The Ultimate Guide to Seamless Global Shipping for FBA Sellers

Amazon Global Logistics (AGL)

If you're an Amazon FBA seller sourcing from China and looking to streamline international shipments to the US, UK, or EU, Amazon Global Logistics (AGL) is your one-stop shipping solution. AGL offers reliable, end-to-end ocean freight logistics with integrated services like customs clearance, optimized inventory placement, and access to Amazon’s expansive fulfillment network.

Let’s break down how AGL helps FBA sellers save time, reduce cost, and manage their inventory more efficiently across borders.

Amazon Global Logistics (AGL) is a shipping program that helps FBA sellers move inventory from China to Amazon fulfillment centers in:

• The United States
• The United Kingdom
• The European Union (France, Germany, Italy, and Spain)

AGL handles:

• Pickup from origin
• Ocean freight (FCL/LCL or fast ocean options)
• Customs clearance
• Delivery to Amazon’s warehouses

For sellers targeting the US, AGL also connects with Amazon Warehousing and Distribution (AWD) — allowing seamless, low-cost storage and automatic replenishment into FBA centers.

1. Create Your AGL Profile:

• Visit the AGL portal for your target destination (US, UK, or EU).
• Sign in with your Seller Central credentials.
• Set your payment method and define your Importer of Record.

1. Download Setup Guides:

• US Onboarding Guide
• UK/EU Onboarding Guide

1. Book Your Shipment:

• Go to the "Send to Amazon" portal based on your region.
• Choose from LCL, FCL, or fast ocean modes.
• Follow the step-by-step process outlined in the booking guides.

AGL offers three inventory placement methods to suit different product sizes, shipment densities, and budget levels:

Perfect for high-unit density containers. Benefits include:

• Ship to one destination — Amazon will handle redistribution.
• No FBA inbound placement service fee — it’s bundled in your AGL rate.
• Supports both sortable and non-sortable cargo.
• Lower total cost for dense shipments.

Requirements:

• Max 2,000 cartons per 40-ft container.
• Max 1,000 cartons per 20-ft container.
• Cannot mix cargo sort types in one container.

Ideal for lower unit-density shipments. Key points:

• Single-coast destination (East or West).
• Lower FBA fee per unit if density is low.
• Reduced customs paperwork.
• Supports both LCL and FCL.

Illustrative Cost Comparison (40-ft FCL):

TypeUnitsTotal Cost (AMP)Total Cost (Minimal Split)High-density25,000$8,700$12,900Low-density4,000$8,700$7,360

For long-term storage and auto-replenishment. AWD benefits:

• Inventory is monitored and sent to FBA only when needed.
• Reduces stockouts and boosts fast shipping options.
• AWD fee includes placement — no extra inbound service charge.

AWD Eligibility: Standard-size, non-perishable products only. Excludes hazmat, perishables, jewelry, Amazon devices, etc.

For shipments to the UK and EU, you can choose:

• Standard ocean shipping via LCL or FCL
• Ship to one Amazon fulfillment center — no need to split shipments
• Sort-type uniformity required (sortable or non-sortable per shipment)

Transit time varies by port, shipping mode, and destination.

ModeDestinationTransit TimeStandard Ocean (FCL)US West45–55 daysStandard Ocean (LCL)EU55–68 daysFast Ocean (FCL)US West35–45 daysAWD (FCL/LCL)US East57–67 days

Always refer to your booking portal for up-to-date ETA estimates.

TypeDimensions (cm)WeightSmall Standard (Sortable)< 38.1 x 30.48 x 1.9< 7.25 kgLarge Standard (Sortable)< 45.72 x 35.56 x 20.32< 9.07 kgLarge Bulky (Non-sortable)Up to 149.86 x 83.82 x 83.82Up to 23 kgExtra-Large>149.86 length or >83.82 width/height>23 kg

As of May 8, 2025, AGL shipments will only count toward FBA capacity when the vessel reaches the destination port. This gives you:

• Better inventory planning
• Capacity accuracy closer to sale-readiness

Shipment cost depends on:

• Container size (LCL vs. FCL)
• Ocean mode (Standard vs. Fast)
• Destination (US/EU/UK)
• Inventory placement method (AMP, AWD, etc.)

Use the AGL portal to:

• Get real-time shipping quotes
• Calculate FBA inbound service fees
• Choose the best placement strategy for your business

Need help with customs, export documentation, or importer of record services?

Amazon's Service Provider Network offers verified third-party providers for:

• Customs brokerage
• Exporter of record services
• Tax and accounting
• International shipping consultancy

Filter services by "Value Added Services" like:

• Tax refund
• FX support
• Transportation services

Amazon Global Logistics is more than just a shipping solution. It's a strategic tool that helps you:

• Lower costs
• Speed up delivery
• Simplify logistics
• Scale globally with confidence

Whether you’re shipping 500 units or 25,000, AGL gives you the flexibility, transparency, and control to build a resilient FBA business.

Start your AGL journey today and take your Amazon business global — the smart way.