FBA, FBM or a hybrid: choosing an Amazon selling model

Compare fulfilment choices against control, working capital and delivery promises before committing.

Editorial status: AI-assisted draft; no human subject-matter review has been completed. Use the primary source linked below as the current authority.

On this pageSteps Example Common mistakes Checklist Sources and next steps

A practical sequence

Map each SKU by size, fragility, shelf life and expected orders.
Estimate all-in FBA costs—including referral, fulfilment, storage, inbound and returns—then compare with postage, pick-pack labour and customer service for merchant fulfilment.
Pilot representative SKUs and review contribution per unit and stock availability.

Work through an example

A lightweight £24 accessory with steady demand may justify an FBA pilot; a bulky seasonal item may be cheaper to ship yourself. Test both with marketplace-specific fee estimates.

Common mistakes

Choosing from a headline fulfilment fee.
assuming one model fits every SKU.
forgetting prep, inbound or returns..

Before you move on

You can state all-in cost per unit for both options.
the method fits product handling.
replenishment lead time and stockout risk are included..

Sources and next steps

Primary source: Official Amazon source. Marketplace scope: business-planning steps are general. Amazon.com and Seller Central US sources apply to the US store; use your target store’s local help pages and fee tools for UK or other marketplaces. Confirm current rules before acting. Next: continue to the learning path or use the economics calculator.