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What Is an ASIN on Amazon and Other FAQs for New Sellers

If you're new to selling on Amazon, you may have come across the term Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN) and have asked, "What is an ASIN on Amazon?" Understanding ASINs is crucial for managing your product listings effectively and ensuring potential customers can find your products easily.

This article will explore what an ASIN is, its purpose, and other frequently asked questions that can help you become a more successful Amazon seller. We will discuss how ASINs impact your listings' visibility, how to create new ASINs, and how to troubleshoot common ASIN-related issues.

What is an ASIN on Amazon?

ASIN is a unique 10-character sequence of numbers and letters assigned to products within Amazon's catalog. You can either use an existing ASIN for an already established product or create a new one for a newly launched product listing.

ASINs play a central role in Amazon's product catalog structure. They help identify products, making it easy for both Amazon and sellers to search and manage product listings. ASINs vary per marketplace. For instance, a product's ASIN on Amazon.com may not be the same as its ASIN on Amazon.co.uk.

What Are Universal Product Codes, International Standard Book Numbers, and European Article Numbers?

You will need one of the codes below when listing your products on Amazon, depending on your product type and location. This will help your products index in the catalog, making it easier for customers to find and purchase your items.

UPC/Universal Product CodeThe UPC/GTIN-12 is a 12-digit code used in the US and Canada to identify products.
ISBN/International Standard Book NumberISBN is a unique identifier used for selling books, consisting of 10 or 13 digits.
EAN/ European Article NumberEAN/GTN-13/International Article Number is a 13-digit code used globally, except in the US and Canada. An EAN code is an extension of UPC with an extra digit to identify countries.

How Do I Find My Amazon ASIN?

To locate your ASIN, visit the product detail page on Amazon's website, focus on the product details section, and look for the combination of letters and numbers labeled "ASIN." You can also check the product page’s URL and find the alphanumeric code after the letters, "dp." That's your Amazon ASIN.

You can find other seller’s product ASINs the same way as you find yours. Locating the ASIN is quite straightforward and can be done in these ways.

Check the product page URL.

an Amazon product page URL showing where to find the ASIN

Visit the product details page on Amazon's website.

the product details section of a product page which shows where the ASIN is

Can I Change and Create An ASIN for My Product?

No, ASIN is assigned by Amazon and cannot be changed. Each product on Amazon has a unique ASIN, but you can always create a new ASIN for new products you will list on Amazon.

If your product already exists in Amazon's catalog, there is no need to create a new one. Use the existing Amazon ASIN instead. This is important because having multiple ASINs for the same product can confuse buyers and negatively impact your seller account.

Why Is ASIN Important When Selling on Amazon?

Having the correct ASIN for your product ensures it will appear in relevant search results, leading to better visibility and potential sales. ASINs help establish parent-child relationships between products, adding a sense of order for brand owners and third-party sellers. It allows Amazon to index catalog pages efficiently and keep track of various product attributes such as size, color, and other critical information.

Does Every Product Need an ASIN to Be Listed on Amazon?

Yes, every product requires a unique ASIN to be listed on Amazon. Your product cannot be found or sold on the platform without it.

New Amazon sellers may either create a new ASIN for their product or use the existing one on Amazon. In cases where a product variation exists, such as different colors or sizes, each variation should have its unique ASIN. This ensures that your product details page accurately represents and differentiates the various options.

Can I List Multiple Products Under the Same ASIN?

Yes, if you are selling variations of the same product. Here,  you can use a single parent ASIN with multiple child ASINs to manage products of different colors or sizes, this is known as the parent-child ASIN relationship.

To create a parent-child relationship, you must ensure that the items you’ll list meet Amazon's product variation policy. Following these guidelines allows customers to browse and compare variations on a single product detail page, ultimately improving their shopping experience.

Remember that ASINs should not be reused or shared for different products. If you're unsure whether to create a new ASIN or use an existing one, you can always use Amazon Seller Central's "Add a Product" tool to match your product with the correct identifier in the catalog.

To make your ASIN management easier, check out how Amazon’s bulk listing tool works in this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWijP6jELTc

Are There Any Restrictions or Guidelines for ASINs?

Yes, Amazon has guidelines and policies regarding ASINs. Some of the notable guidelines you should follow are the following:

Unique Products

Each ASIN should represent a unique product listed on Amazon. ASINs must not be duplicated or used for unrelated products.

Product Variations

If you are selling variations of a single product (e.g., different colors, sizes), you should use the parent/child variation relationship. Each variation must have its unique ASIN to maintain proper catalog structure on Amazon.

Bundled Products

If you are selling a bundle that includes multiple products together, you must create a new ASIN for the bundled product. The ASIN should represent the unique bundle and not the individual products included in it.

Books

For book listings, it is recommended to use the unique ISBN as the ASIN. If the book doesn't have an ISBN, you can request a "Manufacturer Part Number" or "Mint Condition" exemption.

Collectible Products

Unique collectible items such as rare books, artwork, or antiques may require special ASIN creation. Amazon suggests contacting Seller Support to discuss such cases.

Duplicate Listings

Selling the same product as another seller does not entitle you to create a new ASIN. Instead, you should list your product against the existing ASIN. Creating duplicate listings is against Amazon's policies and may lead to account suspension.

Product Accuracy

ASIN titles, descriptions, and other product information must accurately represent the listed product. Misleading information, including misleading ASIN creation, is prohibited.

ASIN Merging

ASINs should not be merged, split, or converted without proper authorization from Amazon. This includes merging different parent/child ASIN relationships or splitting variations of a single product into separate ASINs.

Can I Use the Same ASIN for Different Marketplaces (e.g., Amazon US and Amazon UK)?

Each Amazon marketplace has its unique ASIN system, so you will need different ASINs to list your products on different marketplaces. To create a new ASIN in different marketplaces, you can use your GTIN, UPC, or EAN. This ensures that your product has a unique identifier in each marketplace.

Can I Change the Product Details Associated With an ASIN?

Yes, you can change product details associated with an ASIN on Amazon through your Seller Central account. Ensure that your changes are accurate, relevant, and comply with Amazon's policies to maintain a successful and high-quality product listing.

Sellers can update ASIN details, such as product descriptions and images to optimize listings and improve sales. Here's how:

  1. Access your Amazon Seller Central account.
  2. Choose the Inventory tab.
  3. Then, click “Manage Inventory.”
  4. Edit the product details as needed. Remember that changing certain details may affect your product's visibility, ranking, and overall performance on the Amazon marketplace.

How Can I Ensure My ASINs Are Properly Optimized for Search?

Ways to Optimize Your ASINs
  • Include relevant keywords in your product titles, descriptions, and feature bullet points.Conduct thorough market research and understand customer search behavior to identify the most effective keywords and phrases related to your product.Make use of ASIN lookup tools to gain insights into how your competitors are optimizing their listings and give you a better understanding of what works well in your market.Remember that high-quality images and informative product descriptions can also attract customers and drive sales.Provide all the necessary information in your product detail pages that a customer might need to make a purchase decision, such as product features, dimensions, and materials used.Keep an eye on your listing performance regularly and adjust accordingly based on data about customers' responses and competition.Stay proactive and responsive to changes to maintain and grow your presence on the Amazon marketplace.
  • How Can I Use ASIN Lookup Tools?

    ASIN lookup tools help you identify and manage ASINs. Some of the best Amazon ASIN lookup or reverse ASIN lookup tools are Helium10, MechantWords, SellerSprite, and Zonbase. Through these tools, you can obtain essential data such as product variations, pricing, and sales rankings that will guide you in deciding for your product catalog and inventory management.

    Partner With Seller Interactive

    Understanding ASINs is important for new sellers on Amazon. ASINs serve as unique identifiers for products within Amazon's catalog and play a significant role in managing product listings effectively. With the correct ASIN, sellers can ensure better product visibility and drive higher sales.

    Partnering with a reliable agency like Seller Interactive can help you navigate Amazon's complex ecosystem. As a professional agency, we offer comprehensive Amazon full account management services, ensuring your products are properly listed, and your ASINs are optimized for success.

    With our in-depth knowledge of the platform and expertise in Amazon's policies and procedures, we can assist in creating and managing your ASINs, helping you stay one step ahead.

    So, why wait? Contact us now for expert guidance on managing your Amazon account!

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    Learn How To Add Videos To Amazon Listings in 7 Steps

    With millions of sellers fighting to be on the first pages of the search results to grab customers' attention, standing out is more crucial than ever. If you're an experienced Amazon seller looking to scale your business, you must learn how to add videos to Amazon listings as they can be a huge game-changer.

    Videos enrich the customer experience and provide a dynamic way to showcase your products, leading to increased conversions and sales. You can elevate your Amazon business by leveraging the power of visual content and giving your customers a more interactive shopping experience.

    Let us walk you through the process of adding videos to your Amazon listings in seven straightforward steps.

    Reasons to Upload Video on Amazon

    Uploading videos to your listings offer multiple advantages: it builds credibility, educates customers, increases conversion rates, boosts your Amazon SERP ranking, and makes you stand out against competitors. Let’s get into the details below.

    Builds Credibility

    Uploading videos to your Amazon product detail page offer visual proof of product quality and functionality.  This instills consumer trust and encourages more confident purchasing decisions.

    Educates Customers

    Adding in-depth demonstrations and how-to videos to your Amazon product detail page educates customers, making it easier for them to understand the product's features and benefits.

    Increases Conversion Rate

    By engaging customers visually, clarifying product features, and reducing uncertainties that may hinder the buying decision, your Amazon product detail page can significantly increase sales and conversion rates.

    Boosts Amazon SERP Ranking

    Amazon's algorithm considers user engagement on your product page when determining product visibility. When customers are engaged, they can decide to buy much quickly. Adding videos to your Amazon product detail page can engross potential customers, giving you additional sales and boosting your SERP ranking.

    Makes You Stand Out Against Competitors

    Uploading product videos to your listings sets you apart from competitors by offering a richer, more interactive shopping experience that can sway customers in your favor.

    Now that you know the benefits of adding videos on Amazon, let’s check out the seven steps on how to upload some for your product listings.

    Step 1: Understand Amazon A+ Content and Video Guidelines

    Creating Enhanced Brand Content, now known as A+ Content, is common among Amazon sellers who want to make their listings stand out. It is a feature that allows registered brand owners to enhance their product listings using detailed and visually rich content such as enhanced images, comparison charts, and product descriptions. The feature is designed to improve customer engagement, interest, and ultimately increase sales on the Amazon platform.

    A+ Content has two types: Regular A+ Content and Premium A+ Content. If you are looking into adding video content, Premium A+ is the way to go. The additional costs you invest is worth it because of the additional features it has as compared with the Regular A+ Content.

    Regular A+ ContentPremium A+ Content
  • Can be used by brand registered Amazon sellers
  • Includes 17 standard modules

  • Enables posting of up to 5 modules per page

  • Allows 970 pixels maximum content width
  • Offered as a paid program for sellers with Amazon Vendor central account

  • Includes 17 standard and 17 interactive modules

  • Enables posting of up to 7 modules per page

  • Allows 1464 pixels maximum content width

  • Videos

  • Clickable Q and A

  • Interactive comparison charts

  • Testimonials
  • Before uploading videos to your Amazon product listings, take note of Amazon's video guidelines.

    the amazon video guidelines

    Step 2: Create High-Quality Video Content

    It is when you create high-quality, engaging content that catches customers’ attention can you drive sales. So, check out the different types of videos and the strategies below to ensure you are creating compelling videos.

    Different Types of Videos

    You will attract more customers if you add product-related video shorts on your listing that are relevant to their experiences or answer their queries about your products. To do  that, here are the types of videos you should upload.

    Product Highlights

    Creating a product highlights video for your Amazon listing can be a game-changer. This video showcases your product’s key features, benefits, and uses, offering potential customers a quick yet comprehensive understanding of your product. It enhances user engagement and builds credibility.

    Explainer Video

    Creating explainer videos like a product demonstration for your Amazon listing offers invaluable insights into how your product functions in real-world scenarios. This visual guide educates potential buyers and builds trust by transparently showcasing your product's capabilities, ultimately leading to higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction.

    Customer Testimonial and Lifestyle Video

    Incorporating a customer testimonial video into your Amazon listing adds a layer of social proof that text reviews can't match. Real customers sharing positive experiences can significantly build credibility and trust, influencing potential buyers to choose your product over competitors.

    Competitor Comparison Video

    Creating competitor comparison videos for your Amazon listing can be a strategic move. It lets you directly showcase how your product outperforms rivals in key areas, compelling potential buyers to choose your offers.

    Tips for Creating Compelling and High-Quality Videos

    Retailers, brand owners, and third-party sellers like you can be a step ahead of other sellers when you’ve top-quality videos to upload . In creating such videos, here are the steps to ensure your products stand out.

    Use a High-Quality Camera

    Using a high-quality camera is essential for creating compelling videos for your Amazon listings. Superior image quality captures all the details and offers a more professional look, enhancing the viewer's experience.

    Lighting Is Everything

    Good lighting is crucial when creating high-quality videos for your Amazon listings. Proper illumination eliminates shadows and highlights your product's key features, making the video visually appealing.

    Add On-Screen Text

    Adding captions and text content to your Amazon videos enhance viewer comprehension and accessibility. Well-placed text can emphasize key product features, while captions ensure your message reaches those who watch without sound.

    Keep It Short and Snappy

    Keeping your Amazon product videos short and snappy is essential for maintaining viewer attention. A concise, well-paced video that gets straight to the point is more likely to engage potential customers and convey key information effectively.

    Stick to the facts

    Including only factual information in your Amazon product videos is crucial for building trust and credibility. You can also ward off negative reviews because you did not share misleading or exaggerated claims just to get a sale.

    For more tips, you can check this video out:

    http://youtube.com/watch?v=Y0HDkv4tRmI

    Step 3: Log in to Seller Central

    The third step in adding a video to your listing involves logging in to your Amazon Seller Central account. Access Seller Central using your login credentials to navigate the platform where you'll upload your high-quality video to enhance your product listing.

    Step 4: Navigate to the Inventory Tab

    Once logged in, locate the Inventory tab on the main menu. This tab lets you manage all your product listings. Choose the specific product you want to optimize and look for the option to add multimedia content. You can also add new products, edit existing listings, and upload more video content.

    Step 5: Know Which Product Listing Needs a Video

    The fifth step in adding a video to Amazon listing is identifying which product would most benefit from visual enhancement. Knowing where to allocate your video resources is crucial for maximizing impact. Check out these tips on choosing the listing to enhance using videos:

    • Consider adding videos to bestselling products or need more sales. 
    • Prioritize listings where a video can provide the most value, such as complex products that benefit from visual explanations or demonstrations.
    • Add videos on items that have high competition to help your listing stand out.

    Meanwhile,  it's important to be aware that Amazon restricts the types of videos you can upload to product listings because of these reasons:

    • Videos making unsupported claims about the product, especially health-related claims, can be flagged and removed. 
    • Incorrect Amazon product tags can also lead to product video removal. 
    • Videos containing external links that direct viewers away from Amazon are not allowed and can result in penalties. 

    Always adhere to Amazon's guidelines to ensure your product video remains live and effective.

    Step 6: Upload Videos on Product Detail Page

    The sixth step involves uploading your video to the chosen Amazon product detail page. In Seller Central, navigate to the specific product listing and look for the 'Upload Video' button. During uploading, use a keyword optimized title, description, and tags using relevant keywords that can help your listing rank.

    Step 7: Upload and Manage Videos

    The final step is reviewing, publishing, and managing your product video on the Amazon product listing. After the upload, Amazon may take up to 72 hours to review the video to check for compliance with content guidelines. Check your product detail pages for the video thumbnail to confirm the successful addition. Regularly update and manage your videos to keep content fresh and relevant.

    Recap: How to Add Videos to Amazon Listings?

    To add video to Amazon listings, login to Amazon Seller Central and navigate to the Inventory tab. Select the product listing you want to enhance, then upload your video. Ensure the video meets Amazon's guidelines for format and content before publishing.

    seven steps on how to add videos to amazon listings

    Partner With Seller Interactive for Better Videos

    Product videos offer multiple advantages, from building credibility and educating online shoppers to increasing conversion rates and boosting Amazon's search results rankings. We hope this comprehensive guide outlining the seven-step process to add videos to their product listings will help you in achieving the benefits of having videos on your Amazon listing.

    Leverage the power of videos to enhance your listings and improve sales—partner with us here at Seller Interactive for Amazon listing optimization services.

    Book a call with us now to know our offers!

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    A Guide on How To Get Permission to Sell Brands on Amazon 

    Selling on Amazon has become a highly competitive landscape where countless retailers and sellers vie for customers' attention. If you are looking to sell branded products on the platform, you need to obtain permission from both Amazon and the brand to ensure a smooth and legal selling process. And so you ask yourself how to get permission to sell brands on Amazon.

    How Do I Get Permission From a Company to Sell on Amazon?

    This year, the process of acquiring permission has evolved to maintain the integrity of authentic and authorized sellers. You need to ensure you comply with Amazon's guidelines and brand requirements. Through these, you can sell confidently and enhance customer experience by providing genuine products they can trust.

    As you embark on this journey, remember that being proactive in obtaining the required approvals from both Amazon and the brand you wish to sell can make all the difference. Investing time and effort in understanding the approval process sets you up for success and offers a strong foundation for your online selling adventure. 

    So, let's dive into the guide and discover how you can navigate the Amazon marketplace with ease and confidence this year.

    Brand Owner Research and Preparation

    Researching and following Amazon guidelines give you a higher chance to gain approval and successfully sell branded products without legal or policy issues. After understanding the rules completely, look for brands you can resell or sell your own brand on the platform.

    Review Amazon’s Policy on Selling Brands

    Familiarize yourself with Amazon's policy on selling brands. The online marketplace has stringent rules to ensure that only genuine products are sold and to protect the rights of brand owners. Review these policies thoroughly and comply with them to avoid any violation that may result in penalties or suspension of your account.

    Enroll in The Amazon Brand Registry

    Amazon Brand Registry is a program designed to give sellers like you complete control over your brands, prevent counterfeits, and grant access to brand-building and marketing tools. Make sure to review the program's eligibility requirements, including having an active text-based or image-based registered trademark in the countries you want to enroll in.

    To know more about Amazon Brand Registry’s benefits, you can watch this video:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GETiSckCQ3w

    Identify Brands That Are Open for Third-Party Sellers

    Not all brands on Amazon are open to third-party sellers, as some have exclusive partnerships with Amazon or other restrictions. So, after understanding the rules, research and identify brands that welcome third-party resellers. Some brands have a list of authorized resellers on their website and will file a copyright infringement complaint against unauthorized sellers.

    Research Individual Brand Requirements and Limitations

    It's vital to research individual brand's policies and any limitations they might have, such as restrictions on selling certain products or the requirement of being a licensed dealer. This information can usually be found on the brand owner's official website or through direct communication with brand representatives.

    Be aware of the types of products that might be prohibited or have specific restrictions in Amazon's policies, such as dangerous items, human parts, tobacco-related products, warranties, collectible coins, personal safety, and unbranded products.

    To-Dos Before Selling Branded Products

    After all the research, there are some things you need to accomplish to begin selling branded products on Amazon. By carrying them out, you'll be set to obtaining permission to sell branded products on Amazon and growing your business as a trustworthy seller.

    the three things you need to do before selling branded products on Amazon

    Create a Professional Amazon Seller Account

    The first step to start selling branded products on Amazon is to register for a professional seller account. A professional account is recommended for selling branded products as it allows access to more features and tools.

    Build a Reputable Seller Profile

    Establish a strong Amazon sales history, customer ratings, and feedback to gain the trust of both brand owners and customers. Maintain a high seller feedback rating by providing excellent customer service, honest product descriptions, and prompt shipping. The higher your rating, the more likely brand owners will permit you to sell their products.

    Develop a Compelling Business Plan

    Your plan must outline a compelling strategy for selling brands on Amazon. Emphasize your expertise and commitment to maintaining brand integrity. Assure brand owners that you'll sell their products responsibly, preserve their reputation, avoid counterfeit or selling fake items, and adhere to Amazon's Brand Registry rules and guidelines.

    A well-crafted business plan should highlight how your company will add value to the brand you wish to sell through digital marketing efforts, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service. Additionally, provide details about any other e-commerce platforms or physical shops where you plan to sell genuine products.

    Apply for Brand Approval

    Before you start selling branded products on Amazon, apply for a brand approval. The process will require you to do the following:

  • Gather relevant invoices, authorization letters, or other proof of authenticity, demonstrating your right to sell those branded items.
  • Navigate and register to the Brand Registry to gain access to the tools that help protect your brand's reputation and reduce the risk of copyright infringement or counterfeit products.
  • Provide accurate information about your brand, including your brand's name, trademark registration number, and any specific industry you are operating in, such as baby products, beauty, luggage, grocery, or automotive.
  • Through these steps, you can increase your chances of getting approval to sell brands on Amazon. Eventually, you could expand your online store to other e-commerce platforms or physical shops.

    Just remember though that some categories, such as personal safety items, gourmet food and health, and collectible coins, may have additional requirements and restrictions, so understand the rules beforehand. Also, receiving approval to sell branded goods on Amazon can be more challenging if you are a reseller rather than a brand owner or licensed dealer. 

    Connecting With Brand Owners To Sell Branded Products

    Establish direct contact with brand owners or their authorized distributors by researching contact information for the owner or authorized representative. Make sure you are reaching out to credible sources.

    Once you have the relevant contact information, create a professional and convincing message that details your interest in selling their branded products on Amazon. In your message, include these:

  • Your Selling Experience
  • Your commitment to representing their brand well
  • Strategies for maintaining the brand's reputation
  • Your affiliations with other e-commerce platforms
  • Experience running a successful online store
  • Maintain open and transparent communication with the brand owner or authorized representative to increase your chances of securing permission to sell their branded products on Amazon.

    Maintain Compliance When Reselling Branded Products

    To ensure a fruitful business for you and the brands you represent, maintain compliance with Amazon regulations while selling branded products. By being a responsible brand seller, you can ensure you sell smoothly as you grow your brand and sales.

    Ensure All Product Listings Comply With Brand Policies

    Ensure your product listings accurately describe the products, use proper brand names, and include authorized images. This shows respect for the brand owner and helps maintain product integrity while avoiding copyright or trademark infringement complaints. Stay updated with brand policies and adjust your listings as they change.

    Respect Pricing Policies and Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) Requirements

    Adhering to these pricing policies ensures that you, as a third-party seller, do not undermine the brand's or its products' value. Regularly check and update your pricing in line with the brand's guidelines, and if unsure about the MAP requirements, consult the brand owner or their respective online resources.

    Regularly Monitor Your Brand Listings for Potential Unauthorized Sellers

    Be vigilant in monitoring your listings for any unauthorized sellers or counterfeit products. Third-party sellers may attempt to copy your listings, potentially tarnishing the brand's reputation or violating the brand owner's policies. By carefully monitoring your listings, you can quickly report suspicious activities to Amazon or the brand owner and protect your selling privileges.

    Report Any Infringements to Amazon Through the Brand Registry

    Enroll in Amazon's Brand Registry to better protect your reselling rights of branded products and gain access to tools that help you identify and report infringements. By actively reporting unauthorized Amazon sellers or counterfeit products, you maintain a healthy marketplace that respects brand owners' rights and promotes genuine products. 

    How To Get Permission to Sell Brands on Amazon: Partner With Seller Interactive

    Getting permission to sell brands on Amazon is crucial for the success of your online business. You must follow Amazon's policies to sell branded items without any hassle. Keep yourself informed about policy changes and take the necessary steps to comply. Constant improvement and adaptation to the changing landscape of Amazon are mandatory to increase your brand approval success rates.

    Level up your Amazon business by partnering with us at Seller Interactive. Our professional team will help you seamlessly sell branded products on Amazon, ensuring a hassle-free experience. We will support your Amazon product launch to guarantee a successful start.

    Don't wait – leverage the expertise of Seller Interactive and sky-rocket your online business. Contact us today!

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    The Amazon-Shopify Integration: How To Do It, and Why You Should

    The Amazon-Shopify integration has revolutionized the e-commerce industry, offering businesses like yours a seamless way to manage your online operations. This integration allows you to sell your products on Amazon, reaching millions of potential customers. It streamlines inventory management, order fulfillment, and analytics so you can focus on scaling your business rather than getting tangled up managing multiple platforms.

    With that, let us give you the knowledge you need about how you can integrate Amazon and Shopify, why you should, and the best practices for you to do it right. 

    Can You Combine Shopify With Amazon?

    Yes, you can integrate Shopify with Amazon using third-party apps like Codisto or by manually listing products on both platforms. This allows you to manage inventory, sales, and orders from one central dashboard, streamlining your e-commerce operations.

    How To Integrate Amazon and Shopify: Step-by-Step 

    the five steps in Amazon-Shopify Integration

    1. Set up an Amazon Seller Account

    Register on Amazon, choosing between an Individual or a Professional seller account, to ensure you meet the seller's requirements and fees.

    2. Create a Shopify Store

    Next, create your Shopify store by choosing an appropriate plan that aligns with your business size and requirements. Customize the store design and branding to create a pleasing and consistent user experience for your customers.

    3. Integrate Amazon to Shopify and Vice Versa

      Log in to your Shopify admin account.
      Click "Sales Channels" in the left-hand menu and select "Amazon."
      Then, choose the "Add channel" button to install the Amazon sales channel on Shopify.
      Click the "Connect" button on your Shopify dashboard's Amazon sales channel page.
      Sign in to your Amazon seller account.
      Grant Shopify permission to access your Amazon seller account.
      Once you have connected your Amazon account, return to the Amazon sales channel page in your Shopify dashboard.
      Click on the "Account settings" tab and enter the required information, such as your seller name, marketplace, and region.
      Set your fulfillment preferences to determine order handling on Amazon.

    4. List Products on Amazon and Add Them On Shopify

    Listing your products on Amazon involves adding product titles, descriptions, and images that are search engine-optimized for customers to find your listing. Set competitive pricing and shipping options to attract potential buyers. Make sure your product listings comply with Amazon's guidelines and requirements. After the optimization, link the listing to your Shopify account.

    5. Manage Sales, Inventory, and Fulfillment

    You can manage sales, inventory, and fulfillment efficiently by syncing inventory levels between Amazon and Shopify. This helps to keep your product stock up to date, avoiding overselling or stockouts. 

    Handling orders and customer communication is crucial for maintaining a good reputation and gaining positive reviews. By leveraging Amazon's fulfillment network, you can reach more shoppers and expand your business.

    Why You Should Integrate Amazon and Shopify

    After knowing about the steps you need to take to integrate the two stellar platforms, let's discuss the benefits of the integration. We hope these encourage you to begin the connection or assure you that you made the right decision. 

    Amazon has a vast user base and a strong reputation as a trusted marketplace, which can result in new shopper acquisition. Your Shopify store can benefit from increased visibility and exposure when listing your products on Amazon.

    Potential for Improved Sales and Revenue

    Syncing Amazon and Shopify can help you increase your sales and revenue. Amazon's massive potential buyer base, paired with Shopify's streamlined shopping experience, can result in improved sales and conversion rates. 

    Streamlined Listing and Inventory Management

    With  Shopify-Amazon integration, managing your product listings and online inventory become easier because they  will automatically sync between platforms. You can zero out manual input and prevent errors arising from inaccurate data entry. This simplification of inventory management can free up time for you to focus on other essential aspects of your business, such as matching stocks with your active inventory of product listings.

    Enhanced Order Fulfillment Options

    Integrating your Shopify store with Amazon's fulfillment network allows you to leverage the ecommerce giant’s extensive shipping infrastructure, making order processing and delivery faster and more efficient. This improved performance provides a better shopping experience for your customers, which could lead to repeat business and positive reviews.

    Make the Most of Platform Strengths for Multichannel Selling

    Multichannel selling is an essential strategy for any online retailer. The integration between Amazon and Shopify assists you in leveraging the best features of both platforms. Through it, you can provide a consistent experience for your customer base and maximize the potential of your multichannel selling efforts.

    Amazon's vast reach, along with its Amazon Prime members' perks, can help attract and retain customers. At the same time, Shopify's responsive storefront, built-in payment processing, and advanced customization options offer seamless shopping benefits.

    How to Make the Most of the Integration: Best Practices

    You now know how to connect your Amazon store to your Shopify account and the benefits you’ll reap with the integration. Now, it’s time to check out these best practices!

    the five best practices in Amazon-Shopify integration

    Optimize Catalog Listings for Amazon’s Search Algorithm

    Optimizing each product listing will help your products get better exposure on Amazon. Do not forget to do your keyword research and use them when writing compelling product descriptions. Make sure to include informative and high-quality images too.

    Use Amazon Advertising and Promotional Tools

    Leverage Amazon's Sponsored Ads, targeted promotions, and other advertising tools to amplify your Amazon listing and Shopify store's visibility.

    Monitor Sales Performance and Customer Reviews

    Keep track of your sales performance, customer reviews, and other key performance indicators (KPIs) on Amazon and Shopify platforms to make informed decisions to improve your business strategy.

    Regularly Update Inventory and Stock Levels

    To maintain smooth operations, avoid overselling, save time, and ensure an accurate representation of your product availability, regularly update your inventory and stock levels on both Amazon and Shopify.

    Provide Exceptional Customer Service on Both Platforms

    Customer service in the ecommerce business involves answering customer questions and handing returns and refunds as swiftly and professionally as possible. Resolve any issues that may arise to build a positive reputation on both Amazon and Shopify.

    Analyze Competition

    Monitor and analyze your competition's strengths and weaknesses on both platforms to stay ahead. Learn from their strategies and create better game plans to improve your business.

    Amazon-Shopify Integration Assistance From Seller Interactive

    Integrating Amazon and Shopify is crucial in improving your online business operations. The integration process is user-friendly, and upon successful completion, it opens up new avenues for managing your inventory, processing orders, and expanding your reach.

    As mentioned, there are several potential benefits associated with integrating these two platforms. You can expect improved delivery performance, better inventory management, enhanced shopping experience for your customers, and an overall increase in sales volume.

    Given the lucrative opportunities that come with integrating Amazon and Shopify, it's time for you to consider seriously implementing this feature into your e-commerce strategy. Remember, your business will only flourish when you invest in innovative solutions that help streamline your day-to-day tasks.

    To ensure a smooth and hassle-free integration process, partner with us here at Seller Interactive for full Amazon account management. Our expertise will prove invaluable in setting up your integrated ecommerce platform.

    Contact us now to get started!

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    How to Get Ungated on Amazon: The Full Requirements & Steps

    Amazon’s customer-centric approach gives sellers like you the freedom to sell almost all types of products. While the Amazon world is your oyster, some restrictions, such as gated product categories, still accompany selling on the platform. Learning how to get ungated on Amazon can unlock many doors for your business and expand your selling potential.

    What does ungating on Amazon mean, and how do you sell products in restricted categories? Let’s unlock the answers to these questions and discover the requirements and steps to ungating product categories successfully.

    To begin, let’s give a bit of background on the matter: what are Amazon’s gated categories, and why are they restricted in the first place? 

    Understanding Amazon’s Gating Policy

    You must be eager to immediately add and list the products you want to sell on your catalog as soon as your Amazon Seller Central account is set up. However, you may notice that some products and categories have limitations and restrictions. 

    Amazon divides its product categories into gated and ungated groups. Ungated categories are those with open access, where you can list and sell products without restrictions. 

    On the other hand, a gated or restricted category means that you cannot sell products belonging to such groups unless you have the marketplace’s permission and approval. You may also need to meet certain criteria before selling such items on the platform. 

    Amazon has four primary product restrictions or gates within its system:

    • Product Category - Sellers can’t sell products from a particular category without Amazon’s approval.
    • ASINs - Amazon may restrict certain ASINs from being sold by specific sellers or in certain regions. The marketplace may request transparency codes for verification.
    • Brand - Amazon sellers must obtain permission to sell certain items from known brands before placing them in their product catalog (e.g., shoes from Nike). 
    • None of the above - These items have restrictions, but the nature of their restrictions doesn’t belong to the aforementioned categories. Rather, these products have other listing limitations, meaning you cannot sell these items on Amazon.

    In line with these discussions on Amazon’s gating policies, to be ungated means to request approval from Amazon and gain access to sell such products on the marketplace. 

    Gaining approval to sell products from restricted categories and subcategories opens doors for your business to previously inaccessible market segments. This allows you to diversify your store's offers further to reach new audiences and ultimately increase your sales and profit.

    The Complete List of Amazon Restricted Categories & Products

    Amazon has set selling restrictions on the product categories listed below, from the Fine Arts category to products from the Grocery and Gourmet Foods category. Let’s delve further into Amazon’s gating policies by learning what categories, subcategories, and products have restrictions on the platform.

    graphic of the restricted categories on Amazon

    Some categories also have special restrictions. For instance, the Toys and Games category has holiday selling guidelines and restrictions that sellers must follow during specific seasons.

    On the other hand, sellers must follow certain requirements to sell certain products under the Beauty category and the Automotive and Powersports category. Lastly, some games in the Video Games category have Sony Playstation requirements that sellers must meet before selling such items.

    Why Does Amazon Gate These Categories?

    With the number of product categories in the list above, many newbies and even established Amazon sellers may wonder why the e-commerce giant is that much of a gatekeeper. What is Amazon’s purpose and reasoning behind making these groups gated or restricted categories?

    For Customer Safety

    Amazon restricts these categories because of customer’s safety and well-being. Known for its customer-centric approach, it’s no surprise that Amazon would restrict specific product categories (like Grocery and Gourmet Foods).

    Restrictions require sellers to adhere to specific quality standards or certifications. By gating these categories, Amazon ensures that only sellers who meet these standards can list products, maintaining a certain level of product quality and effectively safeguarding their customers’ safety.

    To Avoid Fraud and Counterfeits

    Additionally, Amazon has gated categories to lessen the cases of fraud and counterfeiting and prevent unauthorized selling in the marketplace. Amazon reportedly removed almost 6 million items on its platform and spent more than 1 billion USD in 2022 alone to battle counterfeiting.

    By restricting certain categories and products, Amazon can ensure that only authentic and legitimate items are displayed and available on its platform. Through these restrictions, Amazon can also preserve the reputation of several known brands.

    Requirements for Amazon Ungating

    Before you can essentially unlock categories, you must meet several requirements Amazon sets. Because most requirements will vary depending on the category or product, thorough research on Amazon’s restriction policies on these product categories is crucial. The requirements will depend on the category you are applying to be ungated. 

    Essential Business Requirements
  • Valid Address
  • Valid Government ID of the Seller
  • Tax Information
  • Professional Seller Account
  • Proof of Authorized Relationships With Suppliers or Distributors of the Products
  • Product Requirements
  • Ten Invoices of Different Items From the Category They’re Applying For
  • Documents and Licenses Certifying Product Authenticity and Quality
  • Proof of Selling Permission From the Brand Owner
  • Product Performance Metrics
  • Order-Defect Rate
  • Return Rates
  • Late Shipment Rate
  • Customer Satisfaction Ratings
  • How Do I Ungate My Amazon Listing?

    Ungating your listings and product categories can be done through three stages: application process, submission of invoices, and brand and category approval.

    Application Process

    Request for Amazon’s permission to sell your desired product. To get approval, you must do these:

    1. Open your Amazon Seller Central account and add a product to your inventory. 
    2. Select a product from the category you wish to be ungated for. 
    3. Click "Listing limitations apply" and "Request approval." The application form will pop out.
    4. Fill out the form with the necessary information. You will also be asked to provide documentation, such as proof of your business's legal status and accurate contact information.

    Submission of Invoices

    You must submit invoices to prove the legitimacy of your supply chain and products. Ensure you have legitimate invoices from recognized suppliers or manufacturers when applying for ungating.

    Amazon may also ask for additional information, such as product images, refund policies, and information about your suppliers. Sometimes, Amazon may request that you provide three different 30-180 days invoices, so it’s best to prepare these.

    Ensure your invoices meet Amazon's requirements, such as clearly stating your company name, the supplier's name, and the invoice's issue date. Submitting well-organized and easy-to-understand documents is crucial to increase your chances of getting approval.

    Brand and Category Approval

    After submitting all required documentation and invoices, Amazon will review your application. During this stage, they'll assess your business' ability to provide high-quality products and services that align with their policies.

    If your application is successful, Amazon will grant you access to sell within the restricted brand or category, allowing you to expand your product range and increase profits. On the other hand, you will receive a notification if your application is rejected. In this case, you can make adjustments accordingly and reapply.

    Common Issues: Rejected Applications

    Of course, victory can’t be sweet without any struggles. You may encounter several challenges when they try to get ungated on Amazon, such as rejected applications. 

    Rejections can be disheartening but not uncommon when getting ungated for Amazon. Rather than feeling discouraged, understanding the reasons behind these rejections is crucial as it can teach you how to overcome them.

    Check whether or not you’ve sufficiently met Amazon’s requirements for approval. You can do so by reviewing the information you’ve placed in the application form, double-checking if your invoices are accurate and well-documented. Verify if you’ve submitted all required documents to support your application.

    If your application continues to be rejected, consult seller forums and Amazon's resources, or consider enlisting the help of an experienced ungating service provider.

    Hand Your Amazon Seller Account To Seller Interactive

    The process of unrestricting product categories on the Amazon marketplace may be challenging to some. Luckily, you can let the pros handle these sticky situations. 

    Unlock your online business' unlimited selling opportunities and potential with our full account managers here at Seller Interactive. Our Amazon selling account experts will oversee all essential account management tasks, including inventory management services and unlocking Amazon gated categories. Book a call now with our professionals and bring your Amazon business to boundless success today!

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    Choose Between Amazon FBA Wholesale vs. Private Label in 2024

    Incoming entrepreneurs and Amazon sellers like you keen on engaging with the platform often face a crucial dilemma: Amazon FBA wholesale vs. private label. Both business models have their benefits and drawbacks, and knowing which one to invest time and resources into is essential for your growth and success.

    If you plan to get into the Fulfillment By Amazon (FBA)  business this year or want a business model change, let us help you. We'll give you a rundown of the two most profitable business models you can adapt to get the most out of your venture.

    What Is the Difference Between Amazon FBA Private Label and Wholesale?

    Control. With wholesale, Amazon sellers can capitalize on established brands and scale as demand rises. The quantity sold makes up for low margins—except the brand isn’t theirs. Private label sellers have this privilege. Plus, they can produce low quantities with higher margins, giving them more control.

    The FBA Wholesale Model

    The FBA wholesale model lets wholesale sellers access Amazon's vast marketplace and streamlined fulfillment services. By partnering with FBA, they can have their products stored, packed, and shipped by Amazon, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for both them and customers.

    If you sell wholesale, you’ll source products in bulk from multiple producers or distributors and then put those products on the Amazon platform. By purchasing large quantities, you can negotiate better prices, making you more competitive. This model provides a scalable opportunity if you’re  interested in growing your wholesale business on Amazon.

    How to Establish a Wholesale Amazon FBA Business

    It can be intimidating for most sellers to establish a wholesale business, but when it comes to starting one in the Amazon marketplace, it's easier. Here are the steps you need to take.

    the steps on Establishing Amazon FBA Wholesale

    1. Legalize the Business.

    Before starting a wholesale FBA business, it is vital to ensure the business is legally set up. This includes registering the company, obtaining appropriate permits, and tax identification numbers. Establishing a legal entity helps to protect personal assets and provides credibility to potential suppliers.

    A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the ideal structure for wholesale businesses. For most states, this is an acceptable model, and it's a structure that limits financial exposure to what was invested in the entity, thereby keeping your assets safe.

    2. Do Product Research.

    To find a profitable product worthy of a wholesale model, you must research product demand, competition, and pricing within the marketplace. Use tools to gather data for informed decision-making.

    Decide on what to offer the market from the range of products you selected. Consider selecting products with consistent demand and reasonable competition to have a healthy revenue flow. A steady income is crucial in the early stages of the wholesale model.

    3. Source Suppliers for Your Chosen Product.

    After researching and finalizing the products you want to sell, you can start sourcing for suppliers and manufacturers. Expect these suppliers to have their brand. That will make them relatively easy to find because they may sell directly to showcase their branding.

    Contact manufacturers and distributors to build relationships and negotiate business terms, including order quantities and payment schedules. Use platforms like Alibaba, ThomasNet, and Global Sources to find suppliers for your chosen product. Always request samples to ensure quality and consistency before committing to large orders.

    4. Create a Listing.

    If you’re entering the Amazon marketplace for the first time, create an Amazon Seller Central account so that you can make a listing. After getting an active account, you can sign up for FBA to make your wholesale business model efficient.

    To create a listing that sells, you must do detailed listing optimization. Ensure you have keywords fit for your Amazon wholesale product through keyword research and  effective SEO. Afterward, you can include high-quality images and a detailed and informative product description that answers all the potential buyer's questions about the product.

    Employ Amazon's Brand Registry to protect the brand's intellectual property and to improve the brand's listings.

    5. Set a Price Per Unit on Your Product.

    Setting the right price is crucial for gaining traction in the FBA marketplace. Since you're outsourcing the product to the manufacturer in bulk, your cost per unit will be the price you will pay divided by the number of products you have in a particular bulk order.

    From there, you can factor in shipping fees, taxes, and Amazon storage and fulfillment fees to get the complete cost per unit. Once you have accurate information, you can decide on the profit margin you're comfortable with or use repricing tools to maintain competitive pricing.

    6. Purchase Your Inventory.

    After setting the product price and establishing supplier relationships, these are the next steps you need to do:

    1. Place an order to purchase your inventory.
    2. Coordinate with your supplier to ensure your products meet Amazon's fulfillment requirements for labeling and packaging.
    3. Track the inventory's arrival at the fulfillment center and record them accurately.

    7. Go Live.

    Once the products arrive at the fulfillment center, it's time to launch the business. Continuously monitor product listings, customer reviews, inventory levels, and sales data to manage your wholesale business well. Adjust pricing, marketing strategies, and inventory orders to stay competitive.

    You can boost your early product sales with a good SEO and PPC advertising strategy. They will help you gain traction and scale your wholesale business faster.

    An infographic about Amazon FBA wholesale pros and cons

    Benefits of Amazon FBA Wholesale

    If you're looking to get into the ecommerce game through wholesale, you must know the benefits of the business model to maximize your success on the platform. Understanding them can give you insights into what to expect when you decide to commit to this way of doing business.

    Streamlined Operations

    With FBA Wholesale, you can take advantage of Amazon's extensive fulfillment network and services. This allows you to focus more on sourcing and scaling your business while Amazon handles your  products' storage, packing, and shipping. Furthermore, since Amazon manages customer service and returns, you can spend more time finding new wholesalers and expanding your product offerings.

    Lower Initial Investment

    Entering the FBA Wholesale market only needs a relatively low investment. You do not need to create a new brand or invest in product design and manufacturing. Instead, you can source products from established wholesalers at discounted rates. You can also use existing product listings to save time.

    Established Brands

    One of the key advantages of FBA Wholesale is the ability to work with established brands, which have a built-in audience and demand. Selling well-known brands allows you to achieve quicker market penetration and build a steady stream of sales.

    Drawbacks of FBA Wholesale

    If there are benefits to selling using a wholesale business model, you must also know the drawbacks to work around them and achieve your goals.

    Limited Brand Control

    The limited brand control is a significant drawback of the FBA Wholesale model as you typically source products from established manufacturers who have already created their branding and packaging. This limitation makes it difficult for you to separate them from your competitors.

    Increased Competition

    Another downside of the FBA Wholesale model is increased seller competition. As most product offerings and brands are established, many sellers might list similar or identical products to compete for the same search results, leading to price wars and shrinking profit margins.

    The Amazon FBA Private Label Model

    The FBA Private Label Model is a strategic approach many Amazon sellers take to create and market their products under their unique brand name. This business model allows you to offer exclusive items in the marketplace, giving you a competitive edge and greater control over the product's profitability.Most private label sellers leverage FBA’s numerous advantages such as storage, packaging, shipping, and customer service, easing logistical challenges and enhancing the overall customer experience.

    How to Establish a Private Label Business

    Amazon Private Label Model offers an effective avenue for sellers to build a successful and scalable online business they can call their own. If you are passionate about developing high-quality, unique products and leveraging FBA, you can follow these steps to establish this business model.

    A list of steps on how to establish Amazon FBA private label

    1. Brainstorm Products You Want to Sell.

    Begin by brainstorming potential products that you would like to sell. Consider market needs, customer interests, and the potential for customer loyalty. Identify various niches where you can create unique value and establish your brand presence, by looking for trending products or analyzing existing market gaps.

    2. Conduct A Research.

    After having several products you want to sell, conduct thorough research to evaluate their potential in the Amazon marketplace. Analyze competitors, identify best-selling products, and assess other sellers' strategies. Browse customer reviews to discover a product's strong and weak points and ascertain success before selling private-label products.

    3. Create a Brand/Logo.

    Establish your private label brand identity by creating a unique name and designing a logo. This will separate your products from the rest and create potential for customer loyalty. As a brand owner, you must ensure the brand name is distinctive, easily pronounceable, and connects to the shoppers. It should also be appealing, with a professional design that sticks to the memory.

    4. Source Suppliers.

    Identify and source reputable suppliers to manufacture your private-label products. Search for suppliers with a track record of quality, reliability, and compliance with local regulations. Compare pricing, lead times, and upfront investment requirements to select a suitable supplier. Building strong supplier relationships is crucial for the success of your Amazon private label business.

    5. Create A Listing.

    When your products are ready, create a comprehensive Amazon listing. Ensure the listing includes high-quality product images, accurate descriptions, and competitive pricing. Optimize the listing with relevant keywords and key selling points to have it rank. Excellent product optimization draws in customers and showcases your private-label products favorably.

    6. Go Live.

    With your products sourced, branded, and listed, it's time to go live with your FBA private label business. Monitor customer feedback, sales performance, and competitor activities to make necessary adjustments to your strategy. Continuously improve your brand's presence, marketing, and customer service to grow your private label business.

    An infographic about Amazon FBA private label pros and cons

    Benefits of Amazon FBA Private Label

    Some Amazon sellers opt for a private label business model rather than wholesale as it gives them the freedom they want to cultivate their vision for a product or a business. To dig further, here are the reasons why a private label is attractive if you  want to build something.

    Brand Control and Customization

    One of the main advantages of choosing FBA Private Label is having  control over your brand and product. This allows you to create their own branding, packaging, and product design in a way that resonates with their target audience.

    Higher Profit Margins

    Opting for a private label business model lets you enjoy higher margins. Since private-label products are outsourced to manufacturers directly, sellers can negotiate better pricing and avoid middlemen. This results in lower production costs and, in turn, allows sellers to price their products with a greater profit margin.

    Niche Market Opportunities

    Focusing on FBA Private Label allows you to tap into niche markets. By researching and identifying gaps in the market, you can develop and gain a competitive advantage in a specific market segment. This strategy also aids in reducing competition and increasing product visibility, attracting highly targeted customers.

    Drawbacks of Amazon FBA Private Label

    Despite how attractive the freedom of a private label brings to sellers, it also has its limitations. In particular, if you opt for this business model, you may have some challenges in the early stages due to these drawbacks.

    Research and Development Costs

    Private labeling on Amazon involves creating a unique product or brand that can result in large spending. R&D costs can include product design, prototyping, manufacturing, and testing. This process is time-consuming and costly, especially for small businesses and entrepreneurs with limited resources.

    Sourcing Manufacturers With Quality Outputs

    In addition to the R&D costs, sourcing quality products from reliable suppliers and manufacturers is essential. Finding the right partners that will produce according to your quality standards may take time and effort. Once you find one, you'll also have to negotiate costs and establish a trusting relationship with your suppliers to ensure products are made well and on time.

    Marketing Challenges

    Marketing in the FBA private label market comes with several challenges. One such challenge is creating a brand identity that sticks. Successfully building a brand requires combining factors, such as an eye-catching logo, consistent designs, themes, and captivating product packaging and descriptions. 

    Additionally, advertising and marketing strategies are essential for promoting a private-label product. However, effectively using  advertising tools like Sponsored Products or Sponsored Brands requires a deep understanding of your target audience, budget planning, and constant performance monitoring. A poorly executed strategy wastes money.

    Wholesale vs. Private Label: What Will You Choose?

    Remember that each model has advantages and drawbacks when deciding between FBA wholesale and private label. It's important to Review our guide above and think about what works for you.

    We've laid out all the necessary information you must know to decide which model you think best suits you.  No matter your choice, starting with a wholesale or private label requires much marketing effort to achieve growth quickly.

    Our team at Seller Interactive has a way to boost your wholesale or private label business sales. With knowledge of the Amazon ecommerce business and experience in managing accounts and marketing, we can bring our expertise to the table so you can succeed, whichever model you choose. Book a call now!

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    Amazon Approval Needed? Obtain Permission for Business Growth

    Navigating  Amazon can be a complex endeavor, especially when expanding your business. One crucial aspect to pay attention to is getting permission when prompted with an "Amazon Approval Needed" message. Gaining consent from the ecommerce giant to enjoy its various programs ensures smooth and efficient purchasing and paves the way for your business to grow.

    In this article, we'll discuss eight Amazon programs where you need to apply and get approval from the platform. These programs are some of the tools worth exploring to help you maintain and boost your sales and continue growing your business.

    Why Is Amazon Telling Me “Approval Needed?”

    Amazon may require approval for certain products or services to maintain quality , protect customers, or ensure compliance with specific regulations. This process ensures that sellers like you meet certain standards before you can list or sell products, thus enhancing the overall shopping experience of customers.

    With that, here are the approval processes of the eight most essential programs that will help your business grow on Amazon.

    1. Amazon Brand Registry

    As an Amazon seller, you might have encountered instances that needed  approval  before listing  products under brands. This is where the Brand Registry plays a crucial role. Amazon Brand Registry helps brand owners protect their proprietary products. Through it, you  can skip the worry of selling alongside counterfeiters . By enrolling your brand in the Registry, 

    Benefits of Joining Amazon Brand Registry

    There are several benefits to joining the Amazon Brand Registry . Some of these include:

    • Brand protection: The Registry helps protect your brand from intellectual property violations, such as counterfeits or listings that infringe on your trademarks or copyrights.
    • Increased control: You will gain increased control over your brand's product listings, with the ability to manage content, monitor reviews, and address any potential issues your products might face.
    • Proactive measures: Amazon actively monitors and takes down listings that could harm your brand, helping maintain your reputation on the platform.
    • Additional tools: Registered sellers have access to various tools and resources that can help improve the visibility and sales of your products, such as Enhanced Brand Content and Brand Dashboard.

    To apply and qualify for the Amazon Brand Registry, follow these steps:

    Five Steps to Apply and Qualify for Amazon Brand Registry

    1. Trademark registration: Prepare your trademark registered text and image as they are proof that you are the brand owner and have legal rights to your brand.
    2. Create an Amazon Seller Account: Visit Amazon Seller Central to create a new Amazon account or log in to an existing one. 
    3. Enroll in  Brand Registry: Visit the Amazon Brand Registry enrollment page and provide the required and accurate details about your brand and trademark information.
    4. Verification: After submitting your application, Amazon will review your information and may require additional documents or verification steps. Approval waiting time may vary from a few hours to several days.

    2. Fulfillment By Amazon (FBA)

    FBA  helps  manage your inventory, shipping, and business customer service. When you sign-up for this service, you are entitled to store your products in Amazon warehouses, and have the Amazon crew  ship orders to your customers. Through FBA, you can focus on growing your business and let Amazon handle your orders.

    Benefits of Using Amazon FBA

    Here are some advantages to using Amazon FBA:

    • Access to Amazon's world-class customer service and distribution network
    • Prime eligibility for your products, making them more attractive to potential customers
    • Reduced shipping costs and prime shipping options for your customers
    • Simplified returns, as Amazon will handle customer service and return processing
    • Ability to fulfill orders from other sales channels through the Multi Channel Fulfillment (MCF) Program

    Steps to Enroll and Leverage Amazon FBA

     Five Steps to Enroll and Leverage Amazon FBA

    1. Access Amazon Seller Account: Sign up or log in to your Amazon Seller account to enroll in FBA and manage your products.
    2. List your products: Add the items you want to sell on Amazon and specify them as FBA inventory while listing.
    3. Prepare and ship your products: Package your products according to Amazon's guidelines, then send them to the designated Amazon warehouse(s).
    4. Manage your inventory: Monitor your stock levels and track sales. Restock your products as needed to ensure uninterrupted fulfillment.
    5. Optimize your listings: Enhance product listings with keywords, high-quality images, and relevant product descriptions to increase visibility and boost sales.

    3. Amazon Associates Program Approval

    The Amazon Associates Program  monetizes content creators, publishers, and bloggers for bringing traffic and sales to Amazon stores. As an Amazon business owner, it pays to know the approval process for this program as through it, you can partner with popular individuals in advertising your products.

    By using easy link-building tools provided by Amazon, associates can direct your audience to your products or store. When the associate's referred audience makes qualifying purchases, you get a sale and they  earn a commission.

    Benefits to Sellers of Using the Amazon Associates Program

    Some key benefits Amazon Associates Program brings to sellers are the following:

    • Increased exposure: By using the Amazon Associates Program, you can reach and engage  a wider audience. Affiliates promote products through their websites, blogs, and social media channels, driving traffic and potential customers to the seller's Amazon listings.
    • Cost-effective marketing: Compared to traditional advertising, the Amazon Associates Program offers a cost-effective marketing and advertising channel. You only pay a commission when a referred customer makes a purchase, reducing upfront expenses.
    • Leveraging influencer marketing: By partnering with relevant influencers with established patronage and strong credibility within specific niches as affiliates, you can capitalize on their recommendations and audiences’ trust to drive sales and brand awareness.
    • Improved SEO and ranking: When associates link to an affiliated seller's product on Amazon, it creates backlinks from reputable websites. These backlinks provide SEO benefits, improving search engine visibility and organic ranking for the seller's products, ultimately driving more sales.

    Steps to Enroll and Leverage Amazon Associates

    These are the simple steps associates do to enroll in the program:

    Four Steps to Enroll and Leverage Amazon Associates

    1. Sign up: Associates must create an  Amazon's Associates Central account and provide necessary information, such as their website or other platforms that they'll use to refer their patrons, who are your potential customers.
    2. Create links: Associates must use Amazon's easy link-building tools to create and embed personalized product links within their content. This helps simplify referring their audience to the  products.
    3. Meet minimum requirements: To maintain an associates' account, they must refer to at least one sale through their links within 180 days of account creation. Once they have referred three qualifying sales, Amazon evaluates their application and informs them of their decision.

    4. Amazon Handmade

    Amazon Handmade is a specialized marketplace within Amazon designed for artisans to showcase and sell their unique, handcrafted products. To be eligible for selling on Amazon Handmade, your products must be made by hand or with the help of appropriate tools, and they should be unique or custom-made.

    As a seller, this platform provides an opportunity to reach specific  customers who appreciate the  effort and craftsmanship  of creating one-of-a-kind products. If your business involves handmade items, Amazon Handmade is the perfect platform for growing your business.

    Requirements and Benefits of Selling Handmade Products

    By joining this platform, you can benefit from Amazon's vast customer base and additional support services like Fulfillment by Amazon, which helps you simplify shipping and logistics.

    How to Apply and Become a Seller on Amazon Handmade

    To start selling on Amazon Handmade, follow these steps:

    Three Steps to Apply and Become a Seller on Amazon Handmade

    1. Set up a regular Amazon seller account, and apply to sell on Amazon Handmade. Prepare to submit details about your products and business as Amazon will check their compatibility with the program.
    2. Approval time for selling on Amazon Handmade usually takes a few weeks since the approval process involves evaluating your products and ensuring they meet the platform's criteria and quality standards.
    3. Once approved, you can begin listing your handmade products on the marketplace.

    5. Amazon Custom

    Amazon Custom  allows sellers to offer customizable products to their  customers. By joining this program, you can sell items like engraved jewelry, customized T-shirts, and unique home décor. This empowers you to cater to individual preferences, enticing customers to buy your products.

    Benefits of Offering Customizable Products on Amazon

    There are several benefits to offering customizable products on Amazon:

    • Attract more customers: Personalized products tend to be popular among consumers, and by offering customization options, you can attract a wider range of potential buyers.
    • Increase customer loyalty: When customers receive products tailored to their specifications, they're more likely to be satisfied with their purchase and return to your store for more purchases.
    • Differentiation from competitors: By offering customization, your products can stand out among  similar items on Amazon, giving you a competitive edge.
    • Expand your product offerings: Amazon Custom allows you to create and sell unique products that might not be available elsewhere, further diversifying your store's offerings.

    Steps to Join and Participate in Amazon Custom

    To join in Amazon Custom, follow these steps:

    Six Steps to Join and Participate in Amazon Custom

    1. Sign up or log in to your Amazon Seller Central account.
    2. On the top left corner, go to the Inventory menu and click 'Add a Product.'
    3. In the search bar, type "Amazon Custom" and select the category that best fits your customizable product.
    4. Click the 'Sell Yours' button once you've selected the specific category.
    5. Fill in the required product information and enable the custom option, allowing buyers to personalize their orders.
    6. After completing the product listing, submit it for approval. Amazon will manually review your listing and notify you once it's approved.

    6. Amazon Exclusives

    Amazon Exclusives allows sellers to offer unique and innovative products exclusively on the Amazon marketplace, giving the products increased visibility and promotional support. 

    To join the program, you must have an active seller account  in good standing with Amazon with a  history of providing high-quality products and excellent customer service. Since it’s exclusive, your products must only be available for sale on Amazon and your website.

    Advantages of Selling Exclusive Products on Amazon

    There are several benefits to selling exclusive products on Amazon:

    • Increased visibility: Your products will be featured in a dedicated Amazon Exclusives storefront, increasing exposure to potential customers.
    • Promotional support: Amazon will promote your exclusive products through social media and email campaigns.
    • Access to premium features: Exclusive sellers can add product videos to their listings, a powerful persuasion tool to help drive conversions.

    Process and Requirements to Become an Amazon Exclusive Seller

    To become an Amazon Exclusives seller, you must have an active Amazon Seller account and be in good standing with Amazon, with a proven history of providing high-quality products and excellent customer service.

    Follow this  process for the approval:

    Three Steps to Become an Amazon Exclusive Seller

    1. Application: Apply for the Amazon Exclusives program, providing detailed information about your products and business.
    2. Selection: Amazon will carefully review your application and assess your products based on their uniqueness, quality, and potential customer demand.
    3. Approval & onboarding: If your application is approved, Amazon will guide you through the onboarding process, including setting up your product listings, creating branded content, and optimizing your product detail pages.

    7. Amazon Vine

    To boost customers' trust in the products you sell on Amazon , you need reviews. Customer feedback and ratings serve as social proof of your product claims and promises. If you want to have insightful reviews on them , sign up for Amazon Vine.

    This  invitation-only program  selects the most insightful reviewers in Amazon to serve as Vine Voices. Selected reviewers get products for free in exchange for honest feedback. Through their unbiased and genuine reviews of new and pre-release products, they can help customers make informed buying decisions.

    By participating in the Amazon Vine program as a seller, you can attract more customers because your products will have reliable customer reviews. This drives more product sales and eventually expands your business.

    Advantages of Using Amazon Vine for Product Promotion and Reviews

    Using Amazon Vine for product promotion has several advantages:

    • Credibility: Vine Voices are trusted reviewers in the Amazon community, which means their reviews are more likely to be taken seriously by potential customers.
    • Visibility: Products reviewed by Vine Voices often gain increased exposure due to the prominence of their reviews.
    • Informed decisions: Vine reviews are best for listings who have a few reviews. Sincere and detailed feedback can help potential buyers make confident decisions.
    • Product improvement: Vine Voices' in-depth reviews can reveal areas of your product that need work, helping you better serve your customers in the long run.

    Process to Participate in Amazon Vine Program

    To join Amazon Vine as a seller, follow these steps:

    Four Steps to Participate in Amazon Vine Program

    1. Apply for the Amazon Vine program: Visit the Amazon Vine page to apply. Ensure you have an active Seller Central account and eligible products.
    2. Wait for approval: During this time, Amazon manually reviews your account and products according to their quality standards and policies.
    3. Enroll your products: Once approved, you can enroll your eligible products. Remember, products in certain categories or from specific brands may require additional approval.
    4. Send your products to Vine Voices: Amazon will facilitate sending them to selected Vine Voices, who will then review and share their experiences with the Amazon community.

    8. Amazon Business Seller

    Being an Amazon Business Seller means you can sell products and services to other businesses on the Amazon Marketplace. This is important because it grants you access to a  diverse customer base, including organizations ranging from small businesses to large corporations.

    Advantages of Offering Business-To-Business Products on Amazon

    When you offer business-to-business (B2B) products on Amazon, you gain these advantages over traditional retail sales.

    • Cater to the specific needs of business customers, who often require large quantities of products or specialized items.
    • Take advantage of Amazon's powerful seller tools, and set spending limits for easier management of account finances.
    • B2B sales on Amazon can provide a steady stream of Amazon orders from repeat customers, helping to stabilize and grow your business.

    Process and Requirements to Become an Amazon Business Seller

    To become an Amazon Business Seller, you need to follow these steps:

    Three Steps to Become an Amazon Business Seller

    1. Create an Amazon Seller account. The Amazon seller account approval process for becoming a business seller may vary depending on your product categories, location, and past behavior on the platform. 

    However, some common scenarios that require approval include selling in restricted categories, being a brand owner, or selling specific brands.

    1. During the application process, you may need to provide your billing address, shipping process, and payment method. Amazon may also require that the account owner use a credit card from the same country as the seller account.

    Remember that Amazon manually reviews applications and frequent Amazon order history and may contact you for additional information or documentation.

    1. Once approved, you can start selling to business customers on Amazon.

    Amazon Approval Needed? Get Help From Seller Interactive

    Navigating the various approval-requiring programs on Amazon can be challenging, but unlocking these opportunities could pave the way for significant business expansion. From gated categories to brand-specific restrictions, the Amazon marketplace has much to offer Amazon sellers willing to put in the effort required to get approved.

    To ensure you're taking the right steps and using the best strategies to get approval, partner with us here at Seller Interactive. Our expert team can provide Amazon full account management, helping you navigate the approval process and offering guidance for your Amazon business expansion.

    It would help if you had our expertise to break through barriers and access these exclusive opportunities. So why wait? Take the next step and contact us today to start unlocking the true potential of your Amazon business!

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    What Does Amazon Do with Returns: A Deep Dive

    Online shopping has dramatically grown in recent years, and with it comes the challenge of managing product returns. As the biggest eCommerce company today, Amazon handles a significant amount of customer returns daily. As a seller, you must be asking, “What does Amazon do with returns?” The answer lies in Amazon's return policy.

    Amazon offers various options for returned items through this policy, including repackaging and restocking for resale, liquidating, and disposing of them. This approach highlights Amazon’s customer-centric mindset, focusing on cost analysis, return reduction strategies, and maintaining superb customer service. 

    We'll discuss all these in detail to ensure that you know the ins and outs of Amazon returns. You can use the knowledge to minimize them to increase your profit and grow your business.

    Understanding Amazon's Return Policies

    Amazon's return policies are designed to ensure customer satisfaction and trust in the shopping experience. Online shoppers and store owners should know the general return policies for most items sold on the platform. Here are some details you should remember:

    Return Window and Requirements

    Product category and whether the seller uses Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) or Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) dictate the return window and requirements. Nevertheless, Amazon generally accepts returns within 30 days after the product was delivered to customers.

    Items you can’t return on Amazon - Gift cards, Digital downloads, and perishables

    It's important to note that some items, like digital downloads, gift cards, and certain perishable items, cannot be returned. Additionally, third-party sellers like you may have your own return policies, which customers should review before purchasing.

    Customer Return Options

    Amazon offers a variety of return options to cater to customers' needs. They can return their items by mail, through an Amazon Locker, or in person at an authorized retailer. While shipping costs may apply in some cases, there are instances where Amazon covers the expenses, such as when the item is defective, damaged, or incorrect.

    Amazon Locker where you can return your items

    Returns Processing

    Returned items are typically sent to an Amazon warehouse and may be available for purchase again if they meet the necessary requirements. Some items may also be refurbished and resold through the Amazon Renewed program. 

    Other options for returned items include liquidation through e-commerce liquidation websites, donation to charitable organizations, or, in rare instances, disposal of items that cannot be reused.

    What Does Amazon Do With Items That Are Returned?

    When managing returns, Amazon aims to minimize costs for customers, third-party sellers, and the company itself. Amazon does the following steps.

    Amazon Return Process Infographic

    For more details about Amazon product disposal, check this video out.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThfCyjPc5qk

    How Amazon Repackages and Restock Returned Items

    As an e-commerce giant, Amazon handles a significant volume of returned items. To minimize costs and maintain customer satisfaction, they follow a systematic process for repackaging and restocking these products.

    Shipping label creation

    When a customer decides to return a purchase, Amazon first provides them with a shipping label to send the item back to the appropriate fulfillment center. Upon receipt of the returned product, Amazon's team inspects it to ensure it complies with its return policy.

    Repackaging returned items

    Amazon employs strategies to give returned products a "like-new" appearance. The Amazon FBA Repackaging Service specializes in repackaging products to meet Amazon's requirements, particularly for items returned by clients that were in good condition but couldn't be directly resold.

    Shipping contract checking to reduce shipping costs

    It's essential to note that Amazon has distinct return policies for items fulfilled by Amazon (FBA) and third-party sellers. Return shipping costs are managed differently depending on your relationship with Amazon. 

    For FBA sellers, Amazon handles shipping contracts and carrier agreements, offering significant savings. If you handle your products’ fulfillment, you can also save on shipping costs for returned items by effectively managing shipping contracts with carriers and contract carrier agreements.

    Restocking

    After repackaging and contract checking, returned items are evaluated and restocked in Amazon's warehouse. This process allows the company to regain inventory control and maintain pricing tiers.

    A Look Into Liquidation and Reselling

    The impact of returns on your business can be significant. Managing returns effectively is crucial for maintaining a successful online retail business. By employing liquidation and reselling strategies, you can regain control of your inventory and minimize the financial impact of returns. Let’s check how both work.

    E-Commerce Liquidation Websites

    E-commerce liquidation websites like B-Stock Solutions, Liquidation.com, Quicklotz, GenCo Marketplace, and Bulq, play a crucial role in the liquidation process. Websites like these allow third-party sellers and online retailers like you to purchase liquidation pallets containing returned items, overstock, and refurbished products at discounted prices. 

    To recover some loss, sellers can then resell these items on their websites or other marketplaces.

    Amazon Warehouse and Amazon Renewed

    For returned items in good condition, Amazon offers these two reselling options. 

    • Amazon Warehouse: Where Amazon sells used and refurbished items at a discount. 
    • Amazon Renewed: A program through which eligible returned items are refurbished and sold with a guarantee, providing consumers with more affordable choices and giving products a second life.
    Amazon Renewed Program - refurbished electronics on a shelf

    Returns and Product Analytics and Customer Insights

    When items are returned, Amazon uses this opportunity to gather valuable data that can be leveraged to improve your products and customer experiences. This section will explore how Amazon uses return data for product analytics and customer insights.

    Return Data

    Amazon leverages return data by analyzing the reasons for the returns. Some of the product issues you'll see here are defective items received and flaws on the product design. Addressing these concerns can refine your product offerings, please your customers, reduce return rates, and increase your sales.

    Customer Insights

    Customer insights from returns can also be instrumental in shaping your product selection strategy. By understanding what aspects of your Amazon products customers were dissatisfied with, you can adjust your inventory to prioritize items more likely to meet customer expectations.

    Additionally, insights from returns can be used to make informed pricing decisions, ensuring that customers perceive the product's value to be in line with the cost.

    Superb Customer Service in Handling Returns

    Amazon's customer service and communication strategies around returns emphasize convenience, transparency, and support for you and your customers. The elements below create a seamless return experience and leave customers completely satisfied in the competitive e-commerce space.

    Amazon's Dedicated Returns and Replacements Area

    Amazon's customer service approach for returns includes a dedicated 'Returns and Replacements' area, making it easy to navigate and find answers to your questions. This allows customers to avoid emailing or chatting with support teams and have a seamless experience during the return process.

    Smooth Communication with Customers

    Amazon ensures fast and transparent communication between you and your customer during the returns process. They provide frequent notifications on the return status, helping customers stay informed about their refund or replacement. This transparency is key to maintaining trust and fostering a positive relationship between Amazon, who represents you, and your customers.

    Return Options and Convenience 

    Amazon recognizes the importance of providing customers convenient return options. Many products come with a prepaid, printed return label, while some can be returned without a box or label at designated locations such as Kohl's, UPS, and some Whole Foods stores. Moreover, the company offers free returns on eligible items, enhancing customer satisfaction.

    Sellers and Amazon's Support

    Another aspect contributing to Amazon's customer service is how they support sellers like you. Through FBA, Amazon handles everything from customer services, receiving the returned items, processing them, and deciding whether they are to be resold, refurbished, disposed, or donated.

    Strategies to Reduce Returns for Online Retailers

    Although returns are common when selling on Amazon, it still pays to keep it low to avoid additional costs. Here are some of the strategies you can do to minimize returns.

    Informative Product Description

    To reduce return rates, provide detailed product information to ensure you set the correct customer expectation. Be truthful with all your claims, and never include product characteristics customers will not see or have once they purchase your product. 

    Here are more tips on how you can better optimize your listing:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-Rnqb9idjM

    Prioritize Customer Service

    Prioritize customer service to reduce product returns. Ensure prompt and accurate communication with buyers and offer timely resolution to any issues or concerns. By addressing customer needs effectively, you can enhance customer satisfaction and minimize the likelihood of returns, ultimately promoting a positive shopping experience on the platform.

    Create Shipping Contracts

    Create shipping contracts that help manage the large volume of returned items. This not only ensures smoother operations but also leads to significant savings. You should consider establishing carrier contract agreements with shipping partners, like how Amazon does, as it can greatly reduce shipping costs.

    Base Decisions on Data

    Data-driven decisions play a vital role in optimizing return-related costs. Amazon's success in this area can be partly attributed to using tools like AWS Cost Optimization which can help you identify areas where adjustments can be made to improve cost efficiency. Incorporating data analysis and utilizing effective cost-management tools can also be a game-changer for your e-commerce business.

    an area chart and bar charts with arrows and trends going on a descending and ascending paths

    Utilize Returns Liquidation and Donation

    Sell returned items that cannot be sold again to liquidation websites. As a business owner, you must explore this option to regain control over returned inventory or donate eligible overstock to charitable organizations, transforming a potential loss into a win-win situation.

    Handle Your Returns With Seller Interactive

    Understanding what Amazon does with returns and how to manage them effectively is crucial for Amazon sellers. When customers return items, various factors influence the handling of those products, including refurbishing, reselling, liquidation, donation, and disposal.

    To ensure you stay in control of your inventory and returns, we here at Seller Interactive provide Amazon Reimbursement & Refund Services. By aiding in claiming reimbursements for damaged or lost items, we can ensure that you have the necessary evidence, such as inventory reports, images of damaged products, or proof of customer returns.

    Book a call with us now. Let us help you regain control of your return process, minimize costs, and maximize your profits.

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    Can You Have Multiple Seller Accounts on Amazon? Get the Answer Here!

    All Amazon sellers want one thing: conquer the Amazon marketplace. They achieve this goal by optimizing their digital presence and profitability. Among the tactics they rely on is creating multiple seller accounts on Amazon. But is such a strategy allowed?

    Whether you’re a novice seller or have been exploring the marketplace for some time, this article will help you understand more about Amazon account management.

    Can You Have Two Seller Accounts on Amazon?

    Let’s get straight to the point. Yes. You can have multiple Amazon seller accounts, provided you have sufficient business reasons. Where does this provision come from?

    Amazon’s multiple account policy states that you can only keep one Seller Central account per region. With this policy, Amazon can combat the proliferation of deceptive practices and uphold a safe marketplace.

    When Can You Create Multiple Selling Accounts on Amazon?

    As mentioned earlier, you can create multiple seller accounts as long as you have legitimate business reasons. Such reasons might encompass:

    Multiple Brands

    Owning more than one brand is a good reason to have different seller accounts on Amazon. When managed correctly, you can keep brand-specific strategies without overlap or conflict. 

    Even each brand's revenues, expenses, and profits are delineated. So, everything about the brand, from how it looks to how it talks to customers, will be convenient.

    Product Diversification

    Sellers can create multiple Amazon seller accounts, given that they manufacture different products. The idea of diversified product lines is to cater to the customer’s specific needs, demands, and strategies suitable for each product category.

    For Amazon businesses, this approach is not only advantageous but imperative. Each category should be treated as a business unit with strategies, resources, and considerations. This way, they can adapt based on changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.

    Amazon Affiliation

    Being recruited for a specific Amazon program is also one of the exceptions to Amazon’s general one-account policy. This participation can include the following:

    • Targeted Marketing Efforts
    • Content Creation
    • Product Promotions

    When you are affiliated with an Amazon program, you are expected to adhere to specific rules associated with that program. These guidelines may differ from the standard policies for regular sellers. Having separate accounts for program-related activities can help you follow the policies with both Amazon's general policies and those specific to the program.

    The Benefits of Creating Multiple Seller Accounts on Amazon

    Consider yourself lucky if you find yourself eligible to handle multiple Amazon seller accounts. Here’s a quick overview of what your advantages will be:

    1. Enhanced Brand Management

    Managing separate brands becomes more efficient, allowing for the development of what’s listed below:

  • Unique Branding
  • Promotional Strategies
  • Customer Engagement
  • The multifaceted approach to brand management helps you fully realize each brand’s potential, refining its appeal and competitive edge in the Amazon landscape.

    2. Flexible Business Operations

    Multiple accounts give you the flexibility to conduct the following:

  • Execute diverse business strategies
  • Adjust to market changes
  • Discover fresh business prospects
  • You can quickly fine-tune your strategies for each account based on real-time insights and performance data. Leveraging this technique can keep your offerings fresh and relevant. 

    3. Isolated Risks

    Owning multiple Amazon accounts is a safety net for online entrepreneurs. Even if one account faces unforeseen challenges, such as:

  • policy infringements,account deactivations, andmarket fluctuations
  • the continuity of your overall business operations is still there. Any disruption in one account doesn't halt your income stream completely. You can isolate and address challenges in one area without compromising the performance and stability of your overall ecommerce business.

    2 Ways You Can Set Up Multiple Seller Central Accounts

    A white laptop with a screen displaying a photo icon and a 'Create Account' tab.

    Managing multiple seller accounts might be daunting on one side, but it’s a strategic advantage for dominating the marketplace for sellers.

    Intrigued by the perks of having multiple accounts? This is your chance to change your approach and make every effort count. Below are two things you must consider to create multiple accounts.

    1. Focus on Principal Information

    Don’t forget to provide separate principal information for each account when setting up multiple accounts. These data will ensure transparency and authenticity, helping your business maintain a good status.

    Here’s a more detailed explanation.

    • Different Name: Different business names prevent confusion. Each account will be identified as a separate entity, reducing the chance of perceived duplication or fraudulence.
    • Separate Email Address: A unique email address is essential for receiving account-specific notifications, communications, and password resets. Any important updates or alerts are guaranteed to be shown in real time.
    • Separate Bank Account: Using the same bank account can complicate your accounting and tax filing processes. A separate bank account is a must.
    • Separate Credit Card: It allows for easier transaction tracking and dispute resolution. It also secures other accounts in case one encounters security breaches.
    • Separate IP Address: Assigning a different IP address can help you avoid automated flags or potential security risks associated with multiple accounts accessed from a single IP.

    2. Get Amazon’s Approval

    You might believe you meet all the criteria, but the final say rests with Amazon. Your efforts will bear fruit only if Amazon gives the green light.

    So, how do you get Amazon’s approval?

    • Prepare a Comprehensive Request: Present a detailed rationale when seeking approval. Emphasize the uniqueness of each account's products, target audience, and marketing strategies.
    • Provide Necessary Documentation: Amazon may require you to provide supporting documents, such as business registration papers and the principal information we discussed above.
    • Submit Requirements to Amazon Portal: Forward your application via the Amazon Seller Central portal. The approval process may take some time, so be patient. Be ready to provide any supplementary data if Amazon requests it.

    The Setbacks of Creating Multiple Accounts on Amazon

    You must carefully acknowledge risks, especially if you’re not allowed to open a second account. Operating multiple accounts without proper authorization can lead to various complications, including:

    1. Violation of Amazon Terms

    It’s a no-brainer that these actions can lead to immediate repercussions—account suspension or permanent termination. You must be amenable to Amazon’s terms of service to avoid such blatant violations and severe consequences.

    2. Complexity in Management

    Handling various accounts demands substantial time and meticulous effort. Each account requires individualized strategies, continuous monitoring, and regular optimizations to avoid selling problems in the future.

    For small enterprises, this situation can stretch their already limited manpower and financial resources thin, ruining overall business productivity.

    3. Difficulty in Tracking Metrics

    Every account will have its own set of data, including:

    • Sales
    • Customer Engagement
    • Conversion Rates
    • Inventory Levels
    • Performance Metrics

    Such fragmentation can complicate your business gaining a cohesive image of overall business performance. The increased workload in data management can also lead to oversights and inaccuracies, affecting strategic decision-making and business outcomes.

    4. Unfair Competitive Advantage

    Opening multiple seller accounts can give the illusion of diverse options and competition. This action can manipulate search algorithms, product visibility, and bestseller rankings. A lack of transparency can mislead customers about the variety and source of products available, resulting in a breakdown in trust.

    Once customers discern the absence of authenticity and feel deceived, it can severely tarnish the seller's reputation.

    Best Practices in Handling Multiple Accounts on Amazon

    working on a laptop

    If you’re still here, chances are you’ve already contemplated the rewards and challenges of managing multiple accounts. This is a commendable first step!

    But here in Amazon, where policies evolve and market dynamics transition, your adherence to best practices isn't just a recommendation—it's a prerequisite for sustained success. 

    Consider these tips to fully enhance your selling experience and master the art of account management.

    Monitor Your Account Health

    Always check your account health and performance metrics. By doing so, one account's issues won’t go unnoticed while you focus on another. 

    Account HealthPerformance Metrics
    Order Defect Rate (ODR)Sales Volume
    Pre-fulfillment Cancellation Rate (PFCR)Inventory Levels
    Late Shipment Rate (LSR)Customer Feedback

    A vigilant eye on these numbers can sustain high standards of service quality, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency across all accounts. You can prevent the escalation of minor issues into major complications.

    Manage Your Product Listings and Pricing

    A product listing optimized for one account might not resonate with the audience of another. If one account has stellar listings while another falls short, it can create disparities in customer experience and brand perception. 

    Similarly, a pricing strategy that works wonders in one market segment might be suboptimal in another. Inconsistent pricing strategies across accounts can also confuse customers and potentially erode trust.

    As such, each account demands its unique strategy. Remember, these factors can influence your product's visibility and sales performance. It’s important to represent your brand accurately.

    Rotate Login Times and Devices

    Logging in from the same device or IP address can make the accounts appear interconnected, leading Amazon’s automated systems to flag them for further review or suspension. 

    By varying the times you log in and using different devices or IP addresses for each account, you can maintain a semblance of independence and separation between the accounts, reducing the chance of unwarranted flags or security alerts.

    Implement Backup Data and Security

    Each account, with its unique data set and operational dynamics, necessitates individualized security measures. That way, you can prevent potential breaches or unauthorized entries.

    Establishing robust security protocols, such as two-factor authentication and secure password practices, is crucial for each account to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the data.

    Learn Amazon Account Management With Seller Interactive

    You should now know the opportunities and obligations surrounding multiple Amazon seller accounts. Having more than one account is possible, but you must be ready to handle the what-ifs and whatnots that come in this venture.

    Seller Interactive can be your companion in learning proper Amazon account management. We can help you sift through the subtleties of Amazon policies, equipping you to manage each account proficiently.
    Don't just exist in this marketplace—stand out and thrive. Book a call now!

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    What Can I Sell on Amazon Without Approval? A Tell-All Guide for Amazon Sellers

    The Amazon marketplace has a broad range of opportunities for every entrepreneur. But like the laws in the real world, Amazon has implemented certain restrictions to keep its over 2 million sellers in check. For this reason, old and new sellers have asked the same question: What can I sell on Amazon without approval? 

    Knowing what to sell on the platform will prevent your Amazon seller account from getting your selling privileges revoked. So, explore the guidelines and restrictions today and learn what you can or cannot sell online.

    The Nature of the Amazon Selling System

    With more than 2.7 billion unique users visiting the site monthly, it isn’t a surprise that many entrepreneurs want to dip their toes into the digital market. Most probably think setting up camp on the platform is as easy as creating an Amazon Seller Central account.

    But as always, it isn’t that simple. Given customer satisfaction and security in shopping experiences, Amazon must maintain specific regulations to protect sellers and buyers. As an online seller, you must abide by its required operating processes.

    This includes: 

    1. Listing for your first product
    2. Creating detailed product descriptions and placing high-quality images to describe your products accurately to your customers
    3. Fulfilling customer order depending on the type of fulfillment method you’ve chosen upon adding said product
    4. Learning to manage and optimize your store for a smooth run

    The ABCs of Amazon Selling

    The first step of Amazon selling (product listing) is already a hurdle. One must initially confirm that the products fit into categories that don't need pre-approval for listing. But rest assured, we’re here to guide you through the ropes of the Amazon system.

    Amazon may restrict vendors from selling certain products based on:

    • ASINs: Some products have restricted Amazon Standard Identification Numbers (ASINs) depending on the seller's location. Amazon may ask for transparency codes from the seller for verification.
    • Brand: Sellers must request a brand’s approval before creating listings and placing these items on their roster.
    • Category Approvals: Sellers need Amazon’s approval before selling items from certain categories.

    If none of the categories fit the nature of a product’s restrictions, this item has other listing limitations. Thus, sellers simply cannot sell this product on Amazon. 

    💡Tip: Familiarizing yourself with Amazon’s Restricted Products is crucial to stay within Amazon’s guidelines.

    Why Are There Product Restrictions on Amazon?

    Learning that you can’t sell everything on Amazon may be a huge bummer and may even douse the entrepreneurial flame in your heart. But these product restrictions exist for a crucial reason. 

    Amazon’s policies protect intellectual property rights. With imposed restrictions, they prevent unauthorized third-party sellers from listing products that infringe on these rights. This way, original creators and legitimate brand owners can operate without fear of counterfeit goods flooding the marketplace.

    Counterfeiting is a threat. By controlling what can be listed, Amazon can build a secure environment where customers can confidently shop.

    Can I Sell on Amazon Without Brand Approval?

    Yes! Certain categories don’t require approval or additional documentation, which gives Amazon sellers the freedom to sell these products.

    But remember that it’s not that easy. Sellers must still know the ups and downs of Amazon’s product rules and guidelines for a thriving venture.

    A Breakdown of Amazon’s Product Categories

    With millions of products at Amazon, it can be tough to figure out if there are any specific rules for what you want to sell. But fear not! We’re here to help you with that.

    In the following sections, you’ll see three: semi-restricted, gated, and ungated categories. Let’s find out whether there are any special rules you need to follow when selling in those categories. 

    Unrestricted or Open Categories 

    An ungated category is open for all sellers. Meaning, you won’t need any form of pre-approval from brands or Amazon to sell items from such categories.

    Among these are Amazon Fire TV accessories, books, and major appliances. But it doesn’t stop here. Below are additional examples of unrestricted categories. 

    graphic of the ungated categories on Amazon

    Gated Categories

    On the other hand, sellers must get permission from Amazon first before they can list and sell products from a restricted or gated category.

    From gourmet foods to collectibles, pointers below are Amazon’s restricted categories:

    graphic of the restricted categories on Amazon

    Semi-Restricted Categories

    Besides ungated and gated categories, Amazon has product categories that have special guidelines and limitations, making them semi-restricted. These are open and ungated for the most part, but there are instances where sellers need Amazon’s approval to sell these items.

    For example:

    • Amazon restricts certain products (pet food, veterinary diets, pet snacks, etc.) from the Pet Supplies category to ensure the quality of such items follows FDA’s standards.
    • For some games under the Video Games category, sellers must meet certain Sony PlayStation requirements before selling these products.
    • Products under the Beauty category must be registered and approved by the FDA before sellers can create and sell listings for such items.
    • Under the Automotive and Powersports category, sellers must meet several requirements, such as placing compatibility information, fitment data, warranties, and other essential information regarding the product.

    You can check more of the categories here:

    graphic of the semi-unrestricted categories on Amazon

    How to Make Amazon Categories Profitable

    Knowing about these product restrictions and selling policies doesn’t only prevent sellers from account suspension. They can also develop better business strategies by maximizing the opportunities in such categories.

    But how will you take advantage of it?

    Start Your Amazon Journey with Open Categories

    The most prominent strategy any beginner Amazon seller can come up with is to start their Amazon business with products under the open categories. 

    Because they are still learning the ropes and testing the waters, it’s only logical that they sell products that don’t need additional documentation and selling permission from brands or Amazon.

    Open categories can serve as an Amazon seller’s foundation in the marketplace. By selling items from ungated categories, they can:

    • get their products listed faster
    • gain brand visibility and exposure
    • swiftly establish their presence on the platform
    • immediately generate sales
    • focus on monitoring their progress and optimizing their account
    • zero in on improving their fulfillment operations
    • concentrate on growing their brand and business within the marketplace

    Since market entry is also much easier and faster in ungated categories, sellers can use this opportunity to test product and marketing ideas. They can gauge their target audience’s interest in certain items and learn more about the Amazon crowd.

    Widen Your Reach with Restricted Categories

    Once sellers have found their footing in the Amazon ecosystem with ungated categories, they can quickly explore the restricted ones. 

    Of course, since these categories vastly differ from open categories, they can expect to tap into uncharted territories and reach an entirely different customer base. 

    Nevertheless, they can show their products to new audiences, find new sources of income, and potentially boost their sales if ungating is done right. Not to mention, business and brand growth will naturally follow. 

    So, how can they widen their reach with the restricted category? The answer is simple: meet the conditions that Amazon has established. 

    The requirements could vary depending on the category you want to sell in. However, Amazon generally requires sellers to have essential business information (valid addresses and IDs, etc.), meet performance standards (order-defect rates, late shipment rates, etc.), meet certain product requirements, and pay ungating fees.

    As for the process of ungating categories, it comes with three stages:

    1. Application Process: The seller requests Amazon’s permission to sell in these categories.
    1. Submission of Documents: The seller provides the necessary information and documentation for approval (e.g., product images, supplier invoices, etc.).
    1. Category Approval Process: The platform reviews the seller’s application and approves or rejects it.

    Experience a Smooth Amazon Selling Run with the Experts

    shot of a group of people talking and smiling in their office

    Source: Photo by Jopwell from Pexels.com

    Amazon opens many doors for all sellers with these categories, but joining the same category won’t always be for everyone. Still, don’t let this sentiment get in the way of your Amazon success. Try hiring Amazon account managers to help you with your business venture. 

    Consider Seller Interactive! We offer account management services to ensure our clients won’t encounter any roadblocks during their Amazon selling journey. Our Amazon experts can handle your account setup, optimize your listings, and ungate restricted categories, among other things.
    Book a call today and experience an Amazon selling journey like no other.

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    How to Get Reviews on Amazon: 7 Legitimate Strategies for Sellers

    Communicating a strong listing value is essential for Amazon sellers. One key factor influencing a product's sales on the platform is the number of reviews it receives. That's why, apart from learning how to create and manage listings, it is important to learn how to get reviews on Amazon and bring product management in full circle.

    This blog helps you learn the impact of product reviews, Amazon's review rules, and ways to navigate them using legitimate strategies. From using Amazon's dedicated programs to leveraging organic methods, these techniques will help sellers like yourself boost their brand, improve customer trust, and ultimately increase sales on the platform.

    How do I get genuine reviews on Amazon products?

    There are many ways to do this, including using the Request a Review button, leveraging buyer-seller messages, building an email list, joining the Early Reviewer Program or Amazon Vine, etc. (more about these strategies later). Remember to still follow Amazon's rules to ensure your methods are acceptable.

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    The Impact of Reviews to Your Business

    Product listing reviews serve a critical purpose that extends beyond just star ratings. It can impact your Amazon business significantly. That's why sellers must understand how reviews can make or break a product listing so they know how to manage it for better results.

    Influence on Sales and Conversions

    Positive reviews on Amazon can significantly influence conversions and sales. Customers often read reviews to make informed buying choices. A product with a higher average rating generally attracts more buyers, leading to increased sales volume. Meanwhile, negative reviews may discourage Amazon shoppers, resulting in lower conversions.

    Relevance in Product Rankings

    Amazon uses a review ranking algorithm for products in search results. Customer reviews, particularly their quantity and quality, play an important role in this process. Products with more positive reviews and higher ratings rank better in search results. A higher ranking helps in bumping up your listing so it gets better exposure, influencing sales.

    Importance of Social Proof

    Social proof is when people base their behaviors on what others have said or experienced. In the context of Amazon, customer reviews serve as social proof that the product did or didn't deliver the value that potential buyers are looking for.

    When shoppers see a product with many positive reviews, they are more likely to feel confident in purchasing it. This effect further reinforces the importance of having a strong review base to support your business.

    Understanding Amazon's Review Policies

    Given the significant impact of reviews on a product listing, Amazon sellers may go beyond what's acceptable to steer reviews in a way that favors their online business. Amazon has established review policies to ensure a fair game for all sellers and give shoppers the desired experience.

    Amazon takes its review system seriously. More than managing reviews, sellers and managers need to understand and follow its rules to continue doing business in the ecommerce platform. A violation of these rules can result in penalties, including seller account suspension.

    A few key rules to keep in mind include:

    Incentivized Reviews

    Offering gifts, discounts, or free products in exchange for reviews is strictly prohibited. While this method can rapidly increase the number of reviews for a product, it poses a risk to the integrity and impartiality of what's supposed to be an ecosystem of honest reviews.

    Manipulation

    Review manipulation involves strategically altering or fabricating product reviews to deceive consumers and artificially inflate a product's positive rating.

    The prohibition ensures that reviews authentically represent customer experiences, thereby maintaining a fair marketplace and safeguarding the reliability of product ratings and reviews.

    Soliciting From Specific People

    Reviews from close acquaintances, family members, and anyone interested in the product or the business are not allowed. Such reviews are often inherently biased and do not genuinely represent the product's quality or performance.

    Other Examples of Prohibited Actions in Gathering Reviews

    To give sellers more specific knowledge of what not to do when trying to get reviews, here are some examples of violations. Note that what's provided isn't definitive.

    Other Examples of Prohibited Actions in Gathering Reviews
    ❌ Orchestrating campaigns to downvote negative reviews.
    ❌ Giving competitors negative reviews to pull down their ranking.
    ❌ Asking a customer to remove a negative review in exchange for a free product.
    ❌ A seller creates multiple consumer accounts to fake reviews of their products.
    ❌ Redirecting every negative review so it doesn't reflect on the product listing.
    ❌ Directing all positive reviews on the product listing to maximize the favorable impact.

    Strategies to get reviews on Amazon

    With your understanding of the impacts reviews can have on your listings and your awareness of the rules, you're now equipped to get them in every Amazon seller central order you receive. Equally important are the strategies to navigate your way into a clean and legitimate product review.

    Note down these strategies and use them based on your needs. They will help your business, future customers, and Amazon create a mutual experience everyone benefits from.

    An infographic showing the seven strategies a seller can use to get reviews on Amazon: Increase product sales, Use the request a review button, buyer-seller messages, Amazon early reviewer program, build an email list, enroll to the Amazon vine program, provide above and beyond customer experience.

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    Increase Product Sales

    Increasing product sales on Amazon raises the possibility of earning more reviews. The correlation is straightforward: more sales equate to more opportunities for customers to engage with the product, leading to a higher probability of garnering Amazon reviews.

    As sales volumes rise, so does the product's exposure to a wider customer base, increasing the potential for genuine reviews. Employing an excellent PPC advertising strategy and managing your SEO are things you can do to increase sales. 

    Use the Request a Review Button

    Using the "Request a Review" button within Seller Central is one of the routes Amazon sellers can take to get more reviews on Amazon. This feature offers a direct and efficient means to initiate both seller feedback requests and buyer reviews from recent buyers.

    By proactively seeking reviews and feedback through this channel, sellers can engage with their customer base in a professional and timely manner, ultimately leading to an increased number of reviews. This augments the visibility and credibility of products on the platform, thus facilitating the acquisition of more reviews and bolstering a seller's overall reputation on Amazon.

    Buyer-Seller Messages

    Communicating with customers through the Amazon messaging system is a more direct way to improve your product's review count. Sellers can send follow-up messages to customers post-purchase to express gratitude and request feedback.

    Remember that these messages should not violate Amazon's communication guidelines, such as asking for positive reviews only or offering incentives in exchange for a review. Being professional, courteous, and respectful in all buyer-seller communications is crucial.

    Amazon Early Reviewer Program

    The Amazon Early Reviewer Program is designed to help sellers receive early reviews for their new products. When you enroll a product in this program, Amazon selects random customers who have recently purchased it and offers them a small gift card (typically $1-3) in exchange for sharing their honest opinions.

    The goal of the early review program is to encourage unbiased reviews while ensuring compliance with Amazon's review guidelines. However, joining the Early Reviewer Program comes with a cost; Amazon charges sellers an enrollment fee for each participating product.

    Build an Email List

    Building and maintaining an email list offers numerous advantages when requesting product reviews from Amazon buyers. When you send personalized review requests via email post-purchase, you allow direct and personalized communication, increasing the likelihood of a positive review while managing negative reviews.

    Maintaining an email list is also a cost-effective means of reaching your target audience, eliminating the need for expensive advertising campaigns.

    In sum, leveraging your email list to request reviews from satisfied customers bolsters your product's visibility, reputation, and customer loyalty.

    Enroll in the Amazon Vine Program

    Amazon Vine, a program aiding sellers in obtaining honest reviews, selects trusted and reputable reviewers called Vine Voices who review new or pre-released products. This helps sellers garner genuine and credible product feedback, enhancing their overall visibility and credibility on the platform.

    The value of Amazon Vine is in authentic online reviews. The program ensures that the reviewers remain impartial and transparent in their assessments, fostering trust and integrity that benefits both the seller and their potential buyers.

    Provide Above and Beyond Customer Experience

    Ultimately, the foolproof way to ensure you consistently receive positive reviews is to provide a positive and unforgettable customer experience. When successfully done, such an experience appeals to your customer's emotions, compelling them to leave reviews that reflect genuine satisfaction.

    You provide above-par customer experience by ensuring your product delivers what the customer expects. From there, you can work on the quality of your product, the speed and care of fulfillment and shipping, and the responsiveness and empathy of communication. Do this consistently, and both new and repeat customers will eventually leave you with more positive reviews.

    Getting Positive Reviews Starts With Excellent Account Management

    Getting authentic five-star reviews starts with a great customer experience, and that experience depends on how well you manage your Amazon store and listings. Putting your products out for shoppers to see while delivering quality from the ground up requires expertise and experience. This is where Seller Interactive can help.

    Our team can do full account management that involves ensuring optimal product visibility. We can also increase sales by managing PPC campaigns and optimizing your product listings. All of this work leads your offerings into the hands of the customers, allowing you to focus on delivering quality goods and empathy in communicating with your buyers. To know more about our potential, you can book a call now.

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    ACoS vs TACoS vs ROAS: Which Amazon KPI Matters Most?

    Digital marketing and advertising professionals often struggle to understand and distinguish specific key performance metrics. One common comparison is "ACoS vs TACoS vs ROAS," benchmarks frequently used to assess the effectiveness of paid ad campaigns.

    As each of these KPIs provides a unique perspective on advertising performance, it is essential to understand their differences and applications. This knowledge will enable you to monitor and direct your digital marketing strategy and make more informed decisions regarding budget allocation.

    Let Seller Interactive guide you on these critical metrics you must watch when driving your Amazon business's overall trajectory: the ACos, TACoS, and ROAS.

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    What is the Difference Between ACoS, TACoS, and ROAS?

    ACoS, TACoS, and ROAS are vital in Amazon PPC advertising. ACoS gauges the ad spend ratio to attributed sales. TACoS calculates total sales from organic ads, and ROAS tracks revenue per ad dollar spent. All are crucial in optimizing ad performance

    Understanding ACoS

    Amazon ACoS, also called Advertising Cost of Sale, is a crucial metric for gauging the effectiveness of your advertising campaigns on the platform. It measures the efficiency of your ad spend by showing the percentage of ad dollars used to generate sales revenue.

    A lower ACoS indicates that an advertising campaign is performing efficiently, showing that less money is being spent to generate revenue. Conversely, a higher ACoS signifies that more money is being spent on advertising for each sale, decreasing overall profitability.

    Importance of The ACoS Metric

    In Amazon advertising, ACoS is a key performance indicator that can help you boost campaign profitability. By continuously monitoring this metric, you can strategically use your ad budget more effectively and efficiently in pursuit of higher sales revenue.

    It is also important for businesses to establish a target ACoS, which reflects both the objective of the advertising campaign and the industry benchmark. This helps e-commerce sellers optimize their campaigns by adjusting bids, keywords, and targeting methods to achieve the desired ACoS.

    Calculating Your ACoS

    To calculate the Advertising Cost of Sales (ACoS) in your advertising campaign, you must focus on two key components: ad spend and ad sales. Divide your ad spend by your ad sales to get the ACoS value. The formula to calculate ACoS can be represented as follows:

    ACoS = (Ad Spend / Ad Sales) x 100

    Example: Let's consider an advertising campaign with an ad spend of $1,000 and producing $5,000 worth of ad sales. By applying the formula, the ACoS is calculated as follows:

    ACoS = ($1,000 / $5,000) x 100 = 20%

    This means that 20% of the revenue generated by ad sales is spent on advertising costs. The ACoS value helps determine the effectiveness of your advertising campaign, comparing the costs of running ads to the generated.

    Understanding TACoS

    Total Advertising Cost of Sales (TACoS) is a metric that helps you determine advertising efficiency relative to the overall revenue performance. TACoS considers both the ad spend and total revenue generated from ad and organic sales.

    When analyzing TACoS, it's important to remember that a lower percentage doesn't always signify better ad performance. Factors such as market competition, product life cycle, and revenue goals can influence the acceptable range for TACoS.

    Importance of the TACoS Metric

    An essential aspect of the TACoS metric is its ability to link advertising spend to both attributed and non-attributed sales. This feature provides a more accurate reflection of total business performance, which is particularly useful for businesses participating in the highly competitive landscape of online advertising.

    Another advantage of using TACoS is its adaptability to various industries and advertising goals. By tracking TACoS over time, companies can identify upward or downward trends that give insight into consumer behavior in a given period. This information allows businesses to appropriate marketing budgets to manage campaigns effectively.

    Calculating Your TACoS

    To calculate TACoS, you must divide the total ad spend by total organic and paid sales. The resulting percentage measures advertising efficiency relative to the business's overall performance.

    TACoS = (Ad Spend / Total Sales) * 100

    Example: If your ad spend is $1,000 and your total sales revenue is $10,000, your TACoS would be:

    TACoS = ($1,000 / $10,000) x 100 = 10%

    A lower TACoS percentage indicates a more efficient use of the advertising budget, while a higher TACoS indicates a larger portion of your sales revenue being consumed by advertising costs. Monitoring TACoS can help you make informed decisions about your advertising strategy, allocate resources effectively, and identify areas for enhancement.

    Understanding ROAS

    Marketers and advertisers use Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) to determine their ad campaigns' performance, given the spending. It measures the monetary return generated from a specific advertising cost, helping businesses understand which campaigns drive the most revenue.

    Businesses often establish a target ROAS reflecting their desired returns and help set benchmarks for optimizing campaigns. For instance, a company with a target ROAS of 4:1 aims to generate at least $4 in revenue for every $1 spent on advertising. Failing to reach the target may indicate that the ads are underperforming and require adjustments.

    Importance of the ROAS Metric

    Return on ad spend (ROAS) is a crucial metric that tells managers how well an advertising strategy works based on how effectively it generates revenue.

    One key advantage of using ROAS as a metric is its simplicity. With only two inputs—ad revenue and ad spend—it provides a straightforward method for assessing the success of an advertising campaign. It's a speedy metric to use when analyzing the efficiency of their ad expenditures.

    Calculating Your ROAS

    Calculating ROAS is quite simple: Divide the generated revenue from the campaign by the total ad spend’s cost.

    ROAS = (Advertising Revenue / Advertising Spend)

    Example: If a company spends $1,000 on an ad campaign and earns $5,000 in revenue, its ROAS would be 5 (or 500%).

    ROAS = (5,000 / 1,000) = 5 or 500%

    When analyzing ROAS, it's important to consider the marketing objectives and overall return on investment (ROI). While ROAS focuses on the value generated by the advertising spend, ROI considers the entire marketing budget, including campaign expense costs, salaries, and overheads. Thus, a high ROAS does not always guarantee a strong ROI.

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    Optimizing Amazon Metrics

    When maximizing your ACoS, TACos, and ROAS on Amazon, you can employ several strategies to maximize your advertising budget. Note these practices for better PPC campaigns moving forward.

    Product Listing Optimization: Ensuring informative and engaging product listings is essential for maximizing your PPC ads metrics. High-quality product images, compelling titles, and informative bullet points can increase your product's visibility and conversion rates.

    Keyword Research: It's important to identify the right keywords for your products to optimize your Amazon ad campaigns for better metrics performance. This includes targeting high-volume search terms and long-tail keywords with lower competition but still driving relevant traffic.

    Adjusting Bids and Budgets: Balancing your bids and budgets is crucial for optimizing your ad spend. Keep a close eye on your campaigns and consider raising bids for high-performing keywords while lowering bids for underperforming ones.

    Negative Keyword Implementation: Identifying and implementing negative keywords can prevent wasted ad spending on irrelevant searches. By excluding such terms, you can better direct your advertising budget toward the most profitable searches, thus improving your critical metrics.

    Using Different Ad Types: Amazon provides various ad types, such as Sponsored Display, Products, and Brands. Each ad type serves different purposes and caters to different phases of the buyer’s journey. Testing various ad types and finding the best combination for your specific products can lead to better ACoS, TACoS, and ROAS figures.

    The Verdict on ACoS vs TACoS vs ROAS: Which Metric Matters Most?

    All of the metrics matter. Each tells something important about your ads’ performance. To succeed, learning how to read and interpret these metrics is essential. This way, you can keep track of your campaigns and delegate management to marketing professionals and account managers. 

    Get Your Ideal ACoS, TACos, and ROAS Numbers With Seller Interactive

    Understanding and managing the performance metrics of your Amazon advertising campaigns is crucial to achieving your goals. ACoS, TACoS, and ROAS are all key metrics you need to know to gauge the efficiency and effectiveness of your advertising efforts.

    Diligently managing these metrics is easier said than performed. You'll need consistency and adaptability to make the most out of your Amazon advertising campaigns and achieve their desired results. You will have to work on evaluating and managing your PPC Advertising campaigns daily, even hourly, and adjust their many components to fine-tune them towards optimum performance.To ensure you stay focused on the big picture, you'll need a team of professionals with years of experience navigating the ecommerce landscape. Pros that have done the work and know how to succeed beyond what TACoS, ACoS, and ROAS can show you. If you're curious about how our specialists can make that happen, book a call.

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