Frequently Asked Question

FAQ: General — What Is a Prep Center / 3PL?

What exactly does a prep center do?

A prep center receives your inventory, inspects it, labels it per Amazon or marketplace requirements, packages it, and ships it — so you never have to touch a box. We handle the physical work of fulfillment so you can focus on sourcing and selling.

Can I send inventory directly from my supplier to your warehouse?

Yes. This is one of the most common setups. Your supplier ships directly to us — you send us a heads-up with the expected SKUs and quantities, and we handle everything from receiving to shipping to Amazon.

What's the difference between a prep center and a 3PL?

A prep center focuses on Amazon-specific preparation: FNSKU labels, poly bagging, bundling, and creating shipment plans. A 3PL (third-party logistics provider) covers a broader range: storage, fulfillment, returns, kitting, and more. 365PrepCenter is both — we handle FBA prep AND full 3PL services.

Is 365PrepCenter an Amazon-authorized prep service?

We follow all current Amazon FBA prep guidelines and requirements. We are not an "Amazon partner" (no such formal designation exists for prep centers), but we are fully compliant with Amazon's packaging and labeling standards.

Do I need a prep center if I'm just starting out?

Not necessarily — but most sellers outgrow home-prepping faster than they expect. As soon as prep work starts eating into your sourcing time, or you're sending more than 100–200 units/month, a prep center saves you money and stress. We work with sellers at every stage, including beginners.

What's the difference between FBA and FBM — and do you support both?

FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) means Amazon stores and ships your products. We prep your inventory and send it to Amazon FCs. FBM (Fulfilled by Merchant) means you're responsible for shipping orders to customers — we pick, pack, and ship those orders daily from our warehouse on your behalf.

Do you work with international sellers?

Yes. Many of our clients are based in Europe, Canada, Ukraine, Romania, and other countries. Our team speaks English, Russian, and Romanian, and we're experienced with the logistics of working remotely with overseas sellers.

Can I visit your warehouse in person?

You're welcome to visit by appointment. Our facility is located in Lebanon, OH. That said, most of our clients work with us 100% remotely — via email, WhatsApp, and Telegram.

How long has 365PrepCenter been in operation?

We're a focused, growing operation dedicated to getting your prep done right — fast, accurately, and with full photo documentation. You can visit our About page, there is our full story

Are you a large warehouse or a small team?

We're a focused small team operating in a 1,200 sq ft dedicated prep facility. That means every shipment gets personal attention — not handed off to rotating temp workers. You always know who's handling your inventory.

What platforms do you support besides Amazon?

We support sellers on Amazon (FBA & FBM), Shopify, eBay, Etsy, Walmart, and DTC brands. If you have orders from any marketplace, we can fulfill them.

Do you handle hazmat or oversize products?

Contact us with specifics. We handle standard goods. For hazmat, restricted, or very large items, we'll evaluate on a case-by-case basis.

What happens if my prep center closes suddenly — what's the risk?

This is a real concern sellers have. We operate a stable, committed business — not a side hustle. We give clients advance notice of any operational changes and have a clear inventory return/transfer process in place.

Can I switch prep centers without losing inventory?

Yes. If you're switching from another prep center to us, we can coordinate the transfer. Your inventory is yours — we'll help you move it in the most efficient way possible.

FAQ: Getting Started & Onboarding

How do I get started with 365PrepCenter?

Fill out our Get Started form or message us directly on WhatsApp or Telegram. We'll confirm your needs, send you our warehouse address, and walk you through the first shipment process step by step.

How long does onboarding take?

Usually less than 24 hours. After your first contact, we confirm your service needs, send you the warehouse address and instructions, and you're ready to ship.

Is there a contract or long-term commitment?

No contracts. No lock-in periods. You use our services as needed. If your volume drops or you want to pause, there's no penalty.

What information do I need to provide when I sign up?

Basic business info: your name/company, Amazon Seller ID (for FBA), a list of SKUs and expected volumes, and any special prep instructions. We'll guide you through everything.

Is there a setup fee or onboarding fee?

None. You only pay for services rendered — prep, storage, and fulfillment. There are no account setup fees, monthly minimums, or subscription costs.

Do I need to send a Purchase Order or ASN (Advance Shipment Notification) before my inventory arrives?

Yes — a simple heads-up before each shipment helps us plan for receiving and avoid delays. You can send this via email, WhatsApp, or your preferred channel. It doesn't need to be complicated: SKU name, quantity, expected arrival date.

Who is my point of contact once I start?

You'll work directly with our team — not a rotating customer service queue. You'll have a specific contact via WhatsApp or Telegram for day-to-day communication.

Can I start with a small test shipment?

Absolutely. We recommend starting with a small batch to test the workflow, verify quality, and get comfortable with our processes before scaling up.

What if I have unusual or complex prep requirements?

Tell us before you send your first shipment. We'll review your requirements and confirm whether we can handle them and at what cost. We'd rather be upfront than surprise you later.

Do you offer a trial period or money-back guarantee?

We don't offer formal trials, but since there are no minimums or contracts, a first shipment is essentially a low-risk test. If you're not happy with the quality, we'll discuss it and make it right.

Can I change my prep instructions after onboarding?

Yes. Just communicate changes before the next shipment arrives. We'll update your account profile and apply the new instructions from that shipment forward.

What if I'm an absolute beginner and don't know how FBA works?

We can walk you through the basics. Many of our clients started with us as their first prep center. We'll explain what Amazon requires, how to set up a shipment plan, and what to expect — in your language.

FAQ: Receiving & Inbound Shipments

What happens when my inventory arrives at your warehouse?

We receive and log every inbound shipment within 24 hours of arrival. Each shipment is photo-documented so you have visual confirmation of what arrived and in what condition. You'll receive photos and an itemized count.

Do you take photos of inbound shipments??

We document and photo any discrepancies, damage, or issues on arrival — and notify you immediately.

How long does receiving take?

Inbound shipments are processed and logged within 24 hours. If your supplier ships pallets or large LTL freight, please notify us in advance.

What if the quantity received doesn't match what I ordered from my supplier?

We count and photograph everything. If there's a discrepancy, we notify you immediately with photos and a detailed count so you can file a claim with your supplier. We never just "assume" a shipment is correct.

Can my supplier ship directly to you from China or overseas?

Yes. Provide them with our warehouse address. Note that for international freight (sea/air), you'll need to coordinate customs clearance on your end — we receive from the US address forward.

Do you accept pallet deliveries and LTL freight?

Yes. Contact us in advance for large pallet or LTL shipments so we can arrange appropriate receiving. Our facility can accommodate standard pallet deliveries.

What are your receiving hours?

Monday through Friday during business hours. Please notify us in advance for large or time-sensitive deliveries.

What if my shipment arrives damaged from the supplier?

We photograph the damage immediately upon receipt and send you the photos before doing anything. You decide: return to supplier, proceed with undamaged units, or dispose. We do not begin prepping damaged goods without your approval.

What if my shipment gets lost in transit to your warehouse?

The shipping carrier is responsible for transit. We recommend tracking all inbound shipments. Once goods arrive at our facility, they're logged and insured under our warehouse policy.

Can you receive from multiple suppliers simultaneously?

Yes. We manage multiple inbound shipments from different suppliers for the same client. Just make sure each shipment is labeled with your name/account and includes an ASN so we can match it to your account.

Do you accept retail arbitrage or online arbitrage purchases sent to your warehouse?

Yes. Many of our clients are OA and RA sellers. You can have items shipped from retail stores, Amazon, Walmart, or other online retailers directly to our address. Just send us a heads-up with the ASINs and quantities.

What if I have a return from Amazon sent back to your warehouse?

We accept Amazon removal orders and customer returns. These are processed under our Returns service — inspected, photographed, and restocked or disposed per your instructions.

Do you offer a receiving report or dashboard where I can see inbound inventory?

Yes. Our WMS (Warehouse Management System) tracks your inventory in real time. You'll have visibility into what's been received, what's in prep, and what's been shipped.

How do I send you my shipping plan so you know what's coming?

A simple message via WhatsApp, Telegram, or email works. Include: supplier name, SKUs, expected quantities, and estimated arrival date. We'll log it and be ready.

FAQ: Amazon FBA Prep

What FBA prep services do you offer?

FNSKU labeling, poly bagging, bubble wrapping, suffocation warning stickers, over-boxing, bundling/multipacks, expiry date stickers, box content labels, and full Amazon shipment plan creation via Seller Central.

Do you create the Amazon shipment plan, or do I do that?

Your choice. We can create the shipment plan in your Seller Central account (you give us access), or you create the plan and share the shipment ID and instructions with us. Either way works.

How do you know which FNSKU label to apply to each product?

You provide us with your FNSKU labels (printed or as a PDF/template), or we print them from your Seller Central account. We match each FNSKU to the correct ASIN using your product list and the photos of your products.

Do you handle suffocation warning requirements?

Yes. Poly bags over a certain size require Amazon's standard suffocation warning. We apply these automatically per Amazon's current guidelines.

Can you handle bundling and multi-packs?

Yes. We create 2-packs, 3-packs, and custom bundles. We apply "Sold as Set" stickers, poly bag the set, and label it with the correct bundle FNSKU. Pricing is per unit in the bundle.

What prep category does my product fall into?

Amazon categorizes products into prep types: standard, poly bag, bubble wrap, fragile, etc. If you're unsure of your product's prep type, send us a sample or description and we'll advise based on current Amazon requirements.

Do you prep products that are already in manufacturer packaging?

Yes. Products in retail-ready packaging may only need an FNSKU label applied (covering the UPC). Products that don't meet Amazon's packaging standards will be poly-bagged, boxed, or otherwise prepped accordingly.

What if Amazon changes its prep requirements?

We follow Amazon's current FBA prep guidelines and update our processes accordingly. If requirements change for your specific product category, we'll notify you and adjust.

Can you handle 2-step verification shipments?

Yes. We can receive, relabel, repack, and reship to Amazon FCs as part of a 2-step process. This is common for certain restricted categories.

Do you prep for Amazon's Small & Light program or Low-Price FBA?

Yes. We follow the relevant packaging and labeling requirements for any Amazon program your products are enrolled in.

Do you handle hazmat or lithium battery prep?

Contact us with product details. Some hazmat categories have additional requirements. We'll let you know upfront if there are extra steps or fees.

What if Amazon rejects my shipment at the FC?

We follow Amazon's prep guidelines closely to prevent this. If a rejection occurs due to an error on our part, we'll re-prep at no additional labor cost to you. We stand behind our work.

Can you apply custom stickers, thank-you cards, or marketing inserts?

Yes. Send us your inserts and we'll include them in each unit or box per your instructions. No extra charge for including materials you provide.

How do you handle oversize or heavy products?

We handle standard oversize items. Let us know product dimensions and weight in advance — this affects our prep fee and packaging approach.

Do you track which units you've prepped so I can reconcile with my Seller Central?

Yes. Through our WMS, we maintain a record of every unit processed per shipment. You receive a prep report for each batch so you can cross-reference with Seller Central.

What happens after the FBA prep is done — how does my inventory get to Amazon?

We box and label your cartons with Amazon's required FBA box labels, then hand them off to UPS (most common for FBA inbound). Transit to the Amazon FC typically takes 1–5 business days depending on the destination.

FAQ: FBM Fulfillment (Pick, Pack & Ship)

How does FBM fulfillment work at 365PrepCenter?

You store your inventory with us. When a customer order comes in (from Amazon, Shopify, eBay, or any other platform), we pick the item, pack it, and ship it — the same day if received by 11:59 AM Monday–Friday.

What is your FBM order cutoff time?

11:59 AM Monday–Friday. Orders received before cutoff ship the same day. Orders received after cutoff ship the next business day.

What carriers do you use for FBM shipping?

USPS is our primary carrier for most FBM orders (best rates for small packages). We also ship via UPS, FedEx, and DHL. We can use your carrier account or ours — your choice.

Can I use my own UPS or USPS account for shipping rates?

Yes. Provide your carrier account credentials and we'll ship on your rates. Many sellers prefer this for volume discounts.

Do you integrate with Shopify, eBay, Etsy, or other platforms?

Yes. We work with Shopify, eBay, Etsy, Walmart, and custom order systems. You can send us a daily order export (CSV, spreadsheet) or connect via your platform's integrations. We'll pick, pack, and ship each order.

How will I know when my customer's order has shipped?

We provide tracking numbers for every outbound order. Depending on your setup, we can upload tracking directly to your Seller Central, Shopify, or send you a daily shipping report.

Do you offer same-day shipping?

Yes — for orders received before 11:59 AM Monday–Friday. This keeps you compliant with Amazon's FBM seller metrics and customer expectations.

What packaging do you use for FBM orders?

We use appropriately sized poly mailers or boxes based on your product. You can provide branded packaging or custom boxes — we'll use whatever you send us at no additional fee.

Can you include custom inserts, thank-you cards, or promotional flyers?

Yes. Send us your inserts and we'll include them in every outbound order per your instructions. No extra charge for materials you provide.

What if a customer order is urgent or needs expedited shipping?

Let us know and we'll prioritize it. We can ship via Priority Mail, UPS 2-Day, FedEx Overnight, or whatever service the customer needs. Additional carrier charges apply.

Do you handle multi-item orders (multiple SKUs in one box)?

Yes. We pick and pack multi-SKU orders accurately. Our WMS logs each SKU picked per order to minimize errors.

What if I run out of stock at your warehouse but orders keep coming in?

We'll alert you when your stock reaches a threshold you set. You decide whether to pause listings, backorder, or rush more inventory to us.

Can I send you pre-made kits or bundles for FBM fulfillment?

Yes. You can either send us pre-assembled kits, or we can assemble them for you under our Kitting service and then fulfill orders from that inventory.

What happens if a package is lost or damaged in transit to the customer?

We'll help you file a carrier claim. We pack orders carefully to minimize transit damage, but carrier liability is separate from our prep and fulfillment service.

Do you ship internationally for FBM orders?

We primarily ship within the US. For international orders, contact us — we can ship via USPS First Class International, DHL, or other carriers with international capabilities.

Can you fulfill orders from my own website (DTC), not just marketplaces??

Yes. Any order you send us — from any source — we'll fulfill. Many of our clients use us as their full DTC fulfillment partner alongside their Amazon operations.

FAQ: Storage

How does storage work at 365PrepCenter?

Your inventory lives in our warehouse between inbound shipments and outbound fulfillment. We store by cubic footage, billed monthly. You pay only for the space you actually use.

Is there a minimum storage period?

No. Store for one week or one year — no penalties either way.

How much does storage cost?

$1.00 per cubic foot per month or $0.035 per cubic foor per day. No minimum, no long-term surcharges. Billed on actual space used.

Do you charge long-term storage fees like Amazon does?

No. Unlike Amazon FBA, we don't apply surcharges for slow-moving inventory. Your rate stays at $1.00/cu ft/month regardless of how long it's been there.

How is cubic footage calculated?

We measure the actual dimensions of your stored cartons or pallets (length × width × height in feet) and bill on that volume monthly. We'll share the calculation with your invoice so there are no surprises.

Can I store inventory that I'm NOT sending to Amazon — just for FBM or DTC orders?

Yes. Many clients store their full inventory with us and we fulfill orders across multiple platforms from that same stock.

How do I know how much storage space my inventory is using?

We track your inventory in our WMS. Your monthly invoice will include a storage report with cubic footage used and the calculation.

Is my inventory insured while stored at your facility?

Yes. Our warehouse carries general liability and goods-in-storage insurance. Contact us for coverage details.

Can I store products that are waiting for the right season or sales period?

Absolutely. Seasonal storage is a common use case. Park your Q4 inventory with us in October and we'll ramp fulfillment when you're ready.

What if I want to store a large quantity — do you have capacity?

Our current facility is 1,200 sq ft dedicated to client inventory. For very large volumes (pallets of 500+ units), contact us in advance to confirm availability.

What happens to my inventory if I stop using your service?

We'll arrange for your inventory to be shipped back to you or transferred to another facility. Standard outbound shipping rates apply. There's no penalty for leaving.

Do you offer pallet storage or only shelf storage?

We handle both shelf and floor pallet storage depending on product type and quantity. Bulky items are typically floor-stored on pallets.

Can I store fragile or high-value items?

Yes. Let us know in advance so we can store them appropriately (shelved, separated, extra care). High-value inventory is noted in your account.

Do you have climate-controlled storage?

We do not offer refrigerated or freezer storage. Our facility is climate-stabilized (temperature-regulated indoors), suitable for most standard consumer goods, supplements, cosmetics, and food items that don't require refrigeration.

How do I request that stored inventory be shipped out?

Send us a message on WhatsApp, Telegram, or email with the SKU, quantity, and destination. For Amazon FBA: provide the shipment plan. For FBM/DTC: provide the order or ship-to address. We process within 24–48 hours.

FAQ: Kitting & Bundling

What is kitting and why would I need it?

Kitting is the assembly of multiple individual products into a single sellable unit. For example: a "starter kit" with 3 different SKUs in one branded box. It increases average order value and creates unique listings that are harder to compete against on price.

Do I need to provide the packaging for kits?

You can provide branded boxes, bags, or inserts — or we can use standard poly bags, boxes, or shrink wrap available at our facility. We'll advise on the best option for your product.

What types of kitting do you handle?

Multi-unit multipacks (same SKU, e.g., 3-pack), mixed-SKU bundles (different products in one set), gift sets with tissue paper and branded packaging, subscription box assembly, and promotional sets.

Can you apply "Sold as Set — Do Not Separate" stickers?

Yes. This is standard for Amazon bundles. We apply the required sticker and use the bundle FNSKU label, not individual SKU labels.

How is kitting priced?

Kitting is priced at $0.50 per component (per item assembled into the kit). So a 3-item bundle = $1.50 in kitting labor, plus applicable labeling and packaging fees.

Can you assemble subscription boxes on a recurring schedule?

Yes. Set up a recurring kitting schedule — weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly — and we'll assemble and fulfill your subscription boxes on that cadence.

Do you shrink-wrap kits or bundles?

Yes. Shrink wrapping is available for bundles that benefit from it (e.g., multipack sets, product + accessory kits). Ask about pricing.

How much lead time do you need for a kitting project?

For standard kitting (under 200 units), 24–48 hours after inventory is received. For large-scale or complex assembly (500+ units or multi-step), contact us in advance to plan.

Can I include inserts, cards, or promotional materials in my kits?

Yes. Send us your materials and we'll include them in every kit. No additional charge for including items you provide.

What if one component of my kit is out of stock?

We'll notify you before halting assembly. We won't ship incomplete kits without your explicit approval.

Do you handle gift wrapping or tissue paper for gift sets?

Yes. For holiday gift sets or premium packaging, we can include tissue paper, ribbon, or other elements you provide.

Can kits be prepped for both FBA and FBM from the same inventory?

Yes. We can assemble kits and split them — some going to Amazon FCs as FBA inventory, others stored for FBM/DTC order fulfillment.

FAQ: Returns Processing

Do you accept and process Amazon customer returns?

Yes. Amazon removal orders and customer returns can be sent directly to our warehouse. We inspect, photograph if damaged, and process per your instructions.

Do you photograph returned items?

Yes — we photograph returned items that show damage or are in questionable condition, so you can decide whether to restock, claim, or dispose.

What do you do with returned items?

We follow your instructions: (a) restock if sellable, (b) relabel and restock if the label is damaged but the product is fine, (c) dispose if unsellable, or (d) set aside for your review.

Can you grade returned inventory by condition?

Yes. We sort returns into: Like New / Good / Damaged / Unsellable, based on your grading criteria. This helps you decide what to do with each unit.

How much does returns processing cost?

Inspection + restocking: $1.50/order

Can you relist returned items for resale?

We can relabel and restock them. Whether you relist on Amazon, eBay, or another channel is your decision — we just prepare the units.

How long does returns processing take?

Returns are processed within 24–48 hours of receipt.

What if I get a large removal order from Amazon (hundreds of units)?

Contact us in advance so we can plan receiving capacity. Large removal orders are handled systematically — we'll provide a full condition report.

Can you consolidate multiple removal orders before I decide what to do with them?

Yes. We can hold your returned inventory in a designated area while you review the condition report and make decisions.

What happens to items I want disposed of?

We dispose of them responsibly (general waste or recycling as appropriate). No hazardous disposal without prior approval.

Can you send returned items back to my supplier?

Yes — for a standard outbound shipping fee plus handling. Provide the supplier address and we'll ship it back.

Do you handle FBM returns (customer returns from direct shipping)?

Yes. Provide customers with our return address and we'll receive and process returns from your FBM, Shopify, or DTC orders.

Can you re-sell returned items on my behalf?

No — we are a prep and fulfillment center, not a liquidation service. We prepare your returns for your next steps; the selling decision is yours.

FAQ: Food & Expiry Date Products

Do you handle food products and consumables?

Yes. We handle food, supplements, vitamins, protein powders, snacks, and other consumables. We do not handle products requiring refrigeration or freezing.

What is FIFO and do you use it?

FIFO = First In, First Out. Yes, we use FIFO rotation for food and expiry-sensitive products — older stock ships before newer stock to minimize the risk of expiry issues.

Do you check expiry dates on incoming food inventory?

Yes. Expiry date verification is part of our food prep service. We flag any units that are expired or close to expiry before they go into storage or shipment.

Do you track lot numbers for food products?

Yes. Lot number tracking is part of our food prep service, important for recalls and traceability.

What is Amazon's expiry date labeling requirement?

Amazon requires that expiry dates be printed or labeled in MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY format and visible on the outside of the unit. If your product's date format doesn't meet this standard, we apply a compliant sticker.

What happens if some units are expired on arrival?

We flag them immediately and notify you. We do not mix expired units into your active inventory. You decide: dispose or return to supplier.

What is the minimum expiry window Amazon requires?

Amazon requires a minimum of 90 days remaining shelf life at the time of arrival at an FC for most food/consumable categories (some categories require more). We check against this threshold and flag short-dated units.

Do you apply expiry date stickers if the original label is non-compliant?

Yes. We apply stickers in the correct Amazon format if the manufacturer's date format doesn't meet requirements.

Can you handle supplements or products with specific storage instructions?

Yes, for products stored at room temperature. We follow any storage notes you provide (e.g., "keep away from direct sunlight").

Do you handle products with batch codes that need to be tracked?

Yes. We can log and track batch/lot codes per your requirements.

Can you handle products regulated by the FDA?

We follow standard food handling practices. If your product requires specific FDA compliance documentation (e.g., facility registration), please verify requirements with your regulatory counsel — we do not hold FDA facility certifications.

Do you work with alcohol, CBD, or tobacco products?

Not currently. These categories have specific licensing requirements that we're not set up for at this time.

FAQ: Pricing & Payments

Where can I see your full pricing?

On our Pricing page. All fees are listed transparently — no hidden costs, no surprise line items on your invoice.

Is there a cancellation fee if I stop using your service?

No cancellation fees, no contracts. Stop anytime. We'll process your remaining inventory, issue a final invoice, and close your account cleanly.

Are there any hidden fees?

No. You pay for the services listed on our pricing page. The only extras are consumable supplies (poly bags, bubble wrap, boxes) charged at cost, and carrier fees for outbound shipping.

Is there a minimum monthly spend or minimum number of units?

No minimum. You pay for what you use.

Do you charge a monthly subscription or account fee?

No. No subscription fees, no setup fees, no account maintenance fees.

How are storage fees calculated?

$1.00 per cubic foot per month, based on actual space used. Your invoice will show the cubic footage and calculation.

How does billing work — weekly or monthly?

We invoice weekly or monthly depending on your volume and preference. Low-volume clients are typically billed monthly; higher-volume clients can opt for weekly invoicing for easier reconciliation.

What payment methods do you accept?

ACH bank transfer (US accounts), Zelle, PayPal, Wise. International clients can pay via PayPal, Wise or wire transfer.

Do I pay upfront or after services are completed?

We invoice after services are rendered. For new clients, we may require a small prepayment deposit on the first order — which is credited toward your first invoice.

Can I get a quote before committing?

Yes. Fill out our Get Started form or message us directly and we'll send a custom quote based on your product type, volume, and services needed. No obligation.

Do you offer volume discounts?

Yes. Sellers consistently shipping 500+ units/month can discuss custom pricing. Reach out and we'll put together a rate that works for your volume.

What does "per unit" mean — is that per item or per order?

Per unit = per individual item processed. If you send 100 units for FNSKU labeling, you pay the label fee × 100.

How are kitting and bundling fees calculated?

Kitting is charged depending on quantity per bundle. A 3-item bundle = $0.8 in assembly labor, a 6 or 12 units bundle will be 1.5$ per bundle. With all supplies included.

Are shipping costs included in your fees?

No. Outbound shipping is charged at actual carrier cost — USPS, UPS, FedEx, or DHL. We pass carrier rates through without markup, or you can use your own carrier account.

Do you charge for receiving inventory?

Standard carton deliveries: free. Pallet/LTL freight: $25 per pallet. No per-unit receiving fee for regular box shipments. $0.10 pe unit receiving for 2-Step Dropshipping.

What if I need rush or expedited prep?

Rush prep (same-day, outside normal workflow) may incur an additional fee depending on volume and complexity. Contact us in advance to arrange and confirm cost.

Do you charge for onboarding or account setup?

No. Onboarding is completely free. We walk you through the process at no charge.

What if I dispute a charge on my invoice?

Contact us directly and we'll review the job log together. We resolve billing questions fast — usually the same day. Every charge on your invoice is traceable to a specific job.

Can I see a price breakdown before you start a job?

Yes. For any non-standard job (complex kitting, large returns batch, special packaging), we'll confirm the estimated cost before we begin — no surprises.

Do prices change based on product size or weight?

Some services are flat per unit regardless of size. Others — like packaging materials, oversize boxing, or heavy-item handling — may carry an additional materials cost. We'll always disclose this upfront.

FAQ: Communication & Account Management

How do I communicate with your team day-to-day?

Via WhatsApp and Telegram for quick questions and shipment updates, or email for detailed requests. You'll always reach a real person — not a ticket system.

What languages do you support?

English, Russian (Русский), and Romanian (Română). You can communicate in whichever language you're most comfortable with.

How fast do you typically respond?

Same business day — usually within a few hours. For urgent matters, WhatsApp is the fastest channel.

Do I get a dedicated point of contact?

Yes. You'll have one consistent contact who knows your account, your SKUs, and your prep instructions. You'll never have to re-explain your setup from scratch.

Do you send proactive updates, or do I have to ask?

We reach out proactively when something affects your inventory — a discrepancy on arrival, a prep question, a shipment going out later than expected. You won't have to chase us for status.

What if I have an urgent issue outside business hours?

Message us on WhatsApp. We monitor messages outside standard hours for genuine emergencies.

Can I see my inventory levels without messaging you?

Yes. Our WMS gives you real-time inventory visibility — stock on hand, units in prep, units shipped — anytime

What if I need to change prep instructions for an existing SKU?

Send us the updated instructions before your next shipment arrives. We'll update your account profile and apply them going forward. No charge for instruction changes

Do you provide a prep report after each batch?

Yes. After every job you receive a report: units received, units prepped, units shipped, and any exceptions or notes.

Can I give feedback or request changes to how you handle my account?

Always. We're building long-term partnerships, not one-off jobs. Feedback is acted on, not ignored.

What if your team makes an error on my order?

We own our mistakes. If we mislabeled, missed units, or made a packaging error, we fix it at no cost to you. We'll also tell you what happened and how we're preventing it from recurring.

Can multiple people from my team communicate with you?

Yes. Let us know who your authorized contacts are and we'll add them to the channel. Common for brands with a sourcing person, an ops person, and an owner all involved.

Do you use any project management tools or portals for clients?

Our primary communication is via WhatsApp/Telegram and WMS access. We don't require you to learn a complex portal. Simple, direct communication is our default.

What if I need documentation for my accountant or business records?

We can provide itemized invoices, job reports, and storage summaries. Just let us know what format you need and we'll put it together.

FAQ: Location & Ohio Logistics

Where exactly are you located?

Lebanon, Ohio — Warren County, approximately 30 miles north of Cincinnati and 45 miles southwest of Dayton. Direct access to I-71 and I-75 corridors.

Why does your Ohio location matter for my business?

Ohio sits at the geographic center of the eastern US. Ground shipping from Lebanon, OH reaches approximately 60% of the US population within 2 days. Lower transit times = happier customers and lower shipping costs for FBM and DTC orders.

Are you close to Amazon fulfillment centers?

Yes. The Cincinnati/Dayton area has multiple Amazon FCs. Shipping prepped inventory to those FCs from our warehouse is fast and inexpensive — reducing your inbound freight cost.

Is Ohio a sales-tax-free state?

No. Ohio has sales tax. However, inventory held at a 3PL warehouse is generally not a taxable event — consult your accountant for your specific situation. We are not a tax advisor.

Can I have my supplier ship directly from overseas to your warehouse?

Yes. Many clients ship ocean freight containers or air freight to our Lebanon, OH address. Coordinate customs clearance with your freight forwarder — we receive once the shipment clears US customs.

How does Ohio compare to New Jersey or California as a prep location?

New Jersey has high operating costs. California adds state income tax complexity for some sellers. Ohio offers central positioning, lower warehouse costs (reflected in our competitive pricing), and excellent ground coverage across the entire US.

Do you accept walk-in drop-offs from local sellers?

By appointment only. If you're in the Greater Cincinnati/Dayton/Columbus area and want to drop off inventory directly, message us and we'll arrange a time.

Do you have a loading dock for freight deliveries?

Contact us in advance for large pallet or freight deliveries. We accommodate standard LTL shipments with advance notice.

Can international sellers use your Ohio address as their Amazon ship-from address?

Yes. This is standard practice. Your inventory ships from our Lebanon, OH address to Amazon FCs. Amazon sees a US origin address. We work with sellers from Ukraine, Romania, Canada, the EU, and beyond.

How far are you from major cities and ports?

• Cincinnati: ~30 miles

• Dayton: ~45 miles

• Columbus: ~85 miles

• Cleveland: ~200 miles

• Chicago: ~300 miles

• Port of Baltimore: ~500 miles (common for container deliveries)

What carriers operate out of your area?

USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL all have strong service networks in the Lebanon/Cincinnati area. We have daily pickups from multiple carriers.

Does being in Ohio affect my Amazon IPI score or storage limits?

No. Your Amazon IPI score and storage limits are tied to your Seller Central account, not to your prep center's location. Where we're located doesn't affect your Amazon metrics.

FAQ: Trust, Compliance & Security

How do I know my inventory is safe at your warehouse?

Your inventory is tracked in our WMS from the moment it arrives. Our facility has controlled access. We carry general liability and goods-in-storage insurance covering client inventory.

What happens if inventory is lost or damaged while in your care?

If loss or damage occurs due to something within our control, we document it fully and resolve it with you — replacement cost, credit, or insurance claim depending on the situation.

Do you mix my inventory with other clients'?

Never. Each client's inventory is stored and tracked separately under their own account in our WMS. Your SKUs are never commingled with another client's products.

Are you compliant with Amazon's current FBA prep requirements?

Yes. We follow Amazon's official prep guidelines and update our processes when Amazon changes its requirements. We prep to the standard — not close to it.

Have you ever caused an Amazon account suspension?

No. We follow prep guidelines carefully to protect your account. That said, Amazon's policies are complex and category-specific. We recommend sellers always share any special category requirements with us before we begin prep.

What product categories do you have experience with?

Books, toys, home goods, supplements, vitamins, beauty and skincare, food and snacks, electronics accessories, clothing and textiles, pet products, and more. Tell us your category and we'll confirm.

Can I get a video tour of your facility before committing?

Yes. Request a video walkthrough via WhatsApp or Telegram. We'll show you the space, the shelving, the prep area, and the workflow — no need to fly to Ohio.

Do you carry business insurance?

Yes. General liability insurance and goods-in-storage coverage are in place. Contact us if you need documentation of coverage for your records.

How do you protect my business data and product information?

Your account data, SKU list, pricing, and inventory levels are kept strictly confidential. We do not share client information with any third party.

What if I'm not satisfied with the quality of prep on a batch?

Tell us immediately. We inspect the batch, identify what went wrong, and either re-prep at no charge or issue a credit. Quality disputes are resolved within 1 business day.

Do you work with Amazon Brand Registry sellers?

Yes. For brand-registered products with specific packaging, insert, or label requirements, just share your guidelines and we'll follow them to the letter.

Can you sign an NDA?

Yes. If your business requires a non-disclosure agreement before sharing product information or prep instructions, we can accommodate that.

What if Amazon releases new packaging requirements — how quickly do you adapt?

We monitor Amazon policy updates actively. When requirements change, we update our internal prep guides and notify affected clients before their next shipment

Do you have a track record I can verify — reviews, references?

We're happy to connect you with existing clients who can speak to their experience with us. We also maintain reviews on relevant platforms. Ask us directly.

FAQ: Scaling & Long-Term Partnership

Can you handle growth from 100 to 1,000+ units per month?

Yes. Our processes are built to scale with you. As your volume grows we adjust our workflow and capacity. Give us 2–3 weeks advance notice for significant volume increases so we can prepare.

Do you offer custom pricing for high-volume sellers?

Yes. If you're consistently shipping 500+ units/month, contact us and we'll build a custom rate structure based on your volume and service mix.

What if my business is highly seasonal — big Q4, slow Q1–Q2?

No problem. Many clients have strong Q4 spikes and quiet off-seasons. Let us know your forecast in advance so we can plan capacity. No penalties for volume swings.

Can you grow with me as I add new SKUs, new marketplaces, or new sales channels?

Yes. We onboard new SKUs anytime and support fulfillment across Amazon (FBA/FBM), Shopify, eBay, Walmart, Etsy, and DTC. Adding a new channel is as simple as giving us the order format.

What if I eventually outgrow your warehouse?

We'll be honest with you if we approach capacity limits. We'd rather give you advance notice and help you plan a transition than overpromise. That said, our facility serves most growing sellers comfortably well into the mid-to-high volume range.

Do you have expansion plans?

Yes. As our client base grows, we plan to expand our Lebanon, OH footprint. We're building a long-term operation — not a temporary side project.

Should I use only one 3PL or have a backup?

At early-to-mid scale, one reliable 3PL is all you need. As you scale into very high volumes or want geographic redundancy, a secondary partner can make sense — and we'll support that conversation honestly rather than pretend we're the answer for every situation.

Can you advise me on prep strategy, supply chain, or Amazon best practices?

We don't charge for advice. We're happy to share what we've seen work at various seller stages — prep types, inbound strategies, how to reduce per-unit costs. Our team has hands-on Amazon selling and logistics experience.

What makes 365PrepCenter a long-term partner rather than just a vendor?

We care about your sell-through, not just processing your boxes. We flag problems before they become expensive. We speak your language — literally. And we're reachable, accountable, and focused on making your operation run smoother every month.

What's the best way to get started and build toward a long-term relationship?

Start with a small test shipment. See the turnaround time, the communication, and the quality firsthand. Most clients who test us once stay with us — because consistent, reliable prep is rare, and when you find it, you don't switch.

Still Have a Question?

We're happy to talk through your specific situation — no pressure, no sales pitch.
Reach us in English, Russian, or Romanian.