Himanshi Raj

Himanshi Raj is the General Manager of Operations at Seller Interactive, where she oversees day-to-day operations. With over 12 years of experience in client management and eCommerce, Himanshi has proven skills in managing teams and achieving business goals. She holds a Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication degree from Amity School of Communication and certifications in Social Media Marketing and Digital Marketing. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and trying new cuisines. LinkedIn Twitter
A Comprehensive Guide on How to Redeem an Amazon Gift Card 

Are you the lucky recipient of an Amazon gift card? Perhaps you want to give the perfect gift to a special someone. Amazon offers an extensive range of products to choose from, making it a fantastic place to shop for almost anything. But let’s get one thing out of the way first—how to redeem an Amazon gift card? 

In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of Amazon gift card redemption and other essential procedures so you can start exploring the vast selection of items available or provide excellent customer service as an Amazon seller. 

How Does an Amazon Gift Card Redemption Work?

The best thing about Amazon gift cards is that they don’t have any expiration date. Each gift card contains a 14-digit claim code that customers can use to purchase anything on Amazon, including books, music, electronics, and more.

When your customers redeem an Amazon gift card, the value of their card is added to their Amazon account. There are millions of eligible products on Amazon and its affiliates that you can use your Amazon gift card for. 

❔ Can you use your gift card to buy additional Amazon gift cards? 
No, but you can purchase third-party gift cards from other stores!

How to Redeem an Amazon Gift Card in 2 Ways

Whether it’s a physical or digital gift card, receiving an Amazon gift card is always lovely. You’re sure to find the perfect gift on Amazon’s large retail base. Now for the redemption part. 

Here are a few ways to redeem an Amazon gift card:

options under “Your Account” section on Amazon, from left to right: Your Orders, Login & Security, Prime, Your addresses, Gift cards, Your Payments, Your Profiles, Digital Services and Device Support, Archived orders

Redemption Through the Amazon Website

Screenshot of Gift Card Redemption page on Amazon: Your Account > Gift Cards
  1. Scratch to reveal the Amazon gift card’s claim code.
  2. Sign in to your Amazon account. 
  3. Go to the Your Account page.
  4. Select Gift cards
  5. Go to Redeem a Gift Card.
  6. Enter your Amazon gift card’s claim code and click Apply to Your Balance.

Redemption Through the Amazon App

If you have customers with an Amazon gift card who want to redeem it on the Amazon mobile app, they can follow these steps:

  1. Open your account using the Amazon mobile app.
  2. Then, go to the Payments section and select Manage Gift Card Balance.
  3. Tap on the Redeem A Gift Card button.
  4. Enter your Amazon gift card’s claim code and click Apply to Your Balance.
💡 You may also use the instructions above to check your Amazon Gift Card’s balance.

How to Add a Visa Gift Card to Your Amazon Gift Card’s Balance

You can also use Visa gift cards on Amazon, which is quite simple. All you need to do is enter the 16-digit or more gift card number as prompted during checkout. You can also keep the card details in your Amazon account for future purchases.

Here’s an easy guide for your Amazon customers:

Screenshot of Gift Card Balance Reloading page on Amazon
  1. Sign in to Your Amazon account.
  2. Go to Your Account and select Payments.
  3. Choose the Amazon Gift Card and click the Reload your balance option.
  4. Input the Visa gift card amount and click Buy Now.
  5. Select the Add a credit or debit card option under Add a payment method.
  6. Enter your account details, such as your card number, name, and more.

How to Purchase an Amazon Gift Card

Amazon gift cards are great rewards for friends and family if you want to give them the perfect gift. Whether physical or digital, an Amazon gift card motivates buyers to purchase items from your store conveniently. 

Follow these simple steps if you want to purchase an Amazon gift card: 

  1. Go to Amazon and log in to your account. If you don’t have an account, you can always make one for free!
  2. Go to the Accounts & Lists page and choose Gift Cards.
  3. Select Purchase a Gift Card, where you’ll find various card types and design options to choose from.
  4. Once you have chosen your gift card, select the amount you wish to load, then add it to your shopping basket. If preferred, you may also include a personalized message.
  5. Checkout and pay for the gift card using your preferred payment method. Once your payment has been processed, the recipient may get the gift card by email (e-cards) or shipping (physical cards).

What to Do if You Can’t Redeem Your Gift Card

If you’re experiencing difficulty using your gift card, don’t worry! You have a few choices for troubleshooting the situation. Follow these tips, and you should be able to redeem your gift card in no time successfully:

  • Double-check if you’re using the right redemption or promotion code. If the code is entered incorrectly, the Amazon gift card code will be rejected.
  • Redeem your gift card at a different shop. Some Amazon gift cards are only applicable to certain merchants. So if you can’t redeem it with a particular shop, it might be because they don’t allow gift cards. Check the card’s terms and conditions first to see which participating stores you can use.
  • If you’re still experiencing difficulties, contact customer service directly. They’d be available to help you troubleshoot the problem or provide a new claim code.

Final Thoughts

Redeeming an Amazon gift card is a straightforward process if you know your way around the platform. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide, you can easily use your gift card and indulge in your favorite Amazon products.

It’s also good to learn about these processes if you’re an Amazon seller. This way, you can provide great customer service when you encounter customers purchasing with the Amazon gift card.

You must also be aware of online fraudsters and authenticate your accounts before purchasing products on Amazon. If you have reimbursement and refund issues, seek the best Amazon expert to help you get your money back.
Seller Interactive’s Amazon FBA Reimbursement Service helps sellers reconcile their inventory issues, whether it’s gift card fraud-related or others. To learn more about our reimbursement efforts, contact us. We’d be happy to discuss our services and answer any questions you might have.

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How To Request a Refund on Amazon: A Comprehensive Guide

Refunds are inevitable in a big marketplace like Amazon. And believe us when we say that they're not fun!

Every Amazon seller knows that not every customer will be happy with their purchase. Still, it's best to avoid refunds and returns as much as possible. Losing money and receiving negative customer feedback make a bad experience for everyone involved.

Both sellers and buyers find refunds troublesome because there's a process that should be strictly followed. But learning how to request a refund on Amazon isn’t actually too difficult to understand. Allow Seller Interactive to show you how it works so whenever you come across a customer wanting a refund, you can walk them through and answer all their questions.

A young woman sits on a couch with an open parcel on her lap complains about the item she received to someone on the other end of her mobile phone.

Reasons for Refunds

Customer satisfaction isn't always 100% guaranteed. Whether your customer’s purchase doesn't meet their expectations or they regret their purchase, it should come as no surprise when some shoppers want their money back. Below are some common reasons for refund requests.

Wrong Shipment

Even if shoppers place their orders correctly, sellers might accidentally send the wrong items. Situations like these make it clear that you’re obligated to accept return requests and ship the correct products.

Delayed Arrivals

Time-sensitive orders exist. As much as you try fulfilling orders quickly, some shoppers may no longer need the items by the time they arrive on their doorsteps. While it may not be your fault, don't be surprised if your customers initiate a refund request.

Buyer's Remorse

Your customers can get impulsive when shopping online. While that's understandable, it’s frustrating when they return your items without valid reasons. As tempting as it sounds, sellers, unfortunately, can't insist on justifications for returns because such policies rarely favor them. Shoppers can file chargebacks if they can't return their purchases, even if they don't have valid reasons.

Gifts

Gift shopping is challenging because they often come with a disclaimer. And unfortunately, that disclaimer often states that shoppers can return the item if they don't like what they've received. 

Fraudulent Purchases

Many sellers use black hat tactics and lurk on Amazon to prey on unsuspecting sellers and shoppers. These scams play out by laundering money from stolen credit cards. You can combat this by only offering refunds to the original cards and in-store credit for card purchases.

Damages and Defects

Items damaged during shipping are something sellers can't control. Much like the first reason, merchants in this situation are obligated to issue refunds. Shoppers are justified in asking for their money back since they received defective items. To lower your chances of item defects, conduct a thorough inspection, practice careful packing, and learn the ropes of selling on Amazon FBA.

Wardrobing

Some customers return their purchases after using them for specific reasons. For example, let's say that a customer immediately sends back the mood lights they bought from your store after using them for a party. This practice of abusing return policies is called wardrobing, and it can hurt sellers. 

Wardrobing puts merchants in challenging positions because they're forced to comply with friendly fraud. Since customers committing wardrobing are willing to lie about their reasons for chargebacks, there’s not much you can do about it.

How To Request a Refund on Amazon in 3 Simple Steps

Refunding on Amazon is quite different from requesting one from a brick-and-mortar shop. To get a refund from a physical store, you can instruct shoppers to contact your in-store staff and inform them of their concerns. The staff must then forward that concern to you or the store's manager. Then, the store can either issue a refund or give the concerned customer store credits.

Requesting a refund on Amazon requires plenty of attention to detail. So before selling anything, you should look at the product's title, description, and photos to check if it matches the item you’re selling. Since transactions happen online, issues like miscommunication and mishandling are more likely to arise. Is it frustrating? Absolutely—especially if these issues happen often.

However, it's best to keep all documentation on hand. For your customers to have an easier refund process, walk them through the following steps when requesting a refund. 

Step 1: Log in to the Amazon Account 

Tell your customer to go to the Your Orders page and select Return or Replace Items for the item they want to return. Next, they’ll need to select the reason for the return from the drop-down choices on the following page. Then, they should submit the request.

Inform them that they will see a confirmation message which indicates that their return request has been sent. Amazon will assess this and contact them with further instructions within two business days.

Step 2: Choose From Their Options

After your customer submits the request, you—the seller—need to accept it. Then, they’ll have to choose how they'd like to return the item. For example, they can use a prepaid shipping label or arrange their own shipping.

If they choose to have Amazon return it, they will be provided with a return shipping label. At this point, you can instruct them to click the Continue button after selecting their preferred option.

Step 3: Pack and Ship the Item to Amazon

Lastly, they'll need to pack up the item securely, include any paperwork or other items that came with it, and attach the shipping label. Then they’ll have to send it back to Amazon according to the instructions.

Once Amazon receives the item, they will process the customer’s refund request and issue a confirmation via email. The refund amount should reflect in their preferred refund method within a few days.

And that's all there is to it! Customers can easily return an item and get their money back with only a few clicks. So the next time a customer of yours is not quite satisfied with their purchase, remember Amazon's return policy; it’s easy for them to get a refund and for you to get your item back.

A pair of happy, male and female young adult raise their palms for a high five

Instant Refunds

Does your customer want to get a refund without returning the items to you? Well, sellers can process returnless refunds painlessly. In some cases it’s more costly to go through the return process than just conceding a refund. So if this option is available and it boosts your customer’s loyalty, then choose this route.

Amazon allows customers to choose the Instant Refund option, if it's available. If your customer is eligible, you can issue the refund through the buyer’s credit card or in a gift card instantly.

Types of Refunds

There are two types of refunds sellers can issue on Amazon. Depending on the circumstances, they can give one of the following choices.

Full Refund

Going by its name, a full refund covers the total amount customers paid—even the shipping costs. You can issue this if Amazon customers return their item/s without damages or missing components. Amazon will also issue a full refund for wrong packages.

Did your items get delivered with damaged or missing parts? Amazon's got your customers covered. Tell them they can request a full refund since the package arrived in poor condition.

Partial Refund

Amazon sellers can issue partial refunds under the following circumstances:

  • Customers fail to return their purchased item/s within Amazon's 30-day period
  • Customers are at fault for an item's damages
  • Customers forgo returning their purchased item/s altogether

Your customers may be asking how to request a partial refund on Amazon. If so, you can inform them that the process is no different! You can walk them through the steps in the previous section.

If you want to know more about partial refunds, take a look at the table below.

An infographic showing the Amazon’s refund rate table with the following items: 80%, 50%, Up to 50%, No refund

Refund Turnaround Times: When Will They Get Their Money Back?

Now that we've got the "how to request a refund on amazon" part figured out, the waiting game begins. Processing and issuing refunds usually take around 7 to 10 business days. However, some cases may take longer because of the circumstances of specific requests.

Your customer’s chosen payment methods also affect turnaround times. For example, if they used their debit or credit card to pay for their orders, they might need to wait an additional 3 to 5 business days for the refund to reflect on their account.

Once you issue an Amazon refund, financial institutions will take time to get the funds to the customer’s account. For example, debit cards and SNAP EBT cards will take up to 10 business days after processing a refund. 

On the other hand, credit cards take 3 to 5 business days. Amazon.com gift cards and gift card balances have much shorter turnaround times with each taking only 2 to 3 hours. If your customers want to know how long each method takes, advise them to check Amazon's website for the complete list.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to request a refund on Amazon is a valuable lesson every Amazon seller should learn. The process can get overwhelming for both you and your customer, which is typical. However, having prior knowledge of how refunds work also makes way for smoother transactions, which results in excellent customer service.

Do you have any questions on how to deal with your customer’s refunds on Amazon? We're here to help! Our team would be glad to answer anything you want to ask. Book a call.

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Why Is There a Current Online Demand for Selling Pet Supplies on Amazon in Canada?

The convenience of selling pet supplies on Amazon, particularly in countries like Canada, has seen immense growth. Brick-and-mortar establishments offer a diverse range of pet supplies all in one place, catering to shoppers who prefer in-person browsing and purchases.

Along with the advancement of technology and the widespread internet connectivity among Canadians, sellers now have the chance to expand their operations by using online platforms like Amazon. This transition to online selling has been embraced by both new and existing customers, indicating a promising market for sellers in the pet industry.

If you want to enter the pet supply market, this article is for you! We’ll show you why pet supply stores are predicted to be profitable and why you should seriously consider this lucrative opportunity.

Fun Fact: Canada Is a Pet-Loving Nation

Did you know 73% of Canadians have at least one furry friend? Pet Keen says an estimated 38% are cat owners, while 35% are dog owners. So right off the bat, this information tells us that Canadians love pets. 

From premium pet food and treats to pet toys and accessories, Canadians spare no expense for their household pets. They are conscious of their well-being and are willing to invest in high-quality products to ensure their health, happiness, and overall quality of life.

Given the dedication and commitment of pet owners, it is no surprise that the market for pet products and supplies in Canada is thriving, making it an attractive industry for aspiring sellers. The growing demand for ecommerce platforms like Amazon has also opened up new possibilities for them to cater to the discerning needs of pet owners in Canada.

Let’s find out in the next section why Amazon is the ideal platform for selling pet supplies in Canada.

5 Reasons Amazon is the One-Stop Shop for Pet Supplies

a woman online shopping for her cat

What drives Canadian pet owners and enthusiasts to buy pet products from Amazon? Besides hassle-free buying from physical stores, customers can get many exclusive perks and advantages by buying on this platform. 

These perks are listed below.

1. Strong Customer Base

You don’t need to worry about finding pet owners anymore. Given its customer-centric approach, Amazon has already built a reputation as a trusted and reliable online retail platform. Customers already intend to buy when they visit your Amazon brand store.

Since Canadians are turning to Amazon to purchase pet supplies online, it’s your chance to try Amazon wholesale. It will benefit you from the platform’s robust infrastructure, including efficient order fulfillment, reliable shipping, and customer service. You can focus on sourcing quality pet supplies and managing inventory while Amazon handles the logistics.

2. Fast and Free Shipping of Pet Supplies to Amazon Prime Members

Fast and free shipping is only one of the primary reasons why more and more Canadians avail themselves of Amazon Prime. With this subscription service, customers can receive all millions of pet supplies products the same day, the next day, or in two days for no price.

Who wouldn’t want their products to be delivered as soon as possible? That's why it's an absolute steal from a customer's perspective. Not only can they save on shipping in the long run, but they also have the pet supplies they need immediately. Returning items is also made a lot easier with FBA-labeled products.

3. Prime Day Discounts on Many Pet Products

Prime Day, a highly anticipated two-day event on Amazon, offers customers access to epic deals and big discounts across the marketplace. They can even enjoy cashback rewards on their purchases during this event.

Selling pet products on Prime Day presents a prime opportunity to witness a substantial boost in overall pet supply sales. You can maximize your success by strategically launching your pet supplies. It can be through:

  • Offering competitive deals.
  • Optimizing your product listings.
  • Using Amazon features like sponsored brand ads and lightning deals.

You can also get an Amazon product launch service to increase the chances of turning window shoppers into loyal customers. 

4. Customers Can Benefit From Pets Subscribe & Save

Amazon sellers must not forget the Amazon Subscribe & Save program. This program offers a cost-saving solution for customers by automatically delivering pet supplies, such as cat or dog food, at regular intervals ranging from every two weeks to six months.

Amazon Subscribe & Save provides numerous benefits for sellers and customers. For sellers, they can establish long-term relationships with customers who consistently need pet products on Amazon. Customers can set up their preferred delivery frequency and quantities. They can also save 15% for at least five products in one delivery per address.

5. It Has a Wide Range of Products in Its Marketplace

Amazon is an online retail giant. Millions of products are being sold in its marketplace as we speak. Compared to pet shops, Amazon does not only sell products to one, two, or three types of animals. 

Customers can shop for products of virtually all common pets out there, which is one of the strongest pros that Amazon has among the others. Consider it a one-stop shop for pet supplies and needs, all in the comfort of the customers’ homes.

Inside Amazon’s Pet Supplies Category

assorted pet supplies on a white background

As you can see, Amazon is an exciting and convenient place for thriving pet supplies sellers. You must not hesitate to jump into this business and take full advantage of its opportunities.

And as mentioned above, Amazon has its inclusive approach in the form of Pet Supplies Category. They don’t only sell pet supplies to customers who have dogs and cats. True to its name, it shelters supplies for all common pets.

Here is the list of animal subsections under the supplies category on Amazon.

  • Birds: Includes essentials such as bird cages, feeders, perches, bird food, health supplies, toys, and grooming supplies specifically tailored to the needs of different bird species.
  • Cats: Cat owners can explore and choose from various cat toys, cat trees, litter boxes, beds, and grooming tools.
  • Dog: A comprehensive hub for all things related to canine companions. It features an extensive selection of dog toys, treats, collars, leashes, beds, crates, training aids, and more. 
  • Fish & Aquatic Pets: Includes aquarium supplies like filters, pumps, heaters, fish food, water treatments, aquarium decor, and accessories to create a vibrant and healthy aquatic environment.
  • Horses: From saddles and bridles to hoof care and grooming supplies, horse owners can find everything they need within this specialized subcategory.
  • Reptiles & Amphibians: Includes terrariums, heating and lighting equipment, substrate, food, supplements, decor, and habitat supplies for reptiles and amphibians.
  • Small Animals: Features a variety of cages, bedding, food, treats, toys, grooming products, and accessories to ensure the well-being and comfort of these furry companions.

These sections provide a convenient and organized platform for pet owners to find the right Amazon pet supplies. Understanding the unique demands of each subcategory can help you effectively target and serve their specific needs.

Customer Experiences in Buying Pet Supplies on Amazon

Customers' experiences when buying pet supplies on Amazon are generally positive. They appreciate the platform's reliability, convenience, and ease of navigating. These experiences are vital in ensuring customer satisfaction and retention.

What specific aspects contribute to these customer experiences?

Lower Prices in Amazon Compared to Other Pet Supplies Shops

Unfortunately, being a pet owner comes with financial responsibilities. The costs associated with providing proper care for pets can add up, from pet houses and grooming to veterinary care and supplies.

Amazon solves this problem by keeping its product prices competitive. With a wide range of pet supplies at affordable rates, it can reassure pet owners that they can manage their expenses without the well-being of their furry friends. 

Customers can also compare prices from different Amazon sellers and choose the most cost-effective option. Price transparency empowers them to make informed purchasing decisions and find the best deals.

Product Pages Help Them Find the Best Product

Sometimes, shopping online is scary because customers know nothing about the product. For example, when they buy groceries and pet shops, they don’t have the time to read all the labels.

But with Amazon, they can take their time reading all the information through a well-structured product detail page. As a seller, you can make the most out of it by:

  • Writing an Accurate Product Description: Include relevant information about ingredients, sizes, usage instructions, and any other important details that customers need to know.
  • Using Lifestyle Images: Help customers visualize the product’s use and create a stronger connection.
  • Managing Positive and Negative Reviews: Build trust and credibility while effectively managing negative reviews demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction.
  • Finding Relevant Keywords: Conduct keyword research to identify your products’ most relevant and commonly searched terms. 
  • Optimizing Your Bullet Points: Use concise language, focus on the most critical details, and make it easy for customers to grasp your product’s value quickly.
  • Creating and Uploading Product Catalog: Ensure your product catalog is complete and up-to-date. Regularly add new products and remove discontinued ones to maintain an accurate and comprehensive product offering.

With these strategies, many pet owners can fully understand the features and specifications of the pet supplies they are considering.

Incredibly Convenient With Delivery and Returns Policy

One of the major conveniences of selling pet supplies on Amazon is the delivery and returns policy. Pet owners, who are often busy taking care of their furry friends, find it highly appealing and comforting to know that Amazon will handle the delivery of their pet supplies.

Through Amazon FBA, sellers can store their inventory in Amazon's fulfillment centers. The platform takes charge of packaging, shipping, and customer service, alleviating sellers from logistical responsibilities and enabling them to focus on other business aspects.

Customers benefit from Amazon's efficient and dependable delivery services, receiving their pet supplies conveniently and promptly. This particularly helps pet owners needing regular supplies like food, litter, or medication.

Embrace the Pet Market Today!

Pet supplies will always be in demand, particularly in countries like Canada. Canadian’s deep love for its fur babies ensures a steady demand for high-quality pet products. We listed many advantages above that can contribute to your business profitability and expansion, so consider this area an excellent opportunity to start selling online.

If you’re thinking about venturing into the ecommerce pet industry, you must first know the basics of Amazon Seller Central account management, product optimization, and product launch.

That’s where Seller Interactive comes in. We offer professional services and expertise to help you navigate and optimize your Amazon business, ensuring your success in this thriving industry.
Don’t miss out on the chance to capitalize on the pet-loving culture of Canadians and the convenience of selling pet supplies on Amazon. Email us at [email protected], and we will guide you through the process.

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Amazon Problems? Here’s How to Contact Seller on Amazon

Amazon is one of the biggest e-commerce platforms in the world, catering to millions of customers every day. With a vast array of products and services available on the platform, it is not uncommon for customers to encounter issues or have inquiries about their purchases and want to know how to contact seller on Amazon.

There are numerous reasons why customers like you may need to contact sellers on Amazon, including queries about product specifications, order tracking, refunds, and returns. Fortunately, there are various ways customers can contact sellers that ensure prompt and efficient communication.

Reasons Why Customers Contact a Seller on Amazon

A customer's journey looks like this: you purchase something from the Amazon store, wait for the delivery, and review it once it has arrived. Normally, this is the only interaction a customer would have with a seller.

However, there are some cases wherein you have inquiries or even some feedback. Here are common reasons buyers usually contact sellers on Amazon:

  1. Customer Received a Defective Product.

There are a variety of reasons why customers receive a defective product. For example, some products get damaged during or even before shipping. You can file a report accordingly on your customer account's "Your Orders" page. 

From there, select the reason for a replacement or return. Amazon will then check if the item is eligible for a return and will further direct you what to do afterward.

  1. Buyers Didn't Receive the Product.

You may see your orders tagged as "delivered" on the tracking page without receiving any parcels. There are several reasons why this happens:

  • You accidentally entered the wrong address, so it was shipped to the wrong address.
  • There was a notice for attempted delivery, but no one received it.
  • The package was delivered, but it was placed somewhere in the delivery location.
  • Someone else from the customer's household or area received the package.

Sometimes, you only need to wait for 48 hours since some packages are tagged as delivered but may take quite some time to be delivered to their doorsteps.

  1. The Product Was Damaged During Shipping.

All products are prone to damage while in transit. In case you experience this unfortunate event, you can use Amazon's Returns and Refunds Service. You can decide whether you want to return the product, get a new one, or get a refund.

contact amazon seller
  1. Customers Have Questions or Feedback.

There may be details not given on the product details page. Contacting sellers is a great way for you to ask them personally about product specifications. 

This way, you get complete information about the item even before buying it! And if you have used the product and have any feedback, you may contact them too!

How to Contact Seller on Amazon

Now let's discuss how customers can reach out and talk to third party sellers. While it is enticing to contact Amazon customer service through the number provided in the site's customer service message center, there is nothing like going straight to the for firsthand information about what your customers need. 

With that, here are a few different ways to exchange buyer seller messages.

Through Their Email and Social Media Accounts

You can send a message through their social media platforms and email addresses. There, you can leave a seller feedback or ask questions about your orders and the products they sell on their social media. You can also send a direct message or a formal email to them for more serious concerns.

Through the Contact Seller Form

Another way customers can contact a particular seller is by using the contact seller form. Go to the product listing page and scroll down to the "Seller Info" section. There, you'll see a link that says "Contact Seller." 

Click on this and fill out the form to leave seller feedback or post any concerns you have. Include details such as the product you have an issue with and what you want for compensation.

This method is convenient for customers who do not want to contact Amazon customer service and do not have the time to call sellers either. They can just complete the form and wait for a reply.

send an email

Through Amazon

Go to the product listing page and scroll down to the "Customer Questions & Answers" message box. Underneath this, click a link that says, "Ask a question." A message box will appear where you can enter your message.

Through Amazon Seller Forums

Go to the product listing page and scroll down to the "Seller Info'' section. You'll see a link that says, "Visit seller's forum." You'll be taken to a page where you can post questions. Again, you need to include all the relevant details about your concern so sellers can address your inquiry accordingly.

Through a Phone Number

Customers will see a phone number on the product listings page's "Seller Info" section. Through this, you can give sellers or their company customer service representative a call. Amazon also has a customer service hotline to help customers resolve their concerns or connect buyers to sellers.

Seller Interactive as Seller Messaging Assistant

Customers may need to contact sellers for various reasons, including defective products, missing deliveries, damaged items, or product inquiries. To ensure prompt and efficient communication, you contact sellers on Amazon through email and social media accounts, the contact seller form, through Amazon, Amazon Seller Forums, and phone numbers. Seller Interactive can be a messaging assistant to help manage messages and respond to customers in a timely manner. Contact us today! By being accessible and responsive to customers, you can build trust and improve their overall customer satisfaction.

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9 Ways to Improve Your Amazon Product Return Rate

Nowadays, people prefer shopping on Amazon more than on any other e-commerce site. It is the world’s largest online retailer, after all. Naturally, aspiring entrepreneurs often consider starting their businesses on the platform. As in any lucrative venture, unforeseen downsides can be detrimental to a business, and the Amazon product return rate is one such example.

In this article, you will learn nine ways to lessen your return rates, maintain a good reputation, and satisfy your customers.

Returning Purchases in the E-Commerce Industry

The e-commerce returns process is a product of normal consumer behavior. As part of the customer experience, online retailers are expected to provide the best quality products, and when they fail to meet expectations, customers are quick to send them back.

This poses multiple problems for a business. First, since customers usually return items in a used state, customer returns can cut into a business's total retail sales. Although a business designates certain criteria on returned merchandise through a returns policy to control them, they often end up with a significant amount of items going back, resulting in a high refund rate and eventual loss of profit and revenue opportunities.

In addition to a drop in sales, a business's product return rates can also negatively impact a business's reputation, which is why it is vital to care for the returns process in a business. 

What Product Returns Mean for Amazon Sellers

High product return rates can hurt your credibility as an online seller, which is crucial for the health of your Amazon account. Because Amazon prioritizes the buyers' satisfaction and experience, customers can easily return the purchased items.

Even if it does not seem favorable to third-party sellers like you, you must understand your customers' concerns about online shopping. To avoid losses and possibly getting your Amazon account suspended, you must proactively strategize to reduce Amazon product returns. 

Product returns can mean a couple of things for an Amazon seller, including the following:

Additional (and Avoidable) Costs

Customer returns can cost a business lot of money. Losing credibility and a wave of potential customers is one thing, but there’s also incurred fees and additional shipping costs that can eat into your profit. 

A customer expects every business to adhere to grievances related to their returned merchandise. Online sellers are expected to handle everything from customer service to reverse logistics back to the retailer's warehouse or brick-and-mortar store for free, saving customer loyalty.

Return shipping can significantly impact a business's profit margins because part of that sum will go back to expenses—shipping, handling, and using otherwise brand-new storage for replacements. In short, they are deemed unnecessary and preventable expenses.

Unfortunately for sellers, some cases involve customers asking for refunds on stolen or unpurchased merchandise, leading to return fraud and other return-related crimes.

Losing Potential and Repeat Customers

If you run an e-commerce store like Amazon, displaying your product return rates is a crucial decision. This can either boost your business or run it through the mud. 

A relatively low number can reflect well on your business; meanwhile, high return rates could signify seller incompetence or low product quality.

9 Tips to Improve Your Product Return Rate

1. Write Accurate Product Descriptions

Images are usually the first thing that attracts the attention of customers. Once they like what they see, they are more likely to purchase the product, sometimes impulsively. But most online shoppers would also read the product description to gather more information about the item before purchasing.

Doing this allows them to visualize how the actual product looks, despite not seeing it personally. So as an Amazon seller, you can help them make an informed decision by writing detailed product descriptions in your listing. This will not only help you for SEO purposes but also manage your customer’s expectations and ultimately reduce product returns.

In the product description, you must provide helpful information, such as:

  • sizing and color variants;
  • product dimensions;
  • materials or ingredients used;
  • warranty information;
  • satisfaction guarantee;
  • link to Amazon Return Policy;
  • expectations on the package; and
  • instructions on using or assembling the product.

The more details you provide, the more likely you prevent customers from leaving comments about misleading advertisements or incorrect information. Providing precise details will also make you trustworthy as an Amazon seller, prompting customers to purchase again or refrain from returning products on a whim.

2. Provide a Sizing Guide

As mentioned above, you must provide detailed information about your item on the listing, including a sizing guide or chart. This best suits businesses that offer items with several options for sizes, shapes, and measurements.

Ensure that you put all the necessary and precise numerical values, like height, width, and length. Through this, they can measure their own sizes, walls, tables, etc., and choose the best option available.

If you are not entirely sure about this vital information, it would be best to discuss it with your supplier firsthand. If you have a customer service representative, inform them about these things so they know how to respond to such inquiries. 

3. Upload High-Quality Images

Providing high-quality photos can not only help you rank well on the search engine results page (SERP) but also help lessen your product refunds and returns.

Help your customers visualize your product better with multiple angles, zoomed-in or close-up shots, and images that show the products in use or when worn. Also, upload photos for every variety of the product to give your customers options. Ensure high-quality images so they can zoom into the details themselves.

4. Include a Product Video

Even though this feature is relatively new to the Amazon marketplace, you should maximize this feature to improve customer experience.

The product video can serve multiple purposes for your brand. You can use it to attract more online shoppers by presenting how the items would look in real life. You can also demonstrate how to use the item, highlighting key benefits ideally listed in the product description. Lastly, you can use it as a marketing strategy to better showcase the quality of your products and introduce your brand.

If you intend to create product videos for your product listings, it would be best to develop a storyline or theme and hire professionals to shoot and edit the videos for you.

5. Offer Real-Time Customer Service

Sometimes, customers have difficulty understanding the details in your product descriptions. They might have further inquiries stopping them from purchasing and prefer to speak with a customer service representative who can address their concerns first.

As an Amazon seller, you should consider offering real-time customer service that is always available to respond to inquiries about your products. They should also be able to provide assistance related to checking out, return policies, or Amazon Prime shipping services, if applicable.

Having a dedicated Amazon customer service representative for your online store can minimize your product return rate and ensure higher customer satisfaction.

6. Gather Previous Amazon Return Data

As a business owner, you know how important data is to make decisions for your business. For example, data on market trends can help you manage your inventory and adjust pricing. Data on product returns can help you improve the quality of your items and offer your services better. Here are some of the key information related to product returns you’ll want to collect:

  • which products are often returned;
  • what reasons do customers cite for returning the products;
  • which seasons or months see the highest return rate; and
  • who usually returns your products.

Additionally, you can use this information to determine which customers are more likely to send a return request so that you can refrain from giving them promotions and discounts and avoid possible return fraud. This way, you can turn your return issues in your favor.

7. Coordinate With Your Suppliers

Low-quality and faulty products usually prompt buyers to return the products, which usually end up getting sold in Amazon return stores. Because your customers want to get their money's worth, they would not hesitate to return the items, especially since Amazon offers free return shipping.

In this case, it would be best to coordinate with your suppliers if you do not manufacture or create your products yourself. Check the item packaging and return labels from the shipping carrier, especially if you have received several complaints about broken items occurring during shipment. Additionally, you and your supplier should be strict in assessing the quality of the product after one too many customer complaints. 

8. Ask About Customer Satisfaction

One of the best ways to identify your problems related to returns is through your customers' feedback. Amazon has provided an avenue for sellers to communicate with their customers directly through the Buyer-Seller Messaging Service found on Seller Central. You can use this platform to know and understand your buyers and their demands.

Moreover, the comments left by your previous buyers speak for your e-commerce store. Their reviews will prove whether your products meet your customer’s expectations, reflecting customer loyalty. 

9. Keep Them Coming Back With Store Credit

The product returns process doesn't fare well with regards to customer experience, so a good way to make it up to the online shopper is by offering store credit to compensate for their trouble.

Using store credit is a great way to make your customer happy, since you're essentially giving them free or discounted items. The prospect of free items can also ramp up sales for your business, encouraging a repeat purchase.

Just make sure to provide quality service this time.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, you can try several methods to reduce your product returns, and they can be as easy as writing precise product descriptions or providing sizing guides. But if selling on an e-commerce giant like Amazon overwhelms you, there are professionals who can help you with Amazon returns, refunds, and reimbursements to manage your business more efficiently. If you are interested in growing your Amazon business, book a Discovery Call or contact Seller Interactive at 1-800-820-3746.

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6 Benefits of Selling on Amazon as a Brand

Are you still contemplating whether to launch your brand on Amazon or not? Understandably, you are still weighing the pros and cons of Amazon selling. After all, it takes guts and perseverance to start your venture on this platform, considering the high competition and strict guidelines you have to face.

However, you must know that Amazon has continuously helped third-party sellers establish their businesses and grow their customer base with or without registered brands. This alone is solid evidence of the marketplace's exceptional ability to empower businesses and drive their success. If you want to learn more, this article will explore the top benefits of selling on Amazon. 

Man double-checking the card payment details on his smartphone, his laptop on the background showing Amazon listings

1. Amazon has a massive customer base that is constantly growing.

When Amazon started accepting third-party sellers, the number of customers buying on this platform increased, making it one of the biggest eCommerce marketplaces in the world. It currently ships to over 100 countries, so more people prefer shopping on Amazon than other platforms.

When the COVID-19 pandemic started, people had no choice but to stay indoors and order their necessities online. This drastic shift in purchasing has mainly contributed to Amazon’s growth of sales and over 2 billion monthly site visitors for the first half of 2021. This shows how many potential customers Amazon sellers can reach worldwide.

Despite the pandemic and the global supply chain disruptions it caused, Amazon continued to be a trusted online marketplace by many shoppers.

2. Amazon offers a variety of features to help brands grow and protect their businesses.

To support business growth, Amazon provides various programs, resources, and tools sellers can easily access. Some are available to all sellers, while some are exclusive to registered brand sellers. Below are a few notable features you can maximize as an Amazon brand seller.

Amazon Seller Central

Once you have created a selling account on Amazon, Seller Central is the portal to access your seller account. You can navigate all the valuable tools and content and monitor your sales activity through this portal. Download the Amazon Seller app if you want to use your tablet or phone to open your account.

With Amazon Seller Central, you can add or edit your product listing, track your inventory, and manage your payments, returns, and refunds. Additionally, it lets you generate business reports, monitor customer reviews, and manage tools like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and Amazon Custom. 

Finally, if you want to sell your products worldwide, you can do it through Amazon Global Selling on Seller Central.

Seller University

Educate yourself about Amazon before you start selling. To do so, you can read various resources on Seller University. It provides articles and short videos for aspiring beginners and brand sellers to help you manage your online store on Amazon. You can also read some frequently asked questions and their answers to stay informed accordingly.

Brand Registry and Protection

Amazon Brand Registry protects your intellectual property and removes potentially bad listings through features such as automated protections and the new Impact dashboard. It also offers Brand Registry support, where you can get assistance resolving listing issues, policy violations, and more. 

Amazon Advertising

Advertising is a crucial part of establishing your Amazon business. This will help you reach new customers for your brand and continuously satisfy them with your products and services. Amazon offers three cost-per-click ads: Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Display. You can also manage these campaigns through Amazon Seller Central.

3. Brands that sell on Amazon have access to millions of Prime members.

Amazon Prime is a paid subscription service that allows users to obtain other features unavailable to others, such as Prime Video, Prime Music, and, most importantly, fast delivery services. Amazon promises to provide two-day or same-day shipping to customers, making it more convenient and attractive for users as they shop online.

In 2021, Amazon was reported to have 200 million Prime members, and this number will continue to grow as people get more satisfied with the services they receive. Customers also consider Prime eligibility one of the top purchasing factors. 

So if you don’t offer Prime shipping, they are more likely to look for other brands. Consider applying for Amazon FBA as well. It gives sellers access to two-day free shipping under Prime and other incentives such as free shipping on eligible orders, FBA inventory management, etc.

You can also try the Seller-Fulfilled Prime program, which allows sellers to deliver directly to domestic Prime customers from their own warehouses. 

4. Amazon has a sophisticated search engine that helps customers find your products.

Shoppers mainly use the search engine to look for products they want. In response, the ecommerce platform has developed its own search engine, which uses algorithms that cater to buyers' needs. 

Amazon uses the A10 algorithm, which involves various factors in ranking product listings. Some of these include sales history, seller credibility, conversion rate, reviews, and click-through rate.

To rank high on the search engine results page (SERP), you must devise and implement various search engine optimization (SEO) strategies, such as using relevant keywords, creating excellent copies, uploading high-quality photos, and generating good authentic reviews. You can also maximize Amazon ads to drive more traffic to your product listings. 

Amazon logistics, a worker sorting packages on a conveyor

5. Selling on Amazon marketplace is easy and convenient, primarily through Amazon FBA. 

Selling on the Amazon marketplace offers a seamless and convenient experience, particularly with Amazon FBA. Here’s how:

  • Amazon handles all the logistics and storage responsibilities. 
  • Amazon takes care of the picking, packing, and shipping of items. 
  • Amazon handles customer service concerns, refunds, and returns. 
  • Sellers benefit from the storage provided by Amazon in its fulfillment centers. 
  • Enrolling in Amazon FBA gives you a chance to get approved for Amazon Buy Box much faster. Buy Box features products and allows customers to easily add items to their cart through the “Buy Now” box. 

6. Brand owners have exclusive tools to boost brand awareness.

Amazon values brand owners enrolled under their Brand Registry program. Hence, they continuously develop and provide features that will help these brands boost their sales and brand awareness. If you’re one of these registered sellers, here are some tools you can enjoy on the platform.

Premium A+ Content 

After opening a selling account on Amazon, your next step is to create your first few product listings and sell products. In a typical Amazon listing, you must provide the product’s title, bulleted features, description, images, and delivery information. 

With Brand Registry, you’ll benefit from exclusive brand awareness tools, including Premium A+ Content. This feature gives you access to improve the content of your product listings through visually engaging elements. You can present more texts, images, and videos to entice potential customers to purchase your product. 

Brand Analytics

Found on Seller Central, Amazon Brand Analytics is a tool that registered brand sellers can use to make informed decisions in running their businesses. It generates reports about customer behavior, like conversions, repeat purchases, and more. 

Amazon sellers can access this valuable data through Brand Analytics dashboards which include Search Catalog Performance, Top Search Terms, Repeat Purchase Behavior, etc. 

Conclusion

Managing an eCommerce store is not easy, whatever platform you use. Nevertheless, selling on Amazon presents a unique advantage when scaling your business enterprise and establishing a robust brand presence. If you want to start your Amazon selling journey as a brand, you can benefit from its vast number of potential customers, Prime members, and helpful tools, programs, and services. 

If you are already interested in launching your brand’s products through Amazon, you should consider hiring an agency that can help you acquire brand protection services, like Seller Interactive. We have teams of professionals who can help you deal with hijackers and counterfeiters, preventing them from negatively affecting your sales and brand reputation.

To schedule a consultation, you can email [email protected] or call 1-800-820-3746

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Amazon Advertising Managed-Service Provider for DSP in Canada: A Deeper Look

Amazon has developed a program that helps advertisers connect with their audiences. Through Amazon Demand-Side Platform (DSP) and the right Amazon advertising managed-service provider, sellers inside and outside Canada can reach plenty of Canadian audiences.

Let's discover how Amazon DSP in the Canadian region works and how feasible it is as an advertising strategy for Amazon.ca sellers.

Amazon DSP in the Canadian Region

The advertising world opens up a whole new set of opportunities for all people. This rule also applies to Amazon, the biggest eCommerce platform in North America and the world. It offers online entrepreneurs many possibilities to boost their businesses holistically. 

But wait, you might ask yourself, “What does DSP stand for Amazon?” or perhaps, “What is a DSP for Amazon?”

The Must-Knows on Amazon DSP Advertising

DSP stands for the “demand-side platform.” It is a type of programmatic advertising that operates by buying and selling digital ads and ad spaces through automation. Audiences are then targeted programmatically, meaning they are intercepted where they are most often found online. 

DSP Advertising on Amazon allows sellers and advertisers to publish various types of ads, such as audio ads, video ads, and display ads. 

Is it identical to Amazon Sponsored ads?

Is there a difference between DSP and Amazon Sponsored display ads? While both are programmatic ads, DSP ads vary in numerous aspects. 

FeatureAmazon DSP Amazon Sponsored Ads

Accessibility
Brands selling on and outside the platform can use DSP advertising.Merchants inside Amazon can use Sponsored Display ads for product and brand promotion.

Customization
The DSP advertising format allows advertisers to choose how ad features look on the product detail page (e.g., headlines, logos, and images).Sponsored Display ads don’t allow for ad creative customization.

Cost structure
Sellers using DSP ads usually pay for every 1000 views on their advertisements (cost-per-mille or CPM).Advertisers using Sponsored Display ads pay for every click (cost-per-click or CPC).

How far is DSP advertising’s audience reach?

Which audiences can Amazon reach with DSP? Is there a limit to whom they can reach? 

Amazon can show your DSP ads to people in many places around the globe, even in the farthest reaches of Canada. If your target audience is programmed to select people from Canada, you can start your journey in the Canadian region.

Which DSP setup will suit your brand best?

You can take only two options in setting up sophisticated ad automation: self-service or managed-service using a certified Amazon marketing agency. 

  • The self-service setup grants advertisers and sellers complete authority over their advertising campaigns. 
  • Meanwhile, sellers can hire third-party companies for the managed-service setup to handle the campaigns, giving these agencies access to their Amazon DSP inventory (more on this later).

As always, both setups have their fair share of benefits and drawbacks. It only depends on your specific business needs. 

What Makes Amazon a Good DSP Provider?

Do you know that Amazon now rivals Google Analytics as one of the leading advertising platforms in the virtual space? 

The retail giant had over $20 billion in ad revenue in 2020 and a growth rate of 77% year over year. 

Amazon’s ad revenue can be compared to those of Pinterest, Snap, Twitter, and Roku combined, and it will still be over twice as huge. 

The rapid sprawling growth of Amazon as an advertising platform can be attributed to its hallmark as an online shopping website coupled with its long list of subsidiaries. 

Amazon has some resources up its sleeves to ensure that your ads reach your audience at all stages of the funnel, including:

  • IMDb TV
  • Prime Video
  • Kindle
  • Twitch
  • Audible
  • And other third-party providers.

Of course, Amazon DSP is just one of the best demand-side platforms that exist at the moment. 

But what really sets it apart from others is its span of reach with the exact audiences you want to target with its vast users that span all across the globe - yes, even outside the US. Canadians use Amazon and its services, so DSP is definitely something you'd want to consider.

Currently, Amazon DSP advertising is available for entities on and off the marketplace, generating hundreds of millions of impressions each day. However, DSP is not cheap, with a starting fee of 35,000 USD for the managed-service option. Again, advertisers are required to pay in CPM.

But is Amazon DSP worth it when all the ad spend is considered?

Canada: the Nation of Tomorrow

Amazon is not new in Canada. It is currently the biggest online shopping platform that readily serves its growing population of 38 million. A steady increase in operations was observed following the plan of employing an additional 15,000 Amazon employees and a significant salary hike in the fall of 2021. 

Additionally, Amazon is establishing some of its subsidiaries' headquarters in the country, notably Amazon Web Services in Calgary, Alberta, by late 2023 or early 2024.

With this recent news, one can conclude that Amazon is securing its spot as the leading eCommerce retailer in Canada and will continue to be so in the succeeding years. Although many sellers are now looking towards tapping into the Canadian region to reach Canadian audiences, there's still time for you to start and outperform your competitors.

Selling to and advertising in Canada have never been easier through Amazon. If you're from the United States, you don't need a Canadian business license or a bank account to start selling in Canada. Hence, you may take this opportunity to reach Canadian customers. And how do you exactly do this? The next sections reveal them.

sponsored brands - shot of a phone on top of a laptop keyboard, showing amazon ads and amazon dsp onscreen

Perfect Brands to Sign Up For Amazon DSP Canada

Wondering if your brand suits Amazon DSP Canada? More than a specific brand category, the answer depends on various factors, including your goals, budget, and target audience. 

Even brands with established names in their product categories and reaping thousands or millions in sales each month must advertise strategically. Gone are the days when PPC-type advertising is the sole way to boost sales. 

Instead, you have to take one step further and appear to your audiences, whether they may be searching for your products or considering them (but did not proceed). This is something DSP on Amazon can help you with.

Amazon DSP boosts sales and revenues via brand awareness and audience retargeting features. With Amazon’s ability to reach Canadian audiences on and off its eCommerce platform using its subsidiaries and affiliates, what more can you ask for?

Amazon DSP is not limited to Amazon sellers, so any ecommerce brand can still use it. All you need are the resources to leverage its capabilities and be ahead of your competitors. With a great outlook on the growth of Amazon as a DSP provider and Canada's thriving economy, we strongly recommend that you take this advertising strategy.

Why Should Amazon Sellers in Canada Choose Managed-Service DSP? 

Choosing a managed-service DSP can significantly benefit to Amazon sellers targeting a Canadian audience. Albeit the freedom self-service DSP gives, the entire process and campaign management can be a lot to handle, even for experienced advertisers.

That’s why some sellers opt for managed-service DSP. You let the experts perform these tiresome tasks and lift that burden off your shoulders. Of course, there is also the concern of letting third-party agencies handle campaigns and having less say over how the campaign goes.

But with the right DSP manager or team, you can rest assured that your ad campaigns will generate impressive results, despite the downsides of the managed-service option. That’s where Seller Interactive comes in!

Tap the Canadian Market Using Amazon DSP With Seller Interactive

Amazon advertising may be overwhelming, with DSP being complicated for beginners and Canada as a country with people from all walks of life. But don't worry—there are a lot of resources and Amazon marketing services that will make your life as a seller a little easier.

Seller Interactive is a Canadian Amazon advertising managed-service provider that offers Amazon DSP service. We are your ideal digital marketing agency, offering undeniable Amazon expertise and a proactive Canadian team ready to help you achieve your goals. Do you have any questions about harnessing the power of Amazon DSP and launching dynamic ecommerce ads to reach Canadian audiences? Reach out to us today, and we will be with you every step of the way.

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Amazon PPC Tricks and Techniques For Your Next Campaign

An Amazon PPC campaign can be challenging to plan, implement, and maintain, particularly if you’re already occupied with other Amazon-related tasks. You balance product sourcing, inventory management, customer service, and other operational responsibilities while simultaneously performing the right Amazon PPC tricks.

Expecting every seller to dedicate extensive time and resources exclusively to their ad campaigns is unrealistic. But don’t worry; Seller Interactive offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of mastering the right Amazon PPC tricks and techniques without overwhelming yourself.

By this guide’s end, you will have a solid understanding of PPC management and be equipped with practical tips and strategies to enhance your campaign’s performance.

What is the Amazon PPC Campaign?

Even though traditional advertising persists, many businesses are increasingly turning to paid advertising techniques like Amazon PPC to bolster their advertising campaigns. Why is that? What makes PPC so enticing, and why do they gravitate to it?

Also known as pay-per-click advertising, Amazon PPC allows you to promote products within the marketplace. It involves targeted ad campaigns where businesses bid on keywords or product categories. 

Ads are displayed based on bidding and relevancy factors when customers search for relevant keywords or view related products. Once clicked, Amazon charges the advertiser or seller the bid value declared.

With Amazon PPC campaigns, sellers and advertisers have a higher chance to increase their brand awareness, improve organic ranking, reach audiences, and reach profit goals. When executed perfectly, it will outperform competitors in the same product type.

Amazon PPC campaigns are categorized into three sponsored ads.

Sponsored Product AdsSponsored Display AdsSponsored Brand Ads
Ads that contain a product listing. Product listings that audiences can see on and off Amazon.Ads that showcase a whole brand and three products it sells. 

For Sponsored Brand Ads, shoppers can find these ad types on product pages and the Search Results page on Amazon when a shopper inputs a keyword.

These categories provide versatile options to maximize advertising efforts and achieve desired outcomes.

Is Amazon PPC Worth It?

Amazon mobile on cart

It’s only natural for Amazon sellers to assess the value and potential return on investment before diving into any marketing strategy. But when it comes to Amazon PPC, we can confidently say that it’s worth it!

From precise targeting to cost control, Amazon PPC can capture a larger market share without a sweat. You must learn the strategic approach and effective implementation to benefit your business significantly.

Here is your starting point.

  • Nature of Products: Assess how well your products align with the competitive landscape on Amazon. If you offer unique or in-demand products, Amazon PPC can help you stand out and attract potential buyers.
  • Demographics of Potential Buyers: Determine your target audience and whether they are active on Amazon. If your target demographic frequently shops on the platform, Amazon PPC can effectively reach and engage with them.
  • Season of the Year: Are your products experiencing seasonal fluctuations in demand? If so, leveraging Amazon PPC during peak seasons or relevant holidays can help you capitalize on increased customer interest and boost sales.
  • Advertising Budget: Evaluate your available ad budget and determine how much you can allocate to PPC campaigns. Ensure you have sufficient funds to support your campaign and monitor its performance.
  • Goals: Clarify your plans for using Amazon PPC. Do you aim to increase sales, drive traffic to your listings, or enhance brand visibility? Clearly defining your objectives will help you choose the most suitable type of PPC campaign.

Whatever your factors and goals are, try listing them down first. This action can give you a clear idea of which type of PPC ad campaign you should go for.

5 Key Performance Indicators for Amazon PPC Campaigns

Amazon webpage on laptop with credit card

Learning Amazon PPC also means knowing key performance indicators (KPIs). These metrics can provide insights into the effectiveness and success of Amazon ad campaigns. By keeping a close eye on these measurements, you can track your performance, figure out areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions to optimize your Amazon PPC strategy.

Here are five key performance metrics to pay attention to.

1. Sales

Like its definition, sales refer to the total amount of money you generate while running a PPC campaign. But note that sales do not refer to revenue because those are not synonymous with each other.

2. Spend

Spend, a critical metric in PPC campaigns, is the amount of money you have invested in specific keywords or ad campaigns on Amazon. It encompasses the funds you paid Amazon for running your ads. 

Evaluating ad spend allows you to assess the profitability of your PPC campaign once sales are considered. By comparing your spending with the generated sales, you can determine whether your campaign targets the right people, contributing to your overall bottom line.

3. CTR (Click-Through Rate)

CTR, or Click-Through Rate, measures the correlation between clicks and impressions. It reflects how appealing your product listing or PPC ads are to shoppers. CTR can be calculated using the formula: (number of clicks ÷ number of impressions) x 100.

A higher CTR indicates that many users who view your ad or product listing are enticed to click on it. It signifies that your ad creative, copy, or product information is captivating and attention-grabbing.

4. Impressions

The number of impressions represents how frequently your ad is displayed to shoppers when they search for a keyword. Generally, the higher the impression, the better.

5. CPC (Cost-Per-Click)

CPC refers to the money the advertiser pays Amazon whenever an ad is clicked using a particular keyword. The general rule of thumb is that the more popular the keyword, the higher the CPC due to the competitiveness of bids declared by advertisers of the same keyword. 

Just to clarify, bids are not synonymous with CPC. Advertisers declare bids as the maximum amount of money they can spend to get a better placement on the Search Results page.

How to Set up an Amazon PPC Campaign

Now that you’ve gained insights about starting your PPC campaign, it’s time to learn how to set it up. Here is a simplified list of steps to guide you through the process.

Go to your Amazon Seller Central account..

🡇

Go to “Advertising.” There, you will see “Campaign Manager.” Click on it to customize your PPC campaign

🡇

You must fill up the Campaign Name, Average Daily Budget, Start and End Dates, and Targeting Type (manual or automatic campaigns).

🡇

Input the “Ad Group Name.” You can have multiple ad groups in a single campaign.

🡇

Choose the product to advertise for this campaign. 

🡇

After that, you will have to declare your bid. 

🡇

Choose the keywords. You may either check the suggested keywords by Amazon or provide your keywords.

🡇

Click “Save and Finish” at the bottom of the screen. You’ve completed the steps once you see the “Success!” prompt on the “Campaign Manager” page. 

It takes an hour before new campaigns appear on search engines’ result pages. So, be patient and give them a little time to gain visibility.

9 Amazon PPC Management Tips and Tricks 

Amazon logo on laptop screen

Setting up your PPC campaign is indeed the initial phase, but the real key to success lies in effective Amazon PPC management. You must ensure that your advertising campaigns are not only up and running but also performing optimally. After all, the ultimate purpose of advertising is to generate tangible results and drive business growth.

But like managing Google Ads, Amazon PPC can be tricky too. It demands strategic thinking, data analysis, and a continuous optimization approach. Fear not; we've covered you with nine Amazon PPC tips and tricks to make your PPC management a breeze.

Tip #1: Shift Between Automatic and Manual Campaigns

One effective strategy in Amazon PPC management is to shift from automatic to manual campaigns. Shifting lets you assess the performance of keywords and identify negative keywords, leading to improved campaign results.

Start with an automatic campaign, allowing Amazon's algorithm to determine relevant keywords and handle bidding. Once you have accumulated sufficient data, analyze the search term report to identify high-performing keywords and uncover valuable insights. 

This information will guide you in transitioning to a manual campaign, where you have complete control over your ads. With this approach, you can fine-tune your targeting, tweak bids based on performance, and focus on specific keywords or customer segments.

Tip #2: Monitor Your PPC Campaign Performance

Make it a habit to visit your Campaign Manager at least once a week. Check which keywords are costing you the most and the ones driving in a lot of sales. Staying on top of the metrics mentioned earlier will help you make informed decisions to modify your results.

During these check-ins, focus on these key areas to know when to improve and make data-driven adjustments. Don’t forget to analyze the health of your Amazon PPC ad and review costs for better outcomes.

Tip #3: Master the Art of Keyword Research

There is nothing wrong with knowing more. In the case of Amazon's PPC advertising strategy, keyword research is the solution to excellent execution.

Know all four types of keywords:

  • Broad Keyword: Targets a wider audience searching for related terms.
  • Phrase Keyword: Captures more specific search queries by targeting phrases that include your chosen keywords.
  • Exact Keyword: Ensures your ads are only shown when the exact search term matches your keyword.
  • Negative Keyword: Excludes specific search terms that are irrelevant to your products.

With these keyword match types, you will be able to harness the reach of your ads.

Tip #4: Optimize All Your Product Listings

The most straightforward rule to give you a significant advantage against competitors is product listings that immediately catch the customers’ attention. After all, your Amazon product detail page exists to convince people that your products are better than others. 

This may sound like the obvious, but effectively optimizing your product listings is a task easier said than done. To achieve product listing optimization, consider the following:

  • Write a Killer Product Description

All Amazon advertisers treat product descriptions as the bread and butter of their ad campaigns, and it’s not hard to see why. Customers on Amazon are ready to spend money on the platform, so you should make your product descriptions as captivating as possible. 

There are numerous ways to capture customers’ interest in your products, so be creative! A good start would be to keep them focused on the product’s benefit. Consider using bullets or separating ideas for longer descriptions.

  • Upload High-Quality Product Images

Optimizing product images is just as crucial as writing descriptions. You should always have the mindset that your photos are the only way to talk to your customers. 

Pretend that product descriptions do not exist—how would you do your best to make the images compelling enough to stand alone? Try different angles on your products. Always present your brand logo and show your products' sizes through photos. More importantly, keep these images abiding by the Amazon guidelines.

  • Focus Effort on Increasing Product Reviews

A sufficient number of customer reviews on Amazon is always a good sign for advertisers. Active customer engagement provides more credence for your business on the platform, which will attract future customers and create new business partnerships.

An effective way to increase product reviews is to provide freebies or discounts for customers who leave substantial reviews. You can also start a social media campaign to boost your engagement.

Tip #5: Outsource, But Only When Needed

If you think you or your team cannot fully optimize your product listings on your own, you may consider outsourcing your work. 

Much like Amazon PPC Outsourcing, this can be especially useful for your product photos—since Amazon has placed very stringent photo requirements for advertisers on their platform, it may be practical to hire professional photographers to take your photos instead. You erase the risk of being penalized, and you get top-quality images.   

Tip #6: Maximize the Buy Box and Best Seller Badge Privileges

The Buy Box and Seller Badge are surefire ways to get additional credibility to convert your Amazon product display ads into sales. 

  • Buy Box

The Buy Box section is a feature that leads customers toward the best possible buying option for a common item. Naturally, almost all customers buy exclusively from the Buy Box seller since they know they are provided with the best product value.

Acquiring the Buy Box is not an easy feat to accomplish. Your seller performance, inventory, and shipping capabilities will be reviewed. But once you have it, 99% of the customers will be yours!

  • Best Seller Badge

The Amazon Best Seller badge, on the other hand, is an orange ribbon icon awarded to sellers on the platform who perform better than their competitors. Best Seller badges are awarded to up to 100 sellers for each category, so it's easier to get.

Getting a Best Seller badge is tricky. We recommend placing your product in a less competitive category, giving you a higher chance of getting the badge. See if it performs better than your competitors, and enjoy your new verified icon.

Incorporating these achievements into your Amazon PPC campaigns convinces customers that you're a trustworthy and dependable seller.

Tip #7: Bids vs. CPC

Advertisers often get shocked by their high ad spend because they forget to adjust certain settings. Let's say your bid price is significantly higher than the cost-per-click (CPC), and your sales are not performing well, resulting in a high Advertising Cost of Sales (ACoS). It may be time to lower your bids.

Lowering your bid price helps you control your ad spend and improve your ACoS. By reducing your bid, you signal to Amazon that you are willing to pay less for each click, which can result in a lower overall cost for your advertising campaigns.

Finding the default bid price that balances cost control and desired results may require trial and error. Regularly monitoring your campaigns enables you to optimize your Amazon PPC efforts and achieve a more favorable return on investment.

Tip #8: Apply Actions From Data-Reading

What is the use of reading the performance of your PPC campaign if you follow the appropriate strategy? Different methods that are proven to be effective have been used. 

Like above, lowering the bids by setting up a target ACoS is an excellent way to save money on PPC. You will have to think about your profit margin and attaining your goals.

Tip #9: Organize Products in the Same Ad Group

Organize your products into relevant ad groups to enhance campaign management. With this strategy, you can streamline your campaign structure and make managing and tracking performance easier. 

It also enables you to focus on specific groups of products that share similar characteristics or appeal to particular customer segments. For example, you can create ad groups based on long-tail keywords or product categories to display your campaigns to the right audience.

Final Thoughts

Gone are the days of you tirelessly trying to figure out the intricacies of Amazon PPC campaigns. You no longer have to spend countless hours researching, experimenting, and hoping for the best. The solution is here, and it’s time to leave the guesswork behind.

Seller Interactive is your ideal partner in achieving success with your Amazon PPC campaigns. We have been handling multiple Amazon PPC accounts with our team of qualified PPC specialists. Don’t just take our word for it— the reviews from our satisfied clients speak for themselves.

Are you excited to take your PPC campaign to the next level? Or do you simply want to know more? Contact us today.

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How to Increase Sales During Christmas with an Amazon FBA Launch Service

The holiday season may be months away, but it’s never too early to plan for the holiday marketing campaigns. After all, some individuals do their Christmas shopping as early as August.

And what better place to search for the perfect Christmas gifts than on Amazon?

However, selling on Amazon requires a well-thought-out product launch, especially during the festive season when the competition is fiercer. Your plan must include product sourcing, store set-up, product launch, marketing efforts, customer service, and customer satisfaction. 

Seems daunting? Let the Amazon FBA launch service help you! If you want to know how to increase sales during Christmas with a successful Amazon product launch and discover effective marketing strategies for your holiday campaigns, keep reading. 

Fulfillment by Amazon: The Unsung Holiday Hero for Sellers

When orders pile in during the Yuletide season, typical business duties like inventory management and product packaging may be too much for some to handle. Some sellers may even overlook other crucial tasks like marketing and customer service.

Good thing sellers can turn to Fulfillment by Amazon to avoid doing so!

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is a service where you send your inventory to any Amazon warehouse, and they handle the picking, packing, and overall order fulfillment. Amazon also offers customer service, sorting inventory, shipping, and returns through this service. You just need to oversee your store’s operations and market your product. 

To get the most out of the FBA program, you need a successful product launch to kick off your business.

4 Pillars of A Successful Amazon Product Launch Strategy

Before discussing the different steps to launching a product on Amazon, it’s crucial to understand what will make a product launch smooth sailing and what will contribute to its success. An Amazon product launch strategy requires four pillars that you should follow.

1. Driving Traffic to Product Listing

A good Amazon launch strategy must drive traffic to your product listings. The number of people visiting your product page directly impacts your sales figures. The more discoverable your listing is, the higher your sales become. Hence, your focus is to attract internal and external visitors. 

2. Gathering Customer Feedback

The biggest sales driver on Amazon is customer reviews. Through customer reviews, new customers are informed of the product's functionality. Did it deliver on its promise, or did it not? Rave reviews on your product listing will boost your ranking on Amazon. Here, we’re talking about credibility and what your audience thinks about your products.

3. Leveraging Sales Velocity

To improve product ranking on Amazon, one must use advanced tools and innovative techniques such as giveaways and discounts. The goal is to achieve and maintain a high sales velocity by keeping your audience on their toes with your products—keep them hyped.

4. Optimizing Product Listing

Optimizing the product listing helps in ranking better on Amazon. Product listing optimization includes keywords, good product photos, detailed product descriptions, and backend keywords. Doing so enables you to rank high on Amazon and get more sales. 

merry christmas - shot of an amazon box next to a christmas tree

4 Steps to a Successful Holiday Amazon Product Launch

We must advise you to avoid launching a product just as the holiday season kicks in. Do it before, and the earlier, the better. Why? The number of sellers who market their products during the holidays can bury your product launch in the sea of competition. The earlier you start, the greater your product’s chances of standing out before the market becomes oversaturated.

We’ve created these simple steps for an amazing product launch, combining keyword research, marketing, and brand awareness. 

1. Conduct Keyword Research

Once your products are shipped to Amazon's fulfillment centers, prepare your listing and marketing materials. To prepare your listing, you need to use the right keywords. Amazon is a search engine, much like Google. Hence, you must target keywords that you want to be indexed for.

Sprinkle in seasonal and holiday-specific keyword phrases that match the joyous occasion. Using such keywords will increase the visibility of your listing, which can be converted to holiday season sales. 

So, how do you conduct keyword research? Search your competitor's listing. Check what works for them, or use a tool such as Helium 10 or Google’s Keyword Planner. Once you've conducted your product research, pick the keywords that will work best for your listing. 

2. Optimize Your Listing

Optimize! Optimize! Optimize!

We can't stress the importance of optimizing your listing enough. Applying the keywords you’ve gathered and picked to the product title, description, key product features, and images. Optimization will help Amazon's A10 Algorithm with ranking your product. 

3. Market Your Listing

This step is where you get people hyped on your various offers.

Utilize Amazon PPC and Facebook ads to get the word out about your seasonal product. Like Facebook ads, Amazon PPC offers to market your product for a certain fee. You can run an aggressive automatic campaign for about 2 to 3 weeks. Then, switch to manual campaigns with broad, phrase, and exact keyword matching.

If you have a social media page, post teasers for your product. You can conduct email marketing campaigns and send a newsletter to your email list. Another brilliant marketing strategy is tapping social media influencers to help spread the news. 

Other effective marketing efforts you can implement during your holiday product launch include:

4. Use an Amazon launch service

An Amazon product launch service helps Amazon sellers get their products to rank on the first page of Amazon's search results without doing much work. These services use strategies like discounts and giveaways to mark prices down and get people to buy your product. Others use Facebook advertising and SEO to boost ranking. 

These product launch services are equipped with the right tools. Below are two helpful software you or Amazon FBA Launch Services can use during product launch.

Sellerboard

Sellerboard is an all-in-one analytics tool that analyzes an online store’s cost-effectiveness and profitability.

With an analytics tool, you can get data about your store and have a deep insight into your store's sales. Furthermore, it can help you understand and foresee future profitability. You can learn how to grow your business, implement new strategies, and save time using the data provided. 

Dragon Dealz

Instead of spending so much time researching who the best influencers you should connect with, you can use Dragon Dealz. 

The influencers featured on this platform are authentic bloggers with authentic followers. So, once they create a review about your product, it will encourage people to check your listing. This traffic will then turn into sales. 

shot of an amazon giftcard inside a red box with a reindeer head design

Final Thoughts

Launching your FBA business all boils down to the right strategies, team, and knowledge on the platform. Using an Amazon FBA launch service can significantly help in launching your business. 

If you need professional help to launch your FBA business successfully, work with us at Seller Interactive. We offer countless Amazon services to help your business reach its ultimate potential. 

Contact us to learn more about our service and offers.

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Effective Amazon Positioning: A Complete Guide [Infographic]
An infographic sharing five tips for successful amazon positioning: keep it simple, focus on customer experience, optimize your store, market on multiple channels, and maintain a competitive advantage

A Complete Guide on Effective Amazon Positioning

Suppose a buyer purchases a laptop in a store, and your product is lined up for selection. The competition is tough; many other brands have good features, but the buyer goes straight to your product without hesitation. It's as if they intend to purchase your item from the beginning. 

Every brand's dream is to be the first thought in a customer's mind when deciding on a purchase. Therefore, a brand that positively stands out from the vast majority is a measurement of success. This is called brand positioning

How would you like to be remembered as a brand in the Amazon marketplace? We'll walk you through a valuable guide on how brand positioning works and how it's done with the help of an Amazon marketing services agency.

How Brand Positioning Works

Brand positioning is a marketing strategy highlighting a brand's unique, remarkable qualities to form a distinctive perception in the minds of your target market. With a successful brand positioning strategy, you can gain exceptional benefits in different aspects of your business. These include:

  • brand organization
  • growth in brand equity (the social value of a brand)
  • increase in customer loyalty
  • brand loyalty
  • expansion of your customer base
  • a higher and commendable brand reputation
  • increase in revenue 

What You Need For a Good Brand Positioning Strategy

Now that you've learned what brand positioning means and its importance in marketing your brand, it's time to learn about the elements you need to create a successful strategy. With these factors, you can get a clear picture of the qualities you want your brand to be remembered for.

Established Brand Value

Answering the "what" of your brand is easier and faster than the "why." Although both questions are essential, the "why" in brand positioning helps you find the distinctive qualities your customers will remember. Contemplate reasons for the following:

  • Why is your business created?
  • Why did you enter this industry?
  • Why is your product or service important?
  • What will customers gain from purchasing it?
  • Why should they pick you over other brands?

Answering these questions takes time and effort. Aside from your ideas, you also need credible information supporting your claim: testimonials, case studies, statistics, and many more. With this data, you can get your target audience's attention and start forming a positive perception in their minds.

https://youtu.be/g2pYinT2cv8

Be the Most Customer-Centric Company

A good marketing strategy should have a clear and specific target audience. You should know precisely who you are marketing your products or services to. The more specific your target is, the easier it is to identify your brand's most vital points and use them for the right people. 

The basics of proper target market research and analysis include (but are not limited to:)

  • Demographics: Age, gender, location, occupation, family status, ethnic background, and more
  • Analytical data from the performance reports of your eCommerce store 
  • Customer feedback data
  • Competitor research

The brand voice must be established and consistent. Every content you create that speaks for your core values should have the same objectives. Think about how the brand can communicate appropriately and effectively with your target audience. 

Brand Associations

Brand associations are a set of qualities that you want the target customers to link with your brand. This element plays a massive role in your overall brand positioning strategy. So how do you identify your brand's competitive advantage? You must first learn what is on your customer’s minds. Here are the most common sources you can get valuable ideas from:

  • Online and offline surveys showing what customers think of a particular brand
  • Search sites like Google Trends that display the most-searched ideas related to your brand
  • Social media trends and data

5 Brand Positioning Tips for Your Amazon Store

Now that you are familiar with brand positioning elements, it’s time to work on your brand positioning strategy for Amazon, the world’s leading eCommerce platform.

Selling on such a huge platform means you need to compete head-to-head with other competitors, so you need to plan how your brand stands out. Check out some practical Amazon brand positioning tips below:

Keep It Simple

Short and sweet is one way to achieve customer satisfaction. Many customers complain about exhausting shopping decisions (most likely because of the overwhelming brand choices). They prefer brand names that reduce stressful shopping experiences. Understand what the customers want to see, hear, and feel when looking for an item: give them a convenient buying experience.

A clear and concise brand expression also helps make a brand unique and allows you to emphasize important points. Producing vague content about your brand isn't a strategic move, as it will be difficult for customers to understand and remember what you're here for. Instead, apply the necessary specifications of your product to establish a unique profile within your niche.

Focus on Customer Experience

Amazon offers excellent customer-based services, ensuring that the rules and regulations for a good brand-customer relationship are strictly followed. Monitoring customer experience and using that data to enhance your marketing efforts is essential as a seller. Amazon provides metrics for shipment, FBA, customer response, customer and seller feedback, and more. 

Put yourself in the buyer's shoes—think about your target market's expectations and possible actions when they visit your Amazon store. Check for issues with the purchasing process, product, or service, and fix them immediately. Most importantly, nail your customer service. Stay ahead by being the brand that customers can rely on with any inquiries. 

Optimize Your Store

Apply general and search engine optimization strategies to your Amazon product listings. Creating optimized content increases the chances of placing your brand on a high spot in the search results, increasing traffic and conversions in the long run. To successfully optimize your Amazon store, you must work on the nitty-gritty details.

Some of the fundamentals of Amazon optimization are proper keyword application, repricing strategies, compliance with the algorithm, review management, listing optimization, optimized images, brand protection, and many more. 

In addition, Amazon offers several optimization services where you can benefit from A+ content, Enhanced Brand Content, Premium A+, and more. These tools will help your brand form a lasting impression on your customers. 

Market on Multiple Channels 

Expand your brand visibility with multi-channel marketing. Your customers jump from one platform to another to maximize their buying searches, so you need to follow them. For example, Amazon is an excellent place to earn more customers, but the data you get is limited to that platform. Therefore, leveraging your marketing across various channels like websites and social media helps expand your audience.

Multiple channels maximize the marketing opportunities for your brand. You can build a community and a valuable role in more ways than just selling a product: you can be a brand that educates and inspires various communities worldwide. 

Some platforms also offer cross-channel data, which means you can get customer analytics from external sources and use the same strategies that work from one platform to another.

Maintain a Competitive Advantage

Brand positioning is all about differentiating your products and value from your competitors—you want your consumers to see your brand's defining qualities. To stand out in a crowd of brands, you need to know how your competitors do advertising campaigns. What sets you apart from other brands in the same niche and service category?

Conduct competitor analysis to recognize gaps and opportunities and see the latest trends. Find your direct and indirect competitors: 

  • What do your competitors claim about their products and services? 
  • Do they look credible? 
  • How do they market to consumers? 
  • What are the customers saying about these brands?

After gathering all this data, create a marketing strategy that allows you to improve on your competitors’ pain points. Create a brand that is a champion of customer satisfaction, whether it’s lower prices or better-quality materials. Offer a product or service consumers will find most appealing in a sea of choices. Emotional connection also works, so be a strong brand and add a human touch to your marketing mix.

Brand Positioning Strategy: Top 3 Trends for 2023

Do you need more ideas for a successful brand positioning strategy? Here are some of the latest brand positioning trends the most successful companies apply! 

Substance Over Style

More than having a unique brand style, you also need to build accountability. Consumers expect brands to show genuine concern and participate in various discussions when necessary. Be a brand that communicates for the right reasons, partnered with commitment and appropriate action.

Leverage Audience Research

Customer-based research has always been a significant part of marketing. Observe your target audiences closely: look them up on social media platforms, product or service reviews, and customer surveys, and engage actively in their discussions. How well do you understand the average daily consumer? What are their expectations, needs, and priorities in the ecommerce landscape? 

Make a Buzz (Responsibly)

Guerilla marketing is a creative and unconventional approach that relies on low-cost, high-impact strategies. This has been proven effective, especially when targeting younger audiences. Develop a relentless commitment to out-of-the-box ideas for effective brand positioning. Create buzz, but be careful not to create any marketing strategy that can backfire.

A team of expert designers standing around a table, developing a branding strategy

Amazon Positioning Strategy Assistance from Seller Interactive

Brand positioning on a massive marketplace like Amazon takes work. However, with the right approach and help from a skilled agency, you can increase traffic, boost conversions, enhance brand awareness, and find something different only your brand can offer. 

Are you ready to carve out a place no other brand has ever carved? An Amazon digital marketing services agency can help you make a good consumer impression. The advantage of working with a full-service digital marketing agency is that they guide you from start to finish: account management, social media, product launch, price-based positioning, goal setting, writing a marketing plan, execution, and troubleshooting. 

Figuring out how things work can make this task challenging, but now, you don’t have to. Seller Interactive experts can explain what a brand positioning statement is, a positioning strategy, different marketing strategies, and more in ways you can easily comprehend! We'll help you create a brand with a unique value proposition and truly connect with the target audience.

If you need more information on how an Amazon ad agency works or how much Amazon marketing services cost, book a call today. Unlock your brand’s potential with Seller Interactive!

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12 Merry Ways to Increase Christmas Sales in 2022 with Amazon FBA Wholesale

The year is coming to an end, which means the holiday season is right before us. Spending typically racks up around this time of year due to holiday festivities. People are getting ready to shop for Christmas presents, holiday meals, lights, and decorations, which of course, means things are busy for retailers too.

That's why, for Amazon sellers, the holidays are a great time to gain momentum, and Amazon FBA wholesale is the perfect strategy to get it jump started. 

Selling wholesale on Amazon is a lucrative opportunity, but it’s important to do some research before diving in. This article will cover how you can leverage Amazon wholesale for your store and wholesale products to sell on Amazon. 

How Does it Work? 

Selling wholesale on Amazon involves purchasing products in bulk directly from a manufacturer or supplier at a discount. This model gives you more access to inventory with extra room to profit depending on the volumes you’re working with.

It’s a great way to jumpstart your e-commerce business without having to go through the hassles of creating a product from scratch. Instead, find a product that works by doing research and assessing the market. Keep in mind that many wholesale sellers already exist on Amazon, so you’re better off avoiding high-competition products that already exist in the marketplace.

Next is to find suppliers. It can be challenging to find the right one for you as you consider MOQ, delivery times, and product quality, so take your time to assess which works best for you. 

Now it's time to list it on Amazon. Create your listings and prepare your stock. FBA is a great way to streamline your e-commerce process as it covers storage, fulfillment, and shipping, which is especially useful when handling considerable amounts of inventory. 

How Is Wholesale Different from Other Business Models?

There are many different ways to sell on Amazon, but how do they differ from one another? 

Amazon Wholesale is the process of taking advantage of the discounts involved when purchasing in bulk and selling off your inventory. Typically Wholesale model can be conducted via. Vendor Central or Seller Central depending on how you set up your business. 

Similar to Wholesale, Retail arbitrage is purchasing products at a discounted price and reselling them on Amazon. However, the main difference between the 2 is how the inventory is obtained and the quantities in which items are purchased. Wholesale is purchased in bulk, direct from suppliers and manufacturers, and retail arbitrage are typically individual sale items from retailers.

As for private label, in this model, sellers create their products through the coordination of manufacturers/suppliers and sell them on Amazon. The most significant similarity between private label and wholesale is the scalability of the business as they both require direct communication with the suppliers/manufacturer. As for their differences, wholesalers typically have an established known brand, where private label brands must build that reputation. 

Dropshipping on Amazon is an e-commerce strategy that allows sellers to outsource multiple tasks from shipping, fulfilling, and storing inventory. This option is an excellent way for sellers to participate in the marketplace without managing too much product. Dropshipping is an opportunity to sell generic products but is limited in its ability to build a brand or stand out.

What are the Benefits of Selling Wholesale?

  • It's quick to start up: Once you've determined where you will be purchasing your inventory from, and you've completed building your listings, the process can run smoothly. This is unlike other e-commerce selling operations that involve creating products from scratch. 
  • It's easy to look for products: Although it may feel time-consuming at first, putting effort into finding suitable suppliers is a great way to ensure a smooth process to rely on in the long run. Searching for already existing products requires less time than building one. 
  • You get to sell established brands: Instead of thinking about creating products, you can use existing brands' reputations to help sell your inventory. You'll be able to build on an already existing customer base while being associated with the brand marketing efforts.
  • It's scalable: Once you've developed a system for a wholesale business, it's easy to scale up. You'll be able to add new products to your catalog, but the process remains relatively similar. 
  • You can establish a passive income stream: Amazon wholesale is a great way to earn on the side without taking too much time of your day, especially if you're using Amazon FBA. Once you have established the framework of your business and have partners to rely on, you'll be in good shape to start earning passive income.  

10 Ways to Increase Christmas Sales with Amazon FBA Wholesale

Find a good product to sell on Amazon

Before getting started, it's essential to look for a product with low competition and high demand. Do some research when determining what to sell before you purchase inventory in large quantities. Otherwise, you're likely to face other sellers selling the same product as you in the marketplace. 

amazon product

To brainstorm goods to sell, visit Amazon for popular products. Categories like Electronics, Clothing, Shoes & Jewelry, Toys & Games, and Books are often the most profitable. Then, keep a list of the best sellers in each category, focusing on products with low competition. 

Find the right suppliers

Once you've decided on the product you want to sell, it's now time to find a suitable supplier. Keep in mind price points, budgets, delivery times, and reliability when searching for a supplier. You should select an organization you can depend on to help build your e-commerce business.

Communicate with suppliers and manufacturers that you're able to bring value to their brand by selling their product on an e-commerce platform as large as Amazon. 

Here are some ways you can provide value:

  • Identify critical problems you can help resolve by selling on Amazon.
  • Present the opportunities that exist by selling on Amazon

Compute your profit cost ratio

When you sell on Amazon, your goal is to make a profit. Here's how to evaluate your profitability. 

  1. Set the price for your product. Make sure that it's within 2% of the current price in the buy box. If your price gets higher, your product risks not winning the buy box. 
  2. Understand product fees. The easiest way to do this is to use Amazon's FBA calculator. Enter your ASIN into the calculator to review the fees you'll need to pay. 
  3. Determine your profitability after your expenses. 

Fulfill your orders through Amazon FBA

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is a program that lets you ship your products to Amazon's fulfillment centers, where they handle the storage, packing, and shipping of orders. This program makes it easier for you to scale your business.

Regularly run promotions

Promotions are an excellent way to increase sales with Amazon FBA wholesale. Sellers offer their products at a discounted price to customers, increasing the conversion rate. There are many different types of promotions available, including discount codes, BOGO, bundles, and more. 

Try using lightning deals 

Amazon Lightning Deals are promotional offers that last for a short period. It is a popular Amazon feature for customers as it is constantly changing with new and exciting offers.

For a wholesaler, lightning deals are a great way to increase sales and quickly reduce inventory. To access Amazon Lightning Deals, you need a professional selling plan. Visit the Lightning Deals Dashboard to see which products are eligible for Lightning Deals. 

Design your Amazon page

Customize your Amazon store just in time for the holidays. Having a festive page during the holidays paints your store as current, relevant, and open for sales. Not only will it draw people in to see your products, but it can also imply that you have deals for the season. 

free shipping

Encourage the purchase of gift cards.

A wide selection of products can often mean difficulty for customers to choose an item as a gift for their friends and family. Amazon gift cards help alleviate this, so encouraging the purchase of gifts cards can help promote sales for your product. 

Create gift bundles

To encourage customers to buy more from your store, offer gift bundles. These gift bundles can be a combination of two or three items at a discounted price.

Send newsletters

If you have an e-commerce website, consider sending newsletters to your email subscribers. This can help announce promotions and sales to keep your customers in the loop. It also builds brand awareness and loyalty by providing consistent communication between you and your customers.  

newsletter

Final Thoughts

If you’re just getting started with e-commerce, a wholesale strategy is a great way to get your foot in the door. Amazon wholesale provides a wide range of opportunities for new and existing sellers looking for lucrative opportunities online.

Consider Amazon wholesale this season and thrive for the holidays. Need help getting started? We can help! Get in touch with us at [email protected]

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How Amazon DSP Works: A Detailed Guide

Your Amazon business is running smoothly, and you're ready to take that jump. You want to delve deeper into the large-scale, programmatic type of advertising through Amazon called Amazon Demand Side Platform (DSP) and learn how Amazon DSP works.

We’ve got you covered! Let’s learn the basics of this Amazon advertising type and discover how to maximize its use and potential.

Which Business Types Use DSP?

Amazon DSP is intended for existing sellers with a successful online track record and are now scaling up. However, this feature is not limited to established brands; it’s accessible to Amazon sellers and brands of all sizes and on other platforms looking for new growth opportunities. 

Businesses interested in DSP typically have the budget to scale their businesses by ramping up their brand awareness and reaching wider audiences on and off Amazon. Amazon DSP allows them to go beyond the Amazon platform.

Types of Ads for Amazon DSP

Amazon DSP advertising supports several different options for media advertisements. You can build campaigns using display, video, audio ads, or a combination to promote your brand/products. 

DSP campaigns are typically launched to raise brand awareness or drive traffic on a cost-per-impression (CPM) basis. You can also use Amazon DSP to run video campaigns on a cost-per-view (CPV) basis.

While brands often upload their own media, Amazon also provides creative resources for advertisers. Using these resources, you'll have access to display image ad tools and a free video creative builder with varying styles. 

Sellers can use these features to help align their advertisements with their brand style and image. 

Available Amazon DSP Options

Advertisers have the option of two types of DSP: self-service and managed service

In self-service DSP, advertisers manage the campaigns themselves manually. Self-service DSP advertisers run their own advertising, so management fees are waived. However, it’s crucial to note that ad format and placement still take up most of the ad spend. 

On the other hand, managed-service DSP is a service for brands looking to hire agency-level management to handle their accounts. Managed-service Amazon DSP comes with a costly fee of  $50,000 (may vary per country). Established brands typically use this service as part of their marketing strategy. 

How Amazon DSP Works

Amazon's marketplace alone opens up millions of visitors daily. With the variety of online products, sites, apps, and brands Amazon has partnered with for DSP advertising, there are many growth opportunities and possibilities with Amazon DSP, increasing advertisers’ reach and skyrocketing their brands’ potential. 

Here’s how the DSP system works: 

  • Audience Targeting - Consider demographics and behavior to capture them and strategically plan your campaigns throughout the buyer's journey. 
  • Bidding - To use Amazon DSP, advertisers compete against each other in real-time ad inventory auctions.
  • Campaign Monitoring - Monitor your campaigns easily using a neat dashboard displaying metrics.
  • Campaign Analysis - Measure your ad and campaign performance using key metrics.

Let’s specify each step further.

graphic showing the basic flow of how Amazon DSP works

How to Use Amazon DSP

The Amazon DSP program process is quite simple. You can create a powerful ad campaign with simple steps to reach millions of potential customers. To get started with Amazon DSP:

  1. Create a DSP account, input basic information about your business, and wait for Amazon’s approval. 
  2. Start creating your ads using the Amazon Ad Builder tool or upload your HTML code. Pick an objective, targeting option, and ad format.
  3. Select the keywords you want to use. Target broad keywords or long-tail keywords. 
  4. Set a bid and budget strategy for your campaign.  
  5. Add some ad creatives (images or videos) to your campaign.
  6. Launch your campaign.
  7. Once your campaign is running, track its performance and make necessary adjustments.
shot of a phone placed on a laptop keyboard with the Amazon DSP page displayed on its screen

How to Create an Impressive Amazon DSP Program

As an Amazon DSP partner, you have access to a powerful tool to help you reach your advertising goals. Ensure to make the most of the Amazon DSP program and bring your business to heights you never thought possible! Here are some pointers to get you started:

Look Closely At Your Data.

Review your campaign performance data and identify areas where you can improve. By understanding the data about your campaign’s performance, you can make more informed decisions about optimizing your campaigns in the future. Consider these questions:

  • Are there times of day or days of the week more successful than others? 
  • Are there certain targeting criteria that work better than others?

Use Innovative and Creative Materials.

Remember that you only have a few seconds to grab a customer's attention, so ensure your ads are well-designed and relevant to what you're selling. From desktop display ads to video ads, you will surely get a spark of inspiration from the vast selection of ad types available for DSP.

Improve Customer Targeting.

Use data to create targeted ad campaigns that reach customers with the right message. For example, Amazon DSP helps reach Amazon shoppers interested in your products or services whether they are browsing on the Amazon page or not. 

You can target customers based on their demographic information, such as age, gender, location, and interests.

Use Negative Keywords.

Your campaigns should include negative keywords to prevent unrelated searches from displaying your advertising. Using negative keywords will help you avoid wasting money on clicks that don't convert and improve ROAS.

Experiment with Different Ad Formats and Strategies.

Testing what works for you can help you find the DSP ad format and strategy that guarantee desirable results. Amazon DSP offers a variety of advertisements, each of which has its strengths and weaknesses. Try different ad formats and tactics to uncover the winning combination for your advertising campaigns.

Ensure You're Bidding Appropriately.

Review your DSP ad campaigns and ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Ensure you're bidding enough to meet your goals but not so much that you're wasting money on clicks that don’t convert. Don't just set a flat rate for all your ads and adjust your bids based on how likely each customer is to convert. 

Monitor Your Metrics and Make Necessary Marketing Adjustments.

Your Amazon DSP reporting dashboard provides valuable data to help you understand how your Amazon DSP ads perform. Ensure you have access to all the data and information you need to make informed decisions about your campaigns and continue improving the results. Keep tabs on your campaign performance and adjust accordingly.

Mix and Match Multiple Amazon Advertising Strategies and Solutions.

Instead of using one over another, many brands have incorporated combinations of DSP and other Amazon advertising services into their marketing campaigns. Here are some actionable tips to consider:

🎯Reach wider audiences with DSP and Amazon Sponsored Display ads on mobile apps, websites, and Amazon. DSP boosts awareness with a broader reach, while Sponsored Ads drive conversions through targeted keywords.
📹When paired with Amazon Live, you can inform interested Amazon shoppers about your products in real time and reach audiences outside Amazon (e.g., IMDB.com, publishing applications and streaming platforms such as Amazon Fire TV Stick, etc.), effectively exposing your business to a broader market.
📊Leverage data from both advertising programs. Data from DSP can help keyword targeting in PPC/sponsored ads, while data from PPC can improve audience targeting in DSP.
⚙️Use Amazon Attribution with your DSP campaigns to analyze your campaign performance and enhance your campaigns for optimum results.

Final Thoughts

The world of advertising is dynamic. What performs well now may not always be a viable strategy later. For this reason, you are responsible for monitoring trends, keeping your brand relevant, maintaining and surpassing your target sales, and exceeding your competitors. 

Although it can get complicated, Amazon DSP offers solutions to help build campaigns that will better give your brand the exposure it deserves by allowing users to advertise on other Amazon sites.

And with Seller Interactive, we can help you achieve the marketing results you set for your brand. By employing industry-standard Amazon KPIs and in-house metrics for advertising performance, you can rest assured that your brand is in good hands.

Work with us for your Amazon DSP campaign, and you'll attain peace of mind knowing that a team of dedicated, expert advertising professionals will manage your campaign confidently down to the smallest detail. 

Let's get in touch. Book a call with us today!

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