SORT

 In Amazon’s fulfilment operations, SORT (Sortable) is a logistics classification used to distinguish products that can move through automated sorting and packing systems - as opposed to Non-Sort (oversized or irregular items), which require manual handling.

Sortable items are typically small to medium-sized, lightweight, and rectangular, enabling efficient processing through Amazon’s high-speed fulfilment centres (FCs).

Sortable vs. Non-Sortable:

CategorySortableNon-SortableSize | Fits within standard parcel limits | Too large or irregular for standard packaging
Handling | Automated (conveyors, robotics) | Manual (forklifts, pallet jacks)
Fulfilment Centres | Sortable FCs | Non-Sortable FCs
Typical Items | Books, electronics, apparel | Furniture, large appliances, bulky items

Sortable Size & Weight Thresholds (Typical Amazon Standards):

• Weight: ≤ 50 lb (22.7 kg)
• Dimensions: ≤ 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm)
  (Thresholds vary by region and fulfilment centre type.)

How Amazon Uses SORT Classification:

1. Fulfilment Routing:
   • Sortable items are sent to Sortable Fulfilment Centres (FCs) optimised for automated processing.
2. Inventory Management:
   • Streamlines storage and picking through robotics and conveyor systems.
3. Shipping Efficiency:
   • Enables low-cost, fast delivery via Prime and Small & Light (SnL) programmes.

Benefits for Amazon:

• Automation efficiency: Maximises throughput and reduces handling costs.
• Scalability: Supports high-volume categories like books, electronics, and beauty.
• Delivery speed: Faster processing times for Prime and 1-day delivery.

Benefits for Vendors and Sellers:

• Lower fulfilment costs: Automated processing reduces per-unit expenses.
• Faster delivery: Increased eligibility for Prime and regional fulfilment.
• Improved Buy Box performance: Consistent availability and delivery reliability.

Challenges:

• Size restrictions: Larger or irregularly shaped products cannot qualify as Sortable.
• Packaging compliance: Items must meet Amazon’s Prep-Free Packaging (PFP) or SIPP/SIOC requirements.
• Category limits: Certain items (hazmat, fragile goods) may be excluded despite fitting size limits.

Example:
A Bluetooth speaker measuring 6 x 3 x 3 inches and weighing 0.8 lb qualifies as Sortable.
It is stored and shipped through Amazon’s automated FC network, allowing Prime 1-day delivery with minimal manual handling.

Why It Matters:
The SORT designation determines where and how products are fulfilled within Amazon’s logistics network.
It affects costs, delivery speed, and fulfilment efficiency, making it an important operational classification for vendors and sellers.

In short:
SORT (Sortable) identifies products that fit Amazon’s standard parcel size and weight limits, allowing automated fulfilment through Sortable FCs - resulting in faster, cheaper, and more efficient delivery.