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If you're considering selling on Amazon, the first step is to apply to become an Amazon Seller. This process involves signing up and providing various personal details to verify your identity. Expect to submit information such as your bank account details, government-issued ID, tax information, and a phone number. Recently, Amazon has introduced a live verification process where you may have to participate in a video call to confirm your identity. While this may seem daunting, it is a necessary step to ensure that sellers are legitimate.
Once your application is approved, the next step is to configure your Seller Central account. This process is similar to Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures and can be completed through your web browser. You can find detailed guides on how to set up your account on Amazon's official website. It's essential to ensure that all your information is accurate to avoid any complications later.
Amazon offers two selling plans: the Individual Selling Plan and the Professional Selling Plan. The Individual plan charges $0.99 per sale, plus a 15% commission on each sale, making it a suitable option for beginners who may not sell more than 40 items in a month. The Professional plan, which costs $39 per month regardless of sales volume, is better suited for those who anticipate selling more frequently. Beginners should start with the Individual plan and switch to the Professional plan as their sales increase.
When it comes to listing products, it's crucial to add your items to existing listings rather than creating new ones. This can be done using the Amazon app, although many users find the app to be slow and glitchy. For optimal performance, it's advisable to use a laptop or desktop for managing analytics and ads while using the app primarily for product listings and photography.
Sellers must choose between Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) and Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). FBM requires sellers to handle shipping and customer service, providing more control over the customer experience. In contrast, FBA allows Amazon to manage logistics, which can save time but comes with higher fees. Factors to consider when choosing a fulfillment method include product size and weight, inventory turnover, and logistics capabilities.
Tracking performance metrics is vital for maintaining your seller account. Key metrics include Order Defect Rate, Pre-Fulfillment Cancellation Rate, Late Shipment Rate, and Buyer-Seller Contact Response Time. For instance, the Order Defect Rate should remain below 1%, while the Pre-Fulfillment Cancellation Rate should be below 2.5%. Maintaining these metrics is essential to avoid penalties or account suspension.
For those looking to deepen their understanding of selling on Amazon, resources like Jungle Scout can be invaluable. While they offer paid plans for advanced tools, their free content on YouTube provides a wealth of information for beginners. Engaging with these resources can help you navigate the complexities of selling on Amazon and improve your chances of success.
Q: What is the first step to start selling on Amazon?
A: The first step is to apply to become an Amazon Seller by signing up and providing personal details to verify your identity.
Q: What information do I need to provide when applying to sell on Amazon?
A: You will need to submit your bank account details, government-issued ID, tax information, and a phone number.
Q: What is the live verification process for Amazon Sellers?
A: Amazon has introduced a live verification process where you may have to participate in a video call to confirm your identity.
Q: How do I configure my Seller Central account?
A: You can configure your Seller Central account through your web browser, following detailed guides available on Amazon's official website.
Q: What are the two selling plans offered by Amazon?
A: Amazon offers the Individual Selling Plan, which charges $0.99 per sale, and the Professional Selling Plan, which costs $39 per month.
Q: Which selling plan should beginners choose?
A: Beginners should start with the Individual Selling Plan and switch to the Professional Selling Plan as their sales increase.
Q: How should I list my products on Amazon?
A: You should add your items to existing listings rather than creating new ones, preferably using a laptop or desktop for better performance.
Q: What are the fulfillment options available for sellers?
A: Sellers can choose between Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM), where they handle shipping and customer service, and Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), where Amazon manages logistics.
Q: What key performance metrics should I monitor as a seller?
A: Key metrics include Order Defect Rate, Pre-Fulfillment Cancellation Rate, Late Shipment Rate, and Buyer-Seller Contact Response Time.
Q: What resources can help me succeed in selling on Amazon?
A: Resources like Jungle Scout and free content on YouTube can provide valuable information and tools for beginners.