As order volumes tend to climb towards the end of the year, every booking slot and pallet becomes more important. The right preparation can help shippers reduce delays, protect capacity, and keep goods flowing smoothly into Fulfilment Centres. To make planning easier, Amazon Freight has launched its Peak Season Success Guide.
Why peak planning matters
Q4 brings surging demand and less flexibility in the network. Early, accurate planning can make the difference between a smooth delivery and a costly disruption. Shippers who prepare ahead of time secure more reliable capacity and reduce the risk of rejected or delayed loads.
Top tips from the guide
Book early and book accurately
Booking 5 to 7 days ahead during Peak helps ensure carrier assignment, appointment scheduling, and compliance checks. Shippers are also encouraged to keep POs, bills of lading, and ASNs up to date to avoid last-minute issues.
Prepare shipments carefully
From pallet standards to secure wrapping, correct load preparation protects goods in transit and helps Fulfilment Centre teams process deliveries safely. Heavy pallets and oversized goods need special handling: check the guide for full requirements.
Make the most of extended hours
Fulfilment Centres may have more capacity in the evenings and at weekends. Shippers who extend their own operating hours and match shipping schedules to FC availability can improve slot availability.
Follow Sort Centre rules
All Sort Centre POs must be delivered to the designated site only. Routing to the wrong location can result in a rejected load.
Clearing up common misconceptions
The guide also addresses frequent questions, such as Amazon Freight’s role in chargebacks, how routing decisions are made, and why load reschedules can be complex. Understanding these distinctions helps shippers save time and avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Download the full guide
The Peak Season Success Guide is available now for Amazon Freight customers. It provides detailed checklists, shipment prep requirements, and booking practices to help shippers move confidently through peak.