Sell Stuff on Amazon: A Beginner’s Guide to FBA Success

by Vijay Jacob | Feb 10, 2025 | Ecommerce

can you sell stuff on amazon

Can You Really Make Money Selling Stuff on Amazon in 2024?

Remember when selling online meant setting up a sketchy website and hoping someone would stumble across it? Those days feel like ancient history now that Amazon’s become the equivalent of the world’s largest shopping mall—minus the uncomfortable fluorescent lighting and food court drama.

But here’s the thing: while nearly everyone shops on Amazon, most people still view selling on the platform as some kind of mystical art form, reserved for tech-savvy entrepreneurs or large corporations with deep pockets. The reality? It’s both simpler and more complex than most people think.

I’ve spent years watching sellers go from “I have no idea what I’m doing” to running six-figure businesses on Amazon. And yes, you absolutely can sell stuff on Amazon—but let’s cut through the noise and get real about what that actually means in 2024.

The Amazon Selling Ecosystem: Not Your Grandfather’s Marketplace

Picture Amazon as a massive digital city. You’ve got your prime real estate (bestseller categories), your up-and-coming neighborhoods (emerging niches), and yes, some sketchy back alleys (counterfeit products and black hat sellers). With over 2 million active sellers worldwide, it’s less about whether you can sell on Amazon and more about how you can carve out your own piece of this digital metropolis.

The numbers don’t lie: third-party sellers now account for over 60% of Amazon’s total sales. That’s billions of dollars flowing through regular folks who decided to take the plunge. But before you start dreaming about yacht life, let’s break down what you’re really getting into.

Getting Your Feet Wet: Account Setup Basics

Starting an Amazon seller account is kind of like getting a driver’s license—there’s a process, but it’s not rocket science. You’ve got two main options:

Individual Seller Account: Perfect for dipping your toes in (less than 40 items/month, $0.99 per sale)
Professional Seller Account: The serious business route ($39.99/month flat fee)

You’ll need the basics: government ID, tax info, bank account details. Think of it as Amazon’s way of saying “prove you’re a real person who won’t scam our customers.” Fair enough, right?

The Reality Check: What Nobody Tells You About Getting Started

Here’s where I’m going to burst some bubbles—but trust me, it’s for your own good. The “get rich quick on Amazon” crowd loves to gloss over the real challenges:

Initial investment requirements (usually $500-$3000 minimum)
Category restrictions that might affect your product choices
Competition levels that would make Olympic athletes nervous
The learning curve that comes with Amazon’s ever-changing rules

Business Models: Choose Your Own Adventure

Remember those “Choose Your Own Adventure” books? Selling on Amazon is kind of like that, except instead of fighting dragons, you’re choosing between different business models. Let’s break down your main options:

The Classic Routes

Private Label: This is the “create your own brand” path. You’re taking existing products, slapping your logo on them, and building a brand. It’s like being the director of your own movie—creative control, higher profits, but also higher risk.

Wholesale: Think of this as the “bulk buy and resell” approach. You’re buying established brands at wholesale prices and reselling them. Lower risk, but also lower margins and more competition.

Retail Arbitrage: The “treasure hunter” method. You’re buying products on sale from retail stores and reselling them on Amazon. It’s like being a modern-day Indiana Jones, minus the cool hat and deadly traps.

The No-Inventory Options

For those wondering how to sell on Amazon without inventory (because who has spare rooms full of products these days?), there are options:

Dropshipping: You list it, someone else ships it. Sounds perfect, right? Just remember: with great convenience comes great responsibility (and smaller margins).

Print on Demand: Perfect for creative types. Design once, sell infinitely. No inventory, no problem—just make sure your designs don’t look like they were made by a caffeinated toddler.

Digital Products: The ultimate hands-off approach. Create once, sell forever. Though let’s be honest, the market for digital products on Amazon isn’t quite what it is on other platforms.

Each model has its own learning curve, startup costs, and potential returns. The key isn’t finding the “best” model—it’s finding the one that best matches your resources, skills, and goals. Because at the end of the day, the most profitable business model is the one you’ll actually stick with.

Getting Started as an Amazon Seller: The Nuts and Bolts

Look, I’ve helped dozens of brands transition from traditional retail to Amazon, and here’s the thing – selling stuff on Amazon isn’t rocket science, but it’s not exactly a walk in the park either. Think of it like learning to drive: there are rules to follow, skills to master, and yes, occasional fender benders along the way.

Let’s cut through the noise and get to what actually matters when you’re figuring out how to become an Amazon seller. Because contrary to those 3 AM infomercials, you can’t just throw products up there and watch the money roll in (wouldn’t that be nice?).

Account Setup: Choose Your Fighter

Amazon gives you two paths to start selling on Amazon: Individual or Professional. The Individual account is like dipping your toes in the water – no monthly fee, but you’ll pay $0.99 per sale. Perfect if you’re planning to sell less than 40 items monthly. The Professional account ($39.99/month) is more like jumping into the deep end – but with a better swimming instructor and more flotation devices.

Here’s what you’ll need regardless of which path you choose:

– Government-issued ID (yes, Amazon needs to know you’re a real person)
– Tax information (because Uncle Sam always wants his cut)
– Bank account details (where your money goes)
– Phone number (for those lovely verification codes)

Product Categories: Not All Roads Are Open

Here’s something most guides won’t tell you upfront: you can’t sell everything on Amazon right out of the gate. Some categories are like exclusive clubs – you need to prove you’re worthy before they let you in. Books? Easy. Designer handbags? That’s going to require some paperwork and possibly a blood sample (kidding about the blood sample… mostly).

Business Models: Pick Your Path

Remember how I mentioned earlier that you can sell stuff on Amazon without inventory? It’s true, but there’s a catch – actually, several catches. Let’s break down your options:

The Traditional Route (With Inventory)

Private Label is like being the chef of your own restaurant – you create your own brand, control your products, but you’re also responsible for everything that goes wrong. Wholesale is more like being a franchise owner – less creative control, but established systems. Retail Arbitrage? That’s like being a treasure hunter at your local Target clearance section.

The Modern Approach (No Inventory)

Print-on-demand through Shopify integration is fascinating – it’s like having a magical printer that only works when someone orders. Dropshipping feels like being a middle manager between your customer and your supplier (with all the communication headaches that implies). Digital products? Now that’s the closest thing to printing money – create once, sell infinitely.

Setting Up Shop: The Operational Backbone

Is it possible to sell products on Amazon?

Here’s where the rubber meets the road. You need to figure out where your products are coming from, how they’re getting to customers, and most importantly, how you’re making money on each sale.

Finding Your Supply Chain Soulmate

Working with suppliers is like dating – you need to vet them carefully, communicate clearly, and sometimes deal with ghosting. Alibaba is like the Tinder of product sourcing – lots of options, but you need to swipe carefully. And just like dating, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Fulfillment: The Amazon FBA Love Story

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is like having a really efficient roommate who handles all your storage and shipping. They’re not cheap, but they’re reliable and they make your life easier. Plus, they give you access to Prime customers – and those folks love their two-day shipping like I love my morning coffee.

For a deeper dive into Fulfillment by Amazon, check out this detailed guide on FBA.

The alternative? Fulfilling orders yourself (FBM) is like being your own postal service. It’s more work, but you keep more control and potentially more profit. Some sellers do a hybrid approach – kind of like having a summer home and a winter home for your inventory.

The Money Talk: Making It All Worth It

Let’s get real about the economics of selling on Amazon in 2024. The platform isn’t the gold rush it was in 2015, but there’s still plenty of gold if you know where to dig. Your success hinges on understanding three key elements:

Pricing Strategy

Think of pricing like a game of poker – you need to know when to hold firm, when to fold, and when to raise the stakes. Too high, and you’ll price yourself out of the market. Too low, and you’ll win the sale but lose your shirt. The sweet spot? That’s where data meets intuition.

Pro tip: Don’t just check competitor prices – understand why they’re pricing that way. Are they clearing inventory? Running a promotion? Or just terrible at math?

Profit Margins

Here’s the formula that matters: Sale Price – (Product Cost + Amazon Fees + Shipping + Marketing + That Thing You Forgot About) = Actual Profit

If you’re not making at least 25% profit after ALL costs, you might want to rethink your strategy. I’ve seen too many sellers celebrate their revenue while their profits quietly sneak out the back door.

Managing Your Amazon Business Like a Pro

Listen, I’ve seen too many sellers get caught up in the excitement of their first sale only to crash and burn because they didn’t have their operational ducks in a row. Can you sell stuff on Amazon? Absolutely. But can you sell stuff on Amazon successfully for the long haul? That’s where things get interesting.

Performance Metrics That Actually Matter

Here’s the thing about Amazon – it’s like that teacher who grades on a curve and isn’t afraid to fail you. Your Account Health Rating isn’t just some vanity metric; it’s your lifeline. I’ve seen sellers with millions in revenue get suspended because they let their Order Defect Rate creep above 1%. Brutal, right?

The key metrics you need to obsess over are:
– Order Defect Rate (keep it under 1%)
– Late Shipment Rate (under 4%)
– Valid Tracking Rate (above 95%)
– Customer Response Time (under 24 hours)

Customer Service: Your Secret Weapon

You might think it’s all about the product, but in 2024, customer service is your differentiator. Think of it this way – Amazon’s algorithm is like a hyper-attentive parent watching how you treat their kid (the customer). One wrong move, and you’re in timeout.

Pro tip: Use automation tools for basic customer service, but keep a human touch for complex issues. It’s like having an AI intern handle the routine stuff while you focus on the conversations that really need your expertise.

Scaling Your Amazon Store Without Losing Your Mind

When it comes to how to start an amazon store, anyone can jump in. But scaling? That’s where the real entrepreneurs separate themselves from the pack. I’ve helped dozens of brands expand their Amazon presence, and there’s a method to the madness.

Geographic Expansion: Going Global Without Going Broke

Amazon’s international marketplaces are like parallel universes – similar but distinctly different. Before you dive into selling your products on Amazon internationally, consider this: each market has its own personality. What sells like hotcakes in the US might flop in Germany.

Start with English-speaking markets first (UK, Canada, Australia). They’re like training wheels for international expansion. Once you’ve got those down, then you can tackle the more complex markets.

Product Line Expansion: The Smart Way

Want to know the best products to sell on Amazon? It’s not about chasing trends – it’s about building a coherent product ecosystem. Think of it like a Netflix series: each new product should complement your existing lineup and keep customers coming back for more.

Advanced Selling Techniques That Actually Work

Let’s talk about the most profitable items to sell on Amazon in 2024. The real money isn’t in individual products – it’s in building systems that scale. And yes, you can sell on Amazon without inventory if you’re smart about it.

Analytics and Automation: Your New Best Friends

Look, I’m a tech guy, and I love a good AI solution. But here’s the truth: automation without strategy is just automated chaos. Start with these basics:
– Inventory forecasting tools
– Pricing automation (but with human oversight)
– Customer service templates (customized for your brand voice)
– Review management systems

For more insights on navigating Amazon FBA effectively, check out this comprehensive guide on Amazon FBA.

Protection and Risk Management

Amazon resell business isn’t for the faint of heart. You need to protect yourself from:
– Account suspension (have a backup plan)
– Intellectual property claims (document everything)
– Cash flow issues (maintain a 3-month buffer)
– Competition (trademark your brand ASAP)

For additional resources, consider reading this Amazon FBA guide for a strategic approach.

The Future of Amazon Selling: What’s Next?

Is selling on Amazon worth it in 2024? If you’d asked me five years ago, I’d have given you a different answer. Today, it’s not about whether to sell on Amazon – it’s about how to do it right.

The platform is evolving faster than ever. AI is changing how we handle everything from listing optimization to customer service. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore – it’s becoming a competitive advantage.

Final Thoughts: Your Amazon Journey Starts Here

Can you sell stuff on Amazon and build a successful business? Absolutely. But here’s what nobody tells you: success on Amazon isn’t about finding that one perfect product or mastering one specific technique. It’s about building a sustainable, adaptable business that can evolve with the platform.

Start small, but think big. Test different strategies for how to sell your products on Amazon. Use data to guide your decisions, but don’t forget the human element. And most importantly, stay curious and keep learning – because in this game, the only constant is change.

Remember: Amazon isn’t just a marketplace – it’s an ecosystem. Your success depends on how well you can navigate it, adapt to it, and ultimately make it work for you. Now get out there and start building your empire. The future of ecommerce is waiting for you.

👉👉 Create Photos, Videos & Optimized Content in minutes 👈👈

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to sell products on Amazon?

Yes, it is possible to sell products on Amazon. Amazon offers a platform called Amazon Seller Central where individuals and businesses can list and sell their products directly to millions of customers worldwide. Sellers have the option to choose between various selling plans, catering to both casual sellers and professional businesses.

Is it free to sell stuff on Amazon?

Selling on Amazon is not entirely free, as there are fees associated with listing and selling products. Amazon offers two main selling plans: the Individual plan, which charges a fee per item sold, and the Professional plan, which incurs a monthly subscription fee along with other selling fees. Additionally, referral fees, closing fees, and other charges may apply depending on the product category and fulfillment method.

Can you sell an item to Amazon?

You cannot directly sell an item to Amazon in the same way as selling to a customer. However, you can participate in the Amazon FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) program, where you supply products to Amazon’s warehouses, and they handle storage, packaging, and shipping to customers. Alternatively, Amazon may purchase products from you if you become a vendor, but this typically involves a more complex agreement and is usually initiated by Amazon.

Is selling stuff on Amazon easy?

Selling on Amazon can be relatively straightforward due to the platform’s user-friendly interface and robust support resources. However, it involves several steps such as product listing, pricing, inventory management, and understanding Amazon’s policies and fees. Success on Amazon often requires strategic planning, marketing, and continuous optimization of your listings and operations.

Is selling on Amazon worth it?

Selling on Amazon can be worth it for many sellers due to the platform’s vast customer base and its efficient fulfillment services. It provides an opportunity to reach a global audience and leverage Amazon’s trusted brand to boost product visibility. However, the competitive environment and associated fees mean sellers need to carefully evaluate their margins and business strategy to ensure profitability.

About the Author

Vijay Jacob is the founder and chief contributing writer for ProductScope AI focused on storytelling in AI and tech. You can follow him on X and LinkedIn, and ProductScope AI on X and on LinkedIn.

We’re also building a powerful AI Studio for Brands & Creators to sell smarter and faster with AI. With PS Studio you can generate AI Images, AI Videos, Chat and Automate repeat writing with AI Agents that can produce content in your voice and tone all in one place. If you sell on Amazon you can even optimize your Amazon Product Listings or get unique customer insights with PS Optimize.

🎁 Limited time Bonus: I put together an exclusive welcome gift called the “Formula,” which includes all of my free checklists (from SEO to Image Design to content creation at scale), including the top AI agents, and ways to scale your brand & content strategy today. Sign up free to get 200 PS Studio credits on us, and as a bonus, you will receive the “formula” via email as a thank you for your time.