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Amazon Buyer Account Suspended: How to Get It Back

Customer account suspension isn't a rare occurrence on Amazon. As one of the biggest names in the industry, Amazon trusts its buyers to maintain the platform's integrity. If Amazon detects any misconduct or violation of their policies, it may get your account suspended without warning.

Amazon account suspensions can cause great inconvenience if you rely on Amazon for your business or personal shopping. To get your suspended account reinstated, you need to take specific steps. This article aims to provide an easy-to-follow guide on how to get your Amazon account back after suspension.

Amazon Account Registration: Can You Have Both Buyer and Seller Account at the Same Time?

Yes. You can create an Amazon seller account and a buyer account simultaneously by opening a buyer account first, and then, later on, opening a seller account. To start your Amazon business from a buyer account, you just need to click the "Sell Yours Here" button and complete the following Amazon requirements:

  • Credit card number
  • Bank account number
  • Government-issued ID
  • Tax information
  • Phone number 

Having a linked seller and buyer accounts is convenient. However, there are disadvantages and one of which is Amazon account suspension. On Amazon, even if you have been a good seller, your reputation as a buyer may be the root cause of the problem. Let’s talk about this more in the next section.

How Amazon Suspends an Account

Amazon maintains and monitors millions of accounts daily, regardless of the type. The online eCommerce titan utilizes the power of A.I. to handle some of its operations—mainly account checking and suspension.

Account checking is a sophisticated system that can screen those with multiple accounts under a single name. Thanks to the user data that Amazon collects, this complicated job is made easier. 

In case you didn't know, here is the information Amazon gets from you aside from those stated above:

  • Basic account information like name, age, address, contact number(s)
  • Payment information
  • I.P. address
  • Content of reviews
  • Content of the emails you send to your customers
  • Documents regarding identity, like Social Security and driver's license
  • Credit history
  • Device's location
  • Phonebook or email address contents

Why Amazon Account Suspension Happen

Although the previous list is quite intrusive, it is one of Amazon's ways to weed out offenders. How would you know if you violated Amazon's terms and conditions? Here are some of the common violations:

  1. Use of unverified gift cards
  2. Gift card high denomination or volume balance
  3. Country location is on Amazon's fraudulent blacklist
  4. Incomplete account information
  5. Mismatched information
  6. Randomly modifying your billing and shipping address
  7. Using different locations and I.P. addresses to log in
  8. Using a stolen or hacked credit card on your Amazon account
  9. Using a borrowed credit card linked to a suspended Amazon account or bad credit history
  10. Leaving obscene, threatening, defamatory, or fake reviews
  11. Making too many returns without a justifiable reason
  12. Sharing account and payment information with your friends and family, which they also use to open another Amazon account
  13. Not using your device to log in to your account
  14. Allowing a friend or family member with a suspended account to use your device
  15. Using a suspended buyer or seller’s account
  16. If your buyer and seller accounts are linked, Amazon will suspend you once you attempt to create two or multiple seller accounts. But take note that you can have several buyer accounts.

What are the consequences of a suspended Amazon buyer account? Besides the fact that you won't be able to access it by any means, you will also lose your balance. Amazon prohibits you from using its services and accessing its affiliate sites. Moreover, your refunds and returns won't be processed.

Sadly, when you receive the dreaded suspension email from Amazon, its content will not specify what offence you committed in detail and how you can solve it.

How to Know if the Suspension E-mail is From Amazon

Before you get cranky, determine if it's a legit suspension email from Amazon. It might be a phishing attack to steal your personal and credit card details. Amazon may contact you via email, phone, and SMS. Here are things you should remember:

  • The email address format is "@amazon.co.ca/.uk/.fr/.de/.com/etc."
  • Amazon will never:
    • Ask for your personal and/or payment information
    • Request you update the payment information not linked to your Amazon order
    • Offer you a refund without a valid reason
    • Ask for payment outside Amazon's website
    • Ask for remote access to your device
    • Ask for any sensitive information like passwords

If the email follows the guidelines above, then it's without a doubt that you have received a genuine suspension email from Amazon. It may have this format:

sample suspension email from Amazon

This disheartening email doesn't only prevent you from ordering but also affects your reputation and sales as a seller. Luckily, Amazon allows you to reinstate your account, but you must do it correctly.

Tips When Getting Your Amazon Buyer Account Reinstated

It's hard to keep your cool, especially if you're about to lose your source of living. But try to stay calm and level-headed. Conversely, don't ignore the first email you've received from Amazon. The moment you receive that email, please take note of the following:

list of tips for amazon reinstatement

Now, when attempting to recover your account, answer the following questions to help you with your Amazon suspension:

  • What is the root cause of the problem? Remember: Admit your mistakes and apologize for them.
  • What steps shall you take to resolve the issue? Create a plan of action (POA). Suggest proactive steps.
  • What actions will you take to prevent it from happening again?

You may use the examples above to outline your Amazon reinstatement letter. At the end of the email, write a polite call to action stating your request to reinstate your Amazon account. 

After you send your appeal letter, do the following:

  • Be patient and wait for a reply. 
  • Don't spam Amazon with status requests. 
  • If you've been successfully reinstated, send a thank you letter and repeat your promise that you will do better to avoid any issues.

Here's a sample format of a successful Amazon reinstatement letter to lift your spirits:

a sample format of a successful Amazon reinstatement letter

How to Avoid Amazon Buyer Account Suspension

Don't be a victim of "what if's." In case you haven't been a recipient yet of an Amazon account suspension email, follow the tips below to prevent suspension:

  1. You may use Amazon services from other countries except in the USA.
  2. Purchase costly electronic devices with your credit card, but not frequently.
  3. Use a gift card for cheap orders.
  4. Don't store or "bank" gift cards.
  5. Avoid using gift cards for phones, laptops, or other high-end devices.
  6. If you plan to order very often, upgrade to an Amazon Business account.
  7. Don't use virtual credit cards and prepaid credit cards.
  8. Complete your registration details.
  9. Cancel your order immediately if your payment using a gift card is still pending after five hours.
  10. Don't use multiple shipping addresses.
  11. Don't use your buyer account to purchase items in bulk. Amazon will suspect that you may resell them.
  12. Use only your credit card, whether it's for a buyer or seller account.
  13. Don't open multiple seller accounts.
  14. Open a separate seller account. Don't link it with your buyer account. Use different payment and shipping information if necessary.
  15. Read and review Amazon security and privacy policies.

Amazon Buyer Account Suspended: How to Get It Back

In a nutshell, you can't secure your Amazon account by how many orders you have had, being a member of Amazon Prime, or the number of your buyer accounts. What matters is you abide by Amazon's house rules to avoid suspension. Start by developing and maintaining consistent and trustworthy buyer and seller behavior so you won't get an Amazon suspension letter. Do you need help in getting your Amazon buyer or seller account reinstated? Don't delay it further! Contact Seller Interactive and let our Amazon account specialists help you with your Amazon account suspension.

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The Benefits of Amazon PPC Outsourcing You Need To Know

It takes several tasks to establish, maintain, and reap success with your Amazon business. These include account creation, account protection, store optimization, management of stocks and sales, shipping, and advertising. Some of these are best done with the help of a good Amazon PPC outsourcing company

A PPC team comprises professionals offering a wealth of knowledge and experience to bring you the best Amazon PPC strategy. But how does PPC advertising on Amazon even work, and will hiring an Amazon PPC management agency help enhance your campaign performance? 

Let’s delve into the ins and outs of Amazon PPC advertising and discover how professional Amazon PPC services can help boost your brand.

A Look Into Amazon Advertising

You may already be a long-time Amazon seller but still a novice in Amazon's advertising platform. If so, let’s briefly discuss how it works. 

Pay-per-click, or PPC, is Amazon's internal advertisement system wherein sellers bid on keywords to either rank on the search results or be advertised in multiple areas on the website.

To participate, sellers must determine the keywords they want to rank for each listing. Then, they bid for a certain amount, and whoever has the highest bid gets the ranking or advertisement. The winning seller must pay Amazon each time someone clicks on the listing.

3 Types of Amazon Ads

The platform has three primary types of ad formats that can boost product visibility, increase conversions, and improve overall profitability:

  • Amazon Sponsored Products - These advertisements can be seen at the top of, along the sides of, within the search results, or on the product detail page. This format can either be automated or manually run.
  • Amazon Sponsored Brands - Commonly called headline ads, they appear as banners, usually on top of shopping results. This lets you feature your logo and three of your most popular products, leading the buyer to the brand's page.
  • Amazon Sponsored Display - allows sellers to advertise their products on third-party apps or websites. Amazon’s cookies will trace which buyer visited your listing or a similar one. Amazon will then promote your product on other websites the buyer visits, such as Facebook, Twitch, Instagram, or Netflix.

Choosing the most effective ad format heavily depends on your brand's goals and target audience. Carefully bidding on the right keywords for your listing will also significantly affect the performance and outcome of each advertising format.

The Basics of Keyword Research and Bidding

Keywords are words or phrases that best describe the content and are strategically selected and applied to improve a brand’s visibility and ranking in search results. People enter these terms on a search engine to find what they’re looking for. 

For example, if someone is looking for a pair of shoes, they may type "running shoes" or "best running shoes for men/women." In the context of Amazon SEO optimization, listings should contain these keywords to appear in the search results.

Types of Keywords

There are two types of keywords: short-tail and long-tail keywords. While both are equally important for a PPC campaign, advertising experts advise bidding more for long-tail keywords.

These keywords are wordier, more specific, and less likely to be searched than short-tail keywords. 

Additionally, long-tail keywords suggest buyers invested effort into refining their search terms, indicating they are more likely to buy the product

Types of Keyword Match

To get a good grasp on the research process and find the right Amazon keywords to use, here are the different match types you will encounter. 

  • Broad Match - Amazon shows your manual ad campaigns to broader search terms (your keyword and its variants), reaching more potential customers. You're just going to have tougher competition because of their search volume. 
  • Phrase Match - This is a more refined manual ad campaign. You'll appear to buyers searching for products with specifications. They know precisely what they are looking for, so there's a higher chance of purchasing.
  • Exact Match - When you use this type of keyword, you already foresaw the audience who will see your listing, click through them, and buy them. You will only appear in the specific keywords you set to bid for. 
  • Close Match - This automatic ad campaign uses keywords that closely match your products. 
  • Loose Match - This is another option when using Amazon's automatic ad campaign. A counterpart of phrase and broad match, it shows your ads to terms loosely linked to your product.
  • Substitutes - Amazon will make your ad appear on products related to yours as a suggested alternative. 
  • Complements - Are you affiliated with other products? Amazon will make your ad appear on product pages that complement your offer.

Top 5 Essential Metrics

Tracking and analyzing key metrics is crucial to run successful Amazon PPC campaigns. Here are the top 5 essential KPIs every Amazon seller should learn.

  • ACoS - The price of running a PPC campaign.
  • CPC -  The cost of what you pay for the ads based on the clicks they get. 
  • CVR -  Indicates the number of page visits resulting in a sale. 
  • ROAS - Refers to how much money you make on a campaign for every dollar spent.
  • CTR -  The percentage of people viewing and clicking your ads that include call-to-action.

What Can an Amazon Advertising Agency Do for Your Business?

Advertising on Amazon is no easy feat. The number of tasks you have to handle can be confusing and overwhelming. Fortunately, dozens of advertising companies can assist you and alleviate the burden of managing your Amazon PPC campaign alone.

From deciding which advertising campaign is best to strategic keyword bidding and account management, here are effective strategies you can apply with the help of an Amazon advertising agency.

Increase Brand and Product Awareness and Sales Using Amazon Sponsored Products and Sponsored Display Ads

Professional Amazon PPC advertising companies understand when to use each type of Amazon ads for success.

Amazon Sponsored Products work best to increase awareness about a specific product in your store. This product can be your bestseller. Advertising it more will ensure the stability of sales and brand visibility.

On the other hand, Amazon Sponsored Display is more focused on increasing brand awareness because this ad appears on Amazon and off-Amazon pages. Because your brand is exposed to a larger audience, you can rake in more potential buyers. 

What if you run out of stock? That won't be a problem—this ad will appear only when you have stocks, so keep your listing updated.

In eCommerce, visibility is king. Your partner Amazon advertising agency will help you reach a wider audience through this strategy.

Seamlessly Comply With Amazon’s Brand Guidelines Amazon Sponsored Brands 

Amazon is a marketplace ruled by guidelines to ensure that all sellers are in a fair selling field. These rules also ensure that all content is legitimate and not overselling. Some of Amazon's brand guidelines include call to action (CTA) dos and don'ts, proper use of images and logos, color regulations, citing details about your products, and co-branding. 

Not abiding by these guidelines can mean non-launching or even the termination of your campaign. When you have invested so much in the research but failed to get the rules right, your efforts may not see fruition. 

Fortunately, Amazon is proactive enough to show their sellers the way by publishing complete and detailed guides on what types of ad copies and creatives they can place on their Sponsored Brands ads, including a list of recommended CTAs.

Amazon Sponsored Brands aid in the seamless execution of Amazon's brand guidelines by providing advertisers with a dedicated advertising format to showcase their brand and products consistently and appealingly.

The platform even offers a brief but concise checklist for Sponsored Brands ad users to help them ensure all necessary elements follow Amazon’s policies. 

Screenshot of Amazon Sponsored Brands checklist for ad formats and copies

Following these recommended guidelines and formats will prevent constant ad rejections and enable sellers to maximize their ad performance and drive better results. This ultimately promotes brand visibility efficiently and effectively.

Relying on Amazon PPC outsourcing will clear the worry of non-compliance with Amazon brand guidelines. An Amazon advertising agency will not only abide by the rules but also ensure that the end product is appealing to get clicks and sales from customers. 

Attract a Larger Audience by Creating and Managing Amazon Stores

We all become buyers of someone else's products at some point. In these moments, try to be more aware of your behavior as a buyer. This way, you can understand more about your customers' needs. 

Do you research the products or read some reviews before buying? Guess what—you're part of the 70% of the consumer market, both offline and online, who do the same thing. 

If you want to attract the rest of that 70%, establish your Amazon Store or an off-Amazon website. Putting up an Amazon Store may be the best Amazon PPC strategy for you, but launching an off-Amazon website can also be a supplemental tool to get your brand's message across. 

Amazon Store

An Amazon Store is a visually engaging extension for your product listing. You can present your whole product portfolio using multimedia and introduce your brand to your viewers. Character counts are expanded, so you can discuss your unique selling points more.

Most importantly, your Amazon Store will serve as a push for buyers still thinking twice about purchasing your products.

Off-Amazon

If you wish to create a presence outside of Amazon to attract a larger audience, partnering with an Amazon advertising agency is the way to go. Off-Amazon websites do not put sales as a primary goal, but they can be a bridge for internet users looking for products similar to yours. 

An Amazon advertising agency would know which strategies work best for you. They will consider different factors, such as the profile of your potential customers, the budget, and the timeline allotted for your campaign. Depending on your goals and budget, you can also have the best of both worlds.  

Research, Brainstorm, and Execute a Keyword Strategy

Keyword research and strategy is more than just incorporating certain words into your listing up to a set frequency; it is done with technique. When devising a keyword tactic for your campaigns, you can either let Amazon do all the strategizing on your behalf, do it entirely by yourself, or combine both:

  • Automatic Campaign - Amazon decides which keywords to bid for based on your product’s relevance to the search terms. This campaign benefits new sellers and those unfamiliar with keywords, giving them more time to focus on their core business.
  • Manual Campaign - For manual campaigns, you will be the one to choose the keywords and bid for them, including intensive research and campaign performance monitoring. This gives you more freedom and flexibility to participate in the process actively.
  • Automatic + Manual Campaign - Your Amazon PPC outsourcing partner company would know if combining the two is the ideal solution for you. Automated campaigns enable more precise targeting and data on the effectiveness of your chosen keywords.
The visibility of your campaign all boils down to whether or not you're using the right keywords and campaign strategies.

The great thing about working with a professional Amazon PPC service is that you have a foundation to build upon, so you’re not essentially starting from scratch. These experts have years of experience and observations on consumer behavior, so they know how to start strong.

While there's no single formula to guarantee a business’s success, you can always rely on the best Amazon PPC strategy unique to your brand for optimal results. 

Be Unique, Stand Out, and Get the Sale With Professional Graphic Designers

Think of an ad you can still remember from years ago; what about that ad left a lasting impact on you? You want to have this kind of recall from your campaign. Pay attention to your visuals, target what's trendy, and create images that sell

Amazon knows that not all sellers on their platform can create ads from scratch. Hence, they provide many types of paid ads that you can launch in just a few clicks through templates. While this is convenient for Amazon sellers like yourself, note that because of the templates, the results may not be as original as you would like them.

Give your brand the visuals it deserves by hiring Amazon ad management services. Ensure high-quality graphics and content done by an in-house creative team. They will polish your campaign from the color palette and tagline to its signature layout. Their tasks will also include monitoring ad assets throughout the campaign to measure effectiveness. 

Summary

Amazon PPC outsourcing is a wise choice if you need professional help handling your advertising campaigns. Your partner Amazon PPC agency will take care of your ads' keywords, strategies, and layout to ensure they instantly catch attention, create a lasting impression, and drive sales out of potential buyers.  

Experience the Perks of Amazon PPC Outsourcing With Seller Interactive

Seller Interactive offers the complete services you need to succeed on Amazon. We provide complete account and campaign management, search engine optimization, listing optimization, and more. Our primary goal is to provide strategies and solutions to help your business reach new heights and boost your Amazon sales. Call us at 1-800-820-3746 for inquiries, and outsource your Amazon PPC ads today.

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The Only Amazon Marketing Agency Guide You Need This 2023

Putting up your own business seems like an easy thing to do. But most people only see the tip of the iceberg. They see the fruits they can get from creating their own business, but not the process of how to get there. 

One of those processes? Creating effective marketing strategies for your Amazon business.

So, why should business owners like you consult an Amazon marketing agency? What do you gain from meeting with an Amazon seller consultant? 

We answer your questions (and more) about Amazon online marketing agencies in this blog.

A Peek Into the World of Amazon Marketing Agencies

Amazon marketing agencies work with Amazon sellers to increase visibility and conversion rates to maximize their profits. Keyword research, strategic planning, product photography, listing optimization, content creation, and more are among the services they provide. 

Working with Amazon Marketing Company is the perfect way to collaborate with pros who can help boost your sales and drive profits.

Types of Amazon Marketing Service Agencies

Did you know Amazon has an average of 220.48 million monthly visitors? Amazon advertising agencies, like the ones below, are popping up to take advantage of Amazon's undeniable success. 

What are the types of Amazon digital marketing agencies and their corresponding functions?

  • Amazon Review Service Agency: Handles all reviews and encourages customers to leave positive feedback. They also mitigate negative reviews.
  • Amazon Optimization Agency: Ensures your product listings reach your targets by staying updated with algorithms and SEO practices.
  • Amazon Content Agency: Composes compelling content and descriptions that inform your target customers about the importance and benefits of buying your product.
  • Amazon Advertising Agency: Guarantees the correct execution of paid product ads to increase a seller’s success rate. The best example is through a PPC campaign
  • Amazon Branding Agency: Ensures all product listings and marketing media reflect your brand, giving it a unique identity that helps prospects remember you. Having your product branded or trademarked is your defense against hijackers.
  • Amazon Listing Agency: Creates and uploads listings optimized for success.
  • Amazon Creative Agency: Responsible for the creative side of product promotion, like photo layout, video editing, and more.
  • Full-Service Digital Agency: An all-around agency that handles all things involving advertising campaigns and brand protection. This agency helps from end-to-end and can be cheaper than agencies with specialized services.

Why Do You Need an Amazon Marketing Agency?

Growing your business entails challenges and hurdles. What if you can get help with it? Keep reading as we share eight reasons Amazon consulting experts can help you grow your business.

To Manage and Optimize Ads

Because managing and optimizing ads are time-consuming, conversing and engaging with Amazon consulting experts is vital. These consultants craft and optimize your ads through in-house technology.

An Amazon marketing agency optimizes your product listings and ads for you, so you can focus on other operations, save time on tedious tasks, and grow your business.

For Branding

Drafting logos, creating taglines, and even designing branding kits take time and effort, especially for business owners.

We can bet that your competitors study the target market, especially with how they respond with their brand and business. The ones at the top have a dedicated team of experts that do this to make sure every line, shape, color, and text deliver a branding message their target market desires. 

To be on the same level as your competitors, hire your own Amazon consulting experts. They will be your own team of experts who can help you strengthen your branding’s message and put marketing materials together that accurately represent your brand.

To Optimize Product Listings

Ranking high on search results is tough, especially for resellers or third-party (3P) sellers.

Choosing the right keywords, images, and product descriptions influence how these listings rank and convert into sales. SEO services for Amazon help increase your organic rank on Amazon and maximize the Amazon A10 algorithm. 

To Check Reviews

Negative reviews weigh more when it comes to Amazon. It’s what psychologists call the negativity bias. So when customers check other customers' reviews, they’re likely searching for that one scathing comment in the haystack of positive ones. 

The task of an Amazon marketing agency is to make sure that if a shopper ever finds a negative review, there’s a reasonable (and polite) rebuttal and a resolution for it.

To Stay Updated With Amazon’s Policies

Amazon constantly changes to improve the service quality it provides its customers. As companies work on the growth of their business, keeping up with the updates and policies may be put on the backburner.

When you work with consultants, you get ahead since you get to review updates quickly and easily. Consultants keep you in the loop and even send you a summary of the updates directly!

To Connect With Amazon Support

Customers, sellers, and resellers need help connecting and communicating with the Amazon support team for various reasons. For those who sell, the most common ones are related to orders and Seller Central account issues which impact business.

Amazon consultants help third-party sellers (3P sellers) easily reach Amazon support through their collaborative relationship with the marketplace. By easily connecting with them, agencies can make resolutions fast, mitigating any loss of business.

To Learn From Experts

One of the indirect effects of working with an Amazon marketing agency is the transfer of knowledge. Most agencies have an open communication through online channels wherein business owners can ask questions. 

A free flowing exchange like this becomes an opportunity to consult with the team freely should the owner wishes to gain marketplace insight. Apart from knowledge, sellers can also be exposed to new tools and technologies that the agency integrates to a merchant’s Amazon account.

Types of Solutions You'll Get From an Amazon Marketing Agency

Full-service amazon marketing agencies can help you get started in the digital marketing sphere. On Amazon, you have four leading solutions to make your products and brand known, while off Amazon gives you three.

Amazon Ads 

  • Sponsored Product: This type of PPC advertising is the most commonly used. It puts your products on center stage, appearing on results and product pages of customers looking for similar products. You want these potential buyers to click on your ad and buy from you instead.
  • Sponsored Brands: Contrary to the first advertising solution that shows the product itself, Sponsored Brands show minimal but highly appealing taglines, photos, and other visuals with the brand's logo. It aims to create brand awareness and an audience interested enough to click to see your complete product portfolio. In creating awareness, consistency in branding is the key.
  • Sponsored Display: This solution will make your ads appear on the Amazon platform, third-party websites, and applications. You may create ads focused on your products or materials for brand awareness. An Amazon marketing agency will assist you with setting clear goals and objectives, creating advertisements for your product or brand, and deciding what targeting goals you should have.
  • Amazon Stores: Like building a website, Amazon Stores will provide you with a unique URL for your brand, which you can publish on other platforms to lead more visitors to your store. A partner agency will provide Amazon-sponsored ads management, which includes search engine optimization, a customized Amazon store layout, and branded images. 

Website Creation and Optimization

If you already have an Amazon store, do you still need to establish a separate website? It depends on your goal as a seller. If you want to increase your brand's credibility and have more space to discuss your products and related topics, build a website. 

The step-by-step of creating a website is a bit complex for one person. We're talking about developing the site itself, content creation, site management, maintenance, and a bunch of other processes. 

A helping hand from an Amazon marketing agency with a team of in-house content writers, website designers, SEO specialists, customer support professionals, and marketers can do wonders in this area.

Off-Amazon Ads

  • Google for Retail: Another advertising solution you can use to expose your products to viewers outside Amazon is Google for Retail. Commonly called Google Ads by Amazon sellers, Google for Retail offers three main campaigns you and your partner agency can choose depending on the business goals you have set.
  • Search Campaigns: This works like Amazon's pay-per-click advertising, where you only pay when potential buyers click on your ads, visit your website, or contact you. Your ads will appear when customers search for products or information related to yours.
     
  • Smart Shopping Campaigns: Users need not search for your brand. Google has an algorithm that measures every user's search and view behavior. This will let your ads automatically appear on highly-viewed pages that offer similar products.
     
  • Shopping Campaigns With Partners: With this campaign, manufacturers and retailers can collaborate. Manufacturers can support their retailers’ advertising campaigns by allocating a budget for them. With this, both manufacturers and retailers can benefit from increased sales. 

Social Media Campaigns and Management 

Your partner Amazon marketing agency will utilize the benefits of social media marketing and marketing plans to make your brand and products known.

They can partner with social media influencers to endorse your brand and create different content for various social media platforms, among other things. This will help increase sales, brand awareness, and product advertisements.

Other Digital Marketing Efforts

  • Search Engine Optimization: SEO is all the efforts done to rank a product or service organically on Amazon’s search engine without spending on advertising. This includes keyword research and listing optimization. When done well, SEO efforts can bring significant effect on your Amazon product’s rankings, and your store’s overall rank as well.
  • Email Marketing: This digital marketing effort provides specific content to its target consumer. The content can take on the form of a newsletter, a product update, or a full blown promotion. What’s amazing about email marketing is that it serves as a medium for more digestible forms of content that can boost customer engagement.
  • Affiliate Marketing: Collaborating with social media influencers and content creators is the gist of affiliate marketing. It aims to use the popularity and “influence” of these personalities and associate them to the product a seller is advertising. In effect, they can boost a brand’s image and sales.

Should You Hire an Agency?

Though we can’t stress the importance of an Amazon agency enough, we’re sure you have numbers running through your head. We know you want to know if the benefits outweigh the expenses of hiring professionals.

To get a balanced perspective, you can look at the pros and cons of hiring an Amazon marketing agency. Read through our list below to help you decide whether or not you should work with experts given your budget.

Benefits:

  • Expert Knowledge: The main advantage of working with an Amazon marketing service agency is having people with extensive marketing knowledge. Experts who understand marketing will greatly benefit you by giving you solutions to certain issues that are beyond your scope of knowledge and expertise given your role as a seller on Amazon.
  • More Help: You pay for an entire team when you consider hiring an agency and not just a single expert. This means you have more hands on deck, allowing your company to produce more marketing materials and promote your brand more effectively, which you can't do with lacking manpower.
  • Higher Rate of Success: Marketing agencies have been shown to help boost the likelihood of an Amazon store’s success by leveraging social media to gain more customers. Experts in certain areas of Amazon collaborate with other experts such as social media managers and SEO specialists in a unified effort to achieve your business goals. This collaboration of experts within the marketing agency brings about tremendous results that sellers can see and feel in just a couple of months.

Drawbacks:

  • An Extra Expense: The common drawback is that hiring a marketing agency will cost your company more money than doing things on your own. In exchange for paying them for their services, you must also pay for PPC ad spend and any other techniques they recommend.
  • Different Points of View: One more possible drawback is that your perspective for your strategic plan may differ from that of the marketing agency. You should, of course, have the final say as their client. However, they may try to persuade you that their vision is superior, which can cause some friction and slow down the entire process.

The benefits and drawbacks above are a fair evaluation of the things an Amazon agency can bring your business when you take them on. If you still need more information to make a decision, check out an agency’s portfolio and case studies to see real results from previous clients, expressed in hard numbers.

Hire the Best Marketing Agency

Opting for an Amazon marketing agency is a significant move for a business owner. Hiring consultants means you have to allot a budget for them, and you will be using a portion of your resources for professional help. So, don’t waste your time, effort, and money—here is a checklist to help you when choosing the best Amazon agency.

  • Years of Experience in Ecommerce: You have to know how long your agency has been in the ecommerce industry, so ask for how long they’ve been in business and several tried-and-tested strategies that worked for them over the years.
  • Services Offered: Agencies must typically cover Amazon seller management and store setup services, customer/seller support services, SEO and digital marketing campaigns, content and catalog supervision, and review management.
  • Knowledge About Amazon Buy Box: It is a basic thing for agencies to work around the Buy Box that contains the "Add to List" and "Add to Cart" buttons. They must have the expertise to win this portion of Amazon through product optimization and affordable pricing.
  • Satisfied Clients: Most Amazon agencies have websites where you can see the positive reviews from their clients and their portfolio of case studies. Try to learn about the accounts they have successfully optimized.
  • Best Practices for Amazon Optimization: Not all Amazon agencies operate ethically: there are agencies that  practice black-hat strategies, including staged product or brand reviews and violations of search engines' guidelines to increase your product ranks. Remember that the results of these practices are temporary, and your account has the chance to be banned on Amazon. Steer clear of such agencies.
  • Eagerness To Learn About Your Business: A collaboration with an Amazon marketing agency starts with a consultation call. From this interaction, you can gauge the enthusiasm of the representative. A good measure of eagerness is if they ask questions about your business and offer bits of advice to give you insights on what they will do if you take them on.

Time To Make a Choice

You have everything you need to decide whether you should opt for individual specialists or partner with a full-service Amazon marketing agency. Now you must choose if you want to support your vision of growth and longevity in ecommerce.

As a takeaway, give your goals careful thought and put a number and a deadline to them if you can. If you do this, you’re already halfway to taking the leap for growth in the Amazon marketplace—the other half is talking to an Amazon marketing agency representative so you can hash out a concrete strategy to reach your goals. This is how an Amazon business grows.

If you want to learn more about Amazon marketing services, read "Mastering Ad Essentials With Amazon Marketing Services".

Call us now at 1-800-820-3746 and let’s map out the Amazon growth you’ve always dreamed of.

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Amazon Suspension Lawyer: Why and When Would You Need One?

Sorry to burst your bubble but not everything can be Googled, especially regarding Amazon account suspension. You vs. Amazon will be like David vs. Goliath. Will you rely on what is on the internet to reinstate your Seller Central account? Or should you hire a competent Amazon suspension lawyer that knows how to win against the online retail giant?

Selling on Amazon doesn't have a steep learning curve. Anyone can be a seller—from a Fortune 500 company, a private label, or someone running a wholesale business. However, even a small hiccup or mishap can jeopardize your business, and no matter how small your business is, Amazon won't tolerate such mistakes. 

As much as you want to have smooth operations, if you don't commit to memorizing each word of the Amazon Services Business Solutions Agreement (ASBSA), you will soon have a suspension notification glaring at you in your inbox.

A female Amazon suspension attorney listening to a client in her office

Why Should You Hire an Amazon Suspension Attorney?

Amazon loves to send cryptic suspension letters that require some help. Sometimes, they will tell you which ASINs violated their regulations; other times, they will send a vague message that will not give a clue. Figuring out what you’ve done wrong is frustrating. It will feel like solving a jigsaw puzzle made out of a thousand tiny pieces. 

Besides spending a great deal deciphering Amazon's suspension emails, you’ll have a deadline set by Amazon. However, before you can write a well-written POA (plan of action), you’ll need to comb through every message, review, and metric in your seller account to identify the root of the problem. Imagine having not just two, but ten or more problematic products.

Amazon won't give you a chance to clarify things if you don't understand the content of the suspension email or notification. According to this article published on The Verge, the Performance team has no existing phone number where you can contact them. Instead, Amazon expects you to file an appeal immediately to save your account.

If this sounds like a hassle, US-based sellers may file an arbitration to order Amazon to have their Amazon account reinstated, but this comes with a hefty price. They’ll need to pay a fee (approximately $2500) to the American Arbitration Association. It can go higher than that, depending on the time frame or issue.

All of these things are a huge pain to handle, so know your options even before the problem occurs. Preparation is half the battle, as they say. This is why there are Amazon suspension attorneys who have mastered the so-called "Amazon law" to write your appeal.

They're not necessarily attorneys in the usual sense—they’re more like your legal defenders in the Amazon cyber state. These people are professionals who know the inside workings of the platform. They know what Amazon needs from you, and they are your best chance to recover your account.

They review every case, identify the causes of Amazon-related problems, and provide you with a detailed plan of action to recover your account and sales.

When Do You Need Amazon Suspension Help?

No matter how hard you try to follow the policies on Amazon, you may still have a few slip-ups. If you deal with a policy-related suspension by yourself, you may not do a thorough job of it; it's best to leave it to the experts. 

Here are the instances when you should seek help from Amazon lawyers.

Intellectual Property Infringement 

Even outside Amazon, infringing on someone's intellectual property can get you in legal trouble. This includes copyrights, trademarks, patents, and trade secrets. 

Copyright protects the original works of authorship. An example of a violation is copying product images from another product detail page to use for other listings. 

On the other hand, a company uses a trademark to distinguish itself from others. It could be a design, word, or symbol of a brand name or logo.

A patent protects an invention from someone who wants to make, use, or sell it. There are two types of patents in the US: Design and Utility.

Lastly, trade secrets protect information and are focused on securing confidentiality reports to avoid misappropriation. These typically apply to ecommerce platforms like Amazon.

Since external parties file Intellectual Property cases, Amazon does not interfere with the settlement of the issue. The seller in question will have to negotiate directly with the aggrieved party.

When you receive a notification regarding intellectual property claims, Amazon will give you the email address of the rights owner. You may contact the rights owner using the email address to request a retraction of their claim, and this is where you’ll need an Amazon suspension lawyer to settle things.

Patent, Trademark, or Copyright Registration

Filing for a trademark, copyright, or patent is a time-consuming process that many sellers would rather skip to be able to start selling right away. However, skipping the process also means you cannot join Amazon Brand Registry, a program that protects your brand from black hat sellers.

Amazon highly recommends consulting a lawyer first regarding intellectual property matters. Even before searching for wholesale products to sell on Amazon, you should seek legal advice from an Amazon suspension expert to avoid intellectual property issues like trademark infringement in the future.

Moreover, you can work with an Amazon seller lawyer to formulate a game plan on what to do if you face fraudulent Amazon sellers. 

Counterfeits

In social media, expectation vs. reality posts are among the funniest memes, especially regarding items bought online. These are online buyers' "horror" stories where they share their disappointments regarding products they have bought, especially when receiving something completely different from what was offered initially. As a seller, these bogus claims can hurt your business.

A counterfeit is an accusation that the product sold was not the product that was marketed. Counterfeit items are products that mislead customers because of dishonest specifications, details, or product descriptions provided in the listings.

For instance, if you claim that your items are 100% authentic or of a particular brand, and the customer finds out that it isn’t, it can be grounds for suspension; the customer has the right to file a complaint with Amazon.

Aside from authenticity issues, it could also be about the product or service's composition, material, or general quality. With the help of an Amazon suspension lawyer, you will become more aware and cautious of your claims regarding your products.

No poisonous and flammable items sign

Selling Illegal Products

You may be so eager to know how to find wholesale products to sell on Amazon that you fail to check if you are authorized to sell them or not. Amazon has zero tolerance for such products in its marketplace. They even have brand protection programs against illegal sales, like Amazon Brand Registry and Amazon Project Zero.

It may not be your fault but the fault of your chosen supplier or distributor. No matter whose fault it is, your business will be affected since the unauthorized product was bought from your store, and Amazon will suspend you once they find out. This could mean removing your listings offering the product, or in some cases, suspension.

Amazon Suspensions That Don’t Require Legal Help

There are types of suspensions that only need a solid POA to get your Amazon account reinstated and don't require legal advice, as follows.

Creation of Multiple Accounts

Amazon doesn't allow the creation of an unlimited number of related accounts. This is why you should keep credit card numbers and IP addresses private from others, especially those planning to open Amazon Seller accounts of their own. Additionally, making another new account while suspended falls under this category.

Account Name Issues

You may have spent a lot of time deciding on the name to use in the marketplace. Just when you’ve finally singled out the perfect name, boom! A suspension notice. In these situations, the platform may have associated the name you want with sanctioned or banned accounts in the past. 

Amazon Policy Violations

Intentionally or not, you may have violated one or more of the platform’s countless policies written in their seller code of conduct. Most of the time, it’s related to review policies. Going against these policies will definitely get your Amazon seller account suspended. 

However, you won’t need Amazon seller lawyers to get you out of your dilemma. Simply admit you’ve violated their policies in your POA and you’ll be good to go!

In Closing

Remember that Amazon isn't a villain. The massive online retailer wants to run a just and fair platform where everyone has an equal opportunity to sell. Thus, there are numerous selling policies and the Seller Code of Conduct that every seller must understand and abide by. 

But, with all the rules and regulations, you’ll hit a rough patch sooner or later. When this happens, let a competent Amazon seller attorney help you.

As a caveat, while an Amazon suspension expert can get you out of trouble, it doesn't mean you should be careless. Remember that a suspension can tarnish your performance, reputation, and image in the marketplace. On the contrary, you must treat this article as a friendly warning to prevent your own Amazon seller account from being suspended in the first place.

Are you facing a legal battle and are in dire need of an Amazon suspension attorney? Seller Interactive has a team of experienced Amazon suspension experts willing to help you reinstate an Amazon-suspended account. Book a call with our professionals today at 1-800-820-3746.

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Elevate Your Product Listings with Amazon Mobile Optimization

Many sellers love seeing their Amazon listings on a desktop screen due to ease of navigation and larger screen real estate. You might share this preference. But have you tried visiting your listings on a mobile device? It’s worth considering, as the transformative impact of Amazon mobile optimization can’t be underestimated.

If your listings don’t make a good impression on the millions of mobile users, it’s time to up your game. Sure, desktops and laptops are invaluable, but tapping into the potential of mobile devices can truly strengthen your brand identity. Otherwise, you risk missing out on a remarkable surge in mobile commerce or m-commerce.

By embracing mobile listing optimization, your product listings can captivate and engage a vast mobile audience, paving the way for success in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Let’s explore the impact of mobile optimization on your product listing and break free from the limitations of the desktop experience.

Buy now and Add to Cart button on mobile screen

Why Is a Mobile-First Listing Important?

It may seem useless to switch all your listings into a mobile-friendly format. But the truth is, adopting a mobile-first approach is far from a waste of time. It’s highly crucial for the following reasons:

#1: The Rise of Mobile Usage

Insider Intelligence predicts m-commerce sales to reach $534.18 billion in 2024. This substantial figure reflects the growing number of online shoppers who favor the convenience of mobile shopping, as it allows them to save valuable time.

With such a significant market share attributed to mobile usage, it becomes apparent that neglecting mobile optimization is a missed opportunity. Amazon sellers must start positioning themselves to capitalize on this lucrative market segment.

#2: A Drop in Desktop Users

The number of desktop users is witnessing a steady decline, and this shift is not confined to any particular demographic or industry. It’s a widespread trend across various segments of society. From tech-savvy millennials to busy professionals and even older generations, mobile phones have seamlessly integrated into everyday life.

We’re not implying that desktops and computers have become irrelevant now. They still do, but this decreasing trend in user behavior emphasizes that it’s no longer sufficient to focus solely on desktop optimization. You must also prioritize mobile optimization to meet your target audience's changing needs and preferences.

#3: Product Ranking on Search Engine

Search engine algorithms, including Amazon, place a high value on mobile-friendly listings when determining search rankings. Through optimization for mobile devices, you enhance your visibility in search results. Search engines recognize and reward the user-friendly experience you provide to mobile users.

Improved visibility in search results translates into higher organic traffic to your product listings. It increases the chances of attracting the attention of potential customers who are actively searching for products like yours. 

#4: Abandonment Issues

As more users rely on their mobile devices for online activities, their expectations for seamless and intuitive mobile experiences continue to rise. Frustration sets in when mobile shoppers encounter non-optimized websites or product listings that are difficult to navigate, slow to load, or display poorly on their screens.

This setback often results in higher bounce rates, where users quickly leave the site or listing without taking the desired action, such as purchasing. The inconvenience and dissatisfaction can also deter users from engaging further. Hence, the need for mobile optimization.

Hierarchy of Content for Stellar Mobile Product Listings

Responsive design, or desktop design, necessitates technical and web expertise. You must know how to modify CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) scripts to achieve the desired format and keep compatibility across different devices. You also need back-end access to Amazon’s website to implement and optimize the design for users. 

A mobile-first approach is more appropriate at this point. So, let us stick with the mobile-first design strategy. But first, it’s essential to understand the hierarchy of content presentation on mobile listings. Take note of this to decide which areas need improvement. 

https://www.slideshare.net/Outgive/seller-interactive-the-anatomy-of-a-winning-mobile-product-listing-on-amazonpdf

Amazon Mobile Optimization: 8 Amazon SEO Tips for a Mobile-Friendly Product Detail Page

Now that you have identified the critical areas of Amazon listings, the next step is to ensure that every element is optimized to cater to mobile users' browsing habits and preferences.

Here are Amazon SEO tips you may apply to create a superior mobile-optimized store experience for potential customers.

Tip 1: Optimize Titles

Amazon only displays the first 80 characters of the title. This limited space requires you to create a descriptive title that captures the essence of your product while inserting your primary keyword. So, how will you make the most out of it?

  • Avoid using special characters. Stick to alphanumeric characters to maintain a clean and professional appearance.
  • Conduct thorough keyword research to identify your product category's most relevant and high-performing keywords. Use these keywords strategically within the limited character count to optimize your title for search visibility and customer appeal.
  • Product titles should also be persuasive, so better write a title that customers can easily understand. You may use the template below.

Brand + Keyword + Benefit + Feature

With these factors in mind, you can enhance your product’s discoverability, grab customers’ attention, and ultimately boost online sales on Amazon.

Tip 2: Enhance the Images

Make your product image visually captivating and clickable. Aim to evoke an emotional response that resonates with potential buyers to make your product more relatable. Remember: images are the second element buyers encounter in your listing, so you must maximize their impact.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvkidxg4N-Y

Tip 3: Utilize A+ Content

Enhanced Brand Content, now known as A+ content, is a valuable feature Amazon offers. It allows sellers to enhance their product listings with additional visual elements such as comparison charts, high-definition videos, FAQs, and more.

To access A+ content, an Amazon seller must sign up for the Amazon Brand Registry. This registration process lets you tell your brand's story and communicate how your product can address your customers' pain points.

How will you make your A+ content more informative?

  • Use the Standard Text Modules: Provides detailed product descriptions, highlights key features, and explains the benefits of your product. 
  • Product Description Text Modules: Delves deeper into the specific product features, including technical details, usage instructions, and other relevant information.

The text must be concise. If you want to use hero images, make the text big, bold, and readable. 

Tip 4: Polish Your Product Description

Unlike on the desktop, the description appears before the bullets. It would be better to put equal effort into improving both elements.

  • Your description’s first 200 characters must be informative and catchy, as it’s only first shown on mobile. The rest of the description is only revealed when the buyer clicks the “Show More” or “See More” buttons.
  • Make each character count by highlighting the unique selling points that make you stand out from your competitors. 
  • Mention the answers to your customer’s most pressing questions in the Q & A section.

Use this chance to point up your brand’s narrative in the platform and convince buyers to choose your product over others.

Tip 5: Improve the Bullet Points

On listings for mobile view, only the first three bullets are shown. This is why you should mention only your product’s most essential benefits.

  • Each bullet point and the entire listing content must be scannable. Some people only like to skim and not read. 
  • Create an emotional impact that can draw buyers to your listing and compel them to click the “Buy Now” button.

These will make it easier for many customers to quickly grasp your product’s value.

Tip 6: Provide Product Information

You list your product's Technical Information and Additional Information in this part. It is a straightforward approach to showcase the most important information about your product without elaborating on each item.

All the information from this section will also help sell complicated and technical products such as gadgets or appliances. It offers a detailed categorization of what your product is about.

A team of three people shooting a product video

Tip 7: Create Amazon Video Content

Most customers shop when they can see and understand a product in action. That's why incorporating video content into your Amazon mobile product listing is a powerful strategy to connect with your target audience and build identity.

Examples of video shorts are how-tos, instructional, unboxing, or lifestyle concepts. Don't just blabber about the fantastic features of your product. Instead, consider customers' questions and address them, especially when comparing your product to your competitor's.

Tip 8: Manage Customer Reviews

Unfortunately, only the first three reviews can be shown on mobile. Amazon curates these reviews based on their helpfulness and recency. If the buyer wishes to view more, they have to click a button to do so.

If you think it’s a hassle, this is where effective Amazon optimization services can help. You can manage your reviews, especially the negative evaluations. And did you know that your comments are not displayed on mobile?

Yup, mobile users can’t read your rebuttal against negative reviews. What is the way around this limitation? It’s simple. 

  • Use the product listing's Q & A section, product information, bullets, and description. From there, you can offer detailed explanations, address concerns, and show the positive aspects of your product, even without direct address to negative feedback.

Make Your Listing Mobile-First with Seller Interactive

We hope that this post convinced you to implement a mobile-first design strategy. If you are at a loss, try hiring a third-party company that offers top-notch Amazon optimization services. Rest assured, optimizing your product listing for mobile can boost conversions, increase product discoverability, and enhance the overall customer experience.

Do you want a mobile-first listing that delivers results? Seller Interactive offers a first-rate Amazon listing optimization service! Our team of experienced consultants is willing to help you in this intricate ecommerce platform, from account management to SEO.

Book a discovery call today.

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How to Contact Amazon Seller Support to Appeal Your Account’s Suspension

Let’s cut to the chase: you won't find any Amazon contact number seller support anywhere on the web, not even in the deepest recesses of the internet. It is not posted on the Amazon Services Central Forum or any Amazon website. 

But what if you need to settle an Amazon Seller Account suspension? How will you reach out to Amazon?

Amazon has no longer offered the public a dedicated Seller Support contact number. Instead, they've set up a systematic approach for their troubled sellers to be able to reach out to them. This article will tell you how to communicate with Amazon customer service when resolving an issue—such as appealing for your account’s suspension.

A woman trying to contact amazon seller support via mobile phone

8 Ways to Contact Amazon Seller Support

If you’re looking for Amazon’s contact details for seller support, then you’re probably one of the sellers below:

  • You want to know the ins and outs of the Amazon marketplace.
  • You have questions regarding new and updated policies.
  • You've got an Amazon Seller Account suspension notification and want your account to be reinstated.
  • You want to cancel an underperforming product listing.
  • You want someone to walk you through Amazon's complicated registration process.
  • You need an Amazon Seller Support representative to help mediate conflict between you and your customer.

No matter your reason, you should be familiar with Amazon Seller Support's contact details, as follows:

Amazon Official Emails:

For Intellectual Property Rights Disputes:

For Copyright Infringement Issues:

Seller Performance Team Emails by Marketplace:

For Payment-Related Problems:

For Product Quality Issues:

To Report Fake Phone Calls, Emails, or Webpages:

To Send an SOS to the CEO:

How to Contact Support via Amazon Seller Central

Here are the steps:

1. Log in to your Amazon Seller Central account.

2. Click Help at the upper right corner, or scroll down and click Get Support.

3. If you can't find your question or issue in the choices under Recommended For You, scroll down until you see Need More Help? And click the Get Support button.

4. You will be redirected to a page where you can click the appropriate option for you:

  • Selling on Amazon — if you have questions/issues related to selling and listings.
  • Advertising and Stores — if you have questions/issues regarding sponsored products, brands, and stores.

5. After choosing the right option, you will be directed to a more detailed page containing a list of common questions as hyperlinks.

6. Click the question that is closely related to your issue. Otherwise, click Other Issues.

7. You will go to a page where you will need to describe your question or issue in detail. Then you will have the option to contact Seller Support via email, phone, or chat.

A smiling young Amazon seller central account support specialist

18 Tips to Write an Appeal Effectively

  1. Check and solve any pending issues you have before writing a plan of action.
  2. Write a detailed Amazon suspension appeal letter with a plan of action before the deadline.
  3. Be apologetic, sincere, clear, and persuasive when writing your appeal letter.
  4. Don't blame Amazon or the buyer.
  5. Take responsibility for the mistake, even if it is not your fault.
  6. Avoid sending follow-up emails or asking about the status of your appeal or case.
  7. Ensure that all your products comply with Amazon's policies to avoid being suspended again.
  8. Don't forge or alter the supporting documents that you will attach to the email.
  9. Point out each issue or question you have separately to make sure Amazon Seller Central Support representatives understand each of your concerns clearly. 
  10. Avoid sending questions or issues in bulk because it will only make the waiting time longer since your case needs to be solved by different departments.
  11. Be specific, direct to the point, and detailed with your explanations, whether it's a direct email or via Seller Central.
  12. Use proper grammar and sentence structure. Don't use flowery words and write your sentences comprehensively.
  13. Mention the solutions you've tried so far so you won't waste time getting suggestions you have already tried.
  14. List down all your issues before contacting the Seller Support team to avoid forgetting them, especially when you are in the middle of a conversation on the phone.
  15. Deliver the email to the right department to prevent it from getting lost in the sea of emails.
  16. Remember that Amazon will call you and not the other way around. Ensure your line is open at all times.
  17. The phone number must match the one you've registered on your Seller Central account. Amazon will check the phone number from your records; they will ignore your case if it is a different number.
  18. Before a phone call, prepare your Seller Account details and billing information because the representative might ask you about these for verification purposes. Plus, a pen and paper for note-taking.

Not Getting a Response? Here’s How to Get One—According to an Expert

Getting past the system to reach a dedicated associate who would personally attend to your case takes time and a few strategic moves. One better way to handle this is to direct to an Amazon reinstatement service.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuWoYLQz6fE

Here’s Likitha Sira, one of the account managers at Seller Interactive. Her extensive experience working for Amazon has made her the go-to person for seller’s accounts or product-related cases. Here’s a summary of Likitha’s advice on how to effectively present a case to Amazon via email that will get a response.

  • Voice out how you feel about the issue; use words like frustration or disappointment.
  • Supply all necessary details throughout your correspondence.
  • Provide screenshots to emphasize and prove your point.
  • If the associate requests information already supplied in your previous email, reply by asking them to specify it.
  • Write your subject line in all caps to catch their attention.

Conclusion

Use the solutions above if you need to reach Amazon. Remember to be patient since Amazon customer support reps deal with hundreds or thousands of issues daily. Choose a suitable contact method to get a successful response to your every question.

It can be frustrating for any seller when there’s no direct way to contact Amazon, especially if you want your account to be reinstated from suspension immediately. Worry no more because Seller Interactive has a team of experienced consultants willing to help reinstate your account. 

Contact us today.

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What is an Amazon Buyer Protection Plan?

As a business owner selling and marketing on one of the biggest ecommerce websites, you'd want to protect your brand reputation as much as possible. This includes giving your buyers an extra layer of security and peace of mind about the products they buy using some sort of protection program.

Enter the Amazon Buyer Protection Plan

This program offers buyers warranty protection for the products they purchase. It makes your brand more appealing, boosting your sales, profits, and reputation.

However, as with any business venture, selling on Amazon comes with risks, even with protection plans in place. 

We'll help you familiarize yourself with these programs and determine the best way to protect your brand.

What is a Protection Plan on Amazon?

An Amazon protection plan is a product insurance service provided by companies like SquareTrade, Assurant, or Asurion. Buyers can return a product for repair or reimburse it to get a brand-new item.

Typically, buyers can get the protection plan either at the time of purchasing the item or within the initial 30 days. They must also fill out an online form and submit claims for approval.

Does Protection Plan Cover Shipping Costs?

Yes. All three companies mentioned say they cover the shipping costs of the products. That said, things may differ depending on the item or type of plan, so asking before purchasing is always recommended.

Amazon Protection Plan vs. Brand Protection

You might come across two terms that seem similar but are different: Amazon Protection Plan and Amazon Brand Protection. They may have similar goals (protecting your brand), but understanding their differences helps you choose the best solution for your needs.

Amazon Protection Plan offers buyers a warranty for the products they purchase.

Amazon Brand Protection offers sellers protection from hijackers and counterfeits.

How Does the Amazon Protection Plan Affect Amazon Sellers?

While Amazon Protection Plans are intended for buyers, they will still affect sellers, directly affecting their sales and reputation. Here's how.

Pros

Earn Customer Trust

On the positive side, most buyers will trust your brand because they feel confident in a protected purchase.

Boost Sales and Brand Reputation

Ensuring your potential buyers' protection naturally increases sales, profits, and a positive brand reputation. These qualities can all bring a significant change in your overall business goals.

Cons

Starts Only When the Manufacturer's Warranty Expires

Meanwhile, a protection plan from Amazon can be a disadvantage because it may not begin until the manufacturer's warranty ends. This means there's an unprotected period, exposing the buyer to potential extra fees and frustration.

Costs More

The Amazon protection plan work is conducted by 3P providers, which may cost more because Amazon pays them for the insurance services. Absorbing the cost of product mounting repair and replacement product within the plan's coverage is another reason.

May Result in Suspensions and Negative Feedback

Sellers are required to comply with Amazon's policies on protection plans. This ensures that you're working with approved providers. Failure to do so may trigger an Amazon account suspension, downgrade in sales, or negative customer feedback. Sellers are also responsible for ensuring that the provider fulfills their duties.

The Verdict

Overall, Amazon protection plans benefit both the seller and buyer. But it's also crucial to carefully look at the potential risks and prevent them from ruining the plan.

What Else Can You Do to Protect Your Brand on Amazon?

There's always a counterfeiter or hijacker waiting to disrupt your listing and make you lose any potential buyers. Not only that, if buyers think these hijackers or counterfeiters are legitimate resellers of your products, you won't have control over the quality of what they sell. This could affect the buyer's impression of your overall brand.

Thankfully, there are ways you can protect your brand on Amazon aside from a protection plan.

You can choose whether to take matters into your own hands or hire someone to manage it for you. Whichever choice you make, it's ideal to do what you can to protect your brand and listing.

1. Hire an Amazon consultant

Amazon consultants are well-versed in Amazon's policies and procedures, and they'll be able to help you navigate your way through the system. If you're looking to protect your brand but don't know where to start, Amazon consultants are your best option.

They'll provide you with an Amazon brand protection solution through different methods, with one of them being the Full Account Management Service.

When you entrust your account to these consultants, they're sure to keep your seller profile healthy. You can get more traffic, optimize your listings, avoid any issues with your account, and provide good customer service to your buyers.

2. Take advantage of the “Buy Box”

When there are multiple vendors selling the same product, there's competition for the buyer's attention and a range of prices available. If you're selling your product and you always have the buy box advantage on your side, your listing will get more recognition and generate sales.

3. Apply for Brand Registry

If you are the owner of a brand, you can protect it by enrolling in Amazon's Brand Registry program. Once you register your brand, Amazon recognizes you as the legitimate owner. Whatever details and descriptions you input for your product will serve as the original description for it.

While this doesn't help eliminate other sellers from hijacking your listing they can't make any changes regarding your product's description and details. This means that all your enrolled products will only show the descriptions you created, even if you're not the one selling them.

4. Message Unauthorized Resellers

One way to scare off unauthorized resellers is by sending them a message asking them to take down their listing of your product. You can politely ask them to take it down, but if you want a more efficient way of doing so, you can send a message that appears to come from a lawyer. When legal matters are involved, these unauthorized resellers are sure to take your message seriously.

Takeaways

Protecting your brand is crucial to the success of your business. 

With a platform like Amazon, your brand and potential buyers are vulnerable to product damages, counterfeiters, and hijackers in the marketplace. 

Some steps you can take are listed in this article, but if you want to do all of them without having to spend so much time, hire an Amazon consultant to do it for you instead. Contact us today for your Amazon Marketplace Solution!

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How To Find The Right Amazon FBA Wholesale Suppliers

The wholesale business is a lucrative venture if done right. One of the ways to keep it profitable is through the wholesale model of Amazon. If you want to be an established and stable seller in the Amazon marketplace, start as a wholesale seller with Amazon FBA to fulfill your orders. 

However, one of the challenges in this type of business is finding Amazon FBA wholesale suppliers. There are plenty of suppliers, but how can you be sure that you've sourced the right one? 

In this article, we will learn about a good wholesale supplier's traits and how to find suppliers to jumpstart your wholesale business. 

How Can You Replenish Your Inventory?

You have two options, either retail arbitrage or wholesale. In retail arbitrage, you will buy low-cost products from brick-and-mortar retailers, then resell these items on Amazon at a slightly higher price. Since you are buying from a retail store, you can't purchase as many products as you want. 

On the other hand, the wholesale business model lets you purchase bulk orders for huge discounts. You can resell these products as individual units on Amazon. Moreover, finding wholesale suppliers lets you browse their catalogs to find additional profitable products you can buy in large quantities. 

Given that they came from the manufacturer, you don't have to worry about replenishing your stock repeatedly.

Amazon FBA business + selling wholesale products seems a promising e-commerce venture. The tricky part is to find wholesale suppliers that are legitimate and reputable.

Sourcing Wholesale Suppliers For Amazon FBA Sellers

Let's look at the ways how to source Amazon wholesale suppliers below:

Google

If you're looking for a supplier for your Amazon business, Google can be a great resource. Start by searching for the products you're interested in selling, along with keywords like "wholesale" or "supplier." 

This should give you a list of potential suppliers to investigate further. Take the time to read through their websites, reviews, and pricing information to get a sense of their reliability and suitability for your business. 

You can reach out to other Amazon wholesalers in your network to get recommendations for trusted suppliers. Ultimately, finding the right supplier is key to the success of your Amazon wholesale business, so research and evaluate your options carefully.

Industry Trade Publications

Your newly found Google tricks would be helpful from here on. Subscribe to every magazine that targets wholesale distributors in your industry. 

The easiest way to do this is to search for the publication's website. Once you find it, try to subscribe to their online newsletter and blogs.

Trade Shows

Trade shows are the gathering of buyers and sellers from different industries in one place. You can stay updated with industry news and connect with big brands or suppliers. 

Usually, wholesalers present their products at stalls or exhibitions; hence, you can check them out. Attending these kinds of events opens you up to various opportunities, such as meeting like-minded people and networking. 

No more setting an appointment and waiting for weeks because you're already meeting them in person. A face-to-face discussion is much better than cold-emailing them. You're also talking with the original resource person, thus eliminating false information you might get on the web.

making deals with wholesale supplier

Private Label Manufacturers

These are third-party manufacturers who produce their customers' products. Private label manufacturers are like outsourcing companies, so don't be confused if you stumble upon a private label manufacturer who is also the actual wholesaler.

Wholesale Directories 

Another way of finding trustworthy suppliers is through online wholesale directories. The most popular is Worldwide Brands and SaleHoo.Worldwide Brands has more than 16 million products on its database. They have contact details of suppliers from different industries across the globe. Their list is updated weekly, and you must pay a one-time fee to get in. It also has a "scam protection" feature that veers you away from fraudsters.

On the other hand, SaleHoo maintains more than 2.5 million products. They have this "supplier review system" and no minimum order quantities (MOQ). You can also connect with more than 8,000 leading wholesale suppliers. You can choose between an annual fee or a lifetime fee to start sourcing.

Here are other wholesale directory suppliers you may want to try:

  • Liquidation
  • Big Lots
  • Esources
  • The Wholesaler
  • Price Master
  • The Wholesale Forums
  • Tuesday Morning

Online B2B Wholesale E-commerce Websites

B2B wholesale websites behave like Amazon, but its customers are online retailers and wholesale sellers that want to purchase products in bulk. You don't have to initiate contact with suppliers because it is an online marketplace, and you can buy directly from them. Examples are Alibaba, DHgate, Amazon Business, eWorldTrade, and Global Sources. Here's a list of the best wholesale websites out there if you want to know more.

8 Things To Consider To Find The Best Amazon FBA Wholesale Supplier

Look for a Reliable Supplier That Has a Good Reputation

Usually, a wholesale supplier that works with Amazon sellers and those who work for manufacturers or brands are more reliable. Why? Aside from having better communication and diligence, they know the common problems and mistakes in their industry because of their experience. This allows them to avoid those errors, increasing your chance of success.

For example, suppose you're selling insulated tumblers and already have your design. Your manufacturer might suggest changing some components or packaging to make your products more cost-effective or high-quality. 

They can also recommend some upgrades or what they think will make your products stand out from those sold in the current market—all of these thanks to their experience with the same products!

Consider How the Supplier Measures up Against Your Requirements

List down the quantities of what you think are the best wholesale suppliers for your business that will meet your specifications. 

Which color options do they offer? Do they do direct shipping, and how long does it take? What are their payment terms and their quality control procedures? These things will help narrow down your options, so choose wisely.

You shouldn't alter your product standards to what your supplier can only give you. If you've encountered this situation, it'd be better to consider a different supplier than settle for the next best one available. 

Always Ask Questions to Your Prospective Supplier Before Making a Deal

Remember, you're not just buying goods from your manufacturer. You are also entering into a long-term working relationship, so it's essential to ask about the things that will affect your ecommerce business, like their storage capabilities and where the supplies will come from. 

Make sure you understand what they can offer and note any hidden fees or charges before your closeout deals. 

In line with this, large wholesale suppliers for Amazon sellers' suppliers should have an agreement or contract. This sets down clear terms and makes everything easier, especially when problems arise so everyone knows where they stand from the start!

Compare Prices Between Different Suppliers to Find the Best Deals

Since most wholesale Amazon sellers suppliers will offer you the same products, it's crucial to find out about their pricing or offers of bulk discounts. This is so you know who can get the lowest possible wholesale prices. It's also vital that you pay your supplier promptly if business is good.

It is best to foster a good working relationship with your supplier so you can get competitive prices or negotiate with them to lower the minimum order quantity. This is helpful if you're working on a tight budget. 

Never underestimate how a good working relationship can affect your relationship with your suppliers!

bulk purchases inside a cart on a keyboard

Ask for References From Other E-commerce Sellers Who Have Worked With the Supplier Before

One of the best ways to find out if you have reliable suppliers is to ask other online sellers that employ their services. Ask questions about wholesale pricing, if they have quality products, and their delivery lead time to ensure that you have a consistent supply chain for your business.

Reading reviews about a manufacturer is very helpful, especially if it's your first time sourcing supplies from them. A huge chunk of your business lies in how well your supplier performs and delivers their work, so ensure you screen them thoroughly before signing a deal with them!

Check if the Manufacturer or Supplier Is Certified and Licensed

Before doing any deal, always check that your supplier is registered and has all the licenses required by law to operate because this shows that they are legit. Sometimes looking into their history and background would help, because it's best to be safe than sorry. 

You should also check if your supplier is insured. This will protect you and the supplier from liability should something happen while handling goods or exchanging information/financial transactions between the two parties.

Get a Sample of the Product Before Placing an Order With Them

You can never be too careful when looking for suppliers. It's best to get a product sample before placing an order. This ensures that both parties are on the same page since they will only have to dispatch goods once you're fully satisfied with what you've seen.

This way, you can avoid complications. You're not only dealing with substandard inventory if these are produced incorrectly; you're also left with lost time and money.

They Communicate Well

A wholesale supplier that communicates well usually means they are more organized. This results in a better supply chain flow which means faster deliveries and higher productivity for your business. 

Good communication also reduces the chances of errors happening in your orders. Your supplier should be up to date with changes in trends, styles, and colors. This ensures maximum profitable product appearance appeal when it finally reaches your Amazon customers.

Final Thoughts

One of the factors in building a successful Amazon business is finding the right supplier. This is how you will replenish stock and provide your customers with high-quality products, which you will source from your chosen supplier. 

An effective Amazon FBA wholesale can also help you scale your business because it saves time, money, and effort in fulfilling orders. In this way, you can concentrate on your business's core functions and stay on top of the competition.
If you decide to make a wholesale account today, have a solid team with you. At Seller Interactive, we take pride in our team of Amazon experts who can help manage your business and maintain a good profit margin. Book a call with us and start your wholesale selling journey today!

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How to Create a Suspension POA for Amazon FBA Shipping Plan Issues

Amazon's ambition to be the Earth's most customer-centric company knows no bounds. Its policies almost always favor its buyers. The anti-counterfeiting policy, customer product review policy, customer returns policy—the list goes on.

Hence, you must at least know how to write an Amazon Suspension Plan of Action (POA), especially when you've missed out on “surprise” changes and updates regarding their policies.

One of these sudden policy changes affected Amazon sellers and their FBA inventory and shipment in late 2020. What aspects are included in Amazon shipment plans in the first place, and what shipment issues must every seller avoid to prevent their account from being suspended?

Let’s revisit the Amazon FBA shipment fiasco in 2020 and learn how Amazon sellers like you can deal with suspension scares without breaking a sweat.

Shipping FBA Inventories to Amazon

The FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) model allows sellers to ship their products to Amazon’s fulfillment centers and let the ecommerce giant manage inventory, handle packaging and customer shipping, and even process item returns on their behalf.

Besides setting up the FBA account and creating product listings, all Amazon asks from interested sellers is to prepare and ship the products to their fulfillment centers on time. 

You must package your items securely, print the necessary shipping labels, and create a sound Amazon FBA shipment plan to ensure your products arrive at fulfillment centers without a hitch.

A shipment plan is a set of instructions detailing how you will ship your products to fulfillment centers. In it, you must specify your product details, quantity, packing type, and the shipping service (freight forwarder or courier) you will use for shipping.

Inventory Set-up

After selecting which items are needed, you must define how much each product will go through shipping.

Place your desired amount in the Units box. You might have to perform actions in other sections of the page, such as the Information Required tab (asking for details about your product) and the Removal Required tab (asking you to remove the items listed in this section).

Product Preparation

The next step is to prepare the product for shipment. You can pack your products yourself or let Amazon pack them by signing up for the FBA prep service. Like inventory placement service fees, the FBA prep service works with a per-item fee.

Note that Amazon can only prepare products with a single UPC or EAN corresponding to an ASIN in their catalog. Ensure that the items are securely packed and follow Amazon’s packaging requirements even if you avail of their prep service.

Product Labeling

Shipping inventory can’t go smoothly without the proper labels. Barcode labels allow sellers to track the product throughout the shipping process. Hence, every item must have a label. 

Like product shipment prep, you can print box labels yourself or let Amazon handle the product labeling on your behalf with FBA Label Service. Ensure that these labels are uncovered and scannable.

Shipment Plan Review

Once their products are packed and labeled in the shipping box, sellers must review the shipment plan’s information on the Review Shipments page and ensure the details are correct. 

The page will display a list of shipment names, their respective shipment IDs, and their fulfillment center destinations. Once satisfied, sellers can click on the Approve shipment button to approve the shipment plan.

Preparing for Shipments

After reviewing your shipment details, you can input your shipping method and mode, specify your carrier, identify the number of total shipping boxes, and schedule and pay for the shipment next. 

You can send a small parcel delivery (SPD) or a less-than-truckload (LTL) shipment for the shipping method. Meanwhile, you can choose air, ocean, or land transportation for your shipping mode.

Possible Amazon FBA Shipping Plan Issues

While it may seem simple enough, encountering several issues related to FBA shipment is inevitable. Here are some FBA shipping mistakes that you may commit, unintentionally or otherwise. Some of these can be harmless, but others can cause an account suspension.

  • Putting incorrect barcode labels
  • Covered or obscured packaging labels
  • Inputting the wrong shipping address
  • Deleting shipments from the approved list
  • Shipping ineligible items, such as alcoholic beverages, gift cards, damaged items, etc.
  • Not paying your shipping costs
  • Not following the schedule you’ve set for shipment

The 2020 Amazon FBA Shipment Mishap

On September 2, 2020, Amazon released a policy wherein they will suspend the selling privileges of a seller account if they fail to go through with exact scheduling details on their Amazon FBA shipping plan. 

Unfortunately, the policy was effective on August 25, 2020, which makes the notice nine days late. This scenario shows you can be caught off-guard, which results in an untimely Amazon account suspension.

Here is the complete statement from Amazon Seller Central forums:

Amazon announcing their shipping policy change via Amazon Seller Central Forums

How did sellers react to this new policy?

Several sellers complained that they couldn't meet this requirement since some don't communicate directly with their shipping company. Worse, the courier doesn't update them about their shipments' status.

One argued that it is illogical that sellers should be responsible for this since they don't have control over the entire shipping process, something a designated shipping company does. Another Amazon seller suggested penalizing carriers instead of them.

In situations like these, you can't adapt and adjust quickly because several factors are involved. 

The entire supply chain was shaken because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay-at-home and social distancing policies were enforced to prevent the spread of the virus. Some carriers needed to limit their staff to avoid crowding their workplace, thus, slowing their operations.

Also, earlier in 2020, sellers had to cope with other recent changes in Amazon's policies connected with the coronavirus outbreak, like the suspension of inbound shipment to the Amazon fulfillment center for non-essential products in March 2020. 

And, in July 2020, the quantity limit rule they imposed on all categories was decreased to make more room inside their FBA warehouses for the holiday rush orders.

Writing an Amazon Suspension Plan of Action (POA)

Because of these sudden policy changes, it’s no surprise that many Amazon sellers got in a pickle and had their accounts suspended during that brief period. 

If you experience something similar, you must send an Amazon appeal letter to reinstate your suspended Amazon seller central account. You need to compose an Amazon POA that has three sections:

  • The root cause(s) of the suspension.
  • The temporary solutions you have taken to resolve the problem.
  • The steps you will implement to prevent it from happening in the future.

Should you act right away the moment you receive the dreaded suspension notification? We suggest not acting in haste but taking a moment to pause and reflect to analyze the issue. Also, Amazon will give you 14-17 days to send an appeal, so don't rush things.

This is why sometimes it is better to seek an Amazon suspension appeal service offered by a third-party company. Emotions will not drive them; they can look at the situation objectively. They also have years of experience deciphering Amazon's vague responses in their suspension emails.

Here is a sample template of a POA:

Sample template of an Amazon Suspension Plan of Action (POA)

Ensure your POA is short, concise, and in an easy-to-read format. Don't be too detailed and too wordy. Use bullet points, not numbers. More importantly, never blame your customers and take responsibility for the mistake, even if it wasn't your fault to begin with.

Bonus: What does Amazon want you to do?

As we read the replies in the Seller Central forum, one seller commented that perhaps this is Amazon's way of urging a third-party seller account to use Amazon-partnered carriers and only applies to LTL and FTL shipments. 

These are only assumptions, though, and need clarification from Amazon first.

But if you are keen to opt for Amazon-partnered carriers and think it benefits your business, you might consider including this in your Amazon Suspension Plan of Action.

Seller Interactive’s Amazon Appeal Service

Amazon’s detailed FBA shipment plan creation can help sellers go through the entire shipping process smoothly. However, your account may face suspension scares due to unavoidable or unexpected events, like human error or sudden policy changes.

In that case, writing a solid suspension POA is a must. However, don't hesitate to ask for help if you doubt your writing skills. Remember that you have a steep chance of getting reinstated, so there is no room for mistakes. You can use an Amazon appeal service to help you get back your Amazon seller account. 

Do you have a hard time writing an Amazon suspension plan of action? Seller Interactive has a team of Amazon suspension experts willing to help you get your Amazon account reinstated in no time. 

Book a call today, and let us help you get your account back!

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Amazon Brand Guidelines You Must Know To Avoid Getting Penalized

Amazon has been helping sellers worldwide for more than two decades now. The platform allows retailers to use their online marketplace to sell their products and automatically gives them access to its enormous customer base. An Amazon seller can even place Amazon's logo or trademarks on their advertisements as long as they comply with Amazon brand guidelines.

Amazon PPC optimization is not just about adjusting bids and using high-converting keywords. You must also enhance the appearance of your ads, like the CTAs, colors, images, and logos. One foolproof way to attract more customers is placing an Amazon brand logo on your PPC campaign. However, you can't do it on a whim.

This article will discuss some of the brand guidelines you must keep in mind to avoid being penalized and where you can use their logo for your Amazon PPC marketing campaigns.

Understanding Amazon Brand Guidelines

"You may not use any Amazon logos or other Amazon trademarks, other than the Badge, in your online or offline marketing materials (including product listings on Amazon websites) unless you have written permission from Amazon."

-Amazon.com

We got you there, right? You almost lost hope at the "You may not use any Amazon logos or other Amazon trademarks..." But as you continue reading, the rest puts that smile back on your face.

So, what is the lesson here? Read and understand Amazon's rules and guidelines from top to bottom and front to back. Otherwise, you may miss an opportunity to put an Amazon logo on your ad or get penalized because you're unaware of their terms of service.

Now, let us go back to the quote above. It is not just a quote but one of the hundreds of rules the platform has laid out for Amazon sellers. It states that you must have written permission from Amazon before using logos, trademarks, or any other brand elements. 

You must also follow the guidelines below.

  1. Call-to-Action (CTA) and Messaging

As a review, a call-to-action or CTA is a short phrase in an advertisement that tells customers what action to take after they click on a PPC ad. For example, an Amazon PPC marketing ad with "Add to Cart" as its CTA should direct the customer to a View Cart page.

Overall, the recommended CTAs in the brand guidelines on Amazon are as follows:

Shopping CTAs

  • Shop now at Amazon.com 
  • Shop now
  • Pre-order now
  • Clip coupon
  • Add to Cart

Interaction CTAs

  • Learn more
  • See more
  • Watch now
  • Expand ad
  • Close

Amazon-Branded Text Links

Meanwhile, here are allowed Amazon-branded text links:

  • Learn more
  • See details
  • Watch now

If you're planning to use an Amazon-branded text link, follow these standards:

  • Font and Size: For small ads, it should be Frutiger 57 Condensed, in size 11.5. On the other hand, large ads should be set to Frutiger 67 Condensed at 14 point. 
  • Length: The phrase should not exceed 30 characters and on a single line only.
  • Color: You can use any color with the following conditions:
  • CTA elements like arrows, text, and underlines should have the same base color.
  • The CTA complements the promotional graphic.
  • The CTA stands out from the Amazon PPC marketing ad.
  • Graphical Styling: There should be one pixel of clear space on either side of each descender.
  • Special Offers and Discounts aren't allowed in the text link, such as "save $1" or "10% off."

Amazon-Branded Buttons

You may also use Amazon-branded button CTAs when text links aren't visible enough. These include "Add to Cart," "Add to Wish List," "Shop Now," and "Clip Coupon." But you can only use these on ecommerce ads, and they should be displayed based on the brand guidelines of Amazon. 

This is because Amazon's brand buttons are an essential part of the shopping experience on the platform.

2. Amazon Capitalization and Punctuation

The word "Amazon" should be in the title case (all capitals or lowercase not allowed).

AllowedNot Allowed
Shop Now at Amazon.com Shop now at AMAZON.COM
Shop now at amazon.com
Shop now at AMAZON.com

3. Amazon Brand Phrases

Amazon uses a variety of gimmicks on its platform to encourage customers to make a purchase. You may also use these proprietary phrases and terms, but they require Amazon's permission first:

  • Gold Box
  • Deal of the Day
  • Super Saver Shipping
  • 1-Click
  • Seller Central
  • Wish List (or Wishlist)
  • Today's Deals
  • Subscribe & Save
  • Kindle
  • Amazon Mom
  • Look Inside the Book
  • Similar phrases (e.g., "One Click Install")

But when one of these terms is used in a blog post, you don't need Amazon's approval.

  1. Colors

If your Amazon PPC marketing campaign has similar colors to Amazon's brand colors, it must be slightly different from the Amazon.com page to make it stand out. For your reference, here are the specific Amazon brand colors:

amazon brand colors

Source: Screengrab from Amazon.com

Additionally, you can't use both in any graphical treatment if you aim to imitate the Amazon brand.

  1. Logos and Imagery

You cannot mistake that signature orange smile. And the way it connects the letters "A" and "Z"? Brilliant. This is why Amazon fights tooth and nail to guard its precious logo. They also set standards on how it must look in a co-branded campaign, as follows.

Size

The logo should be no smaller than 1" wide for print, or 72 pixels on the screen.

Clear Space

It is the space around the logo, and it is based on the logo's bold letter 'o.' It looks like this:

amazon brand logo with full width of "o" on both sides of the horizontal space and a half height of "o" on the vertical space

Source: Screengrab from Amazon.com

Colors

Amazon's corporate colors are Black and Amazon Orange. When the logo uses one color only, a black or white smile is permitted—never gray.

from left to right: amazon letters in white and the smile in amazon orange against black background and white amazon letters and smile in black background

Source: Screengrab from Amazon.com

You should not alter the appearance or proportion of the logo. Use the guidelines below:

  • Don't use unapproved colors.
  • Don't outline the logo.
  • Don't modify or recreate the provided artwork.
  • Don't insert the logo in a sentence.
  • Don't layer other content on the top or below the logo.
  • Don't use the logo without the smile.
  • Don't place the logo on a patterned background.
  • Don't place a drop shadow behind the logo.
amazon corporate colors

Source: Screengrab from Amazon.com

Additionally, you must seek approval from the Amazon brand team if you want to use only the logo's arrow or smile.

  1. Product Imagery

Amazon brand guidelines also include the rules when selecting a photo for your PPC ads:

  • You must own the rights to all the imagery used in your Amazon PPC marketing ads.
  • Product imagery should not be sourced from Google or any other search engine site.
  • Product imagery must be related to the offered product or promotion.
  • Seek approval first before using any advertisement imagery.

You may use the guidelines above as a part of your weekly Amazon PPC optimization. It may not improve your Amazon CPC (cost per click) right away, but adding an Amazon brand logo can be a magnet for clicks and conversions.

Where To Place Amazon Logo or Trademarks

We've established that you must secure written approval from Amazon before using its official brand elements like logos, CTAs, colors, and more. But where can you use them? This is where the concept of co-branding enters the picture.

In co-branding, you can add an Amazon brand logo or any branding elements in your PPC ad. But here's the catch: you can only use it off Amazon. You’re not allowed to use the logo on Amazon. Why? Customers might mistake it as a product offering of Amazon itself. It also misrepresents the Amazon logo, deceiving and misleading consumers.

The Amazon advertising products you can use outside its marketplace are Sponsored Display ads and Amazon DSP (Demand-Side Platform).

In Closing

You don't need to be an Amazon PPC expert to understand why the number one online marketplace is adamant about protecting its intellectual property. They even have detailed brand guidelines that you must know like the back of your hand. 

It is not only for the sake of lowering your Amazon CPC. Following their guidelines is crucial to keep being an Amazon seller. Otherwise, all your hard work will go down the drain.
If you want to understand more about Amazon brand guidelines, Seller Interactive has experienced Amazon PPC experts willing to help you with your Amazon PPC concerns. Contact us today.

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5 Ways To Manage Amazon FBA Shipments To Avoid Account Suspension

Amazon sellers should understand the importance of maintaining a healthy seller account to ensure the success of their business. However, managing Amazon FBA shipments can be challenging, especially with the risk of account suspension hanging over their heads.

Knowing the factors contributing to account suspensions related to FBA shipments is crucial. By familiarizing yourself with these risks and taking proactive measures, you can sidestep potential pitfalls and maintain a strong seller performance on the platform.

In this article, we will discuss five practical ways that you can implement to efficiently manage your Amazon FBA shipments and avoid potential account suspension. With these insights, you can confidently navigate the Amazon FBA program and build a thriving business.

a list of the 5 ways to manage Amazon FBA shipments to avoid account suspension
  1. Prepare the Amazon FBA Shipment To Be Sent to Fulfillment Centers

To sell products on Amazon FBA, you must first prepare your inventory for shipping to an Amazon Fulfillment Center. This process involves careful planning, organization, and attention to detail to ensure your products are received and processed efficiently. Here are some tips to help you prepare your inventory.

Check Product Condition

To avoid any problems (and even account suspension), before sending your Amazon FBA shipment to an Amazon Fulfillment Center, ensure your products are in good condition. Carefully inspect each item for defects, damages, or discrepancies that might lead to customer complaints or returns.

Product packaging and labeling requirements should adhere to Amazon guidelines to help you maintain a healthy seller account and avoid mishaps like suspensions or additional fees.

Print Shipping Labels Correctly

Correctly labeling your products is crucial for a smooth shipping process to Amazon Fulfillment Centers. Here's how to do it right:

Shipping Labels including Amazon barcode, box labels, and case-packed products

Remember, correctly labeling your products and ensuring your products meet Amazon's packaging and dunnage guidelines helps Amazon process your FBA inventory efficiently and reduces the risk of errors or delays. Adherence to Amazon's shipping policies also contributes to a positive customer experience and can help you avoid account suspension.

  1. Manage Amazon FBA Inventory Efficiently

Managing Amazon FBA inventory can be challenging, especially for Amazon sellers with many products. Keeping track of stock levels, sales, and shipping is vital to avoid running out of stock or overspending on storage fees. To manage your inventory efficiently, check out these suggestions.

Optimize Inventory Levels

Effective inventory management is crucial to prevent account suspension on Amazon FBA. You should monitor your inventory regularly to ensure you have enough stock to fulfill orders without causing excess inventory at Amazon's Fulfillment Centers.

Track product demand and sales to calculate the optimal stock level to maintain at the FBA warehouses. Establishing solid supplier relationships is essential to ensure you receive quality products consistently and on time.

Process Orders Within the Deadline

Shipping goods and products to Amazon Fulfillment Centers within the specified deadlines is crucial for maintaining a good seller account status. 

To avoid delays in shipment processing, create an accurate shipment plan in your Amazon Seller Central account. This plan should include shipping method, carrier fees, and box dimensions. 

If you're unsure about shipping costs or need help with the process, consider hiring a good freight forwarder to facilitate the shipping process.

  1. Ship to Amazon FBA Warehouse Using the Best Carriers

When shipping products to an FBA warehouse, choosing a reliable carrier to get your goods there promptly and cost-effectively is important. Keep a close eye on the aspects we'll discuss below to ensure a smooth and successful experience with Amazon FBA.

Compare Shipping Carriers To Manage Shipping Costs

When preparing your Amazon FBA shipment, it's essential to research and compare various shipping carriers to find the best fit for your needs. Factors to consider include shipping costs, estimated carrier fees, and the shipping process. Analyzing these aspects will help avoid unexpected additional fulfillment fees and delays on your Amazon FBA business getting your inventory to Amazon's Fulfillment Centers.

an infographic that shows the details to compare when checking different carriers

Test Shipping Accuracy

The success of your Amazon seller account and FBA inventory depends on shipping accuracy to an Amazon warehouse. Therefore, it's crucial to test the accuracy of your shipment plan and process to avoid fulfillment errors and potential account suspension.

an infographic that shows the details to compare when checking different carriers
  1. Use Amazon’s Built-In Tools on Your Seller Account

Amazon provides built-in tools for managing your Amazon FBA shipments and avoiding potential account suspensions. These tools can help optimize your inventory management, streamline the shipping process, and improve your overall performance as an Amazon seller. By effectively leveraging these tools, you'll reduce the likelihood of running into any account issues related to FBA shipments.

Use Amazon’s Inventory Management Tool

The Amazon Seller Central platform offers an Inventory Management Tool to help you manage your FBA inventory efficiently. WIth this tool, you can monitor stock levels, update listings, and set reorder points to ensure your inventory arrives at Amazon's Fulfillment Centers on time and in the right quantities. Additionally, this tool helps you avoid storage fees and minimize excess inventory by optimizing your stock levels in line with customer demand.

To find this tool, navigate to the “Manage Inventory” page in your Seller Central account where you can view your current stock levels, make updates, and set reorder points. Optimizing this page can help you maintain a healthy balance of inventory that aligns with your sales projections.

Use Amazon’s Shipment Creation Wizard

Amazon’s Shipment Creation Wizard simplifies the shipping process by guiding you in creating your FBA shipments step-by-step. This tool helps you in creating shipment plans, and determines how many units and boxes to print labels for.

When using the Shipment Creation Wizard, several factors are automatically calculated for you, such as estimated carrier fees, box dimensions, and shipping costs. This will help you accurately estimate FBA shipping expenses, and choose the appropriate shipping method and carrier for your products.

Use Analytics and Monitoring Tools To Improve Performance

Proactively monitoring your Amazon FBA performance and analyzing relevant metrics are crucial in avoiding account suspensions and improving your overall business. Amazon Seller Central offers analytics and monitoring tools to help you make informed decisions about your FBA shipments.

For example, you can analyze your sales data and customer reviews to identify trends and areas for improvement, allowing you to make necessary adjustments to your shipping strategy. Additionally, you can monitor your shipping performance and catch potential issues before they escalate, such as delays or discrepancies in inventory.

  1. Leverage Third-Party Services for Amazon FBA Success

When managing your Amazon FBA shipments, leveraging partnerships with third-party services is the key to maintaining smooth operations and avoiding account suspensions.

This section will discuss three types of third-party services that can help you streamline your Amazon FBA business: FBA prep services, warehouse and logistics providers, and Amazon account management Consultancies.

an image showing the Third-Party Services for Amazon shipment including FBA Prep Services, Warehouse and Logistics Providers, and Amazon Account Management Agencies

FBA Prep Services

FBA prep services are designed to help you prepare your products according to Amazon’s packaging and labeling requirements. Some benefits of using FBA prep services include the following:

  • Ensures compliance with Amazon's requirements;
  • Reduces the risk of account suspension due to non-compliant packaging;
  • Streamlines your shipping process; and
  • Minimizes shipping errors that could lead to customer dissatisfaction.

When selecting an FBA prep service, research their reputation, reliability, and pricing to ensure they are a good fit for your business.

Warehouse and Logistics Providers

Outsourcing your warehousing and logistics needs to a third-party provider can significantly simplify your Amazon FBA shipping process. These providers handle product storage, inventory management, and shipping on your behalf, ensuring that your products are securely stored and shipped to Amazon's Fulfillment Centers on time. In your search for a partner provider, look for these services:

  • Amazon FBA-specific services;
  • Amazon Seller Central account integration;
  • Real-time inventory tracking; and
  • Reliable shipping methods and carrier partnerships.

Utilizing a reputable FBA warehouse and logistics provider can optimize your supply chain, reduce shipping costs, and alleviate the stress of managing this aspect of your business internally.

Amazon Account Management Agencies

Amazon account management consultants provide expert advice and assistance in managing your Amazon seller account. Their in-depth knowledge of Amazon's policies and requirements helps prevent account suspensions and other issues that can arise from non-compliance. An Amazon account management consultancy can offer valuable guidance on the following:

  • Navigating Amazon Seller Central and managing your account effectively;
  • Creating a shipment plan to optimize your FBA inventory;
  • Identifying and mitigating risks associated with shipping to Amazon Fulfillment Centers; and
  • Proactively addressing account issues before they lead to suspension.

Investing in Amazon account management consultancy services can be an intelligent decision for your business, as they ensure you remain compliant with Amazon's regulations to maintain a healthy seller account.

Ship to Amazon FBA with Seller Interactive

Managing Amazon FBA shipments can be challenging, but the effort and hard work will be worth it to avoid account suspension. Following the tips we shared above can ease your work and worries about getting suspended.

To achieve hassle-free and cost-effective FBA shipments, consider partnering with us at Seller Interactive. Our services include full account management which includes understanding the complexities of shipping, inventory management, and compliance. 

Call us and Elevate your Amazon FBA experience and avoid potential account suspensions today!

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How to Make Your First $1,000 Amazon Wholesale FBA Earning

Are you ready to embark on a journey into the world of Amazon wholesale FBA earning? If you've ever dreamed of making your first $1,000 through this lucrative venture, you're in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps, strategies, and insights to kickstart your Amazon wholesale FBA business. From sourcing products to optimizing your listings, we've got you covered.

Dive into the full guide now and pave your way to success!

What is Amazon Wholesale?

Buying 'wholesale' means purchasing products in bulk from a manufacturer at a wholesale price, which is a price that is typically lower than a product's market value—as a wholesaler, selling the products on Amazon to gain profit. 

Under this model, you can be the only seller offering the product, or there can be many Amazon sellers. However, selling wholesale products is different from other online business models. Under this business model, Amazon sellers can expect high-profit margins for their wares, making it a win-win for both wholesale suppliers and niche Amazon sellers.

Selling wholesale on Amazon, in a nutshell, involves the following steps:

infographic - selling wholesale on amazon

Difference Between Wholesale and Other Business Models

Wholesale is just one business model among many different business models frequently used in e-commerce and retail. Here are some of them and the critical differences between them and wholesale.

Wholesale vs. Retail Arbitrage

One of the most significant differences between wholesale and retail arbitrage models is the number of purchases. In a retail arbitrage, sellers purchase products from retail sites at a discounted price, while wholesalers buy in bulk instead of purchasing items individually or in small batches. 

Also, wholesalers negotiate the rates, whereas resellers (arbitrage) purchase discounted products. 

Retail arbitrage can take significantly longer than wholesale, since sourcing inventory involves taking time to search for online retailers or physical retail stores offering their desired items at discounted prices.

On the other hand, wholesale suppliers are also usually the product's manufacturers. So buying items at wholesale becomes significantly easier since all an aspiring retailer has to do is contact the manufacturer and negotiate a wholesale price.

Wholesale vs. Private Label

Wholesalers purchase existing branded products, whereas private label sellers create their own branded products. With a wholesale model, you can easily sell your products since you are selling a product from a known brand. 

However, a private label seller has to grow a customer base. Aside from marketing the products, a private label seller has to work with a manufacturer to develop, modify, and improve the product before launching it. 

The main difference between wholesale and private label sellers lies in the brand. Wholesale suppliers own the product brand you're looking for and are possibly responsible for its popularity; private label products only manufacture similar products of a different brand (your brand, possibly).

Wholesale vs. Dropshipping

Dropshipping is an e-commerce business model that allows sellers to sell products without having them as physical inventory. Once a customer buys the item, the seller contacts the manufacturer to ship the product to the customer on their behalf, removing the physical and financial hassle of personal inventory management.

On the other hand, wholesale requires business owners to take charge of their storage, inventory management, and order fulfillment.

What are the Pros and Cons of An Amazon Wholesale Business?

Before you try out an Amazon FBA business, you need to weigh the pros and cons of using this successful business model. So, let's look at the pros and cons to help you decide if you want to sell wholesale.

Pros of Amazon Wholesale

Negotiable Prices

A huge advantage wholesale has over retail arbitrage or other business models is that the prices are flexible, provided you can negotiate a better price. Great prices for wholesale acquisitions are key to creating flexible profit margins for your business.

Ease Of Supply

Unlike retail arbitrage or the typical flip, the wholesale business model revolves around its manufacturers—they set the price and make the product. For aspiring retailers, that's two birds down with one stone.

With wholesale, retailers won't have to scrounge discount stores for bang-for-buck bargains to restock their inventory. All they need to do is call, and the manufacturers will deliver.

You Sell The Brand

A wholesale business is usually confident retailers will buy their wares in bulk because they've already sold the brand—what customers typically buy more than the product itself. Their main competitors are private label sellers who offer to sell the same products as a certain brand except with the labels of a client's company, if not their own.

Going for established brands will always be more effective than to start selling products similar to that brand. The main brand already has an existing customer base which guarantees a market for the seller and, in turn, sales.

Scalable Growth

Starting a retail business is easy to grow because it's dependent on sales, and the more stock you have available, the more you can sell. Scalable growth becomes achievable because all that must be done is buying more inventory and selling them as soon as possible.

Less Risk Due To Authenticity

As previously mentioned, established brands are usually the ones that put out their products for wholesale business. In doing so, many Amazon sellers avoid the risk of suspension by becoming authorized resellers for a particular brand.

Wholesale Supplier Potential

When done properly, one sale can factor into multiple deals in the future, making it essential to establish a healthy relationship with customers. Who knows, maybe they'll even make you their supplier—a huge boost for your business's steady income.

Highly Profitable

Many sellers consider an Amazon wholesale business a highly profitable venture, provided you sell all of your inventory at appropriate intervals. Selling wholesale ensures each Amazon seller profits from healthy profit margins—a win-win for everyone, including the supplier.

forklift operator in a modern warehouse

Photo by Akashroy6417 on Wikimedia Commons

Cons of Amazon Wholesale

Needs High Capital To Start Selling

One of the first and most obvious cons of Amazon wholesale is the capital it requires in the beginning. Since you'll be selling items in bulk, producing or purchasing the needed inventory must be en masse as well to keep costs down. 

Regardless, starting a wholesale business is expensive, with rewards only to be expected when you've built a steady network of customer demand.

Lots of Competition

Despite the promise of wholesale business, competition can be staggering for any business, especially when exposed to the sharks of Amazon business. Competition is fierce in the e-commerce marketplace, which makes it doubly hard to make a sale.

Brand Restrictions

Even if they're authorized suppliers, Amazon sellers still encounter issues with the Amazon brand registry, which can lead to account suspension. This is due to the serious presence of counterfeit products in the marketplace. Amazon sellers can easily challenge this by presenting official receipts of their inventory's sale to Amazon customer service.

Steps to Start Your Wholesale Business

After understanding the pros and cons of a wholesale business, you can now decide whether or not to pursue this business model. To give you an idea of how to start, here are some steps to follow. 

Choose the Right Product

We mentioned earlier that choosing the wrong product can have a disastrous effect on your business. Hence, you need to conduct thorough product research.

To pick a product, ensure that the product is not sold by Amazon or a private label business. A private label blocks sellers from offering similar products. What you should do is look for established brands and follow their lead. 

Some product sourcing tips that you can follow are the following: 

Go to Trade Shows

Trade shows allow you to have face-to-face conversations with brand owners and learn about the products that might sell on Amazon. Plus, you can learn much about what these brands care about, their experiences selling on Amazon, and what you can offer them as a seller. 

You can pitch them why they should make you an exclusive seller. If you can successfully present your ideas to the brand owners, they might just say yes and give you the reigns to market their product.

Trade shows allow you to get to know the vision of different brands and products with big potential on Amazon. 

Look at Best-Selling Products on Amazon

Aside from trade shows, you can check Amazon for the best-selling products. You can find inspiration from the bestseller list and find possible products for your store. Remember to avoid picking products sold by Amazon because they can negotiate a better price. Hence, it will be hard for you to compete against Amazon's price. 

Research Brand Websites 

Search the internet for different brands that aren't on Amazon. List their contact details and set up a meeting with them. This allows you to look for brands and get to know them, just like the trade shows. 

Calculate How Much Money You Can Make

After picking a product, check how much you can earn from selling the product. A tip you can use is to price the product within 2% of the Buy Box. Don't price it higher because it may never be displayed in the Buy Box. 

Aside from pricing, you must know the product fees you must pay. Knowing your product fees will help you determine if you are profitable since you will deduct the product fees from the sales price. 

You can also set a target or estimate for average monthly sales through a healthy profit margin. It would be helpful to use product prices and data where you can see, on average, the product's selling price and sales volume. It will help you know how much profit the product can make and help you estimate how well you can make money online.

Find Wholesale Suppliers For Amazon

Once you have picked a product, it's time to find a supplier. One easy way to look for a supplier is to look up your potential product's Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN) and use Jungle Scout's Supplier Database to find the exact manufacturer of that product. 

A number of manufacturers will be displayed, and you can choose which of them you want to contact. Afterward, reach out to a potential wholesale supplier and make a deal. Another way is to contact the brands you met during trade shows. 

Contact and Negotiate With Suppliers

When you contact the suppliers, you want to show them how you can add value to their brand as a new seller. Remember that most wholesale suppliers are big companies, so you need to bring your A-game. Be professional and respectful. Learn to be a good conversationalist and highlight the benefits of partnering with you.

 It's also a perfect opportunity for you to negotiate with them. Tell them that you can help them sell on Amazon. If they answer with a resounding "no" at first, that doesn't mean it's the end. Continue to follow up every month or so.

Purchase the Products

After negotiating a deal with the suppliers, you can now purchase the products. Since you are buying in bulk, you can negotiate for a discount. You can also try Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) to help you store, pack, and fulfill your orders. If you choose Amazon FBA, you can simply ask the manufacturer to ship your products directly to the Amazon warehouse. 

Start Selling on Amazon

Once you create an account, you can now sell on Amazon! Market your products using Amazon PPC and social media ads. Amazon is the best example of eCommerce app development. With the online marketing features in Amazon, marketing to their target audiences has never been easier for sellers.

The most successful Amazon sellers use different Amazon online marketing strategies, such as offering discounts and coupons during the launch. 

Bird's eye view of three warehouse workers huddled around a cart between shelves

Conclusion

Starting your Amazon wholesale business can be daunting. With the work that it takes to set up a secure supply chain and steady customer base, many sellers often shy away from even trying. If you want to sell more, try Seller Interactive's wholesale partnership program. We'll happily become your third-party resellers---a win-win for us both.

Our e-commerce experts at Seller Interactive are dedicated to helping you grow a successful Amazon business. 

Book a free discovery call with us today.

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