Direct answer: Amazon FBA storage cost = Cubic feet × Monthly rate. Inventory older than the long-term threshold triggers an extra per-cubic-foot surcharge. Rates vary by quarter and product size, so always confirm from Seller Central.
This guide shows how small sellers can plan FBA storage manually — no expensive tool required — and links to a free estimator.
Who this is for
Small to mid-size Amazon sellers on FBA who want to model storage cost before sending in a new shipment.
How storage fees work in FBA
FBA storage is billed per cubic foot per month. Standard-size items and oversize items have different rates, and Q4 (Oct–Dec) rates are typically much higher than Jan–Sep. Long-term storage surcharges apply to inventory older than the current threshold (commonly 12 months).
Step-by-step planning
- Measure product dimensions in inches and convert to cubic feet: (L × W × H) ÷ 1728.
- Multiply by units on hand to get total cubic feet stored.
- Pull the current standard or oversize rate from Seller Central Fee Schedule.
- Model each month separately if you cross into Q4 or the LT threshold.
- Total the year to compare against gross profit for slow SKUs.
Illustrative storage cost table
| Scenario | Cu-ft | Months | Rate | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard, off-peak | 40 | 4 | $0.87 | $139 |
| Standard, Q4 | 40 | 3 | $2.40 | $288 |
| Long-term surcharge (2 mo over) | 40 | 2 | $6.90 | $552 |
Example calculation (USD)
A seller has 40 cubic feet stored for 4 months at $0.87 per cu-ft = $139. If 2 of those months overlap with the long-term threshold and the LT rate is $6.90 per cu-ft/month, the additional surcharge is 40 × $6.90 × 2 = $552. Total storage cost = $691.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming one flat rate all year — Q4 rates are much higher.
- Ignoring product-size tier changes (a small update can move an item into oversize).
- Letting slow SKUs age past the LT threshold instead of running removal orders.
- Not factoring storage into landed cost when pricing.
Best practices
- Review the FBA Storage Fees report monthly.
- Set removal-order triggers for SKUs above 90 days of inventory on hand.
- Move slow SKUs off-Amazon or bundle them to accelerate sell-through.
Frequently asked questions
Do FBA storage rates change?
Yes, Amazon updates them periodically. Always confirm from Seller Central before making decisions.
Is aged-inventory surcharge the same as long-term storage?
Terminology has evolved. The concept — extra fees on slow-moving inventory — remains.