What Is An Amazon Fulfillment Center?
FAQs
What are Amazon fulfillment centers?
Amazon fulfillment centers are giant warehouses that store millions of products. They serve as the foundation of Amazon's logistics network, optimized for efficiency and speed.
What happens after an order is placed?
After a customer order is received, workers pick the purchased items from fulfillment center shelves. The order is packed, sealed, and shipped via Amazon's large network of shipping partners.
How many fulfillment centers does Amazon have?
As of 2022, Amazon has over 450 active fulfillment and sortation centers globally. These facilities have a total storage footprint exceeding 150 million square feet.
Why are fulfillment centers important for Amazon?
By handling inventory storage, order processing and shipping themselves, Amazon can deliver products faster and more cost-effectively. This enables competitive pricing and convenience.
What are the benefits of Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)?
FBA allows third-party sellers to store products in Amazon fulfillment centers. Key benefits include fast Prime shipping, reduced logistics costs and access to Amazon's customer base.
What fees are charged for FBA services?
Amazon charges FBA fees including monthly inventory storage fees, order fulfillment fees and outbound shipping fees. There may also be other variable fees depending on the product.
How does Amazon ship items so quickly?
Strategic fulfillment center locations, advanced inventory and order management technology, and integrated transportation enable Amazon to often ship products within 1-2 days domestically.
