Amazon sells every product that you can think of, but that doesn’t mean you should sell just any product on Amazon. The e-commerce giant actively tries to protect its consumers from fraudulent or harmful products. In order to achieve its goals, Amazon has multiple categories that are restricted to most sellers. They are referred to as ‘Restricted Categories’ or ‘Ungated Categories’.
What are these categories and how can you get approval to sell products in these categories? With this ultimate guide, we’ll help you get a piece of the restricted pie.
Quick Guide
Amazon has designated a few categories as ‘restricted’ to protect consumers. Amazon sellers need to get approval before they can sell any products in these categories. Depending on the marketplace and national laws, Amazon has a different list of restricted categories as well as restricted products. In this guide, we will be focusing on Amazon US, but many of the processes to gain approval are the same across countries.
Here is the list of restricted categories in the United States:
In addition to the categories, there are certain restricted products requiring approval to sell. Some of these products may also be banned on the platform. Amazon also regulates the use of brands, so if you’re planning to sell a product from a well-known brand, make sure that you have permission to do so.
Here’s the list of restricted products in the US:
Just like the list of restricted categories, the list of restricted products is also updated regularly. You can keep track of any changes at Seller Central.
Additional Read: What are the most popular products to sell on Amazon?
Brand restrictions are brands such as Adidas, Nike, Gucci, etc that Amazon sellers are restricted to sell.
Amazon includes restrictions on certain product conditions in several categories. These are the categories that are restricted for used items sales:
200 million unique monthly customers prefer making their purchases with Amazon over any other store.
Without further doubt, Amazon has a huge customer base and it’s the largest online retailer. Instead of struggling alone, you can utilize the Amazon benefits and reputation, to sell.
But, why restricted categories? It has great benefits, which sellers forgot to notice. It has fewer sellers and, hence, less competition, which increases the chances of your listing being seen and clicked on.
However, Amazon sellers like you, are hesitant to sell those restricted categories, because knowing what has restricted itself is a tedious task.
Along with that, providing the required documents and getting approval is quite frustrating.
That’s the case right? Well, if these frustrations turn easy, you may be selling those restricted categories right.
Thanks to Amazon’s strict adherence to safety standards and regulations, restricted categories, and products often have less competition. This often means better sales and profits if you’re lucky enough to be part of this exclusive club. Each restricted category has different rules and requires different steps before you get approval to sell. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, there are a few criteria you need to meet before you’re even considered for approval:
Professional sellers have to pay a monthly subscription fee of $39.99, along with additional selling fees. It also comes with a number of perks to help you in your seller journey. If you’re confused about whether it’s worth going pro, check out this handy guide.
Good performance metrics are key to ensure your success on Amazon. To qualify to sell restricted products, your defect rate should be less than 1%, the pre-fulfillment cancel rate should be less than 2.5%, and the late shipment rate should be less than 4%.
Amazon always has the interests of its customers in mind. Unless the product you plan to sell is safe and authentic, you’ll have very little success with your application. In order to establish product authenticity, you need to prove that your supplier is either the manufacturer or a licensed dealer.
Invoices must be dated within 90 days, immediately before your application date. Ensure your invoices are legitimate and make sure the company information on the invoice matches the company information in your Seller Central account. The invoice must contain the name, address, phone number, and website of the company. Double-check the information and make sure there are no discrepancies. Understanding the invoice payment terms that you might come across in the invoicing process is equally crucial.
A company website is not just a tool to help you get approval. If you’re looking to create a lasting brand and want to get in touch with customers directly, a website is often necessary. A good company website is also indicating to Amazon that you are a trustworthy seller.
Once you have all your required documents ready to go, requesting access is easy. Just follow these steps and you’re on your way to selling a product in a restricted category:
From the Inventory menu select Add a Product.
The application process is different from category to category and from product to product. There is also a possibility that your application may be rejected. If you’re unsure about the status of your application, you can follow these steps and check the categories in which you are allowed to sell products.
If you’re having trouble going through the application process, you could consider using an ‘ungating service’. Keep in mind, ungating services are not official Amazon service providers. They can help you with the application process but cannot guarantee that your application will be approved.
If you’re struggling with the application process, it might be worthwhile using an ungating service, but you can easily complete the process yourself. There are mixed reviews about third-party ungating services, so it is recommended that you finish the application yourself if possible.
While the application process is straightforward and simple, there are always things you can do to increase your odds of getting approved.
Getting approved to sell products from restricted categories depends on your reputation and history. Amazon tends to reject applications coming from new sellers. Building up credibility on Amazon takes some time, so it’s a good idea to start from ungated categories and work your way up.
You’re going to have a much better chance of success if you apply using items from well-known brands. Categories and products are restricted to protect consumer interests and minimize the sales of defective or counterfeit goods. So your private label may not always make the cut when applying to ungate a category. Even if you don’t plan to sell them, using brand items in your application will help your odds in securing Amazon’s approval.
Make sure you meet the minimum quantity requirements for each invoice. Double-check your application requirements and make sure you meet them.
When you’re applying for a restricted category or product approval, make sure you source your product from a local supplier. Amazon rarely accepts invoices from overseas manufacturers for an ungating application. If it is possible, purchase directly from the manufacturer to establish the product’s safety and authenticity.
Research your product
Sellers hear this all the time, but when it comes to restricted categories and products, research is even more important. Before you put up a product listing, make sure you have the approval to sell that product. If you’re found violating Amazon’s policies and restrictions, the e-commerce giant can take the following steps:
Once Amazon takes disciplinary action against a seller, it’s difficult to get reinstated.
If you’re a seller participating in Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), take special care with the products you ship to its fulfillment centers. Hazardous materials that are shipped to Amazon warehouses may be subject to disposal without reimbursement. Therefore, as an Amazon FBA seller, you have to ensure that you don’t violate FBA-specific product restrictions.
Keep in mind, getting approval to sell in a category does not mean you can sell every product in that category. Some subcategories and products may still be restricted and will need further approval to sell.
Getting approval to sell products in restricted categories is not easy, but it is often worth the effort. Once you cross the initial barrier to entry, you set yourself apart from other sellers. Restricted categories are also less saturated, which means less competition. This will help you capture a larger market share and increase your revenue. It also gives you an opportunity to create a great brand and reputation in these categories. If you’re willing to go the extra mile, this is a great opportunity to grow your business.
If you’re looking to go that extra mile, try SellerApp’s free 7-day trial to supercharge your seller experience.
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View Comments
Would it make sense to sell products in the restricted category if I'm willing to take the necessary steps?
It is quite advantageous as there are only a few sellers which means less competition, therefore increasing the chances of being visible when clicked on.
SellerApp blogs are a great way to stay informed and educated about the e-commerce industry.
Thank you.
SellerApp has really helped me increase my visibility and sales on Amazon.
Thank you.