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Amazon FBA vs 3PL: Which Fulfilment Centre Model Wins?

  • Writer: Packitle 3PL
    Packitle 3PL
  • Sep 15
  • 3 min read

3PL Fulfilment Centre Melbourne

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)

  • Access local fulfilment in Australia

  • 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.



 
 
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