How to Print and Apply FNSKU Labels for Amazon FBA

If you sell through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), proper labeling is critical, and starting January 1, 2026, it becomes the Amazon seller's full responsibility. 

Amazon recently announced it will end its FBA prep and labeling services in the U.S., meaning sellers will need to label every unit themselves before sending inventory to fulfillment centers. That includes printing and applying FNSKU barcode labels, which Amazon uses to track and associate your products with your seller account. 

This guide walks you through how to print FNSKU labels properly, what label size you need, and how to stay compliant ahead of the upcoming Amazon policy change. 

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What is an FNSKU Label? 

FNSKU stands for Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit. It’s a unique barcode created by Amazon to identify products tied to a specific seller.

Unlike manufacturer barcodes (UPC/EAN), the FNSKU tells Amazon who owns the inventory, which is especially important for non-commingled shipments or private sellers. If you’ve ever looked into FNSKU vs ASIN, the ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number) is used to identify products in Amazon’s catalog, while the FNSKU connects those products specifically to your seller account for fulfillment. In the same way, FNSKU vs UPC comparisons show that a UPC is a universal retail barcode, whereas an FNSKU ensures Amazon can track and attribute your exact inventory in their fulfillment centers.

When you create a new FBA shipment in Amazon Seller Central, you'll see the option to download or print the FNSKU labels for each item.

Amazon's 2026 FBA Labeling Update 

Previously, Amazon offered a labeling service for a small per-unit fee. But beginning January 1, 2026, that service will be discontinued for U.S. sellers. This means: 

• You must label every unit before it arrives at an Amazon warehouse with your FNSKU.
• Shipments without proper labeling may be ineligible for reimbursement if damaged or lost, and could be rejected altogether.
• FBA sellers will need to either print labels themselves or use a third-party prep and labeling provider.

If you've relied on Amazon to label your product until now, it's time to transition your workflow. 

What are Amazon's FNSKU Labeling Size Requirements?

Amazon requires each FNSKU label to be scannable, clearly printed, and properly sized to ensure fast and accurate fulfillment. According to Amazon's guidelines: 

• Minimum label size: 1 inch x 2-5/8 inches (1" x 2.625")
• Each label requires the FNSKU barcode, product title, and product condition (e.g. New, Used, etc.)

The key is to ensure the barcode remains sharp, centered, and unobstructed for reliable scanning. Avoid resizing the barcode to fit a smaller label. It may make it unreadable and result in delays or shipment rejections. 

How to Print Amazon FNSKU Labels

Step 1: Download your FNSKU Labels form Seller Central 

1. Log in to Amazon Seller Central 
2. Go to Manage Inventory
3. Click Print Item Labels on the SKU(s) you're shipping
4. Choose the label format (commonly sheet labels or printer-compatible rolls)

Step 2: Select Your Label Format

Amazon requires FNSKU labels in downloadable formats compatible with: 

• Sheet Labels (for inkjet or laser printers)
• Roll labels (for direct thermal printers like Dymo, Zebra, and Rollo)

Most sellers use standard 1" x 2-5/8" address or printer-compatible barcode labels for Amazon FBA. Choosing the right format depends on your volume and workflow. For example, sellers shipping thousands of units each month often prefer barcode labels because they save time and reduce print costs over the long term.

Step 3: Use the Right Printer & Software

Once downloaded:

• Print your labels using a high-resolution printer
• Inspect each label to ensure clarity and alignment
• Apply them to your products. 

The Risks of Improper FNSKU Labeling

With Amazon ending its FBA prep services, the stakes for proper labeling are higher than ever. Even small mistakes can lead to costly consequences that eat into your profits and disrupt your business. Here's what's at risk if your labels don't meet Amazon's requirements: 

• Delayed Inventory Check-In: Amazon may hold or reject your shipment if labels are missing, unreadable, or applied incorrectly. 
• Additional Amazon Fees: In some cases, Amazon may apply unplanned service fees if your products arrive without proper labels, adding unexpected costs per unit. 
• Stranded Inventory: Products without valid FNSKU labels can't be sold through FBA, leaving your items sitting in Amazon's warehouse with no way to move them. 
• Loss of Reimbursement Eligibility: Shipments without compliant labeling are not eligible for reimbursement if products are lost of damaged in Amazon's network. 
• Account Health Risks: Repeated labeling errors can negatively impact your Amazon account health, potentially affecting your eligibility for FBA or other selling opportunities. 

Labeling mistakes don't just cause inconvenience; they can also directly reduce revenue, increase costs, and put your business at risk. Preparing now ensures smooth, uninterrupted sales once Amazon's FBA service ends. 

Where to Place a FNSKU Label

Proper label placement is essential for keeping your inventory moving smoothly through Amazon's fulfillment network. Even if your barcodes are printed correctly, poor placement can result in delays, rejected shipments, or lost reimbursement eligibility. With Amazon phasing out its FBA program, it's more important than ever to make sure your FNSKU labels are applied accurately and consistently. 

Follow these tips to ensure your products are labeled in full compliance with Amazon FBA standards: 

• Cover all existing barcodes (like UPS or EANs) completely so only the FNSKU is visible. 
• Apply the label flat on the outside of the product or packaging, not on curves or textured surfaces.
• Avoid placing labels over seams, corners, or openings, which can cause peeling or scanning issues. 
• Make sure the label is easily accessible and not hidden inside packaging.
• Use a scanner to test label readability before shipping; poor contrast or smudging can trigger rejections.
• Ensure the label is securely adhered to avoid detaching during transit. 

Even one mislabeled unit can hold up an entire shipment, so taking the time to do it right is well worth the effort. 

Self-Labeling vs 3PL for Amazon FNSKU Labels: Cost Comparison

For most small to mid-size Amazon sellers, self-labeling with LabelValue FNSKU labels is the most cost-effective and efficient path to Amazon compliance. High-volume operations may benefit from a 3PL, but the per-unit fees add up quickly.

Quick Takeaway

Self-labeling typically costs a fraction per unit compared to 3PL labeling fees. You keep control, quality, and speed while meeting Amazon’s sizing and scan requirements.

Example Cost Comparison per 1,000 Units

Why Self-Labeling Wins for Most Sellers

• Lower cost per unit without per-label service fees
• Full control of placement, print quality, and timelines
• Fast turnaround that matches your prep schedule
• Exact Amazon compliance with LabelValue’s FNSKU sizes and materials

When a 3PL Can Make Sense

• Very high volumes that justify outsourcing
• Complex multi-channel operations that need bundled services

Recommended Products for Self-Labeling

Use LabelValue Amazon-compatible FNSKU labels sized to Amazon specifications. Our labels work with popular printers like Dymo and Zebra, deliver crisp barcodes for reliable scans, and help you stay compliant.

All costs shown are illustrative examples. Your actual costs will vary by wage rates, process efficiency, negotiated 3PL fees, and label specifications.

Simplifying FNSKU Labeling

If you're planning to handle Amazon FBA prep in-house, having the right labels on hand makes all the difference. At LabelValue, we provide everything you need to easily meet Amazon's requirements, from label sheets to printer-compatible FNSKU labels for popular printers like Dymo, Zebra, and Rollo. 

Our labels are available with excellent bulk-pricing to support growing businesses. Coming in blank and pre-printed options, we make it simple to stay compliant and keep your FBA shipments moving without delays. 

With Amazon ending its labeling service in January 2026, now is the time to set up a reliable system. Explore LabelValue's extensive inventory of labeling solutions or talk to our team today to make your transition seamless.