Listing your first product on Amazon is a crucial step in establishing your presence as a seller on one of the world's largest e-commerce platforms. It provides you with a global marketplace and the potential to reach millions of customers. However, the process of Amazon product listing can sometimes be intimidating, especially for newcomers. The blog aims to simplify the process and guide you through the necessary steps to list your first Amazon product listing in 2023. With the insights, you'll gain a clear understanding of the requirements and steps involved, enabling you to confidently navigate the Amazon product listing process and maximize your chances of success on Amazon's platform.
Preparing for Amazon Product Listing
- GTIN: Before you can list your product on Amazon, there are a few essential requirements that you need to fulfill. First and foremost, you need a GTIN (Global Trade Item Number) for every unique product you intend to list. This GTIN is often referred to as a UPC in the US or EAN in Europe. You can obtain the GTIN from your local GS1 website by selecting your country and obtaining the codes.
- Product Image: In addition to the GTIN, you must also have a product image with a clean white background. This image is crucial as it enhances the visual appeal of your product and helps attract potential customers. Ensure that the image is of high quality, with the product prominently displayed on a white background, allowing customers to get a clear view of what they are purchasing.
- Categorization Path: Another requirement is determining the categorization path for your product. You need to decide the specific category on Amazon where your product will be listed. This categorization path helps in organizing products on the platform and makes it easier for customers to find what they are looking for. Carefully choose the most relevant category for your product to maximize its visibility and reach.
- Starting Sell Price: Lastly, you need to set your starting sell price for the product. It's recommended to list your product before finalizing the payment with your supplier. Although this initial Amazon product listing will be basic and bare bones, it serves an important purpose.
By fulfilling these requirements, you will be well-prepared to create your Amazon product listing and lay a solid foundation for your journey as a seller on the platform.
Benefits of Listing Your Amazon Product Early
1. Effective Risk Management
Listing your product on Amazon early provides several advantages that can contribute to the success of your selling journey. One key benefit is effective risk management.
By listing your product early, you can proactively address potential challenges such as category restrictions and product reviews. This allows you to navigate any limitations or requirements specific to your product category and ensure compliance with Amazon's guidelines.
By being aware of these restrictions early on, you can make any necessary adjustments or gather additional documentation to meet the platform's requirements, saving you time and preventing potential roadblocks down the line.
2. Timely Documentation Submission
Another advantage of listing your product early is the opportunity for timely documentation submission. Amazon may request specific documentation or certifications for certain products, such as safety certificates or regulatory approvals.
By listing early, you have more time to gather and submit these documents, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements. This proactive approach helps you avoid delays in getting your product to market and reduces the risk of having your Amazon product listing suspended due to missing documentation.
3. Address Inventory-related Issues
Listing your product early allows you to address any potential inventory-related issues in a timely manner. By creating your product listing before finalizing payment with your supplier, you can identify any discrepancies or problems with the inventory.
This early awareness gives you the chance to resolve issues, such as incorrect quantities or damaged products, before they become more significant concerns. It also helps prevent situations where you might have inventory stuck in the pipeline without the ability to sell or fulfill orders promptly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Amazon Product Listing
Access Seller Central:
To begin the process of Amazon product listing, you'll need to access Seller Central, the platform's seller dashboard. Start by visiting the Amazon Seller Central website and logging in with your seller account credentials. Once logged in, you'll be directed to the main dashboard.
To navigate to the "Catalog" section, look for the menu toggle on the top left corner of the screen. Click on it to expand the menu options and then hover over "Catalog." From the dropdown menu, select "Add products." This will take you to the product listing page where you can input the details of your product.
Categorize Your Product:
Now it's time to categorize your product. There are two methods you can use: manual classification path selection or searching for the product type using the search box. If you opt for manual classification, Amazon provides a classification path that helps you choose the most appropriate category for your product. You can navigate through the category tree, selecting the relevant options until you reach the appropriate subcategory.
Alternatively, you can use the search box to find your product type. Simply enter relevant keywords or phrases related to your product, and Amazon will display matching categories. Choose the most relevant category from the search results.
Enter Required Information:
- Next, you'll need to enter the required information for your product. Start with the product ID, which can be a UPC (Universal Product Code) or EAN (European Article Number). This unique identifier helps Amazon track and manage your product.
- Provide a concise product name, ideally a short phrase that accurately describes your product. It's essential to choose a name that is clear and concise for potential customers.
- Enter the brand name of your product, and be aware that Amazon may require proof of brand ownership or authorization, especially for well-known brands.
- Specify the unit count, which refers to the number of barcoded units you have for the product. This helps Amazon keep track of your inventory accurately.
- Indicate the fulfillment details for your product, whether it will be fulfilled by Amazon (FBA - Fulfillment by Amazon) or by you as the seller (FBM - Fulfillment by Merchant).
Variation Amazon Product Listing:
If your product has multiple variations, such as different sizes or colors, you'll need to create a variation listing. Start by creating a parent listing that will hold the child listings. The parent listing represents the overall product, while the child listings represent the individual variations. Add variation themes and details to each child listing, such as size, color, or any other relevant attribute that distinguishes them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Amazon product listing is a valuable opportunity to reach a vast customer base. By following this guideline, you can confidently take your first steps in Amazon product listing. Remember the importance of listing early, ensuring you provide all the required information accurately, and embracing the benefits of managing risks, submitting timely documentation, and avoiding inventory-related issues. Start your Amazon journey today and unlock the potential of your product in the online marketplace.
At Vserve Amazon Listing Services, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest quality services while also ensuring the safety and security of their personal and financial information. We go to great lengths to ensure you get great quality or we give you your money back!
This blog is inspired by the video: “How to List Your First Product on Amazon 2023 - Create Your Amazon Product Listing 2023 (p2)” by “Dan Rodgers.”