Amazon International Marketplaces: Learn the Facts and Avoid the Pitfalls
If you're an Amazon seller, it's essential to be aware of the international marketplaces. Selling on these sites can be a great way to expand your business and reach new customers, but there are some things you need to know before you dive in. In this post, we'll look at the different international marketplaces available to Amazon sellers and discuss some of the pros and cons of each one. We'll also give you a few tips on avoiding common pitfalls when selling internationally. So read on for all the info you need to get started!
How to Succeed When Selling on Amazon International Marketplaces
Expanding your Amazon business globally can be highly rewarding, but also comes with unique challenges. By understanding the key differences between marketplaces and following best practices, you can set your international sales up for success.
Pick the Right Marketplaces
With Amazon operating in countries across the world, you have options when going global. Carefully research each marketplace before expanding there. Consider factors like language, demand for your products, shipping costs, tax and customs implications, and more.
Localize Listings
In addition to translating your listings, ensure they align with cultural norms and buyer expectations in each market. The images, text, pricing, shipping details, and more may need tailoring.
Follow Local Laws and Regulations
Every country has its own set of product regulations, sales tax laws, import rules, and more that you must adhere to. Spend time understanding the requirements to avoid issues.
Offer Local Payment Methods
Provide the preferred local payment options in each marketplace. This ensures a seamless checkout experience for international shoppers.
Set Competitive Pricing
When pricing items, carefully factor in all costs like manufacturing, shipping, tariffs and duties, currency conversions, and Amazon fees. Then ensure your prices align with competitor offerings in each market.
Ship Efficiently
Choose shipping carriers and options that reliably deliver to your international customers while keeping costs down. This may require working with local carriers in each country.
Manage Returns and Refunds
Understand Amazon's return policies in each marketplace. Then put your own fair, responsive return and refund processes in place to keep international customers satisfied.
Provide Excellent Customer Support
Hire native language speakers to provide timely, helpful support to your international customers and resolve any issues quickly and effectively.
The Global Opportunity
While it takes effort to succeed, selling globally enables you to tap into hundreds of millions of new Amazon customers worldwide. By following these best practices for each marketplace, you can make the most of this immense growth opportunity.
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FAQs
What are the main benefits of selling internationally on Amazon?
The main benefits include accessing millions of new customers worldwide, increasing sales and revenue, diversifying your business across multiple marketplaces, and strengthening your brand globally.
How do I choose which international Amazon marketplaces to sell on?
Research each marketplace thoroughly first regarding language, regulations, demand for your products, competition, shipping costs and speed, etc. Start with the largest, most accessible marketplaces first before expanding further.
Do I need to translate my listings for international marketplaces?
Yes, you need to translate your title, bullet points, description, and backend search terms to help international customers find and understand your listings.
How do I set competitive pricing in different currencies?
Use exchange rates and research local pricing for similar items. Account for higher shipping costs, Amazon fees, and customs duties unique to each marketplace. Price items competitively but profitably.
What about advertising? Should I run international PPC campaigns?
Yes, run targeted Sponsored Products campaigns in each marketplace matching local demand. Tailor ad copy and landing pages while monitoring performance.
How can I optimize international orders and shipments?
Use a shipping specialist like Simpl Fulfillment who can store inventory locally overseas and handle global order fulfillment, import/export, duties, and customer service.
