FBA virtual tracking FAQ

What is virtual tracking?

Virtual tracking allows Amazon to fulfil orders using identical products from different suppliers. Doing so enables us to process a customer order more efficiently and expedite delivery from the fulfilment centre that is closest to the buyer.

Virtual tracking traces the source of eligible products throughout the fulfilment process. Identical items from different sellers are not physically stored together in a fulfilment centre.

What is "commingling" and how does it relate to virtual tracking?

Commingling is a term that was sometimes used to refer to virtual tracking. However, virtual tracking is a more accurate term, because we trace the source of eligible products throughout the fulfilment process. Identical items from different suppliers are not stored together.

What is stickerless inventory?

Inventory that uses the manufacturer barcode instead of an Amazon barcode sticker is sometimes referred to as stickerless inventory.

Which product categories are eligible for virtual tracking?

A broad range of products are eligible for virtual tracking, and we regularly evaluate other product categories to include in the program. For more information on eligibility requirements, go to Using FBA virtual tracking.

Can I use manufacturer barcodes for expiration-dated inventory?

No. All products with an expiration date must be labelled with an Amazon barcode to be eligible for Fulfilment by Amazon. Expiration-dated inventory cannot be tracked by manufacturer barcodes. For more information, go to Expiration-dated inventory for more information.

If I am a brand owner, do I have to use Amazon barcodes to track my ineligible inventory?

If your product doesn’t meet the virtual-tracking eligibility requirements, you may be able to get an exemption to use the manufacturer barcode by applying with Amazon Brand Registry and enrolling your ASIN in the program. Non-brand-registered sellers would be required to apply Amazon barcodes for the ineligible product.

Can I change from using Amazon barcodes to manufacturer barcodes?

You can change your barcode settings at any time. Changes would only apply to future shipments of eligible products. Barcode settings cannot be changed if inventory for the item is in transit to a fulfilment centre or already at a fulfilment centre. Any products that are already in fulfilment centres must be sold through or removed by placing a removal order.

To change from using an Amazon barcode to the manufacturer barcode, you must create a new product listing. For more information, go to How to switch from using Amazon barcodes to manufacturer barcodes.

If I want to use a manufacturer barcode to track inventory, do I need a standard product ID?

Yes. Amazon requires a standard product identifier for every product that uses the manufacturer barcode for tracking (virtual tracking). To see which product categories require standard identifiers for major brands, go to Overview of category UPC requirements . For information on product identifiers, go to Find your product ID .

Are my products tracked by their serial numbers?

No. Fulfilment centre associates receive and deliver units by scanning the barcode. Sellers are responsible for tracking any serial numbers related to their products.

Could I be penalized for products sourced from a different seller?

No. We do not deactivate listings or seller accounts based on problems with units that are owned by other sellers.

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