Amazon FBA Prep services can take on many different forms, but they all essentially perform the same function: getting your products ready for Amazon FBA fulfillment. This can involve anything from simply packaging your products according to Amazon's guidelines to more complex tasks like sourcing and labeling. The goal is to make sure that your products are in compliance with Amazon's standards and will be able to move smoothly through their fulfillment process. While you could technically do all of this yourself, it can be a time-consuming and daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with the ins and outs of Amazon FBA. That's where Amazon FBA Prep services come in. Companies like Simpl Fulfillment specialize in taking on the heavy lifting for you, so you can focus on other aspects of running your business. In other words, they make sure your products are properly prepared for Amazon FBA..

Calculating Your Package's Cubic Tier

For Boxes and Rigid Packages:

Measure the outer dimensions (length, width, height) in inches
Round each measurement down to the nearest quarter inch
Multiply length x width x height
Divide the result by 1728 (cubic inches in a cubic foot)
The result is your package's cubic feet measurement

Example: For a box measuring 12.3" x 9.5" x 3":

Round down to 12.25" x 9.5" x 3"
12.25 x 9.5 x 3 = 349.125
349.125 / 1728 = 0.202 cubic feet
This package falls into the 0.3 cubic feet pricing tier

Note: Maximum size for any single dimension is 18 inches

For Envelopes and Soft Packs:

Measure the length and width of the empty envelope
Round down to the nearest quarter inch
Add the length and width together
Use the total to determine the pricing tier:
- Tier 0.1: Up to 21"
- Tier 0.2: 21.01" to 27"
- Tier 0.3: 27.01" to 31"
- Tier 0.4: 31.01" to 34"
- Tier 0.5: 34.01" to 36"

Restrictions

Tubes and rolls are not eligible for Cubic pricing
Maximum combined length and girth is 84 inches

Benefits of Using Priority Mail Cubic

Cost savings: Cheaper than weight-based pricing for small, heavy items
Predictable pricing: Easy to calculate shipping costs based on box dimensions
Fast delivery: 1-3 business day delivery to any US address, including PO boxes
Free tracking: Monitor shipments at no extra cost
Included insurance: $100 of coverage with every shipment
No surcharges: Residential and fuel surcharges included in the price

Tips for Maximizing Savings

Optimize packaging: Use the smallest box possible that safely fits your items
Consider breaking up large orders: Sometimes shipping in multiple smaller boxes can be cheaper
Use cubic feet calculators: Online tools can help quickly determine your package's tier
Compare rates: Always compare Cubic rates with other shipping methods
Use Commercial Pricing: Accessing Commercial Pricing rates can lead to even more savings

2024 USPS Priority Mail Cubic Rates

Accessing Priority Mail Cubic Rates

Priority Mail Cubic isn't available at regular Post Office counters. However, many online shipping platforms and 3PL providers offer access to these rates. By partnering with a fulfillment provider, you can easily access these discounted rates and streamline your shipping process. For small-scale sellers not yet ready for a 3PL, Pirate Ship offers free access to USPS Priority Mail Cubic rates with no monthly fees or minimums.

How Do FBA Prep Services Work?

Amazon FBA prep services help to streamline the process of getting products ready for sale on Amazon. These services can provide a number of different prep options, from simple product labeling to more complex tasks like packaging and palletizing.