Many sellers in the marketplace have realized that it’s no secret that Amazon is restricted in offering items within certain categories. Selling products in restricted or restricted categories requires sellers to go through an approval process, which may differ based on the chosen category.
The number of independent and third-party vendors on Amazon has grown in recent times, there’s a greater risk of reputational harm. If buyers receive fake items, defective, or poor-quality items, the liability is on Amazon.
To protect the consumer as well as the Amazon brand, Amazon has a policy of limiting categories that are vulnerable to counterfeiting and issues with quality. Sellers can obtain approval to sell in restricted categories by submitting details regarding their business and the products they have that they sell.
Amazon uses this information to ensure only authentic sellers who sell genuine products can be listed in these categories.
Since the rules for restricted categories vary within categories There isn’t a single set of criteria that define whether products are eligible to be classified in a particular category without further details or approval.
It is important to note that in rare circumstances the approval process may involve additional costs or submission of the performance check.
Categories Requiring Amazon Approval
Amazon has shifted away from restricting entry into broad categories, focusing on restricting the entry of niches within sub-categories. Instead, specific restrictions on products will be enforced according to the products.
These categories currently are blocked on Amazon:
- Collectible Coins
- Individual Safety and Household products
- Entertainment Collectibles
- Fine Art
- Holiday Selling Requirements in Toys & Games
- Jewelry
- Music & DVD
- Automotive & Powersports
- Services
- Sports Collectibles
- Streaming Media Players
- Video, DVD, & Blu-ray
- Watches
In certain cases, Amazon does not restrict to the whole category, only certain subcategories.
It isn’t always clear what categories or sub-categories have been affected, it is suggested to all sellers do their study and test with lower amounts of inventory before the full launch.
The Difference Between Restricted Brands, Categories, And Products
It is also crucial for sellers to be able to be aware of the distinction between categories, brands, and the products that are available on the market.
For instance, some brands like Adidas, Apple, Bose as well as MAC Cosmetics have set brand limitations, which means that sellers need approval to market and sell their products.
Products that are restricted will either be completely banned or will require prior authorization before selling. This typically applies to items that may pose a risk or have caused serious quality concerns previously. Some of the most popular items listed on this list are technological devices, lasers as well as streaming media players.
Certain products are also only able to be sold under certain conditions, for example, either used or new. Categories like Baby Products, Clothing & Accessories, and Watches are only allowed when the product is listed as new.
Sellers must be aware of the fact that categories that are open change constantly and must be kept on the lookout for any future changes that do not affect products.
Obtaining Approval To Sell Restricted Items
Reviewing Amazon’s category overview as well as the help pages for restricted products is recommended before beginning the process, however, it’s important to remember that these pages may be outdated and subject to interpretation.
Seller Central can be used to get approval to sell within any of the categories with restrictions in the market. Once registered Seller Central, sellers must:
- Click the Inventory tab, and choose ‘Add a Product’
- Choose the product you would like to sell
- Click the “Show Limitations Click the ‘Show Limitations’ button
- You will then be able to choose “Request Approval” to begin the process of applying.
The application process will ask about the market in which the product will be included, along with information regarding the number of units produced and the conditions. The requirements for approval differ for each category however the following requirements are the most common categories:
- Be a professional and experienced seller
- Fill in the application form.
- Offer proof of authenticity, for example, proof that suppliers are licensed
- Have a website for your company
- Supply acceptable invoices for inventory
- Maintain positive performance metrics like Order Defect Rates of less than 1%, and late Shipment Rates that are less than 4 percent
For more information about Amazon invoice verification, visit this link.
