How to Start Selling on Amazon: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Entrepreneurs

Let’s start selling on Amazon

Starting a business and selling on Amazon can be one of the most lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs today. With millions of daily shoppers and a vast global reach, Amazon provides a powerful platform for selling products—but success requires the right strategy.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to find the best products to sell, leverage personal and business connections, and successfully launch your Amazon store to start generating sales.


Step 1: Find the Best Product to Sell on Amazon

One of the most important steps in starting an Amazon business is choosing the right product. Here’s how to find a winning product:

1.1 Research Trending & Evergreen Products

A successful product should be in high demand with steady sales year-round. Some great ways to research potential products include:

Amazon Best Sellers – Check the Best Sellers list on Amazon to see trending products.
Google Trends – Analyze search trends to see if demand is growing or declining.
Jungle Scout & Helium 10 – Use Amazon research tools to evaluate sales volume, competition, and pricing.
Social Media Trends – Monitor TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest for viral product ideas.

1.2 Choose a Product with High Profit Margins

Selling on Amazon comes with fees (Fulfillment by Amazon, advertising, storage, etc.), so you need to ensure there’s enough margin to make a profit.
✅ Aim for at least a 30-40% profit margin after fees.
✅ Consider small, lightweight, and non-fragile items to reduce shipping costs.

1.3 Avoid Restricted & Highly Competitive Categories

Some Amazon categories require approval (like health, beauty, and electronics). If you’re just starting out, choose simpler categories with fewer restrictions like:
✔️ Home & Kitchen
✔️ Pet Supplies
✔️ Office Products
✔️ Sports & Outdoors


Step 2: Leverage Connections to Find Reliable Suppliers

To stand out in the competitive Amazon marketplace, finding high-quality suppliers is key.

2.1 Use Personal & Business Connections

Many new sellers make the mistake of only searching for suppliers on Alibaba or other directories. But leveraging personal and business connections can lead to better pricing, trust, and long-term deals.

Friends & Family – Someone you know may have a connection in manufacturing, wholesale, or distribution.
Industry Events & Trade Shows – Attend local and international trade shows to find exclusive suppliers.
Facebook & LinkedIn Groups – Join Amazon seller communities to network with experienced sellers and manufacturers.
Wholesale Marketplaces – Look beyond Alibaba—check ThomasNet, Faire, and SaleHoo for unique suppliers.

2.2 Work with U.S. or International Suppliers

Depending on your budget and business model, you can source products locally or internationally:

✔️ U.S.-Based Suppliers – Faster shipping, higher product quality, and “Made in USA” appeal.
✔️ China & Overseas Manufacturers – Lower costs, higher profit margins, but requires quality control and longer shipping times.

💡 Pro Tip: Always order samples first before committing to a large inventory purchase!


Step 3: Open Your Amazon Store & Start Selling

3.1 Choose the Right Amazon Seller Plan

When setting up an Amazon store, you need to choose between:

🔹 Individual Plan – No monthly fee, but you pay $0.99 per sale (Best for beginners testing the market).
🔹 Professional Plan – $39.99/month but allows bulk listing, advertising, and advanced analytics (Best for serious sellers).

👉 Go to Amazon Seller Central to sign up.

3.2 Optimize Your Product Listing for Maximum Sales

Once you list your product, you need to optimize it for visibility and conversions:

Compelling Title – Use relevant keywords for better ranking (e.g., “Ergonomic Memory Foam Pillow for Neck Pain – Soft & Breathable”).
Bullet Points & Description – Highlight features, benefits, and unique selling points.
High-Quality Images – Show the product from multiple angles and in use.
Backend Keywords – Add hidden search terms to help Amazon rank your listing.

💡 Pro Tip: Use Amazon’s A+ Content (if eligible) to add infographics, videos, and enhanced branding elements to your product page!


Step 4: Launch & Scale Your Amazon Store

4.1 Start Running Amazon PPC Ads

Amazon is a pay-to-play marketplace, and running Amazon PPC ads can help boost visibility and generate initial sales.

✔️ Sponsored Product Ads – Appear in search results to drive immediate clicks.
✔️ Sponsored Brand Ads – Perfect for showcasing multiple products.
✔️ Retargeting Ads – Bring back shoppers who didn’t purchase the first time.

4.2 Get Early Reviews & Build Trust

Since reviews impact your ranking and sales, getting positive reviews early on is essential.

✔️ Use Amazon Vine (for Brand Registered Sellers) – Send free samples in exchange for unbiased reviews.
✔️ Follow Up with Customers – Use Amazon’s Buyer-Seller Messaging System to request honest reviews.
✔️ Deliver Exceptional Customer Service – Respond to inquiries quickly and resolve any complaints professionally.


Final Thoughts: Start Selling on Amazon the Right Way

Starting a business on Amazon requires the right product, supplier, and marketing strategy. By choosing a profitable product, leveraging connections, and optimizing your store, you can build a successful and scalable eCommerce business.

📌 Need expert Amazon consulting to optimize your store and grow your sales? Contact R31 International today!

📩 Email: renno@r31international.co
📞 Call/Text: +1 714-987-9031

🚀 Let’s build your Amazon success story together!

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