For sellers navigating the Amazon marketplace, understanding the intricacies of its systems is paramount to success. One such crucial element in the fulfillment process is the Amazon FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit). 

If you are sending products to Amazon, you will need to ensure they are properly labeled with an Amazon FNSKU or a manufacturer’s barcode. 

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In this article, we delve into what an Amazon FNSKU is, its significance, and how it plays a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations for Amazon sellers.

What is Amazon FNSKU?  

The FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit)  is a unique identifier assigned by Amazon to a specific product within its fulfillment network. It serves as a distinct label, connecting a product to its listing on the Amazon marketplace. Each product that enters the fulfillment center must bear this unique identifier, facilitating efficient tracking and management throughout the entire fulfillment process.

The stickerless commingled inventory system

The stickerless commingled inventory system allows your products to be pooled with similar products from other sellers without FNSKU labels, as long as the items are identical. Amazon's commingled inventory system may seem convenient as it means less label prep work, but it comes with certain risks: 

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• Pooling your products with other sellers' products means that a customer might receive a product from another seller's inventory when they order from you. This can lead to issues with product quality and consistency. Commingled inventory means Amazon could fulfill your order with another seller's stock, even if theirs isn't as well-maintained.
• If counterfeit or defective products get mixed in, you could be held responsible for complaints or returns. This can negatively impact your seller metrics and, in severe cases, result in account suspension.
• In the commingled inventory system, it's more difficult to track the performance of your specific products. You may not get accurate data on how your products are performing, which can make it harder to make informed inventory decisions.

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Opting for FNSKU labels instead of the commingled system provides greater control over your inventory and reduces the risk of receiving poor seller metrics or account suspension due to other sellers' products. To opt out of commingled inventory in Amazon, simply go to your Amazon Seller Central account, look for Settings, then Fulfillment by Amazon, and then turn the Commingled Inventory setting to off. 

How do I create an FNSKU label in Amazon Seller Central

Here's how you can generate your FNSKU barcode in Amazon Seller Central:

1. Start by going to your Amazon Seller Central Account.
2. Under the Inventory tab, look for Manage Inventory.
3. Look for the product you want to create an FNSKU for and edit the product
4. Go to Offer, then Fulfillment channel, and select Amazon will ship and provide customer service for this product.
5. Then Save and finish. Your FNSKU will be generated.
6. To print your FNSKU barcode, look for Print item labels. Then choose how many labels you want and click print item labels.

For more guidance on FNSKU and other Amazon FBA Seller barcode management, don't hesitate to speak with an expert at ePlaybooks.