Beginners Guide to Starting an Amazon Merch on Demand Business

If you’re looking to get into the Print on Demand (POD) business, Amazon Merch on Demand is one of the largest platforms available.

However, unlike other platforms, you need to apply and get accepted before you can start selling. This article will walk you through the application process step by step and provide key tips to help you get approved.

What is Amazon Merch on Demand?

Amazon Merch on Demand is Amazon’s print-on-demand service, allowing sellers to upload designs and sell customized t-shirts and other merchandise.

When someone buys a product from your listing, Amazon handles everything from printing the design to shipping the product and managing customer service.

As a seller, you earn a portion of the profits for each sale.

To get started, you need to sign up, apply, and get accepted as a seller. The entire process is relatively straightforward, but understanding each step and providing the right information will boost your chances of approval.

How to Apply for Amazon Merch on Demand

1. Find the Right Application Page

Head to merch.amazon.com and click on the sign-up button to start your application.

Make sure you’re applying for Amazon Merch on Demand and not Amazon’s other selling programs like Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA).

Amazon Merch is completely free to sign up for, unlike Seller Central accounts that may require monthly fees.

2. Log in or Create Your Amazon Account

You can use your existing personal Amazon account to apply, or create a new one if you don’t have one already. Once signed in, you’ll need to review and accept Amazon’s terms of service.

3. Provide Personal Information

Amazon will require your contact information, including your full name, address, and phone number.

You can use your personal email address, but consider creating a dedicated email for all your Print on Demand business communications to keep things organized.

4. Enter Your Bank Details

Amazon pays its sellers through direct deposit, so you’ll need to provide your bank account information.

If you are outside the US and your local bank is unsupported, you can create a free account with Payoneer, which allows you to receive payments from Amazon as if you had a US bank account.

5. Submit Tax Information

You’ll also be required to submit your tax details. If you’re in the US, this could be your Social Security number (SSN),

Employer Identification Number (EIN), or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). For non-US residents, you’ll need to provide information specific to your country.

Paying taxes on your earnings from Print on Demand is similar to any other form of income, so make sure to report your income properly.

Tips for the Final Stage of the Application

Once you’ve submitted your personal and financial details, the final part of the application is critical. This section asks for additional information that helps Amazon determine whether or not to approve your application.

Here’s how to stand out:

1. Choose the Right Industry Type

Select “Novelty T-shirt Business” under the industry type section. This option aligns with the core of the Print on Demand business, especially on Amazon, and is widely used by successful sellers.

2. Highlight Your Experience

Even if you’ve just started selling on other platforms, mention it!

Let Amazon know you have experience in Print on Demand, as this shows you understand the business model and are more likely to contribute quality content to the platform. Even minimal experience could put you ahead of others.

3. Mention Your Following

If you have any type of online or offline following, this is where you should mention it.

Whether it’s social media or a local community, showcasing that you can bring external traffic to Amazon boosts your chances. While not required, it can give you an edge over applicants without a following.

4. Acknowledge Amazon’s Guidelines

Incorporate a line into your application indicating that you’ve read and agree to Amazon’s terms and conditions.

This shows the reviewer that you understand the rules and won’t cause compliance issues down the line.

Profit Potential with Amazon Merch on Demand

The earnings potential with Amazon Merch on Demand can be quite significant.

For example, if you sell a t-shirt for $17.95, your profit might be around $3.38 per shirt. If you sell 400 shirts in a month, that’s approximately $1,352 in monthly profit.

Over a year, this could result in $16,000 from just one successful design! The key to maximizing profits is uploading multiple designs and allowing Amazon to handle the fulfillment.

Final Thoughts

Applying to Amazon Merch on Demand is relatively simple, but being strategic about the information you provide will enhance your chances of approval.

Focus on demonstrating your experience, highlighting your potential for bringing external traffic, and showing that you understand and will follow Amazon’s guidelines.

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