Amazon Partnered Carrier Program: Seller Enrollment Guide
Think of the Amazon Partnered Carrier Program as a reliable logistics partner that takes the stress out of shipping inventory to Amazon. Instead of juggling multiple carriers and rates, this program helps streamline your deliveries while keeping costs under control—making it easier to focus on growing your business.
What Is the Amazon Partnered Carrier Program?
The Amazon Partnered Carrier Program (PCP) is a shipping solution built specifically for Amazon FBA sellers. Through this program, Amazon works with approved carriers to help sellers move inventory to fulfillment centers efficiently and at reduced shipping rates.
By enrolling in PCP, sellers gain access to pre-negotiated carrier pricing, which simplifies logistics and reduces the overall cost of order fulfillment. Everything is managed directly through Seller Central, eliminating unnecessary complexity.
The program supports different shipping requirements by offering multiple shipment methods. Sellers can choose from small parcel deliveries, less-than-truckload (LTL), or full-truckload (FTL) options depending on the size and volume of their inventory.
Small parcel shipping is ideal for lighter, individual packages, while LTL and FTL options are designed for bulk inventory that either shares truck space or occupies an entire trailer. Each option serves a specific purpose, allowing sellers to ship efficiently at any scale.
Let’s explore these shipping methods in more detail below.
Amazon Partnered Carrier Shipping Options
The Amazon Partnered Carrier Program provides sellers with flexible shipping methods tailored to different inventory volumes and business needs.
Small Parcel Deliveries (SPD)
Small parcel deliveries involve shipping individual cartons, each labeled separately for delivery. These shipments are generally smaller and are handled by major carriers such as UPS, FedEx, DHL, or local postal services.
When using an Amazon-partnered carrier for SPD, sellers can ship up to 200 boxes per shipment. If a non-partnered carrier is selected, this limit increases to 500 boxes per shipment. This flexibility allows sellers to choose the best option based on shipment size and operational preferences.
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL)
LTL shipping combines multiple shipments from different sellers into a single truck. It is suitable for inventory weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds that does not require a full trailer.
This method is cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and reduces handling risks. LTL shipping also offers flexible scheduling, making it a practical choice for mid-sized inventory shipments.
Full-Truckload (FTL)
FTL shipping is used when a shipment is large enough to fill an entire truck. Since the trailer carries only one seller’s inventory, transit times are faster and security is higher due to fewer stops.
This option is ideal for high-volume sellers who need speed, better shipment visibility, and minimal handling during transportation.
Benefits of the Amazon Partnered Carrier Program
The Amazon Partnered Carrier Program offers several advantages that make it appealing for FBA sellers.
Discounted Shipping Rates
One of the biggest benefits of PCP is access to reduced shipping costs. Amazon negotiates bulk rates with partnered carriers, often resulting in lower prices than sellers could obtain independently.
Seamless Convenience
PCP is fully integrated with Seller Central, allowing sellers to purchase labels, manage shipments, and track deliveries in one place. This removes the need to manage separate carrier accounts.
Faster Deliveries
Partnered carriers are experienced with Amazon’s fulfillment network and delivery requirements. This familiarity often results in quicker deliveries to fulfillment centers.
Real-Time Shipment Tracking
With PCP, sellers can monitor their shipments through automated tracking updates, ensuring transparency and peace of mind throughout the delivery process.
Simplified Labeling
Instead of creating multiple labels, sellers only need to generate one shipment label when using PCP. This saves time and reduces labeling errors.
Pickup and Delivery Services
Partnered carriers offer pickup services, allowing sellers to schedule inventory collection directly from their location, making the shipping process even more convenient.
Amazon Partnered Carrier Program vs. Non-Partnered Carriers
When comparing Amazon-partnered carriers to non-partnered options, several differences stand out.
Amazon-partnered carriers offer competitive pricing, streamlined shipping workflows, and faster delivery times. They also help reduce the risk of delays, storage issues, and additional fees.
Non-partnered carriers provide more freedom in carrier selection and potential negotiation opportunities. However, they often require more hands-on management and may result in higher shipping costs if not carefully optimized.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enrolling in the Amazon Partnered Carrier Program
Getting started with the Amazon Partnered Carrier Program is straightforward when you follow these steps:
Log in to your Seller Central account and go to the “Inventory” section. Select “FBA Shipments” to view existing shipments or create a new one.
Choose an unsent shipment and click “Prepare shipment.” In the delivery service section, select “Amazon or partnered carrier” for SPD shipments or “Amazon Partnered Carrier” for LTL or FTL shipments.
Enter all required shipment details, including package dimensions, weight, origin address, shipment type, and destination fulfillment center.
Click “Calculate” to review estimated shipping costs. Once satisfied, accept the charges to proceed.
Download and print the shipping labels, then attach them to your cartons as required by Amazon.
Select your preferred partnered carrier and schedule a pickup directly with them. Before finalizing, double-check all shipment details, including tracking numbers, reference IDs, carrier information, and warehouse addresses. Incorrect information may lead to noncompliance fees.
Eligibility Requirements for the Amazon Partnered Carrier Program
To qualify for PCP, sellers must have an active Amazon FBA account and create an eligible FBA shipment. The program is available in the United States and select other countries where Amazon supports partnered carriers.
Sellers must also follow Amazon’s packaging, labeling, and shipment preparation guidelines to remain compliant and avoid penalties.
How to Cancel a Shipment
Small parcel delivery shipments can be canceled within 24 hours of creation. For LTL and FTL shipments, cancellations must be made within one hour after approving the estimated charges.
To cancel a shipment, go to the shipping queue, locate the shipment, and select “Work on shipment.” Choose “Provide details” and then click “Void charges.”
Keep in mind that canceling a shipment does not always automatically remove charges. It’s important to follow the cancellation steps carefully to ensure no pickup is scheduled and fees are avoided.
Final Thoughts
The Amazon Partnered Carrier Program is a powerful shipping solution for FBA sellers looking to simplify logistics and reduce costs. With discounted rates, streamlined processes, and reliable delivery options, PCP helps sellers ship inventory efficiently while staying compliant with Amazon’s requirements.
