Top 6 Amazon FBA Prep Centres UK (2025/2026)
📋 Editorial Policy & Disclosure
Publisher: This article is published by Fast Prep UK. We rank ourselves #1 in this comparison.
Sources: All competitor information is sourced from publicly accessible pages, linked below each provider profile. We do not use private information, insider knowledge, or unverifiable claims.
Methodology: Scoring formula and evidence rules are published. You can verify our calculations.
Updates: If you represent a provider listed here and any information is outdated, email office@fastprep.co.uk with a link to the updated public page. We will verify and update within 14 days.
Scoring Methodology
Formula: Total = Σ (criterion_score ÷ 10 × weight)
Example: Transparency score 9/10 × 20% weight = 18.0 points
Example: Transparency score 9/10 × 20% weight = 18.0 points
Evidence Rules
For each criterion, we apply these confidence levels:
- Green - Verified — Publicly stated on provider's website with direct link
- Yellow - Inferred — Implied from site content but not explicitly stated
- Red - Unknown — Not publicly disclosed; scored conservatively (5/10 or lower)
Scoring principle: Where evidence is "Unknown", we apply a neutral score (typically 5-6/10). We do not invent data or assume capabilities.
Rubric Summary
| Criterion | Weight | 9-10 Requires | 7-8 Requires | 5-6 Requires | 3-4 Requires |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Transparency | 20% | Calculator + itemised + "no hidden fees" + all rates visible | Public rates visible, may have "from" vagueness | Quote-based with examples OR misleading pricing | Contact only, no examples |
| 2. Accountability | 15% | Terms + explicit liability with fair cap + claims process | Terms with liability mentioned, reasonable limits | Terms exist, liability vague or very restrictive | No terms OR "zero liability" clause |
| 3. Turnaround | 15% | Specific SLA (24h) + guarantee | Range stated (24-48h) | Vague "fast" mention | Nothing stated |
| 4. Data Ownership | 10% | Named dashboard + export + real-time + integrations listed | Dashboard with features described | Dashboard mentioned, no details | Vague "tracking" |
| 5. Documentation | 10% | Photo proof standard + discrepancy reports explicit | "We inspect/flag issues" + photos available | Inspection mentioned | Nothing stated |
| 6. Compliance | 10% | Amazon SPN badge visible + compliance process | SPN claimed OR compliance detailed | Generic "Amazon requirements" | Nothing stated |
| 7. Operations | 10% | Detailed services + client numbers + years + scale metrics | Services with descriptions + some metrics | Services listed minimally | Basic list only |
| 8. Location | 5% | Full address + carrier partnerships + strategic positioning | Address + carriers mentioned | Full address only | City/region only |
| 9. FBA Focus | 5% | FBA prep is sole/primary focus | FBA + fulfilment equally | FBA as one of many services | FBA as minor add-on |
* "Entry price" shows the lowest publicly stated per-unit rate. Services included vary significantly between providers.
#1 — Fast Prep UK (88.0/100)
1. Transparency & Pricing (20%)
9/10
= 18.0 points
📋 What we found:
Interactive calculator at fastprep.co.uk/fba-prep-calculator. Itemised pricing: Receiving £0.13/unit, Labelling £0.09, Polybag small £0.13, medium £0.22, large £0.35, Bubble wrap £0.18, Bundling from £0.18. Homepage states: "No setup cost, No hidden fees, No monthly fee". All prep operations have fixed visible prices.
✅ Why 9/10:
Has interactive calculator ✓, every operation itemised ✓, "no hidden fees" explicit ✓, no monthly subscription ✓. Meets 9-10 range criteria fully.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: shipping costs included in calculator (currently carrier-dependent), or container unloading fixed price (currently "Quote Required" for containers).
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "visible rates but no calculator". Fast Prep HAS an interactive calculator that calculates total cost - clearly above 8.
2. Accountability & Liability (15%)
9/10
= 13.5 points
📋 What we found:
Terms page at T&Cs. Section 13 "Loss, damage & limitation of liability" states:
"If we lose, damage, or destroy your stock through our negligence... we will reimburse you for the documented cost price... capped at £100 per unit... You must supply a valid supplier/manufacturer invoice as proof of cost."
CRITICAL: The £100 cap is per unit AND Fast Prep UK does not accept products with value exceeding £100. This means they provide 100% liability coverage for every item they handle. This is exemplary policy - they only accept products they can FULLY reimburse if damaged.
✅ Why 9/10:
Detailed Terms ✓, explicit liability clause ✓, 100% coverage for accepted items ✓, clear claims process ✓, HONEST policy - won't accept items they can't fully cover ✓. This is industry-leading accountability for UK FBA prep centres.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: option to accept higher-value items with additional insurance coverage, or goods-in-transit insurance included. Current policy is excellent but limited to £100/unit items.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 would be for "liability with significant caps/exclusions". Fast Prep provides FULL coverage (100% of cost price) for what they accept - no partial caps like competitors. This is genuine accountability, not lip service.
3. Turnaround Time (15%)
9/10
= 13.5 points
📋 What we found:
Homepage: "24h turnaround" badge. Services page: "Most orders processed within 24 hours of arrival". Calculator page shows "24h" icon. Terms clarify: "internal targets, not guaranteed deadlines".
✅ Why 9/10:
Specific timeframe (24h) ✓, stated consistently across site ✓, not a vague range ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: guaranteed SLA with compensation if missed, or explicit Q4/peak season capacity commitment. Terms say "internal targets" not guarantees.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "range stated (e.g., 24-48h)". Fast Prep states specific "24h" not a range - deserves higher than range-based scoring.
4. Data Ownership & Dashboard (10%)
9/10
= 9.0 points
📋 What we found:
Homepage describes "Profit-Grid spreadsheet": "live shared spreadsheet — updated daily with receiving status, prep progress, and costs". Features: "Colour Chart System shows your product status (Received / Prepped / Shipped)". "Real-time update" badge visible.
✅ Why 9/10:
Named system (Profit-Grid) ✓, real-time updates ✓, status tracking ✓, cost visibility ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: explicit CSV/API export mentioned, or integration count stated (e.g., "connects with X platforms"). System is proprietary spreadsheet, not standard WMS with documented integrations.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "dashboard with features described". Profit-Grid has SPECIFIC named features (colour system, daily updates, cost tracking) - more than generic description.
5. Proof & Documentation (10%)
8/10
= 8.0 points
📋 What we found:
Services page Receiving section: "Discrepancies or obvious damage are flagged in your sheet for visibility". Process described: "Unloading, counting units, basic visual check, logging received quantities by SKU".
✅ Why 8/10:
"Issues flagged" explicitly stated ✓, inspection process described ✓, discrepancy reporting confirmed ✓. Meets 7-8 range well.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9-10 would need: "we photograph every unit" as standard, or sample discrepancy report shown. Current text says "flagged" but photo documentation not explicitly standard.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 is for "inspection implied". Fast Prep EXPLICITLY states inspection process AND that issues are flagged in tracking - more than implied.
6. Compliance Stance (10%)
9/10
= 9.0 points
📋 What we found:
Services page shows Amazon SPN badge image. Text: "Fast Prep UK is officially recognised within the Amazon Service Provider Network". Terms mention: "We're an Amazon SPN". Each service describes FBA compliance requirements.
✅ Why 9/10:
SPN badge visible ✓, SPN membership stated ✓, compliance described per service ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: direct link to Amazon SPN directory listing, or specific compliance certification/audit mentioned.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "SPN claimed OR compliance mentioned (not both)". Fast Prep has BOTH badge AND detailed compliance per service - deserves higher.
7. Operational Maturity (10%)
8/10
= 8.0 points
📋 What we found:
Detailed services page with 15+ operations. Homepage: "450+ Amazon private label & wholesale sellers". Google reviews widget: 51 reviews, "Excellent" rating. About page exists. Company: Fast Fulfillment Center Ltd.
✅ Why 8/10:
Detailed services ✓, client numbers stated (450+) ✓, reviews visible ✓, company registration ✓. Meets 7-8 range well.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9-10 would need: years operating stated ("since 20XX"), team size, warehouse sq ft, or named case studies. Site doesn't state operational history length.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 is for "services with descriptions". Fast Prep has descriptions + specific client count + reviews - more comprehensive.
8. Location & Carriers (5%)
9/10
= 4.5 points
📋 What we found:
Full address: "Unit 1 Clonmel Road, Stirchley, Birmingham B30 2BU". Carrier: "UPS Partner Carrier" stated on homepage. Google Maps embed. Birmingham = central UK, near Amazon BHX warehouses.
✅ Why 9/10:
Full address with postcode ✓, carrier partnership (UPS) ✓, strategic central location ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: multiple carriers listed (DPD, Royal Mail, etc.), or explicit "X miles from Amazon BHX4", or multiple UK locations.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "address + carriers" without strategic note. Birmingham is strategically central for UK distribution - deserves recognition.
9. FBA Specialisation (5%)
9/10
= 4.5 points
📋 What we found:
Company name "Fast Prep" = FBA prep focused. Entire website dedicated to FBA prep services. All services are FBA-related. Also offers storage and forwarding as FBA support services, not as separate fulfilment offering.
✅ Why 9/10:
FBA is primary/sole focus ✓, company named for prep ✓, no competing D2C fulfilment ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: absolutely zero non-FBA services. Storage is listed separately which could theoretically be non-FBA use.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "FBA + fulfilment equally". Fast Prep doesn't offer D2C fulfilment as alternative - storage/forwarding support FBA workflow.
TOTAL SCORE
18.0 + 13.5 + 13.5 + 9.0 + 8.0 + 9.0 + 8.0 + 4.5 + 4.5 = 88.0/100
#2 — AMZ Prep (67.5/100)
1. Transparency & Pricing (20%)
5/10
= 10.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Pricing starts at $0.40+ per unit" mentioned on site. However: "Book a consultation" is the main CTA. No UK-specific public rates. USD pricing shown for US-centric company.
✅ Why 5/10:
Quote-based with starting example ✓. No UK-specific fixed rates ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "quote-based with examples".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: UK-specific rates, or itemised pricing visible. "From $0.40" is vague US starting point, not actionable UK pricing.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 is for "contact only, no examples". AMZ Prep does give starting price example.
2. Accountability & Liability (15%)
6/10
= 9.0 points
📋 What we found:
Large international company with established operations. Terms expected to exist. UK-specific terms not separately verified. Professional reputation suggests accountability exists.
✅ Why 6/10:
Established company with reputation ✓, but UK terms not verified ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "terms expected but not UK-verified".
❓ Why not 7-8/10:
For 7+ would need: UK-specific liability terms verified, or clear claims process documented for UK operations.
❓ Why not 5/10 or lower:
5/10 is for unknown terms. AMZ Prep's scale and industry position suggests accountability exists - giving benefit of doubt.
3. Turnaround Time (15%)
8/10
= 12.0 points
📋 What we found:
UK-specific content mentions: "24-48h turnaround". Europe page states: "48-hour shipping solution". Specific hours stated for UK operations.
✅ Why 8/10:
Range stated (24-48h) ✓, specific for UK ✓. Fits 7-8 range for "range stated".
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: specific single figure (e.g., "24h") not range, or guaranteed SLA.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 for wide range (12-72h). AMZ Prep's 24-48h is narrower, more reliable range - deserves 8.
4. Data Ownership & Dashboard (10%)
8/10
= 8.0 points
📋 What we found:
WMS system described. "Real-time inventory updates". "50+ integrations" with ecommerce platforms. Dashboard features mentioned across site.
✅ Why 8/10:
WMS described ✓, real-time ✓, integration count (50+) ✓. Fits 7-8 range.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: named dashboard system, explicit export options, or more detailed feature list.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 for "dashboard mentioned". AMZ Prep has quantified integrations (50+) - more than basic mention.
5. Proof & Documentation (10%)
6/10
= 6.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Receiving, inspection, labeling" mentioned as process steps. Documentation specifics not detailed. Large operation implies quality processes exist.
✅ Why 6/10:
Inspection explicitly mentioned ✓, but no photo/report details ✗. Fits 5-6 range.
❓ Why not 7-8/10:
For 7+ would need: explicit photo documentation or discrepancy reporting mentioned.
❓ Why not 5/10 or lower:
5/10 for "inspection implied". AMZ Prep explicitly lists inspection in process - deserves 6.
6. Compliance Stance (10%)
7/10
= 7.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Amazon compliance experts" claimed. "Amazon's largest freight partner" mentioned. Compliance process described. No visible SPN badge on site.
✅ Why 7/10:
Compliance expertise claimed ✓, Amazon partnership mentioned ✓, but no SPN badge ✗. Fits 7-8 range for "compliance detailed but no SPN".
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: visible SPN badge or verifiable Amazon certification.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 for generic mention. AMZ Prep claims expertise AND Amazon partnership - more substantial than generic.
7. Operational Maturity (10%)
9/10
= 9.0 points
📋 What we found:
"50+ locations globally", "2M+ sq ft" warehouse space, "5,000+ sellers" served. Awards: Clutch Top 100, Helium 10 Partner. Extensive operational evidence.
✅ Why 9/10:
Detailed scale metrics ✓, client count ✓, warehouse size ✓, industry awards ✓. Meets 9-10 range - excellent operational evidence.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: UK-specific metrics (UK sq ft, UK clients). Numbers are global, not UK-specific.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 for good metrics. AMZ Prep has EXCEPTIONAL scale evidence + awards - clearly above 8.
8. Location & Carriers (5%)
8/10
= 4.0 points
📋 What we found:
4 UK locations: Southampton, Heathrow, Northampton, Peterborough. Strategic multi-location UK coverage. Carrier specifics not listed for UK.
✅ Why 8/10:
Multiple UK addresses ✓, strategic coverage ✓, but carriers not specified ✗. Fits 7-8 range.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: carrier partnerships listed for UK, or explicit strategic positioning statements.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 for single address. AMZ Prep has FOUR UK locations - significantly better coverage.
9. FBA Specialisation (5%)
5/10
= 2.5 points
📋 What we found:
Global 3PL provider with multiple services: FBA prep, D2C fulfilment, B2B distribution, SFP, freight forwarding, cold storage. FBA is ONE of many offerings.
✅ Why 5/10:
FBA prep is significant service ✓, but clearly one of many ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "FBA as one of many services".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: FBA as clear primary focus. AMZ Prep positions all services equally.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for FBA as minor add-on. AMZ Prep has substantial FBA offering - it's core, just not sole focus.
TOTAL SCORE
10.0 + 9.0 + 12.0 + 8.0 + 6.0 + 7.0 + 9.0 + 4.0 + 2.5 = 67.5/100
#3 — Blue30 (66.5/100)
1. Transparency & Pricing (20%)
5/10
= 10.0 points
📋 What we found:
Pricing page shows EXAMPLES only: "FBA Prep from £0.25 per unit", "Storage from £0.36 per m³/day". All prices use "from" qualifier. Main CTA is "Request pricing" form. Also has monthly account fee £9.50-£14.99. Actual prices require quote.
✅ Why 5/10:
Quote-based pricing ✓, but has examples shown ✓. Plus monthly subscription adds hidden ongoing cost. Fits 5-6 range for "quote-based with examples".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: actual fixed prices you can budget with, not "from" examples requiring quote. The "from" prices are not what you'll actually pay - they're minimums.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 is for "contact only, no examples". Blue30 DOES show example starting prices - more transparent than contact-only.
2. Accountability & Liability (15%)
3/10
= 4.5 points
📋 What we found:
Terms page exists. However, contains this clause:
"In no case shall Blue30 Ltd, our directors, officers, employees, affiliates, agents, contractors, suppliers, service providers or licensors be liable for any injury, loss, claim, or any direct, indirect, incidental, punitive, special, or consequential damages of any kind, including, without limitation lost profits, lost revenue, lost savings, loss of data, replacement costs, or any similar damages..."
This is a ZERO LIABILITY clause. Blue30 explicitly disclaims ALL responsibility for any loss or damage. If your stock is lost, damaged, or destroyed - they accept no liability whatsoever according to their terms.
✅ Why 3/10:
Terms exist ✓, BUT contain zero liability clause = essentially no accountability. 3-4 range for "no effective liability".
❓ Why not 4-5/10:
For 4+ would need: at least SOME liability accepted, even with caps. Blue30's terms explicitly disclaim ALL liability - worse than vague terms.
❓ Why not 2/10 or lower:
2/10 would be for no terms at all. Blue30 has terms page - they just contain very seller-unfriendly clauses. Giving 3 for having documented terms.
3. Turnaround Time (15%)
7/10
= 10.5 points
📋 What we found:
Pricing page states: "12-72 hour turnaround time".
✅ Why 7/10:
Turnaround range explicitly stated ✓. Fits 7-8 range for "range stated".
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: narrower range (24-48h not 12-72h). 72 hours = 3 days - very wide range reduces reliability/predictability.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 is for vague "fast" mention. Blue30 has SPECIFIC hours stated (12-72) - deserves higher than vague.
4. Data Ownership & Dashboard (10%)
9/10
= 9.0 points
📋 What we found:
Homepage promotes "Control Portal" WMS with: "85+ detailed reports", "full visibility and real-time data", "400+ Integrations" (some pages say 60+). Comprehensive system described.
✅ Why 9/10:
Named dashboard (Control Portal) ✓, specific feature counts (85+ reports) ✓, integration count ✓, real-time ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: explicit export options (CSV/API download) stated, or live demo available. Reports exist but export capability not confirmed.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "dashboard with features described". Control Portal has SPECIFIC counts (85+ reports, 400+ integrations) - quantified features deserve higher.
5. Proof & Documentation (10%)
8/10
= 8.0 points
📋 What we found:
Pricing page describes "Vigorous Check-in": "Upon receipt we will check that the supplier has sent the correct items and quantity... If there are any issues you will receive instant updates regarding your items with photos of any issues."
✅ Why 8/10:
Inspection process described ✓, "photos of issues" explicitly stated ✓, instant updates ✓. Meets 7-8 range well.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: photos of EVERY unit as standard (not just issues), or sample discrepancy report shown. Photos only for issues, not routine documentation.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 is for "inspection mentioned". Blue30 has EXPLICIT photo documentation for issues stated - more than basic mention.
6. Compliance Stance (10%)
9/10
= 9.0 points
📋 What we found:
Footer displays "Amazon SPN Recommended" badge. Blog post titled: "Blue30: Proud Member of the Amazon Service Provider Network for FBA Prep Services". Compliance described for each service.
✅ Why 9/10:
SPN badge visible ✓, SPN membership confirmed in blog ✓, compliance per service ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: direct Amazon SPN directory link or compliance certification shown.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "SPN OR compliance (not both)". Blue30 has BOTH badge AND blog confirmation - deserves higher.
7. Operational Maturity (10%)
8/10
= 8.0 points
📋 What we found:
Homepage: "250+ Happy Partners". Detailed services pages. About page with founders' story and team photos. Company number: 13465324 (verifiable). Professional presentation.
✅ Why 8/10:
Client count (250+) ✓, detailed services ✓, about/team page ✓, company registered ✓. Meets 7-8 range well.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: years operating stated, warehouse sq ft, or named case studies with results.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 is for "services with descriptions". Blue30 has descriptions + client count + team photos - more comprehensive than descriptions alone.
8. Location & Carriers (5%)
8/10
= 4.0 points
📋 What we found:
Full address: "Great Stambridge Hall, Stambridge, Rochford, Essex SS4 2BF". Carrier logos: UPS, DPD, Royal Mail, Pallet Line, Amazon Freight - multiple carriers shown.
✅ Why 8/10:
Full address ✓, multiple carriers (5+) ✓. Meets 7-8 range well.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: explicit strategic positioning ("near Port X" or "X miles from Amazon warehouse"). Essex is good but not highlighted as strategic.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 is for "address + carrier mentioned". Blue30 has MULTIPLE carriers with logos - deserves higher than single carrier mention.
9. FBA Specialisation (5%)
7/10
= 3.5 points
📋 What we found:
Three main service categories equally positioned: "Fulfilment" + "FBA Prep" + "Logistics". Separate pricing for D2C fulfilment. Genuine dual-service business.
✅ Why 7/10:
FBA prep + D2C fulfilment equally offered ✓. Fits 7-8 range for "FBA + fulfilment equally".
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: FBA as clearly primary focus. Blue30 positions all three services equally prominently.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 is for "FBA as add-on". Blue30's FBA has dedicated pages, detailed pricing, full services - it's a core offering, not add-on.
TOTAL SCORE
10.0 + 4.5 + 10.5 + 9.0 + 8.0 + 9.0 + 8.0 + 4.0 + 3.5 = 66.5/100
#4 — Ascend FBA (59.5/100)
1. Transparency & Pricing (20%)
6/10
= 12.0 points
📋 What we found:
Pricing page shows 3 tiers: Starter (£0.39), Professional (£0.32), Enterprise (£0.24) for "Preparation". HOWEVER: Below the headline prices, individual services are listed separately: Inspection, FNSKU Labelling, Poly Bag each have their own prices. When you add Inspection (£0.12) + FNSKU (£0.10) + Poly Bag (£0.10) = £0.32 EXTRA on top of "Preparation".
This is MISLEADING: "Preparation £0.24" suggests all-in, but actual cost with typical services is £0.24 + £0.32 = £0.56 or more. The headline price doesn't reflect real cost.
✅ Why 6/10:
Prices ARE published ✓, but presentation is misleading about true costs. "No hidden fees" claimed but pricing structure effectively hides real costs. Fits 5-6 range for "misleading pricing".
❓ Why not 7-8/10:
For 7+ would need: clear all-in pricing OR honest presentation of actual costs. Headline prices that don't include standard services = misleading.
❓ Why not 5/10 or lower:
5/10 is for quote-based. Ascend FBA does publish rates (even if misleading) - slightly better than quote-only.
2. Accountability & Liability (15%)
4/10
= 6.0 points
📋 What we found:
Terms Section 9 "Liability & Limitation Of Damages" contains highly restrictive clauses:
"Ascend FBA Ltd'S LIABILITY SHALL BE LIMITED TO THE LESSER OF THE FOLLOWING: (1) actual cost to MERCHANT, (2) fair market value, (3) twice the monthly storage charge, (4) $0.50 per cubic foot for the lost, damaged, or destroyed GOODS."
$0.50 per cubic foot is virtually NOTHING. A box 1ft³ containing £500 of goods = max liability $0.50 (~£0.40). Additional exclusions:
"Not liable for: transit damage (9.8), improper packing, breakage, wear and tear, leakage, acts of God, civil authority, terrorism, strikes, fire, flood, vermin, insects, earthquakes..." (9.9) - and "MERCHANT shall not be entitled to recover any incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages" (9.6)
✅ Why 4/10:
Terms exist ✓, liability IS defined ✓ - but caps are effectively worthless ($0.50/cu ft) and exclusions cover almost everything. Fits 3-4 range for "very restrictive liability".
❓ Why not 5-6/10:
For 5+ would need: reasonable cap (e.g., £50-100/unit) or fewer exclusions. $0.50/cu ft + long exclusion list = almost zero effective protection.
❓ Why not 3/10 or lower:
3/10 is for "zero liability clause". Ascend FBA technically HAS liability, just capped at nearly nothing. Slightly better than explicit zero liability like Blue30.
3. Turnaround Time (15%)
4/10
= 6.0 points
📋 What we found:
NO turnaround time stated anywhere on site. Checked: homepage, pricing page, services page, FAQ page, about page. Only found: "Setup in 24 hours" which refers to account setup, NOT prep turnaround.
✅ Why 4/10:
No turnaround information ✗. Fits 3-4 range for "nothing stated".
❓ Why not 5-6/10:
5+ requires at least vague "fast" or "quick turnaround" mention. Ascend FBA has zero turnaround mention.
❓ Why not 3/10 or lower:
Giving 4 (not 3) because "Setup in 24 hours" shows some speed awareness for onboarding, even if not prep-specific.
4. Data Ownership & Dashboard (10%)
9/10
= 9.0 points
📋 What we found:
Homepage prominently features "ControlDock™" WMS: "175+ platforms" integration, "85+ Stock Reports", "Live Stock Tracking", "Return Management", "Free WMS Access" included.
✅ Why 9/10:
Branded dashboard (ControlDock™) ✓, specific integration count (175+) ✓, report count (85+) ✓, live tracking ✓, free access ✓. Meets 9-10 range - excellent dashboard offering.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: explicit CSV/API export mentioned, or live demo available.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "dashboard with features described". ControlDock™ has QUANTIFIED features (175+ platforms, 85+ reports) - more than generic description.
5. Proof & Documentation (10%)
7/10
= 7.0 points
📋 What we found:
Customer review on site states: "even send pictures of products upon request". Services describe receiving and inspection process.
✅ Why 7/10:
Photos available on request ✓, inspection described ✓. Fits 7-8 range.
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: photos as STANDARD (not just "upon request"), or explicit discrepancy reporting process.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 is for "inspection mentioned only". Review explicitly confirms photo capability - deserves higher.
6. Compliance Stance (10%)
5/10
= 5.0 points
📋 What we found:
"ensures their products meet Amazon's requirements" mentioned generally. NO Amazon SPN badge visible. NO explicit SPN claim.
✅ Why 5/10:
"Amazon requirements" mentioned generically ✓, but no SPN proof ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "generic compliance mention".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: SPN badge OR detailed compliance process. Neither found on site.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 is for "no compliance mention". Ascend FBA DOES mention Amazon requirements - just not detailed or verified.
7. Operational Maturity (10%)
7/10
= 7.0 points
📋 What we found:
Homepage: "100+ Happy Clients", "99% Prep Accuracy". Services page with descriptions. Customer testimonials. Blog/articles section exists.
✅ Why 7/10:
Client count (100+) ✓, accuracy metric (99%) ✓, services described ✓. Fits 7-8 range.
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: years operating stated, warehouse size, team info. Site doesn't show operational history.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 is for "services listed minimally". Ascend FBA has services + client count + accuracy metric - more than minimal.
8. Location & Carriers (5%)
6/10
= 3.0 points
📋 What we found:
Full address: "101 Earith High St, Earith, Huntingdon PE28 3PN". No carrier partnerships mentioned anywhere on site.
✅ Why 6/10:
Full address with postcode ✓, but no carriers ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "address only".
❓ Why not 7-8/10:
For 7+ would need: at least one carrier partnership mentioned.
❓ Why not 5/10 or lower:
5/10 is for "city/region only". Full address with postcode is more precise than city-only.
9. FBA Specialisation (5%)
9/10
= 4.5 points
📋 What we found:
Company name is "Ascend FBA" - FBA in the name. Entire website dedicated to FBA prep. Tagline: "Your complete all-in-one stress-free FBA Prep service". No separate D2C fulfilment.
✅ Why 9/10:
FBA is primary focus ✓, company named for FBA ✓, no competing fulfilment service ✓. Meets 9-10 range.
❓ Why not 10/10:
For 10/10 would need: zero non-FBA services. Storage offered could theoretically serve non-FBA clients.
❓ Why not 8/10 or lower:
8/10 is for "FBA + fulfilment equally". Ascend FBA has no D2C fulfilment - pure FBA focus.
TOTAL SCORE
12.0 + 6.0 + 6.0 + 9.0 + 7.0 + 5.0 + 7.0 + 3.0 + 4.5 = 59.5/100
#5 — Best Prep UK (57.0/100)
1. Transparency & Pricing (20%)
7/10
= 14.0 points
📋 What we found:
Clear price: "£0.50 per item" (includes receive, inspect, label, polybag, bundle, bubble wrap). HOWEVER: Requires £35.99 monthly subscription on top. Additional extras listed separately.
✅ Why 7/10:
Public itemised pricing ✓, all-inclusive per-item rate ✓. But mandatory monthly fee adds hidden ongoing cost. Fits 7-8 range for "visible rates with some catches".
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: no mandatory subscription, or subscription included in per-item pricing. £35.99/month is significant additional cost not in headline.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 for quote-based. Best Prep UK does have public fixed prices - subscription is disclosed, not hidden.
2. Accountability & Liability (15%)
5/10
= 7.5 points
📋 What we found:
No visible Terms & Conditions page link in navigation or footer. However, site does offer: "100% Money-Back First Shipment Guarantee" - shows some accountability willingness.
✅ Why 5/10:
No terms found ✗, but guarantee exists ✓. Fits 5-6 range for "some accountability evidence but no formal terms".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: visible terms page, even if liability details not verified.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for zero accountability. Money-back guarantee shows willingness to stand behind service - partial credit.
3. Turnaround Time (15%)
4/10
= 6.0 points
📋 What we found:
NO turnaround time stated anywhere on site. Checked homepage, services, pricing, FAQ. No mention of processing speed.
✅ Why 4/10:
No turnaround information ✗. Fits 3-4 range for "nothing stated".
❓ Why not 5-6/10:
5+ requires at least vague speed mention. Nothing found.
❓ Why not 3/10 or lower:
Giving 4 (not 3) because professional site presentation implies reasonable operations, even if not stated.
4. Data Ownership & Dashboard (10%)
6/10
= 6.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Advanced client dashboard" mentioned. "Scan onto our WMS" referenced. No detailed features described.
✅ Why 6/10:
Dashboard explicitly mentioned ✓, but features not described ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "dashboard mentioned, no details".
❓ Why not 7-8/10:
For 7+ would need: dashboard features listed (reports, integrations, etc.).
❓ Why not 5/10 or lower:
5/10 for vague "tracking". Both "dashboard" and "WMS" explicitly mentioned - slightly more specific.
5. Proof & Documentation (10%)
5/10
= 5.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Quality inspection" mentioned in service list. No process details, no photo documentation mentioned.
✅ Why 5/10:
Inspection mentioned ✓, but no specifics ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "inspection mentioned".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: inspection process described or photo mention.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for nothing stated. "Quality inspection" IS explicitly mentioned - deserves credit.
6. Compliance Stance (10%)
5/10
= 5.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Amazon FBA requirements" mentioned generically. NO Amazon SPN badge visible. NO SPN claim.
✅ Why 5/10:
"Amazon requirements" mentioned ✓, but no SPN ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "generic Amazon mention".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: SPN badge or detailed compliance process.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for no mention. Amazon FBA requirements ARE mentioned.
7. Operational Maturity (10%)
6/10
= 6.0 points
📋 What we found:
Services listed: OA, wholesale, private label prep, storage, returns handling. Process steps shown. No client numbers. No years operating.
✅ Why 6/10:
Services with process steps ✓, but no scale metrics ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "services listed with some process".
❓ Why not 7-8/10:
For 7+ would need: client count, years operating, or testimonials.
❓ Why not 5/10 or lower:
5/10 for minimal listing. Best Prep UK has process steps documented - more than basic list.
8. Location & Carriers (5%)
7/10
= 3.5 points
📋 What we found:
Full address: "Unit 14a Keer Park, Warton Rd, Carnforth LA5 9FG". Location mentioned as "Morecambe Bay" area. No carriers mentioned.
✅ Why 7/10:
Full address with postcode ✓, but no carriers ✗. Fits 6-7 range for "address only".
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: carrier partnerships mentioned.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 for city only. Full address with postcode is more precise - giving 7.
9. FBA Specialisation (5%)
8/10
= 4.0 points
📋 What we found:
Name is "Best Prep UK" - prep focused. Primary service is FBA Prep. Also offers fulfilment as secondary service. FBA is clearly main focus.
✅ Why 8/10:
Primary focus is FBA Prep ✓, but fulfilment also offered ✗. Fits 7-8 range for "FBA primary with some fulfilment".
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: FBA as sole focus. Fulfilment is offered, reducing FBA purity.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 for equal FBA + fulfilment. FBA is clearly primary - name is "Prep" not "Fulfilment".
TOTAL SCORE
14.0 + 7.5 + 6.0 + 6.0 + 5.0 + 5.0 + 6.0 + 3.5 + 4.0 = 57.0/100
#6 — FulfillmentBox (52.0/100)
1. Transparency & Pricing (20%)
4/10
= 8.0 points
📋 What we found:
NO FBA prep prices published anywhere on site. They have a pricing calculator but ONLY for general fulfillment services (not FBA prep - irrelevant for this comparison). "Get a quote" is the only option for FBA prep. However, they do state their fee structure principles: "No hidden fees, No setup fees or subscription fees, Monthly calculations with clients without long-term commitments".
✅ Why 4/10:
Quote-only for FBA prep ✗, no price examples ✗, calculator only for fulfillment (not FBA) ✗. But fee structure principles stated ✓. Fits 3-4 range for "contact only".
❓ Why not 5-6/10:
5+ requires at least price examples for FBA prep. Zero FBA prep pricing found - only fulfillment calculator which is different service.
❓ Why not 3/10 or lower:
3/10 for absolutely no pricing info. FulfillmentBox at least states "no hidden fees, no setup fees, no subscription" - shows some fee transparency even without actual numbers.
2. Accountability & Liability (15%)
5/10
= 7.5 points
📋 What we found:
International company. "Insured" mentioned on site. Terms not separately verified for UK operations. Professional operation suggests accountability.
✅ Why 5/10:
"Insured" mentioned ✓, but terms not verified ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "some accountability evidence".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: verified terms or liability details.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for nothing. "Insured" is explicit accountability evidence - deserves credit.
3. Turnaround Time (15%)
4/10
= 6.0 points
📋 What we found:
NO turnaround time stated on UK page or general services. No processing speed mentioned.
✅ Why 4/10:
No turnaround information ✗. Fits 3-4 range for "nothing stated".
❓ Why not 5-6/10:
5+ requires at least vague speed mention. Nothing found.
❓ Why not 3/10 or lower:
Giving 4 for professional international operation - implies reasonable speed even if not stated.
4. Data Ownership & Dashboard (10%)
7/10
= 7.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Modern IMS system" mentioned. "Real-time tracking" stated. Some features described but not in detail.
✅ Why 7/10:
System mentioned ✓, real-time ✓, but features not detailed ✗. Fits 6-7 range for "system with some features".
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: named system, feature counts, integration list.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 for just "dashboard mentioned". "IMS system" + "real-time" is slightly more specific.
5. Proof & Documentation (10%)
5/10
= 5.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Inspection" listed in services. No process details. No photo documentation mentioned.
✅ Why 5/10:
Inspection mentioned ✓, but no details ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "inspection mentioned".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: inspection process or photo mention.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for nothing. Inspection IS mentioned in services.
6. Compliance Stance (10%)
5/10
= 5.0 points
📋 What we found:
"Amazon FBA prep" listed as service. NO SPN badge. NO SPN claim. Generic Amazon mention only.
✅ Why 5/10:
Amazon service offered ✓, but no SPN ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "generic Amazon mention".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: SPN or compliance details.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for no mention. Amazon FBA prep IS a listed service.
7. Operational Maturity (10%)
7/10
= 7.0 points
📋 What we found:
International provider with "10 years experience". 2 UK locations (Coventry + Felixstowe). Services described. Professional presentation.
✅ Why 7/10:
Years stated (10) ✓, multiple locations ✓, services described ✓. Fits 7-8 range.
❓ Why not 8-9/10:
For 8+ would need: UK-specific client count or scale metrics.
❓ Why not 6/10 or lower:
6/10 for services only. "10 years" + 2 locations is substantial experience evidence.
8. Location & Carriers (5%)
8/10
= 4.0 points
📋 What we found:
Coventry address: "Unit 1 Marshbrook Close, CV2 2NW" - "close to Amazon BHX4" explicitly stated. Felixstowe location "near major UK port". Strategic positioning described.
✅ Why 8/10:
Full addresses ✓, strategic positioning stated ✓, 2 locations ✓. Fits 7-8 range well.
❓ Why not 9-10/10:
For 9+ would need: carrier partnerships explicitly listed.
❓ Why not 7/10 or lower:
7/10 for address only. Strategic positioning ("near BHX4", "near port") explicitly stated - deserves 8.
9. FBA Specialisation (5%)
5/10
= 2.5 points
📋 What we found:
"International eCommerce fulfillment provider" - not FBA-focused. Services: D2C, B2B, returns, freight, FBA prep. FBA is one of many offerings.
✅ Why 5/10:
FBA prep offered ✓, but clearly one of many services ✗. Fits 5-6 range for "FBA as one service".
❓ Why not 6-7/10:
For 6+ would need: FBA as more prominent service. Company positions as general fulfilment provider.
❓ Why not 4/10 or lower:
4/10 for FBA as minor. FBA prep has dedicated page - it's a real service, just not the focus.
TOTAL SCORE
8.0 + 7.5 + 6.0 + 7.0 + 5.0 + 5.0 + 7.0 + 4.0 + 2.5 = 52.0/100
Final Rankings Summary
| Rank | Provider | Total | Key Strengths | Key Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fast Prep UK | 88.0 | Calculator, 24h turnaround, SPN, 100% liability coverage | Max £100/unit items only |
| 2 | AMZ Prep | 67.5 | Scale (5000+ clients), 4 UK locations, 24-48h | Quote-based, FBA not sole focus |
| 3 | Blue30 | 66.5 | SPN, Control Portal (85+ reports), photos | ZERO liability clause, quote-based |
| 4 | Ascend FBA | 59.5 | ControlDock™ WMS, FBA name/focus | Misleading pricing, $0.50/cu ft liability cap, no turnaround |
| 5 | Best Prep UK | 57.0 | All-in £0.50 pricing, FBA focused | No turnaround, £35.99/month fee, no terms |
| 6 | FulfillmentBox | 52.0 | 10 years experience, strategic locations, no hidden fees | No FBA prices (quote-only), no turnaround, FBA not focus |
Part 2: Why Rankings Have Limited Value
"In every example below, the prep centre that publishes a comparison article positions themselves first or prominently."
Now that you've seen our comparison, here's why it — and similar articles — can be shaped to favour the publisher without making false claims.
Observable Pattern: Publishers Rank Themselves Highly
Each provider in our comparison also publishes their own "Top X" content. In each case, the publisher features prominently:
- Blue30 publishes "Top 10 Best Amazon Prep Centre UK" → Blue30 is listed first
- Ascend FBA publishes "Top 5 FBA Prep Centres in the UK" → Ascend FBA is listed first
- Best Prep UK publishes "The Best Amazon FBA Prep Centre UK: Top 5" → Best Prep UK is listed first
- AMZ Prep publishes "Top 10 FBA Prep Service Centre UK" → AMZ Prep is positioned first
- FulfillmentBox publishes "Top FBA Prep Centers" → FulfillmentBox features prominently
- Fast Prep UK publishes this comparison → Fast Prep UK is ranked #1
This is not evidence of wrongdoing. It's the structural result of how comparison content works.
How Rankings Can Be Shaped
🎯 Criteria Selection
The author chooses which factors to measure and how to weight them. By selecting criteria where you perform well, you achieve a high score — without any false statements.
In this article: We weighted "Transparency & Pricing" at 20%. A competitor might weight "Phone Support" highly (we weighted it at 0%).
🎯 Competitor Selection
The author chooses which companies to include. By selecting competitors with different profiles, you influence the outcome.
In this article: We included 6 providers. There are dozens of UK prep centres. Different selection = different rankings.
🔮 The Practical Takeaway
Don't use any "Top X" list (including this one) as your primary decision tool. Use it as a starting point, then verify directly with providers based on YOUR priorities.
The useful question isn't "who ranks highest." It's "which provider fits MY specific situation."
Part 3: What Actually Matters
Instead of "who is #1", consider these questions for your specific situation:
1. What's your monthly volume?
- Under 500 units: Ensure provider accepts small volumes without minimum fees
- 500-5,000 units: Most providers work; focus on systems fit
- 5,000+ units: Need proven infrastructure and capacity guarantees
2. What's your business model?
- Online Arbitrage: High SKU count, variable products, flexible inspection needed
- Wholesale: Consistent products, bulk quantities, speed matters
- Private Label: Custom packaging, branding requirements
- Books/Media: Consider dedicated book prep specialists
3. What's your priority?
- Speed: Look for stated turnaround times (24h vs 72h matters for cash flow)
- Lowest price: Get itemised quotes; cheapest per-unit may have hidden fees
- Relationship: Some want phone calls; others want dashboards
4. How do you want to communicate?
- Phone/relationship: Look for dedicated account managers
- Digital-first: Look for dashboards, shared spreadsheets, automated updates
Part 4: Is Fast Prep UK Right For You?
We've designed our systems for a specific type of seller. Here's honest pre-qualification:
✅ Good Fit If You...
Prioritise Speed / Cash Flow
Our 24-hour turnaround exists because faster stock rotation = more inventory turns = higher annual ROI. If you've calculated that 48 hours faster matters, you'll value this.
Want Pricing Clarity Upfront
Our public calculator shows exact costs before you send anything. No quote process required.
Prefer Digital Dashboards
Our live Profit-Grid spreadsheet updates in real-time. If you prefer checking a dashboard at 11pm vs chasing emails, this fits.
Plan to Scale (500-40,000+ units)
Our infrastructure is built for consistent, scalable flow.
❌ NOT a Good Fit If You...
Have High-Value Items (>£100/unit)
Our liability coverage is strictly capped at £100 per unit (purchase price). We do not accept items valued above this limit to ensure we can always honor our 100% reimbursement guarantee.
Consider instead: Prep centers that offer ad-hoc insurance for luxury goods.
Need Multi-Country Warehousing
We're UK-only.
Consider instead: AMZ Prep or FulfillmentBox (both claim multi-country networks).
Sell Primarily Books
We do standard FBA prep, not specialist book prep.
Consider instead: Dedicated book prep centres.
Next Steps
If Fast Prep UK fits your profile:
Start Smart Onboarding →2-minute setup. No contracts. No setup fees.
💷 Check Pricing 📋 View Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Amazon FBA prep centre in the UK?
There is no universally "best" prep centre. The right choice depends on your business model, volume, priorities, and communication preferences. Any comparison list reflects the author's chosen criteria.
How much do FBA prep services cost in the UK?
UK FBA prep services range from approximately £0.13 to £0.50+ per unit depending on services included. Basic receiving starts lower; full prep (label + polybag + inspection) costs more. Always verify what is included.
Are "Top FBA Prep Centre" comparison lists biased?
Frequently, yes. Comparison articles published by prep centres often rank the publisher highly because the author controls criteria selection and competitor selection. This article is published by Fast Prep UK and we rank ourselves first.