Is There Anything We Can Do To Avoid the Empty Box Syndrome?
Yet again we have another "empty" box this time with 49 items missing from the box over two SKUS. Is there anything we can do to assist Amazon do proper counts? Our items are neatly sectioned off when shipped, even with dividers to assist the receiver person count. But something happens and the counts come back at zero. We can't possibly be alone in this. This particular shipment had 49 items in the box, and they said we were 49 short- an empty box. We know for a fact the box had the proper count with two people counting and verifying the count and signing off on it. This same thing happens about once a month to some shipment or other (at least it showed up at the center).
Is there something we can do to stop this from happening? By the time the inventory is found, it could be months from now. It seems the receiver guy/gal is hitting the wrong button on the handheld device they use or there's some other systemic issue... What can we do to help?
5 replies
Seller_9EpAJp23TMACK
You are not alone.
I’m also frustrated with Amazon’s “empty box” syndrome and want to share my experience and solutions. I ship via FedEx, which conducts pre-flight weight checks and X-rays. My shipment’s weight was consistent across all transit points, but Amazon reported the 10 x 10 x 10 inch, 10 lb box as empty (full with air).
Logically, a box this small weighing 10 lbs cannot be empty unless filled with something denser than air. For air alone to weigh 10 lbs, the box would need to be 200 times larger (125 cubic feet). Despite explaining this, Amazon insists it was empty. I’ve also seen cases where 50% of SKUs are missing, suggesting a systemic issue.
We double-count boxes before shipping, with different team members verifying, yet Amazon’s counts don’t match, and resolving discrepancies is frustrating.
How can Amazon reduce seller stress and build trust?
Photograph Boxes on Arrival: Amazon should take photos when opening boxes at fulfillment centers. Photos would confirm contents, resolve disputes, and support carrier claims, reducing Seller Support burden.
Increase Transparency: Amazon takes 6–8 photos for non-compliant packaging penalties. Extending this to FBA receiving would provide sellers with evidence. And why not record weight at arrival?
