Introduction
Whether you’re running your own Amazon FBM (Fulfilled by Merchant) operation or are thinking about starting one, having the right supplies can make or break your efficiency and, ultimately, your profits. FBM (Fulfilled by Merchant) means you, the seller, are responsible for storing inventory, packing, and shipping products directly to the customer instead of using Amazon’s fulfillment centers. Whether you’re just starting or looking to streamline your workflow, these five essential tools will help keep your fulfillment process smooth, professional, and customer-friendly.
Here are five essential supplies every FBM seller should have on hand:
*Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and make a purchase at no extra cost to you.*
1. Shipping Boxes & Poly Mailers
Not all products are created equal, and neither is packaging. Choosing the correct type of shipping material is critical for product safety, customer satisfaction, and shipping costs.
- Sturdy corrugated boxes are ideal for heavier items, electronics, glass, and anything fragile. They protect your product and reduce the risk of damage in transit.
- Poly mailers are perfect for lightweight and non-fragile items like clothing, phone accessories, or fabric goods. They’re waterproof, space-efficient, and cheaper to ship.
- Pro Tip: Keep various sizes on hand to avoid overpaying for shipping or stuffing items into boxes that don’t fit properly.
Efficient, cost-effective packaging protects your product and your bottom line. Using the wrong size or type of packaging can lead to higher shipping fees, damaged goods, or bad reviews.
Need dependable shipping boxes and poly mailers that protect your products and save you money? Check out one of our top picks:
2. Thermal Shipping Label Printer
If you’re still printing labels on paper and taping them to boxes… It’s time to upgrade.
A thermal shipping label printer (like Rollo, Dymo, or Zebra) prints high-quality 4×6 labels without ink. Unlike regular printers, thermal printers use heat; no ink or toner is required. You load the label roll and go.
- They print professional-grade 4×6 shipping labels that meet Amazon and major carrier standards.
- Models like Rollo, Zebra, or Dymo are fast, reliable, and compatible with most shipping platforms.
- You can print hundreds of labels without worrying about smudges, paper jams, or running out of ink.
This tool alone can save you hours and make your packaging look more professional. It also saves time, money, and headaches, especially as your order volume grows.
Looking for a reliable thermal printer? Here’s one we recommend:
3. Self-Adhesive Shipping Labels
Pair your thermal printer with the correct labels. These are usually 4×6 self-adhesive shipping labels that peel and stick directly onto your packaging.
- Compatible with USPS, UPS, FedEx, and Amazon shipping systems.
- No tape or scissors are needed; print, peel, and apply.
- Many labels come in large rolls or stacks for bulk use, keeping costs low.
They’re cheap and reliable, boosting your packing speed and professionalism. The benefits include faster packing, fewer errors, and a more polished customer presentation.
Looking for a reliable shipping label? Here’s one we recommend:
4. Digital Postal Scale
Shipping costs are determined by weight and dimensions. A digital postal scale lets you weigh each package accurately before purchasing postage so you:
- Avoid underpaying (which can result in returned packages or fees).
- Prevent overpaying for padded “guesstimates”.
- Stay compliant with Amazon’s shipping policies.
Accuracy in shipping weight is critical for cost savings and customer satisfaction. One mistake can cost more than the scale itself. It’s a small investment that pays for itself quickly.
Looking for a reliable shipping scale? Here’s one we recommend:
5. Packing Slips & Thank You Inserts
While optional, these small touches go a long way.
- Include a packing slip to give customers clarity on what they received (especially with multi-item orders).
- Drop in a thank-you card or branded insert to leave a lasting impression, encourage reviews, or offer a discount for future purchases.
It adds a human touch to an otherwise transactional process and can increase customer loyalty. Building trust and connection with your customers leads to repeat sales, better feedback, and brand recognition.
Looking for reliable thank-you cards? Here’s one we recommend:
Checklist:
- Variety of shipping boxes & poly mailers
- Thermal shipping label printer
- Self-adhesive 4×6 labels
- Digital postal scale
- Packing slips & thank-you inserts
Conclusion
Selling via Amazon FBM gives you more control and responsibility. You’ll save time, money, and unnecessary stress with the right tools in your shipping area. If you’re serious about selling through Amazon FBM, investing in these five supplies will streamline your daily workflow, boost your professionalism, and make fulfillment a whole lot easier.
Start simple, but think long-term. A small investment now can save you hours and hundreds of dollars in mistakes down the road. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling up, having the proper setup will keep your customers happy and your business thriving.