Selling on Amazon from Outside the USA: A Comprehensive Guide for International Sellers

Yes, you can certainly sell on Amazon from outside the United States. Amazon has significantly expanded its platform to accommodate sellers from across the world, making it easier than ever to tap into the vast Amazon customer base.

The Process Simplified

The journey of setting up a successful Amazon storefront from a non-US location may seem daunting at first glance. However, with the right guidance and support, it can be a manageable task.

Registering Your LLC through Fiverr

The first step in the process is to set up an LLC (Limited Liability Company) in the United States. This can be accomplished through various business consultants, including those available on platforms like Fiverr. These experts will handle all the paperwork and provide you with the necessary documentation such as:

US Registered Address US Phone Number Resale Permit Amazon Account Creation Consultancy EIN (Employer Identification Number)

These services are offered by reliable freelancers on Fiverr, and their expertise can make the process as seamless as possible. For more detailed information, click on this link to find a freelancer who can assist you.

What Information Do You Need?

America-Based Suppliers and Wholesalers

If you are working with suppliers or brand owners based in the United States, you may need a resale certificate. This certificate serves as proof that you are making a business-to-business purchase, which allows you to avoid sales tax. However, if you are a non-US resident or do not have a US corporation, this may not apply. Instead, you can use documents from your home country that prove you are a legitimate business. It is important to be registered as a business entity in your home country.

Creating an Amazon Account as a Non-US Citizen

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to create an Amazon account:

A credit card: Choose a card that supports international transactions, such as Visa or MasterCard. A local bank in your country: Ensure your bank supports ACH (Automated Clearing House) transactions. Your local address and phone number: Provide these to complete the registration process. Consider setting up a US-based phone number using services like Skype or Google Voice. EIN (Employer Identification Number): Apply for an EIN as a non-US resident by calling the IRS Internal Revenue Service at 267-941-1099, following the steps provided.

Tax Compliance and Legal Considerations

While Amazon provides significant assistance, it is crucial to understand your legal and tax obligations. Unless you achieve at least $300,000 in annual sales, you may not need to worry about US tax laws. However, consultation with a professional tax advisor is always recommended, especially when you plan to scale your business.

Inventory Storage and Shipping

Once you have your account set up, the next challenge is managing your inventory. Storing and shipping your products efficiently is key to profitability. Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is highly recommended, as it significantly reduces the complexity of shipping directly to customers. You can also consider using prep centers to handle any additional setup required.

Shipping Options

Many suppliers ship directly to Amazon, which is a viable option. However, if prep services are required, you may face higher costs. Some recommended prep centers include:

PZP - A Full Service Fulfillment Center Amazon FBA Prep Packing Solutions

Handling Returns

Product returns are an inevitable part of any selling venture. Amazon facilitates the return process, and you can choose to let Amazon handle reselling the returned items. Alternatively, you can:

Donate returned items to US-based charities Have Amazon destroy the items at a small cost per item Ship returns to a returns center for processing and resale

For detailed information on returns centers and processes, refer to this resource.

International Success Stories

International students and entrepreneurs have achieved remarkable success on Amazon. Hear from Chris Thomas from Australia, who shared his experience in this interview.

Final Thoughts

Selling on Amazon from outside the USA can be both rewarding and profitable. While the initial steps may seem overwhelming, the resources and support available make it feasible. Always seek professional advice from a tax or legal expert to ensure compliance and maximize your business's success.