Amazon, the e-commerce giant, has introduced a new fee policy targeting third-party sellers who opt to ship products themselves, or through a 3PL, rather than using Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service. Starting October 1, 2025, this policy change has raised worries for third-party merchants.
Understanding the implications of this change is critical for sellers aiming to stay competitive in Amazon’s marketplace. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers may still be a better option for Amazon sellers, offering increased control and flexibility, and reduced costs.
Understanding Amazon's New Fee Policy
Background and Context
Amazon's logistics network is key to its success. FBA gives sellers access to its extensive fulfillment system. However, many third-party sellers prefer self-shipping to retain flexibility and control over their supply chain. The notice to sellers announced the new fee, which many see as a push to encourage more merchants to adopt FBA.
Industry experts speculate this move aligns with Amazon’s broader strategy to optimize its logistics services and increase revenue, though it has raised concerns about fairness and potential antitrust issues. The fee will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving sellers limited time to adapt.
Details of the Fee Structure
The new fee applies to sellers who ship products themselves, or through a 3PL, with costs varying based on product size, weight, and shipping destination. According to Amazon, the fee ranges from $0.50 to $2.00 per unit, calculated based on the dimensional weight of the package and the distance to the customer.
For example, a small seller sending lightweight items like books may pay an extra $0.75 per unit. A medium-sized seller with bulkier products like sporting goods might face fees around $1.50 per unit. A seller shipping 1,000 units each month could mean an extra $500 to $2,000 in costs. This can significantly affect profit margins.
Impact on Sellers Who Ship Products Themselves
Strategic Considerations
Sellers must now weigh the cost-benefit of self-shipping versus adopting FBA. While FBA offers access to Amazon’s logistics and Prime badge, it comes with its own fees and reduced control over branding.
FBA fees for a $25 product might total between $7 and $10, including storageand fulfillment, compared to a 3PL’s often lower fee structure. Additionally, self-shipping allows sellers tocustomize packaging and maintain direct customer relationships. Long-term, sellers may need to reassess their business models, potentially exploring moresophisticated 3PL providers that can offer more value, including multiplelocations and competitive pricing.
3PL Services vs. Amazon FBA
Advantages Over Amazon FBA
Unlike FBA, 3PL services offer greater flexibility in branding and customer experience. Sellers can use custom packaging, inserts, and marketing materials to strengthen brand identity, which is often restricted under FBA.
Not to mention, when self-shipping with a 3PL, a seller gains knowledge of who the customer is. This information is extremely valuable and allows the seller to build a direct relationship with the end customer, potentially opening the door for repeat purchases outside of Amazon.
Inventory management is also greatly streamlined as sellers can work from pool of inventory for sales on Amazon as well as other channels.
Additionally, 3PL providers typically charge lower fees for storage and fulfillment, improving margins. A seller using a2b Fulfillment might pay significantly less in service fees over FBA, and the seller keeps control over their supply chain. This flexibility is ideal for businesses aiming to expand beyond Amazon.
Finally, using a 3PL Reduces risk. Amazon often imposes restrictions of how much product a Seller can send to its fulfillment centers. By outsourcing logistics to a 3PL, businesses mitigate this risk by working with a partner that is committing to them and their needs.
For sellers navigating Amazon’s new fee structure, partnering with a 3PL like a2b Fulfillment can optimize costs and operations while preserving brand control.
Conclusion
Amazon’s new fee on self-shipping sellers, effective October 1, 2025, introduces new financial pressures on sellers; however, sophisticated 3PL’s like a2b Fulfillment can mitigate these new fees and by enhancing flexibility, control and value. As the e-commerce landscape evolves, adapting to these changes is crucial for staying competitive. Contact a2b Fulfillment today to learn how their 3PL services can help your business thrive in Amazon’s marketplace.
