Amazon SEND: Cross-Border Shipping Partner Program
Seller University
Introduction to Amazon SEND
The Amazon SEND (Shipping Enablement and Navigation) program allows selected shipping partners to transport sellers' goods from Vietnam to Amazon's fulfillment centers (FCs) in destination countries, providing a comprehensive FBA shipping service for sellers.
This guide provides an overview of the order fulfillment process, program advantages, and usage instructions for Amazon SEND.
Program Overview and Process
The Amazon SEND program integrates with Amazon Seller Central, simplifying the process of shipping goods to Amazon FCs. Sellers can manage their shipments, customs declarations, and inventory all within Seller Central.
Key Steps in the Amazon SEND Process:
- Create a Shipment: Sellers create a SEND shipment directly on Amazon's 'Send to Amazon' page.
- Arrange Pickup/Drop-off: Sellers prepare their goods, package them, and arrange for pickup by the shipping partner or drop them off at a carrier depot.
- Customs Clearance: The shipping partner handles export customs clearance and necessary documentation.
- International Shipping: Goods are transported internationally via air or sea freight.
- Import Customs Clearance: The shipping partner manages import customs clearance in the destination country.
- Delivery to FC: The shipping partner delivers the goods to the designated Amazon fulfillment center.
Sellers can track the entire process through Amazon Seller Central.
Advantages of Amazon SEND
Amazon SEND offers several benefits for sellers:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Offers competitive pricing, often 5%-15% lower than other services for similar transit times, reducing initial shipping costs.
- Efficiency: Provides a streamlined, end-to-end service with professional customs clearance support, reducing operational costs.
- Reliability: Utilizes Amazon-vetted shipping partners ensuring stable and efficient delivery, with a commitment to 95% on-time delivery.
- Convenience: Integrated within Seller Central for easy management of shipments, tracking, and payments.
- Flexibility: Offers options for both air and sea freight, catering to different shipping needs and timelines.
Comparison with Offline Shipping Partners
Amazon SEND provides a more integrated and efficient experience compared to traditional offline shipping methods, which can be cumbersome and prone to delays or complications.
Pricing and Fees
Pricing for Amazon SEND varies based on the shipping partner and transit time. Sellers can find real-time quotes within Seller Central. The fees generally include pickup, freight charges, customs clearance, and import duties.
New Seller Incentive: New sellers who use Amazon SEND for their first FBA shipment may receive a $200 USD credit towards their Amazon FBA fulfillment fees.
How to Use Amazon SEND
The process is managed through Amazon Seller Central:
- Log in to Seller Central: Navigate to 'Inventory' > 'Shipping Queue' > 'Shipping Orders'.
- Create a Shipment: Select 'Send to Amazon' and choose your shipping origin and destination.
- Select Shipping Partner: Choose 'Amazon Partnered Carrier' for SEND services.
- Provide Shipment Details: Enter product information, quantities, dimensions, and select shipping options (pickup or drop-off).
- Confirm Shipping: Review all details, including estimated costs, and confirm the shipment.
- Print Labels: Print shipping labels for your packages.
- Track Shipment: Monitor your shipment's progress through Seller Central.
- Review Invoice: Check the final invoice and payment report.
Sending Goods to AWD (Amazon Warehousing and Distribution)
Amazon SEND is integrated with the Amazon Warehousing and Distribution (AWD) service, allowing sellers to ship goods directly to AWD facilities. This simplifies inventory management and improves stock control.
Steps for AWD Shipments:
- Access the AWD interface in Seller Central and select 'Create Shipment'.
- Choose the 'Inventory > Warehousing & Distribution (AWD)' service.
- Follow the prompts to select inventory, confirm shipping details, and choose the Amazon partnered carrier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need to pay extra fees to the shipping carrier?
No, generally you will not pay extra fees beyond what is displayed in Seller Central, except for import duties or fees related to establishing an Importer of Record (IOR).
Q2: What types of items can I ship through the program?
Most items can be shipped, excluding hazardous materials or items with specific restrictions.
Q3: Do I need to register in advance to use Amazon SEND?
No, Amazon SEND is available directly within the FBA shipment creation process.
Q4: Who is responsible for delivery to the FBA warehouse?
The shipping partner is responsible for delivery to the Amazon FBA warehouse. Amazon also supports carriers to ensure timely deliveries.
Q5: What customs declaration methods are supported in different markets?
For air shipments to the US, you can use your name or the carrier's name for customs declaration. For sea shipments to the US, the carrier's EOR (Exporter of Record) is used by default.
Q6: What are the customs clearance procedures for different markets?
For air shipments to the US, sellers can self-declare taxes. For sea shipments to the US, prices generally exclude taxes, and sellers should coordinate with the carrier for import tax calculations.
Useful Resources
For more information and guidance, refer to the following resources:
- Amazon Seller University: Amazon Seller Central Learning Resources
- Amazon Global Selling Vietnam YouTube Channel
- In-depth guides on Seller Central.