Do I need an appointment for inbound?

Appointment requirement varies; confirm with carrier or Amazon Seller Central.

SMF3 — Amazon Fulfillment Center SMF3

SMF3 Amazon Fulfillment Center – Stockton, CA 95206 (2025 Complete Guide)

Warehouse code: SMF3
Facility type: Sortable fulfillment center with robotics and automation
Full address: 3923 S B Street, Stockton, CA 95206, United States
Scale: Over 800,000 square feet
Workforce size: Several thousand associates across multiple shifts

Note: This guide summarizes common practices and experiences for SMF3. For any shipment, Amazon's current Seller Central and Carrier Central documentation always takes priority.

1. Why SMF3 matters in Amazon's network (2025 snapshot)

SMF3 is Amazon's major fulfillment hub serving the Sacramento metropolitan area and California's Central Valley. Located in Stockton—a key logistics center at the crossroads of I-5 and SR-99—the facility handles storage, sorting, packaging, and shipping for FBA and customer orders across Northern California and Nevada.

Stockton's strategic position provides access to both the San Francisco Bay Area (via I-580) and Sacramento (via SR-99), making SMF3 ideal for rapid distribution to customers in California's most populous regions. The facility uses robotics and automation for efficient order processing.

The Central Valley's lower operating costs compared to coastal California, combined with excellent highway access, have made Stockton an increasingly important logistics hub.

2. Core questions from FBA sellers & truck drivers (2025 answers)

2.1 Do I need an appointment to deliver to SMF3?

For LTL and FTL inbound freight, yes—an appointment is required. All appointments are managed through Amazon Carrier Central:

During regular months, book 7–14 days in advance.
In Q4 and peak periods, aim for 2–3 weeks ahead.

2.2 What are the receiving hours?

SMF3 operates 24/7 with multiple shifts. Confirm your specific appointment window through Carrier Central.

2.3 What pallet and packaging rules apply?

Standard FBA network requirements:

Pallet dimensions: 48" x 40" GMA pallets with 4-way entry.
Height limit: Single pallets not exceeding 72 inches.
Weight limit: Maximum 1,500 lbs per pallet.
Labeling: Clear, scannable FBA labels on all cartons and pallets.

2.4 Does SMF3 handle hazardous materials?

SMF3 is a sortable fulfillment center for standard consumer goods. Hazmat and oversized items are routed to specialized facilities.

2.5 What are the most common causes of delay?

Appointment problems – no valid appointment or late arrival.
Labeling errors – missing or unreadable labels.
Paperwork mismatch – BOL/ASN doesn't match.
Non-compliant pallets – unstable or oversized.

3. Traffic, routing and parking tips for truck drivers

3.1 Recommended approach route

SMF3 is located in south Stockton:

From I-5, take the Charter Way / SR-4 exit and head east toward S B Street.
From SR-99, connect to Charter Way and head west.

3.2 On-site check-in

At SMF3:

Present ID, BOL, and appointment reference at security.
Follow yard-marshal instructions for dock assignment.

3.3 Nearby truck stops

The Stockton/I-5 corridor has several truck-friendly facilities. Use truck-parking apps to find available spaces.

4. Nearby hotels and food

The Stockton area offers various lodging and dining options:

Hotels along I-5 and SR-99 corridors.
Fast food and restaurants near the Charter Way exit.

5. Nearby Amazon facilities

The Central Valley and Northern California host numerous Amazon facilities:

SMF1 – Sacramento area – nearby fulfillment center
SJC7 – Tracy – Bay Area-adjacent facility
OAK4 / OAK5 – Oakland area – serving the East Bay

6. Quick FAQ

Q1: What region does SMF3 serve?
SMF3 primarily serves the Sacramento metro area, Central Valley, and Northern California.

Q2: Do I need an appointment?
Yes. All LTL/FTL deliveries require a Carrier Central appointment.

Q3: Is SMF3 near the Bay Area?
SMF3 is approximately 80 miles east of San Francisco via I-580.

Last updated: January 24, 2026