Types of Amazon Seller Accounts and Their Fees

The Individual Seller Account is designed for those who plan to sell fewer than 40 items per month. This account type does not have a monthly subscription fee, but it does charge a $0.99 fee for each item sold. Additionally, sellers will incur referral fees, which vary by category, typically ranging from 6% to 45% of the item's selling price.
On the other hand, the Professional Seller Account is ideal for those who expect to sell more than 40 items per month. This account comes with a monthly subscription fee of $39.99, regardless of the number of items sold. While this fee may seem daunting at first, it can be cost-effective for high-volume sellers since they are not charged the $0.99 per item fee. Referral fees also apply here, similar to the Individual account, and vary by category.
Comparison Table:
Feature | Individual Account | Professional Account |
---|---|---|
Monthly Subscription Fee | None | $39.99 |
Per Item Sold Fee | $0.99 | None |
Referral Fees | 6% - 45% depending on category | 6% - 45% depending on category |
Recommended for | Low-volume sellers | High-volume sellers |
Access to Advanced Tools | No | Yes |
Ability to create Promotions | No | Yes |
Access to API | No | Yes |
Ability to sell in Amazon Stores | No | Yes |
For sellers just starting, the Individual account can be a great way to test the waters without a significant upfront investment. However, if you’re planning to scale your business, the Professional account is often the better option. It provides access to a range of features such as advanced inventory management, customizable shipping options, and marketing tools, which can significantly enhance your selling experience. | ||
Additional Costs to Consider | ||
Beyond the basic fees, there are other costs that sellers should keep in mind. Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is a popular service where sellers send their products to Amazon’s fulfillment centers, and Amazon handles storage, packing, and shipping. While this service can increase visibility and sales, it also comes with its own fees, including: |
- FBA Fulfillment Fees: This is based on the size and weight of the item, starting from $2.50 for standard-size items and increasing for larger items.
- Storage Fees: Monthly fees for storing inventory in Amazon’s warehouses, which can range from $0.75 per cubic foot from January to September, and $2.40 per cubic foot from October to December, reflecting the peak holiday season.
- Additional Service Fees: Fees may apply for returns, removals, or other special requests.
Choosing the Right Account
To determine which seller account is right for you, consider your business goals, expected sales volume, and budget. If you're still uncertain, you might want to start with an Individual account and upgrade to a Professional account as your sales grow.
Conclusion
In summary, Amazon offers two distinct types of seller accounts tailored to different selling strategies. The Individual account is cost-effective for low-volume sellers, while the Professional account offers extensive features and tools for serious sellers. By understanding the fee structures and additional costs associated with each account, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives.
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