What CAN’T you buy on Amazon? Other than full-sized pianos (maybe), you can BUY nearly anything your imagination desires!
But that doesn’t mean you can SELL everything on Amazon. When you’re ready to list a product on Amazon it’s important to understand what you can, or can not list, and the application process for listing some items.
In fact, Amazon has two broad categories for product types: RESTRICTED and GATED. In this chapter, we’re going to address the process of listing products on Amazon, and product approval.
Restricted Products
Products that cannot be listed or sold on Amazon are considered “restricted”. Reasons can be varied – they can be dangerous or have questionable legality. Although you can “attempt” to list and try to sell a restricted product, keep in mind that Amazon may destroy your inventory (without reimbursement) but they could also:
- Terminating selling privileges
- Withhold payments (until the appeal is successful)
- Terminate your account – with no chance of appeal
You can see a complete list of Restricted products by
Ungated / GATED Category
Amazon has designated a category called GATED for any products that require Amazon approval to sell. This list includes:
- Certain brands and branded items
- Text Books
- Fine Art
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Postage stamps
- Collectible Coins
- Music, DVD, Video & Blu-Ray
- Sports Collectibles
Let’s List Your First Product!
The process is the same for listing all types of products. (You can upload products in bulk, using spreadsheets (and we’ll explain this next time) but if this is your first item, we would suggest you follow these steps.)
► Log in to Seller Central and select “Add A Product” from the inventory tab.
If….the product exists on Amazon, follow the steps in order to price the item, add a unique SKU, price and then it will be ready to sell!
If….it’s a BRAND NEW PRODUCT:
You’ll need to:
- Choose A Category
- Enter all product information
For Categories, brands or products that require ungating, you will need to fill out a selling application.
- Find the Application Form
- Search for the item you want to sell and click the “Listing limitations”.
- Request approval
Based on the category and product, you will need to provide certain documents during the approval process. Be prepared with:
- Invoices (showing a purchase of a minimum of 10 items)
- Letter of Authorization (LOA) from an authorized distributor or brand owner
Your application will be reviewed. Amazon will respond by either approving or rejecting your request. (often within 72 hours)
Your Store Is Open!
► That’s it! Your items are “LIVE” on Amazon and you’ll just need to decide if you’ll be sending your merchandise to an Amazon Warehouse (FBA) or you will be fulfilling it yourself (FBM).
While it’s true, there are several steps to listing products on Amazon. The more you do it, the faster you will be! Next time, we’ll talk about uploading flat files – a HUGE time saver! If you’re on the hunt for extra tips about your performance health dashboard, we have a whole series on keeping your account healthy – including suspension prevention!
Our team is here to support sellers on every step of the Amazon journey. Have a question? Reach out!