, variations, packaging, inserts, and any safety or compliance needs. Pictures are useful, but a written specification prevents assumptions.
2. Shortlist and verify suppliers
Compare several suppliers using the same request. Ask about their role, MOQ, sample cost, lead time, tooling, export experience, and what is included in the quote. Verify their legal details and production capability before using price as the deciding factor.
3. Approve a sample
Test a sample against your brief. Check performance, dimensions, smell, material, branding, packaging, and perceived quality. Any correction should be recorded in writing before production begins.
4. Plan FBA preparation early
- Confirm the required product labels and carton labels.
- Confirm polybag, suffocation-warning, insert, and packaging requirements where applicable.
- Agree carton dimensions, gross weight, and units per carton.
- Decide whether the factory, a prep centre, or a freight partner handles the preparation.
5. Inspect finished goods
Set an inspection standard before production, then inspect when goods are substantially complete. A useful inspection checks quantity, workmanship, measurements, branding, packaging, labels, and cartons against the approved sample and specification.
6. Confirm freight and delivery details
Get a written freight quote that explains the route, incoterm, destination, estimated transit time, and what fees are or are not included. Do not assume a supplier’s “shipping included” quote covers the same services you need.