If you’re an FBM (Fulfilled by Merchant) seller on Amazon, you know that managing shipping times can feel like a juggling act. Enter Automated Handling Time (AHT), a feature that lets Amazon automatically set your handling times based on your past shipping performance. It’s a game-changer for many sellers, but like any tool, it has its pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll break down what AHT is, how to enable it, and whether it’s the right fit for your business. If you’re looking for expert support, FND eCommerce is a UK Amazon agency ready to help you optimise your Amazon strategy.
What Is Automated Handling Time (AHT)?
Automated Handling Time (AHT) is a setting in Amazon Seller Central that allows Amazon to dynamically adjust the handling time for your FBM listings. It uses your historical shipping data to set realistic handling times for each product, which can improve your competitiveness and provide accurate delivery estimates to buyers.
Why It Matters: Handling time is a key factor in winning the Buy Box and keeping customers happy. AHT can help you stay competitive without the hassle of manually updating handling times for every SKU.
How to Enable Automated Handling Time (AHT)
Enabling AHT is simple and can be done in a few clicks. Here’s how:
- Log in to Seller Central:
- Visit Amazon Seller Central and sign in.
- Navigate to Shipping Settings:
- From the dashboard, go to Settings > Shipping Settings.
- Find Handling Time Settings:
- Scroll to General Shipping Settings and locate the Handling Time section.
- Enable AHT:
- Click Edit next to “Automated Handling Time.”
- Check the box to Enable Automated Handling Time.
- Optionally, set a maximum number of daily dispatch orders.
- Save Your Changes:
- Click Save or Confirm to activate AHT.
Pro Tip: Make sure your shipping performance is consistent before enabling AHT. Amazon will base your handling times on your recent fulfillment history.
When to Use AHT (and When Not To)
AHT is a powerful tool, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s when it shines, and when it might not:
- Use AHT For:
- FBM listings where you have a consistent shipping routine.
- Products with predictable preparation times.
- Sellers who want to improve their Buy Box chances without manual updates.
- Avoid AHT For:
- Custom or made-to-order products that take longer to prepare.
- SKUs with variable shipping times (e.g., seasonal items).
- Listings where you need full control over handling times.
Example: If you sell standard electronics with a steady two-day shipping process, AHT can work wonders. But for a handmade jewellery business with varying prep times, manual control might be better.
Advantages of Automated Handling Time
AHT offers several perks that can give your business a boost:
- Improved Buy Box Competitiveness: Shorter, data-driven handling times can help you win the Buy Box more often.
- Accurate Delivery Estimates: Amazon sets realistic promise dates based on your actual performance, keeping customers happy.
- Time-Saving Automation: No need to manually update handling times for each SKU; Amazon handles it for you.
- Performance-Based Adjustments: If your shipping speeds improve, AHT will reflect that, potentially shortening your handling times.
Example: A seller who consistently ships within one day might see Amazon set a one-day handling time, making their listings more attractive to buyers.
Disadvantages of Automated Handling Time
While AHT has its perks, it’s not without risks:
- Loss of Control: Amazon might set handling times shorter than your team can handle, especially during busy periods.
- Data Dependency: If your past shipping performance is inconsistent, AHT could set unrealistic times.
- Not Suitable for All Products: Custom or slow-moving items might suffer from automated times that don’t match their needs.
Example: During the holiday rush, a seller might struggle to meet a one-day handling time set by AHT, leading to late shipments and unhappy customers.
Best Practices for Managing AHT
To make the most of AHT, follow these tips:
- Monitor Shipping Performance: Regularly check your metrics in Seller Central to ensure consistency.
- Exclude Certain SKUs: If you have products that take longer to prepare, keep them on manual handling times.
- Align Your Team: Make sure your warehouse or fulfilment team knows the handling time expectations to avoid delays.
- Audit AHT Regularly: Periodically review the handling times Amazon sets to ensure they match your capabilities.
Pro Tip: Use AHT for your best-performing products and manually manage the rest for maximum control.
When to Consider Professional Help
Managing AHT and your entire Amazon strategy can be complex. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it might be time to explore Why Do I Need an Amazon Agency?. An agency can help you fine-tune your handling times, optimise your listings, and keep your business running smoothly.
Take Control of Your Amazon Shipping Strategy
Automated Handling Time can be a powerful ally for FBM sellers, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. By understanding when to use it, how to enable it, and how to manage it effectively, you’ll keep your customers happy and your business competitive.
