Amazon FBA vs 3PL: Which Fulfilment Centre Model Wins?
- Packitle 3PL
- Sep 15
- 3 min read

When it comes to shipping products quickly and efficiently, ecommerce brands are often faced with two major fulfilment options: Amazon FBA (Fulfilment by Amazon) or partnering with a third-party logistics provider (3PL) like Packitle.
Each model offers its own set of strengths — but which one is right for your business in 2025? Let’s compare FBA and 3PL side by side, with a special focus on why brands looking for more control, flexibility, and brand loyalty are increasingly choosing Packitle as their preferred fulfilment partner.
📦 What is Amazon FBA?
Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) allows sellers to store their products in Amazon’s warehouses. Amazon then picks, packs, ships, and even handles customer service and returns.
For sellers who want a fast route to Prime delivery and visibility on Amazon’s marketplace, FBA can be a tempting option.
🚚 What is a 3PL Fulfilment Centre Like Packitle?
A 3PL (third-party logistics provider) like Packitle offers warehousing, pick and pack, dispatch, and return management, much like FBA, but with more flexibility and control over the brand experience.
Unlike Amazon, Packitle allows you to:
Use your own branded packaging
Sell across multiple channels (Shopify, WooCommerce, TikTok, marketplaces)
Scale globally without being locked into Amazon’s ecosystem
⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison: Amazon FBA vs 3PL (Packitle)
Feature | Amazon FBA | Packitle (3PL) |
Marketplace Reach | Amazon only | Multichannel (Shopify, Amazon, etc.) |
Branding Control | Very limited | Full custom branding & packaging |
Returns Handling | Handled by Amazon (limited visibility) | Transparent & brand-sensitive |
Storage Fees | High during peak seasons | Fair, predictable pricing |
Customer Data Ownership | Amazon controls it | You own and retain all data |
Location | Global, but mostly Amazon warehouses | Local Australian fulfilment + international support |
Support | Standard Amazon seller support | Personalised Packitle account team |
Flexibility | Rigid rules and restrictions | Tailored to your brand’s needs |
🧠 Why Choose Packitle Over Amazon FBA?
1. Sell on Your Terms
FBA ties your entire fulfilment strategy to Amazon’s ecosystem. With Packitle, you’re free to build your brand across Shopify, your own website, marketplaces, and more - without compromise.
2. Control the Customer Experience
Your packaging is part of your brand. With Packitle, you can offer branded inserts, custom boxes, and fully control the post-purchase experience. FBA does not allow branded packaging, your customers may not even know they bought from you.
3. Transparent Pricing
Amazon FBA fees can be complex and unpredictable, especially during peak season. Packitle offers clear, upfront pricing, so you know what you're paying for, no surprises.
4. Local Fulfilment in Australia
Packitle gives Australian-based sellers the ability to ship quickly within the country while also supporting international growth. FBA in Australia has limited reach and fewer warehouses compared to the US or UK.
5. Customer Data and Loyalty
When you fulfil through Amazon, they control customer communication and data. With Packitle, you own your customer relationship — allowing you to remarket, upsell, and build loyalty.
💡 When to Use FBA
You sell exclusively on Amazon
You want instant Prime eligibility
You’re not concerned about branding or data ownership
You’re selling high-volume, commoditised products
✅ When to Use Packitle
You sell via Shopify, WooCommerce, or other platforms
You care about customer retention and brand experience
You want control over packaging, returns, and service
You’re based in Australia and need a local fulfilment partner
You plan to grow beyond Amazon and diversify channels
🔚 Final Thoughts
Amazon FBA might be the right choice for high-volume, marketplace-only sellers. But for ecommerce brands looking to build a flexible, scalable, customer-first fulfilment strategy, a 3PL like Packitle is the clear winner.
Whether you're launching your first Shopify store or expanding globally, Packitle gives you the tools, visibility, and support to grow, without giving up control.
📣 Ready to Take Control of Your Fulfilment?
Packitle helps Australian and global ecommerce brands ship faster, smarter, and with more brand impact than ever. Amazon FBA vs 3PL, let's chat today your best solution.