In the increasingly interconnected world of e-commerce, global fulfillment and logistics have become critical components for businesses aiming to reach international customers efficiently. One of the key players in this domain is Amazon, which offers a robust solution known as Amazon Global Logistics (AGL). This service enables sellers to move inventory across borders with minimal friction, streamlining complex supply chain operations.
What is Amazon Global Logistics?
Amazon Global Logistics is a comprehensive freight service designed to help Amazon sellers import and ship their goods directly to Amazon fulfillment centers across various countries. It facilitates international shipping, customs clearance, and domestic delivery, providing an end-to-end solution for cross-border inventory movement.
This service is particularly beneficial for sellers based outside of the United States or those looking to expand into global markets. With Amazon overseeing many of the complicated logistics tasks, sellers can focus more on scaling their business and less on managing shipments.
How Does Amazon Global Logistics Work?
Amazon Global Logistics simplifies the movement of inventory from a seller’s origin country to a destination fulfillment center. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process typically works:
1. Registration and Enrollment
To begin using AGL, sellers must sign up through the Amazon Seller Central portal. After registration, Amazon reviews and approves the seller’s account for eligibility. Requirements may differ based on country, category, and shipping volume.
2. Booking a Shipment
Once approved, sellers can book shipments directly through Seller Central. They input key details such as:
- Origin and destination addresses
- Type and quantity of goods
- Preferred shipping method (air or ocean freight)
Amazon provides real-time freight rate quotes and transit time estimates. Sellers can choose the most suitable option based on cost and delivery timelines.
3. Preparing Cargo
The seller is responsible for ensuring the shipment meets Amazon’s packaging, labeling, and documentation requirements. Amazon offers guidelines that help sellers prepare compliant shipments, which reduces the risk of delays in customs or at Amazon fulfillment centers.
4. Transportation and Customs Clearance
After preparation, the shipment is picked up and transported by partners or services coordinated by Amazon. Key steps include:
- Export pickup: Goods are collected from the seller’s warehouse or manufacturer.
- International transport: Cargo is moved via air or sea freight to the destination country.
- Customs clearance: Amazon or its partners handle declarations and paperwork with local authorities.
This process ensures items comply with all import laws, minimizing the chances of fines, delays, or seizure of goods.
5. Storage and Fulfillment
Once customs is cleared, the shipment is delivered to an Amazon fulfillment center, where the goods are stored until ordered by customers. At this stage, the items are eligible for Amazon Prime shipping and are offered with full transparency through the FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) program.
Advantages of Amazon Global Logistics
Utilizing AGL offers numerous benefits to sellers aiming for international reach:
- Streamlined operations: One single platform manages all logistics tasks.
- End-to-end visibility: Sellers can track their shipments throughout the entire journey.
- Managed compliance: Customs documentation and legal checks are handled by experienced teams.
- Faster time to market: Efficient shipping reduces delays, ensuring faster stock replenishment.
Considerations Before Using AGL
Although Amazon Global Logistics presents a powerful solution, it’s not suitable for every business. Sellers must consider a few important factors:
- Volume Requirements: AGL is generally better suited for large shipments rather than smaller quantities.
- Cost Implications: International freight can be expensive depending on the destination and shipping method.
- Regulations: Certain goods may be prohibited or face additional scrutiny during customs checks.
Proper planning, including understanding tariffs, import duties, and country-specific regulations, is necessary to avoid surprises.
Is Amazon Global Logistics Right for You?
AGL is an ideal choice for sellers looking to streamline cross-border ecommerce and expand into new markets without investing heavily in infrastructure. It reduces the complexities involved with international trade and integrates seamlessly with other Amazon services like FBA and Amazon Marketplace.
Whether you’re a mature seller ready to scale or a newcomer exploring global opportunities, Amazon Global Logistics provides the tools and support necessary to succeed in international e-commerce.