Top Software Picks and Tools to Efficiently Scale Your FBA Prep Center Operations

So, you're running an FBA business, and things are… busy. We get it. When starting out, most prep centers manage their day-to-day with spreadsheets, endless email chains, and frantic messaging. While this "traditional" approach can work in the very beginning, as your business grows, these manual processes become incredibly time-consuming, prone to errors, and frankly, a bit of a headache. 

So, strap in as we explore how a dedicated FBA prep center software can transform your operations and streamline everything from receiving inventory to shipping out your products.

Making the Case for Dedicated FBA Prep Center Software

How does a typical day at your FBA prep center look? 

You receive inventory from your supplier and log the details into a spreadsheet. Then, you email your prep center or team with instructions on labeling, packaging, and shipping. Throughout the process, you’re constantly exchanging messages to confirm quantities, check for damages, and ensure everything is in compliance with Amazon’s guidelines. And when all is said and done, you manually update your records and wait for confirmation that the shipment is on its way to Amazon’s fulfillment centers. 

Sounds familiar? It’s a system that works — until it doesn’t.

Risks of Sticking to Tradition

Let's talk about risk. We all know it's there, lurking in the background, especially in an ecosystem where the bar has been set Prime-arily by Amazon. When you rely heavily on manual processes like spreadsheets and email for your prep center operations, you're perpetually stuck in a continuous loop of balancing efficiency with accuracy; but how long before these paper-based processes become a liability?

Over-reliance on traditional processes for effective FBA prep can expose you to a number of risks in the long term, primarily:

• Human Errors That Can Snowball: Relying on manual data entry in spreadsheets or handwritten notes is a walking, talking, liability waiting to happen. Inaccurate inventory counts due to manual data entry can lead to stockouts or overstocking, impacting your IPI score and potentially incurring storage fees. 
• Operational Bottlenecks: Traditional workflows often rely on back-and-forth communication through emails and messages. If you miss deadlines because of communication breakdowns, it can unnecessarily delay shipments to Amazon, leading to penalties and unhappy customers.
• Scalability Challenges: As your business grows, managing multiple sellers and their unique requirements becomes exponentially harder. Spreadsheets weren’t built to handle the complexity of multi-customer operations, and as data volume increases, so does the likelihood of errors and delays.
• Risk of Non-compliance: A simple labeling error or packaging mistake can trigger a warning from Amazon, or even worse, a suspension. Non-compliant products may be sent back at your expense, and if that’s not all, Amazon imposes noncompliance fees for additional handling or repackaging tasks. This not only affects your prep center's reputation but also puts your clients' businesses at risk.

If you haven’t run into any of these risks yet, you have been lucky so far; but luck isn't a strategy. In this industry, with its razor-thin margins and ever-increasing customer demand, you need a system that minimizes risk, maximizes efficiency, and gives you peace of mind. 

Benefits of FBA Prep Center Software

Okay, let's shift gears and talk about the upside. Think about what truly drives success in this business: efficiency, scalability, and happy clients. FBA prep center software directly addresses all three.

Case in Point: Efficiency

With the right software, you can more or less automate daily tasks like creating inbound consignments, generating shipping plans, and automating label printing. This will help you free up resources and rid you of the headache of double checking and triple checking for manual errors. These dedicated systems can optimize your inventory flow, ensuring quicker overall turnaround times for receiving, prepping, and shipping products for multi-client management. And with smart storage management tools, you not only process your clients’ products faster, but also set your business up to take on more clients without expanding your physical footprint.

Case in Point: Scalability

In this business, scaling, put simply, means you are taking on more clients and stocking larger quantities year over year. Having a dedicated software makes it considerably easier to onboard new clients without having to rework your processes from scratch and compromising service quality. Consider the impact on stock reconciliation — instead of spending hours manually comparing spreadsheets and physically counting inventory, you can get an accurate snapshot of your stock levels in mere seconds. This improves efficiency, true; but it also empowers you to position your FBA prep center for future growth.

Case in Point: Client Satisfaction

If you consistently meet your fulfillment goals according to your service agreements, your clients are going to be satisfied. However, satisfied clients are not the same as happy clients; happy clients mean long-term partnerships and glowing referrals. 

A dedicated FBA prep center software provides you with the means to bridge that gap. Faster processing times, fewer errors, and reliable compliance translate into happier clients who can trust you with their business growth. By automating tedious tasks, you free up time to focus on what truly matters — building relationships with clients, exploring new revenue streams, or optimizing other areas of your business.

Five Features to Look for in an FBA Prep Center Software

So, getting to the crux of the matter — how do you find the right FBA prep center?

In line with our experience, we have identified five key features that can collectively address the primary pain points of running an FBA prep center. If you are in the market for an FBA prep software, be sure to look out for these functionalities:

1. Automatic Label Creation

You can automatically pull label information directly from your system to generate FNSKU, shipping, and box labels based on orders or inbound shipments. This one feature alone can save you countless hours of manual work otherwise spent on printing and applying labels. 

Automated label creation happens in strict compliance with Amazon’s labeling requirements. Think about the time your team spends printing and sticking labels — now imagine that time being spent on more valuable tasks, like quality control or client communication.

2. Guided Packaging Workflows

You may have standardized your packaging process for compliance and quality control; however, people make mistakes. Guided packaging workflows provide step-by-step instructions for your team, ensuring that every item is packaged correctly and consistently. It’s like having a virtual supervisor guiding each step of the process, ensuring consistency and minimizing costly mistakes. This is especially useful when onboarding new staff, as it significantly reduces the training time and ramp-up period.

3. Real-time Inventory Tracking

Have you ever had an inventory mismatch, leading to a full-scale “item-hunt” across your warehouse? If you have, then you know exactly how frantic it can be. Real-time inventory tracking provides an up-to-the-minute view of your warehouse stock — what’s coming in, what’s going out, and what’s sitting on your shelves at any given moment. In the long run, having a clear picture of current stock and historical stock movement throughout your warehouse(s) will also allow you to scale confidently.

4. Automated and Customizable Workflows

This is where the real magic happens; you can create customizable workflows so that the FBA prep center software is aligned to your business needs. 

Need support for multi-client management? 

You can set up automated workflows for tasks such as receiving inventory, processing orders, and generating reports with preconfigured rules tailored to the needs of individual clients. 

Need support for inventory management?

You can set up automated notifications to alert for low stock levels or automatically create shipping labels once an order is processed. 

Primarily, you want an FBA prep center software that will give you the breathing room to customize workflows as per your present and future needs. 

5. Seamless Integration with Other Tools

Your FBA prep center software doesn’t operate in isolation, and neither should your software of choice. Seamless integrations with your current batch of tools, such as any accounting software, carrier platforms, or ecommerce marketplaces, form the baseline for a unified ecosystem that streamlines data flow to establish a single source of truth. For instance, syncing with Amazon Seller Central can pull product-specific prep instructions directly into your workflows or update inventory levels automatically after shipments are processed. You can read our ebook if you want more information on how to choose the right software for your prep center.

Our Top Six Picks for FBA Prep Center Software

We took a close look at the market to identify the six best FBA prep center software that meet our criteria of efficiency, scalability, and customer satisfaction. Based on comprehensive feature coverage and overall user sentiment, these are our picks below:

1. Hopstack Ignite – Best for Multi-client Fulfillment

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Overview

Hopstack Ignite is a scalable, feature-rich platform that, frankly speaking, takes much of the chaos out of the fulfillment process. It’s built with efficiency, scalability, and client satisfaction in mind, designed to cater to the unique needs of FBA prep centers managing multiple clients or handling complex workflows.

Key Features

• Simplified Inbound Operations: Track inbound orders, manage stock receipts, and generate goods receipt notes (GRNs). Keep a granular account of any and every item that enters your warehouse and directly export inbound plan details for efficient reporting.
• Fulfillment on Autopilot: Get end-to-end support across the fulfillment pipeline — from managing Amazon FBA shipments to downloading FNSKUs and optimizing shipping costs with rate shopping. Effectively handle multi-box shipments and integrate marketplace orders to save time and cut down OpEx.
• Smart Inventory Management: Track, adjust, and optimize inventory across multiple channels as needed. Straightaway identify what’s ready to ship and what needs attention with statuses like Fulfillable and Unfulfillable. Directly sync multiple marketplace listings, with additional support for bulk adjustments and product bundling.
• Multi-client Management Made Easy: Activate, filter, view, and manage multiple client profiles, along with existing or new marketplace integrations. Empower clients with their own dashboards for real-time access to fulfillment metrics.

You Should Consider If

• You’re managing multiple clients or sellers and need a centralized platform to streamline operations.
• You want to reduce manual errors in labeling, inventory tracking, or order fulfillment.
• You’re looking for a scalable solution that grows with your business without adding complexity.
• You value transparency and want to provide clients with real-time access to their data.
• You need seamless integration with platforms like Amazon Seller Central or Shopify.

Pricing 

Hopstack Ignite offers flexible pricing plans based on monthly unit volumes:

• Up to 50K Units/Month: $199/month
• 50K - 100K Units/Month: $249/month
• 100K - 200K Units/Month: $299/month
• 200K+ Units/Month: Custom pricing available upon request

PSA: If you want to take the Hopstack Ignite platform for a test run before committing for an extended period, you’ll be happy to know that all plans come with a free 30-day trial period.

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2. PrepBusiness – Best for Workflow Automation

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Overview

PrepBusiness is a dedicated platform that simplifies the complexities of running an FBA prep center with a unique focus on automation, transparency, and client satisfaction. It aims to reduce communication overhead and automate critical workflows, giving you back precious time and building trust with your clients.

Key Features

• Self-serve Client Portal: Provide clients with a self-serve portal where they can log in to make requests, send items, track shipments, and check their account status.
• Automation for Efficiency: Catalyse a move away from spreadsheets or manual data entry and automates everyday tasks like billing, shipment tracking, and inventory reconciliation.
• Transparent Insights for Clients: Empower clients with access to detailed insights into every step of the fulfillment process, from receiving shipments to resolving issues like damaged or missing items.
• Faster Turnaround Times: Automatically create shipments on Amazon Seller Central and pre-plan case quantities to avoid inefficiencies like small shipments or reworking items.
• Automatic Billing and Inventory Reconciliation: Bill every chargeable activity, whether it’s prepping an item or fulfilling a special request, automatically to the client’s account. The easy-to-use reconciliation tool ensures that your inventory records always match what’s in your warehouse.

You Should Consider If

• You’re overwhelmed by constant client emails and phone calls and want a solution that reduces communication overhead.
• You need a transparent system that builds trust with clients by providing them with real-time updates on their inventory and shipments.
• You’re looking for automation to handle repetitive tasks like billing, shipment creation, and inventory reconciliation.
• You want to improve turnaround times while maintaining accuracy in your operations.
• You manage multiple clients who expect clear insights into their accounts without manual intervention.

Pricing 

PrepBusiness offers tiered pricing based on the number of units shipped to Amazon from your facility each month.

• Up to 5,000 Units: $175 USD per month
• Up to 15,000 Units: $275 USD per month
• Up to 25,000 Units: $375 USD per month
• 25,000+ Units: Contact them for custom pricing.

PSA: A unit refers to an individual item, not a carton or pallet. For example, if you ship 10 cartons with 24 items each, that will count as 240 units.

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3. 2D Workflow – Best for Order Processing

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Overview

2D Workflow is special, in the sense that it leverages 2D barcode technology to simplify the entire fulfillment process — from creating shipments to tracking production. Whether you’re managing a small operation or scaling up to handle high volumes, 2D Workflow has what it takes to help you prep faster, ship smarter, and grow your business.

Key Features

• 2D Barcode Integration: Generate and utilize 2D barcodes, which store detailed box content information. This eliminates the need to manually enter data on Amazon Seller Central.
• Streamlined Shipment Creation: Skip Amazon’s “Send to Amazon” workflow entirely; create, edit, plan, and duplicate shipments directly with 2D Workflow. Support for multi-SKU box shipments and customizable labels makes it easier to handle complex orders.
• Team Management and Error Reduction: Delegate tasks to team members and track their progress and individual productivity in real time. Built-in guidance ensures that each item is prepped and labeled correctly.
• Faster Check-in Times: Automate box content generation and optimize workflows to expedite delivery to Amazon fulfillment centers.
• Customizable Labels: Add expiration dates, SKUs, ASINs, UPCs, or any other details directly onto product or box labels in compliance with Amazon’s requirements.
• Multi-account Management: Manage and switch between multiple Amazon accounts from one unified platform.

You Should Consider If

• You want to save time by automating box content generation and shipment creation.
• You’re looking for a way to improve team productivity through task delegation and tracking.
• You value faster check-in times at Amazon fulfillment centers to get inventory selling sooner.
• You want customizable labels that meet both Amazon’s requirements and your clients’ needs.

Pricing 

2D Workflow offers straightforward pricing with no contracts required:

• $97/month: Includes unlimited FBA shipments and units, multiple user profiles, production tracking, customizable labels, multi-SKU box support, and more.
• 14-Day Free Trial: Try all features risk-free before committing. You’ll initially be billed $0 and then $97 per month after the conclusion of your 2-week trial.
• Custom plans are available for prep centers or automation agencies managing multiple seller accounts — contact their team for tailored pricing.

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4. FullsendPCMS – Best for Analytics

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Overview

FullsendPCMS is a one-stop shop that intelligently brings together integrations and a full set of features. The platform’s inherent flexibility enables businesses to manage both FBA shipments and DTC orders, making it a good option for businesses of various sizes.

Key Features

• Automated Inventory Management: Get accurate, real-time visibility into inbound and outbound shipments.
• Advanced Labeling and Tagging: Generate and print all types of labels — FNSKU, 2D barcodes, carton labels, partnered carrier labels, and more.
• Seamless Order Processing and 3PL Billing: Manage FBA and DTC shipments with warehouse-level and client-level shipment queues. 
• Detailed Analytics and Reporting: Run reports to track team productivity and identify bottlenecks to gain insights into your operations.
• Flexible Workflows: Create custom workflows to adapt to pressing business needs and pivot whenever necessary. 
• Integration with Amazon Seller Central: Process FBA shipments directly within FullsendPCMS without needing to switch back to Seller Central. 

You Should Consider If

• You’re managing a busy prep center and need an all-in-one platform to handle inventory, labeling, shipping, and billing.
• You want real-time visibility into inventory levels and shipment statuses for better operational control.
• You’re looking for detailed analytics to monitor team productivity and make data-driven decisions.
• You manage both FBA shipments and direct-to-consumer (DTC) orders and need flexible workflows to accommodate both.
• You want a branded client portal that provides transparency while maintaining your company’s professional image.

Pricing 

FullsendPCMS offers a flat-rate monthly plan for $1200. This plan includes unlimited users, shipments, client portal access, 3PL billing features, and integrations with Amazon Seller Central and Shopify.

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5. ScanPower – Best for Shipment Creation

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Overview

ScanPower is a versatile warehouse management solution designed to simplify FBA prep workflows, reduce errors, and ensure compliance with Amazon’s ever-changing requirements. Its intuitive platform enables prep centers to manage inventory, train employees, and send shipments without relying on Amazon Seller Central.

Key Features

• Send FBA Shipments Without Seller Central: Receive and reconcile inbound shipments, manage FBA shipment splits, and print all necessary labels (item, expiration, box, pallet, and 2D content) directly within the platform. 
• Manage Operations All in One Place: Keep your team aligned with real-time updates across workstations. ScanPower supports managing multiple seller accounts from one hub, all while in compliance with Amazon’s requirements.
• Train Employees Faster: Onboard new employees quickly with customized workflows and intuitive training tools. Prepare Amazon-compliant packing lists and mirror your workflows within the software.
• Flexible Workflows for Scalability: Features like custom labels for "Sold as Set" items and flexible workflows make it easy to scale operations as your business grows.

You Should Consider If

• You want to streamline shipment creation without relying on Amazon Seller Central.
• You manage multiple seller accounts or clients and need a centralized platform for seamless operations.
• You’re looking for tools to train employees quickly while minimizing onboarding time.
• You oversee complex workflows like bundle creation or multipack support.
• You value error reduction in prep processes and faster check-in times at Amazon fulfillment centers.

Pricing 

ScanPower offers three pricing tiers tailored to different business needs:

• Walmart & Amazon Seller Plan: $79/monthsome text
  • Ideal for small to medium sellers, this plan includes basic prep guidance, COGS tracking, simple P&L reporting, one shipping location, and FNSKU/pallet label printing.
• Enterprise Pro Plan: $199/monthsome text
  • Designed for high-volume sellers with multiple locations, this plan adds multi-user support, real-time workstation updates, supplier profitability reporting, flexible workflows, bundle/multipack support, and API integrations.
• 3PL Enterprise Plan: $199/month + $10 per client/month*some text
  • Perfect for 3PLs managing multiple clients, this plan includes all features of Enterprise Pro plus client-specific listing/packing reports, custom labels for bundled items, and multi-account management. (*Pricing applies up to 50 clients; contact ScanPower for customized quotes.)

PSA: All plans include a 14-day free trial so you can explore the platform risk-free.

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6. Ysell.pro – Best for Customizability

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Overview

Ysell.pro is a feature-rich FBA prep center software designed with tools for inventory management, returns processing, and seamless customer interaction. The platform helps prep centers optimize their workflows while maintaining transparency with clients. It supports direct integration with Amazon Seller Central, making it another a strong contender in the prep center business.

Key Features

• Customer Account Integration with Amazon Seller Central: Integrate directly with Amazon Seller Central. Accurately communicate necessary shipment details — such as FNSKU stickers, packaging types, and shipping methods without manual intervention.
• Automated Customer Interaction: Automate shipment creation and service requests. Empower clients to submit shipments or request services directly through the platform.
• Tools for Returns: Automatically download removal orders and tracks items with various identifiers (e.g., tracking number or removal order ID). For unique cases, your clients can even leave special instructions for handling returned goods.
• Status System for Shipment Tracking: Track the status of shipments in real time and ensure accurate billing by factoring in shipment statuses when generating invoices.
• Accounting for Provided Services: Automatically record services provided by the prep center, such as labeling or packaging, and includes them in client invoices.
• Label Generation and Printing: Generate and print labels (e.g., FNSKU, box content) directly from the platform in compliance with Amazon’s requirements.

You Should Consider If

• You want a fully integrated solution that connects seamlessly with Amazon Seller Central.
• You’re looking to reduce redundant communication with clients through automation.
• You manage a significant volume of returns or removals and need specialized tools to manage them efficiently.
• You value real-time shipment tracking to keep both your team and clients informed.
• You need automated billing that accounts for all services provided without manual input.

Pricing 

Ysell.pro offers flexible pricing based on the number of clients connected to the platform:

• 5 Clients: €25/month
• 10 Clients: €50/month
• 15 Clients: €75/month
• 20 Clients: €100/month
• Pricing scales up incrementally by €25 for every 5 additional clients, reaching €500/month for 100 clients.

Additional Costs:

• Connect one company: €5/month.
• Support Packages: Starting at €100/month for 5 hours of support.

Ysell also offers a free one-month trial (including full technical support) so you can explore its features before committing.

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Conclusion

For all FBA prep center businesses, having a dedicated software has now become necessary, both to improve efficiency and to beat potential disruptions. But it’s okay to feel a bit overwhelmed; if you’re confused about which FBA prep center software will be the right fit for your business, feel free to contact us and schedule a demo. Our team of experts will be more than happy to show you how Hopstack Ignite would work with your business model and walk you through how these platforms work in general.

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