At SCOE Philadelphia, Ioan Mitrea, founder of SellerEngine Software shared his thoughts on international Amazon selling. Dozens of Amazon sellers asked questions and shared their global selling experiences with each other.
Keep reading to find out how you can take over the world by selling on multiple international Amazon marketplaces.
Why Sell Globally?
- You’re going to get higher prices for your items.
- 40% of units sold are on other Amazon marketplaces (i.e. not Amazon.com).
- Less competition. You’re more likely to have the listing and Buy BoxThis refers to the situation where a sel... More to yourself on an international Amazon marketplace.
Where Should I Sell?
- Don’t start on Amazon.ca, start on Amazon.co.uk. It’s a bigger market, and (somewhat counter-intuitively) shipping to the UK is easier than shipping to Canada.
- You can get items delivered to the UK in less than 5 days. 2 days to get to the UK, then 2 days for delivery to be completed through Royal Mail. It’s better and faster than media mail!
What’s Up with VAT Registration?
For distance sellers, there’s a sales threshold you must exceed before you need to register for VAT. Be aware that nobody’ll tell you when you hit the threshold. It’s up to you! Here’s a chart that shows the threshold for each country:
We recommend Meridian for help with VAT issues. Avalara also has a good reputation.
But, if you’re brave you can handle VAT yourself. Jean Charles from KiOui Apps has some videos that show you how to do VAT all by yourself! It’s worth the investment and it isn’t as hard as it might seem.
What If My ASIN isn’t on Amazon.co.uk?
Double check to make sure the product isn’t listed under another ASIN. Do this by searching for the item like you’re a customer on Amazon.co.uk.
SellerCloud can search Amazon marketplaces by UPC, Model # and manufacturer to find the right ASIN for your item.
What’s Should I Sell?
Very tough question 🙂
One clever idea is to look for American items that’ll appeal to expats. For example, Thanksgiving party supplies (plates, etc.) can be great sellers to Americans living abroad.
Keep aware of holiday items and other uniquely “American” goods that may be less available overseas.
Is Google Translate Good Enough?
For product research, yes it is. For creating listings or interacting with customers or answering emails from Amazon, no it isn’t.
For customer support, SellerEngine Services can help you answer customer.
For translating listings, Amazon Global Services can help, giving you a deal on fees or even offering free translations. Amazon wants you to sell internationally.
Anything I Should Know About Packaging My Items?
One thing to be aware of: you’ll need a CE label (European Community) on some of your items. Most manufacturers, if you’re private labeling, or have your own brand, can provide this for you.
Does Amazon Provide Discounted FBA Shipping to Europe?
Not at this time. But bulk shipments (hundreds of pounds) can get your rates down to $1.50 to $1.60USD per pound.
What About Customer Service?
Customers in different countries have different standards for good service. Japanese customers want you to be apologetic and act like they’re doing you a favor. Just like being married.
Remember, even if you’re doing FBA, you’ll need to reply to all messages from customers and Amazon or you risk having your account suspended.
What are the Most Common Mistakes Sellers Make?
- Too many late shipments.
- Losing money on currency conversion. Amazon says, “you don’t need a bank account, we’ll transfer the money for you.” Then they charge almost 4% to get money back to the US. Payoneer can be a better option.
- Don’t skimp on shipping!
- Make sure you keep up with the foreign postal service strikes/slow downs.
MFN or FBA?
Start with MFN for testing the waters. For fulfillment, services like DHL Global Mail, Fedex Mail Innovations, can get you down to $5/$6 pound.
Once you’ve identified a market and have verified that you can be profitable, move into FBA.
When it comes to FBA, you have same options to return, but the percentage of returned products is believed to be lower.
What are the Hardest Markets to Deal With?
Right now, India and China – mostly for legal reasons. You’ll need to be partnered with a local Indian company. As far as China goes, look into T-Mall rather than Amazon if you have your own brand.
More Questions?
Leave a comment here or email our Global Selling Experts at services@SellerEngine.com.
