FBA vs 3PL cost calculator
Compare the cost per unit of shipping through Amazon FBA with fulfilling the same orders from your own 3PL. Enter the current fees from your Seller Central fee preview.
How the comparison works
For FBA, cost per unit is the fulfilment fee, plus storage (cubic feet × monthly rate × months held), plus inbound placement, prep and the freight to get stock into Amazon. For a 3PL, it is receiving, plus storage (pallet rate ÷ units per pallet × months held), plus pick, pack, packaging and shipping divided across the units in each order.
Referral fees are left out because you pay them on Amazon orders either way.
For the background, read How to select a 3PL in the US and Dimensional weight explained.
What this does not capture
Prime badging and Buy Box share usually favour FBA. Control over packaging, inserts and inventory across channels usually favours a 3PL. If the cost gap is small, those decide it.
Frequently asked questions
Is FBA cheaper than a 3PL?
For small, light, single-unit orders that sell quickly, FBA is often cheaper. For bulky items, slow sellers or multi-unit orders, a 3PL often wins.
Where do I find my FBA fees?
In Seller Central, use the Revenue Calculator or the fee preview report for each ASIN. Amazon updates fees regularly, so check them before each comparison.
Can a 3PL fulfil my Amazon orders?
Yes, through Fulfilled by Merchant. Most 3PLs integrate with Seller Central, though Prime badging then depends on meeting Seller Fulfilled Prime standards.
Is my data stored?
No. The calculation runs in your browser. Nothing is sent anywhere unless you choose to download the spreadsheet, in which case only your email address and the headline result are sent to us.