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Fulfilling Amazon Self Ship Orders with Third Party Couriers


Hi Reader,

If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re either an exporter just starting or an experienced seller looking to sharpen your strategies. Either way, after reading this blog, your strategies will change because Amazon self-ship orders might just be the game changer you’ve been searching for.

In the world of eCommerce, flexibility and control are everything. Self-ship orders allow you to take charge of every step of the shipping process, from packaging to delivery, either by delivering products directly or by partnering with trusted third-party courier services like ShipGlobal. This approach is a favourite among sellers who want to save on costs, customize packaging, or meet unique customer delivery preferences.

The best part? 

Amazon self-ship orders let you scale your business globally while maintaining full control.

With access to Amazon’s massive global customer base of over 200 million people and the right self-ship strategy, you can truly make your mark in the eCommerce world.

So, let’s dive in and explore how you can master self-ship orders to elevate your business and delight your customers.

What are Amazon Self-Ship Orders?

Amazon self-ship orders are when you, the seller, take full control of packaging, labeling, and shipping products without relying on Amazon’s Easy Ship service. This method allows sellers to manage the shipping process independently and offers the flexibility to choose between two main options:

  1. Self Delivery: You deliver the products directly to the customer.
  2. Third Party Couriers (3PL for Amazon Orders): You use a trusted delivery service to send your products to the buyer.

This approach is particularly beneficial for sellers who want more control over shipping costs, packaging styles, and delivery timelines.

Step-by-Step Self-Ship Process

Step 1: Log into Seller Central

Start by logging into your Amazon Seller Central account to check your pending orders:

  • Click on the Orders tab and select Manage Orders.
  • In the Self-Ship section, you can view all pending orders, complete with order IDs, product details, and customer shipping addresses. This helps you keep track of what needs to be shipped and where.

Step 2: Prepare the Shipment

Once you select an order to process, follow these steps:

Packaging the Product

  • Pack your products securely using sturdy materials to ensure they remain safe during transit.
  • Use professional and appealing packaging, which can leave a positive impression on your customers. Amazon branded packaging materials are also available for purchase if needed.

Generating the Shipping Label

  • Use a courier service to create a shipping label that includes both the sender’s and receiver’s addresses.
  • Affix the label securely to the package to ensure it doesn’t come off during transit.

Step 3: Add a Tax Invoice

  • Download the tax invoice from your Seller Central account and place it inside the package. Note that Amazon no longer requires sellers to include a packing slip, saving time and resources.

Step 4: Select a Third-Party Courier

Choose a reliable courier service to ship your order. For example, many sellers prefer services like ShipGlobal due to their affordability and reliability. Once selected:

  • Enter the ship date, carrier name, and tracking ID in your Seller Central account.
  • Click on Self-Ship Confirm Shipment to update the order status and inform Amazon that the package has been shipped.

Step 5: Confirm the Shipment

After confirming the shipment:

  • The order status changes from “Unshipped” to “Shipped” in Seller Central.
  • Both you and your customer can track the shipment’s progress using the tracking ID provided by the courier service.
  • Monitor the delivery status using the courier’s tracking tools to ensure timely and successful delivery.

Shipping Best Practices for Sellers

Which Third-Party Couriers to Choose

Third party couriers provide significant advantages for self-ship orders. Here are the key factors to consider:

  • Affordable Rates: They often offer competitive shipping rates, especially for lightweight or bulk shipments.
  • Customization: Sellers can personalize packaging and manage delivery timelines according to their needs.
  • Reliability: Trusted couriers like ShipGlobal, DHL and India Post ensure secure and timely deliveries, enhancing customer satisfaction.

Pro Tips for Fulfilling Amazon Self-Ship Orders

  1. Pick a Reliable Courier: Always opt for trusted courier services to ensure smooth and timely deliveries.
  2. Double-Check Everything: Verify customer details, tracking IDs, and packaging to avoid errors.
  3. Invest in Professional Packaging: High quality packaging protects your products and builds trust with your customers.
  4. Track Your Shipments: Use the courier’s tracking tools to monitor deliveries and address any delays promptly.

Final Thoughts

Managing your shipping process through Amazon self-ship orders can offer sellers greater flexibility and cost control. By choosing third party couriers that fit your business needs, you gain the freedom to tailor the entire shipping experience. This level of control not only helps reduce expenses but also allows you to add a personal touch, improving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Consider Tanya, a wedding gift seller who has successfully used Delhivery for her self-ship orders. With control over packaging and delivery timelines, she’s maintained competitive costs and delighted her customers with personalized service—leading to higher ratings and repeat orders. Her story shows how a thoughtful approach to Amazon self-ship orders can positively impact your business.

Conclusion

Amazon self-ship orders are a reliable way to take charge of your logistics, reduce shipping costs, and create a unique customer experience. By using third-party couriers and carefully planning each step, you’ll enjoy a streamlined process and a more satisfied customer base.

Ready to start?
Share your success stories with us on our social media platforms and stay tuned for more tips on optimizing your Amazon business.

FAQ’s

1. What is the difference between self-ship and Amazon’s Easy Ship service?

Self-ship gives sellers full control over packaging, labelling, and courier selection. Easy Ship, on the other hand, involves Amazon handling the shipping process on your behalf.

2. Do I need to include a packing slip with self-ship orders?

No, Amazon no longer requires a packing slip. However, including a tax invoice is mandatory.

3. How can I track my self-ship orders?

Use the tracking tools provided by your courier service. Enter the tracking ID in Seller Central to keep your customers updated.

4. What should I do if a self-ship order is delayed?

Monitor the tracking status and contact your courier service immediately to resolve delays. Keep your customer informed to maintain trust.

5. Can self ship orders be used for international deliveries?

Yes, but ensure you choose a courier with expertise in cross-border shipping and handle customs documentation accurately.