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Glossary Term

Master Carton

The large, outer shipping box used to pack and protect multiple individual units or inner packs during transport and storage.

The Shield for Your Products

A master carton is your product’s primary defense against the chaos of global shipping. It contains your individual FNSKU-labeled units. When shipping to Amazon FBA, there are strict rules for master cartons: they shouldn’t exceed 50 lbs (unless containing a single oversize item) and shouldn’t exceed 25 inches on any side.

Master Carton Labeling Requirements

Every master carton needs its own FBA Shipment ID label. If you are shipping via LTL, it also needs to be marked with the total weight and count. If the master carton label is missing or damaged, Amazon won’t know which shipment the box belongs to, and your inventory will stay "Inbound" indefinitely.

  • Must be durable enough to withstand stacking.
  • Requires clear "Shipping Marks" for customs and warehouse identification.
  • Labels should be placed on a flat surface, not over the flap.