When you’re starting out on Amazon Germany, one of the smallest steps in your fulfillment process can cause the biggest headaches: product labeling.
It seems simple – print a barcode, stick it on the product, ship it to the warehouse. But get it wrong, and Amazon will reject your entire shipment. No warning. No refund. Just a frustrating email saying your inventory wasn’t received.
I’ve been there. In my first few months selling on Amazon Germany, I had a batch of 200 units turned away – not because the products were defective, not because the packaging was wrong, but because the labels weren’t applied properly.
That’s why I’m breaking this down clearly for you. Because when Amazon says “label correctly,” they mean exactly how they want it – no exceptions.
Let’s walk through the right way to print, cut, and apply your FNSKU labels so your inventory is accepted the first time, every time.
Why Amazon Requires FNSKU Labels
Every product sold on Amazon Germany must carry a unique identifier: the FNSKU (Fulfillment Network Stock Keeping Unit). This is different from the UPC or EAN code on your product. The FNSKU ties your item directly to your seller account and tells Amazon’s system: This belongs to Christian, not another seller with the same product.
If you’re using Amazon’s FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) service, they need this label to track, store, pick, pack, and ship your items. Without it, your product is untraceable – and therefore, unacceptable.
Even if your product already has a barcode, Amazon will not scan it unless it’s your FNSKU. That’s why you can’t rely on manufacturer barcodes. You must apply your own.
And yes – this applies even if you’re selling the same product as other vendors. Amazon uses FNSKUs to prevent commingling issues and ensure accountability.
What You Need to Print Your Labels
Before you can apply anything, you need the right tools:
- Amazon Seller Central Account (Germany) – Log in to generate your FNSKU labels.
- Label Printer (Recommended: Brother QL-800 or similar) – While you can print on regular paper and tape it on, Amazon strongly recommends using a thermal label printer with 4″ x 6″ or 2″ x 4″ labels.
- Compatible Labels – Use adhesive labels that are smudge-proof, water-resistant, and durable. Look for “direct thermal” or “thermal transfer” labels depending on your printer.
- Scissors or Precision Cutter (Optional) – If you’re not using pre-sized labels, you’ll need to trim them.
Go to Inventory > Manage Inventory in Seller Central, select the product, click Print Item Labels, and choose your label size. Amazon will generate a PDF you can print directly.
If you’re printing multiple units, you can select Print Box Content Info for case-packed items – but for individual product labels, stick to Print Item Labels.
Step-by-Step: Applying the FNSKU Label
Now, here’s where most new sellers make mistakes.
You’ve printed the label. It looks clean. You peel it off. And then – where do you put it?
Let me walk you through the exact process I use in my own warehouse prep:
Step 1: Peel with Care
Use a fingernail or plastic tool to lift the edge of the label. Avoid touching the adhesive side with your fingers – oils from your skin can reduce stickiness and cause peeling later.
Step 2: Choose the Right Spot
Apply the label on a flat, smooth surface of the product or its packaging. Avoid curved edges, seams, or textured areas. The scanner needs a clear, uninterrupted surface to read the barcode.
If the product is in a clear polybag, apply the label directly on the bag – but make sure it’s flat and wrinkle-free.
Step 3: Cover Existing Barcodes (Yes, Really)
This is a big one: your FNSKU must completely cover any other barcodes on the product – including UPCs, EANs, or old FNSKUs.
Why? Because if Amazon’s scanner picks up the wrong code, it may route your item to the wrong inventory pool or reject it entirely.
So don’t just place it beside the old label – cover it completely. Use a label large enough to obscure the original barcode. If needed, use two labels: one to cover the old code, one to display your FNSKU.
Step 4: Smooth It Out
Once applied, press down firmly with your thumb or a soft tool to eliminate air bubbles and ensure full adhesion. A crumpled or bubbled label might not scan.
Step 5: Double-Check the Scan Zone
The most important part of the label is the barcode itself – especially the quiet zone (the blank space to the left and right of the bars). Never place text, logos, or tape over this area.
Amazon’s scanners are precise. If the quiet zone is compromised, the barcode won’t read – and your inventory could be rejected.
Common Labeling Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Even experienced sellers slip up. Here are the top errors I see – and how to fix them:
Using Tape Over Labels
Some sellers print on regular paper and cover the label with packing tape. Amazon allows this, but it’s risky. Tape can bubble, yellow, or peel. Worse, it can create glare that prevents scanning.
Better solution: Use a proper label printer.
Printing Fuzzy or Low-Resolution Labels
If your printer is out of ink or the PDF is scaled incorrectly, the barcode may be too light or distorted.
Fix: Always do a test print and scan it with your phone or a barcode app before mass printing.
Placing Labels on Flaps or Seals
Never put the FNSKU on a box flap that will be taped shut. When the warehouse opens it, the label might tear off.
Rule of thumb: Label the top or side panel – never on moving parts.
Using Multiple Small Labels
Don’t split one FNSKU across two stickers. Amazon needs the entire barcode on a single, intact label.
Forgetting Prep Requirements for Certain Categories
Some products (like liquids, fragrances, or aerosols) require additional prep – including hazard labels or tamper-evident seals. Check Amazon’s “Product Restrictions” page for your category.
What Happens If Your Labels Are Wrong?
Amazon doesn’t give second chances.
If your labels are missing, damaged, or incorrectly applied, your shipment will be rejected. You’ll get an email notification, but by then, your inventory is either being returned (at your cost) or disposed of.
Worse, repeated issues can trigger account reviews or limit your ability to create new shipments.
It’s not worth the risk.
Spend the extra 10 minutes to do it right. Your future self – and your profit margin – will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I handwrite the FNSKU on the product?
No. Amazon requires a machine-readable barcode. Handwritten labels will be rejected. Always print your FNSKU using Amazon’s official label tool.
2. Do I need to label every single unit?
Yes. Every individual product in your shipment must have its own FNSKU label – even if they’re packed in the same box. Amazon scans each unit upon receipt.
3. What if my product already has an Amazon barcode (like an MSKU)?
If you’re the brand owner and using Amazon’s branded catalog, you might see an MSKU (Manufacturer SKU). You still need your FNSKU for FBA. Cover the MSKU or any other barcode with your FNSKU label to avoid scanning conflicts.
Wrapping Up
There’s no shortcut when it comes to Amazon’s labeling rules – but you don’t need one. Do it right once, and your inventory moves smoothly from your hands to their warehouse to the customer’s doorstep.
If you’re just starting out on Amazon Germany, small details like this can make or break your momentum. Get the fundamentals right, and everything else becomes easier.
In the meantime, download my FREE 120-Day Amazon FBA/FBM Goal Plan – Germany Edition to map out your first quarter with clarity:
It breaks down exactly what to do, week by week – from product research to launch to scaling. No fluff. Just proven steps.
See you on the inside.
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