Once you send stock to Amazon, the waiting game begins. Understanding what each shipment status means — and knowing when to worry versus when to wait — keeps you informed without unnecessary stress.
Shipment Statuses Explained
Working — You have started creating the shipping plan but have not yet completed or shipped it. The shipment is still in draft mode.
Ready to Ship — The shipping plan is complete, labels are printed, and the shipment is ready to be collected or dropped off. You have confirmed the carrier details.
Shipped — The shipment has been collected and is in transit to the fulfilment centre. Tracking information should be updating.
In Transit — Amazon's system recognises the shipment is on its way. This status may overlap with "Shipped" depending on carrier integration.
Delivered — The carrier has delivered the shipment to the fulfilment centre. However, this does not mean your stock is available for sale yet — it still needs to be checked in and received.
Checked In — The fulfilment centre has acknowledged receipt of your shipment. Your boxes are in the building but have not yet been opened and processed.
Receiving — Amazon's team is opening your boxes, scanning your products, and adding them to inventory. This is where your units start appearing as "available" in your inventory.
Closed — Receiving is complete. All units have been processed, and any discrepancies are noted. Review the shipment reconciliation to check if all expected units were received.
How Long Does Receiving Take?
Under normal conditions, receiving takes 3–7 working days from delivery. During busy periods (Q4, Prime Day preparations), it can take 2–4 weeks. Amazon processes shipments in the order they arrive, and there is no way to expedite receiving.
This timeline is why planning ahead matters. If you need stock available for a specific date (like Prime Day or Christmas), work backwards from that date and allow generous time for transit and receiving.
Partial Receiving
It is common for Amazon to receive your shipment in batches. You might see 40 out of 100 units showing as available one day, then 55 the next, and the remainder a few days later. This is normal — different boxes in the same shipment may be processed at different times.
When Something Seems Wrong
If your shipment shows as "Delivered" for more than two weeks without moving to "Checked In," contact Seller Support with your tracking proof. If units are missing after the shipment is "Closed," use the reconciliation tool to identify the discrepancy and open an investigation.
Amazon gives you a window (typically 60-90 days) to file claims for missing or damaged units. Keep your shipping records and proof of delivery — you may need them.
Improving Your Receiving Experience
Accurate box content information speeds up receiving. Clear, correctly placed labels reduce confusion. Properly prepped products avoid rejections that slow the process. And using Amazon's Partnered Carrier provides seamless tracking integration.
The receiving process is one of those aspects of FBA you cannot control, but you can influence. Doing everything right on your end maximises the chance of a smooth, fast receiving experience.