A Beginner\’s Guide To Selling On Amazon From Nigeria

In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, e-commerce has become a game-changer for entrepreneurs and businesses, offering unprecedented access to customers across the globe.

When it comes to online marketplaces, Amazon stands out as a powerhouse, providing a vast platform for sellers to showcase their products. If you\’re in Nigeria and eager to explore the potential of selling on Amazon, you\’ve come to the right place.

In this beginner\’s guide, we\’ll walk you through the essential steps to get started and unlock the doors to success in the e-commerce world. Whether you\’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the Amazon marketplace and reach a wide audience, right from the comfort of your home in Nigeria. So, let\’s dive in and uncover the exciting possibilities of selling on Amazon!

Benefits of selling on Amazon

As a Nigerian seller, there are numerous benefits to selling on Amazon. Here are some of the key advantages you can enjoy:

1. Access to a Global Customer Base: Amazon operates in multiple countries around the world, giving you instant exposure to a massive customer base. Selling on Amazon allows you to tap into the vast market of millions of active users who visit the platform daily, increasing your chances of finding customers for your products.
2. Established Infrastructure: Amazon has built a robust infrastructure that handles various aspects of selling, including payment processing, order fulfillment, and customer service. By leveraging Amazon\’s infrastructure, you can focus on your core business activities while Amazon takes care of the logistics, making it easier for you to scale your operations.
3. Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) Program: With Amazon\’s FBA program, you can store your inventory in Amazon\’s warehouses. This means that Amazon will handle packaging, shipping, and customer service on your behalf. FBA allows you to offer Prime shipping to customers, which can significantly boost your product visibility and customer trust.
4. Increased Credibility and Trust: Selling on Amazon enhances your credibility as a seller. Amazon has built a reputation for reliable transactions and excellent customer service. When customers see your products listed on Amazon, they are more likely to trust your brand and make a purchase, especially if you maintain high ratings and positive reviews.
5. Access to Amazon Advertising: Amazon provides robust advertising tools and services that enable you to promote your products effectively. Through targeted advertising campaigns, you can reach your desired audience and increase the visibility of your products, leading to higher sales and brand recognition.
6. Easy International Selling: Amazon simplifies the process of selling internationally. With features like Amazon Global Selling, you can expand your business beyond Nigeria and sell your products to customers worldwide. This opens up new market opportunities and allows you to diversify your customer base.
7. Business Insights and Analytics: Amazon provides detailed sales reports and analytics that can help you understand customer preferences, track your performance, and make informed business decisions. By leveraging these insights, you can optimize your product listings, pricing strategies, and inventory management, maximizing your chances of success on the platform.

Selling on Amazon from Nigeria offers you the potential to grow your business, increase your brand visibility, and connect with customers on a global scale. By leveraging Amazon\’s resources, infrastructure, and wide-reaching platform, you can take advantage of the e-commerce boom and unlock new opportunities for your business.

How to sell on Amazon from Nigeria –  Step-By-Step Guide

To begin selling on Amazon, you\’ll need to follow a step-by-step process. Here\’s a breakdown of the key steps involved:

1. Create an Amazon Seller Account:

The first step in your journey to sell on Amazon from Nigeria is to sign up for an Amazon seller account. This process is relatively straightforward and serves as your gateway to the vast Amazon marketplace. Here\’s a closer look at what you need to do:

1. Visit Amazon Seller Central: To get started, navigate to the Amazon Seller Central website, which is the dedicated platform for sellers. Click on the \”Register now\” or \”Start selling\” button to initiate the sign-up process.
2. Choose the Right Account Type: Amazon offers different types of seller accounts, including Individual and Professional accounts. As a new seller, you can begin with an Individual account, which is suitable if you plan to sell a limited number of items. If you have a larger inventory and intend to scale your business, a Professional account may be a better fit. Compare the features and fees associated with each account type to make an informed decision.
3. Provide Basic Information: Next, you\’ll be prompted to provide essential details about your business. This includes your business name, address, and contact information. Make sure to provide accurate information as it will be used for various purposes, such as shipping and tax purposes.
4. Tax Information: As an Amazon seller, you\’ll need to comply with tax regulations. You\’ll be required to enter your tax information, including your Tax Identification Number (TIN) or other relevant tax details specific to your business. This ensures that you meet your tax obligations and allows Amazon to generate the necessary reports for tax purposes.
5. Bank Account Information: To receive payments for your sales, you\’ll need to link a valid bank account to your Amazon seller account. This is where Amazon will deposit your funds from customer purchases. Ensure that you provide accurate bank account details to avoid any payment issues.
6. Verification and Agreement: Before finalizing your registration, Amazon may require you to verify your account through a phone call or text message. This is to ensure the security of your account and prevent fraudulent activities. Additionally, you\’ll need to review and accept the Amazon Seller Agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of selling on the platform.

Once you\’ve completed these steps and your account is successfully registered, you can access your Amazon Seller Central dashboard. This is where you\’ll manage your product listings, inventory, orders, and other essential aspects of your selling journey on Amazon.

Remember, providing accurate and up-to-date information during the registration process is crucial for a smooth selling experience on Amazon. Your seller account acts as your virtual storefront, enabling you to showcase your products to millions of potential customers. So, ensure that you fill in the necessary details diligently to establish a strong foundation for your Amazon business in Nigeria.

2. Choose a Fulfillment Method:

When it comes to fulfilling orders on Amazon, you have three main options: Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM), and Seller-Fulfilled Prime (SFP). Each method offers distinct advantages, and the choice depends on your preferences and business requirements.

Let\’s take a closer look at each fulfillment method:

• Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is an attractive option for sellers who want a streamlined and hassle-free fulfillment process. With FBA, you send your inventory to Amazon\’s fulfillment centers, where they handle storage, packaging, and shipping on your behalf.
  Here are the key benefits of using FBA:
  a. Storage and Logistics: Amazon takes care of storing your products in their warehouses, eliminating the need for you to manage your own inventory. This is especially beneficial if you have limited storage space or if you\’re selling large quantities of products.
  b. Prime Shipping and Buy Box Eligibility: FBA allows you to offer Prime shipping to Amazon customers. Prime is highly valued by customers and can increase your product\’s visibility and chances of winning the Buy Box, which is the coveted featured spot on product detail pages.
  c. Customer Service and Returns: Amazon handles customer service and returns for FBA orders. This means that if a customer has any issues or wants to return a product, Amazon manages the process, saving you time and effort.
• Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM): Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) gives you more control over the entire fulfillment process. With FBM, you handle the storage, packaging, and shipping of your products.
  Here are the key aspects of FBM:
  a. Control and Flexibility: FBM allows you to maintain complete control over the fulfillment process. You can choose your preferred packaging materials, shipping carriers, and shipping methods based on your specific requirements.
  b. Cost Savings: FBM can be a cost-effective option, especially for sellers with lower sales volumes. Since you handle the fulfillment process yourself, you avoid certain fees associated with FBA, such as storage and fulfillment charges.
  c. Customer Experience: With FBM, you have direct interaction with customers throughout the shipping process. This gives you the opportunity to provide personalized customer service and create a unique brand experience.
• Seller-Fulfilled Prime (SFP): Seller-Fulfilled Prime (SFP) is a program that allows sellers to offer Amazon Prime shipping benefits to their customers while fulfilling orders themselves. To qualify for SFP, sellers must meet specific performance criteria and demonstrate their ability to consistently deliver products with Prime-like speed and reliability.
  With SFP, you maintain control over the fulfillment process while still providing the fast and reliable shipping experience associated with Amazon Prime. This option can be beneficial for Nigerian sellers who have established efficient fulfillment operations and want to offer the added value of Prime benefits to their customers.

When choosing a fulfillment method, consider factors such as the size of your inventory, your resources, shipping capabilities, and the level of control you desire over the fulfillment process. Each method has its own advantages and considerations, so it\’s essential to evaluate your specific business needs to determine which option aligns best with your goals as a Nigerian seller on Amazon.

3. List Your Products:

After successfully setting up your Amazon seller account and determining your preferred fulfillment method, the next vital step is to list your products on the platform. Listing your products effectively is crucial for attracting potential customers and driving sales. Here are some guidelines to pay close attention to when creating your product listings:

• Accurate and Detailed Product Information: Provide accurate and detailed information about each product you list. This includes the product name, brand, model number (if applicable), and any unique features or specifications. Be concise yet informative in your descriptions, highlighting the key selling points and benefits of the product. Use relevant keywords to improve the discoverability of your listings within Amazon\’s search algorithm.
• Compelling Product Descriptions: Craft compelling and persuasive product descriptions that highlight the value proposition of your products. Clearly explain how your product solves a problem or fulfills a need for the customer. Use language that is engaging and persuasive, emphasizing the benefits and advantages of choosing your product over competitors.
• Competitive Pricing: Research the market and set competitive prices for your products. Take into account factors such as production costs, competitor pricing, and customer expectations. Consider offering competitive prices or promotions to attract customers and gain an edge in the marketplace.
• High-Quality Product Images: Include high-quality images that showcase your products from different angles. Use professional-looking photographs with good lighting and clear focus. Ensure that the images accurately represent the product and its features. High-quality images enhance the visual appeal of your listings and instill confidence in potential buyers.
• Proper Categorization and Product Attributes: Select the appropriate category and subcategory for each product. Accurate categorization ensures that your products appear in relevant search results and are easily discoverable by potential customers. Additionally, utilize the available product attribute fields to provide more specific details about your products, such as size, color, material, or any other relevant specifications.
• Offer Competitive Shipping Options: Consider offering competitive shipping options to attract customers. If you are using Amazon\’s FBA, take advantage of the Prime badge and offer fast and reliable shipping to customers. If you are using FBM or SFP, clearly communicate your shipping policies, including estimated delivery times and any shipping promotions you may have.
• Utilize Enhanced Content (Optional): Amazon provides enhanced content options, such as A+ Content (formerly known as Enhanced Brand Content) and Amazon Stores. These features allow you to create visually appealing and interactive product pages with additional images, videos, and detailed descriptions. Utilize these options to enhance your brand presence and provide a rich shopping experience for customers.

Remember, the quality and accuracy of your product listings play a significant role in attracting customers and driving conversions on Amazon. Regularly monitor and update your listings to optimize their performance and align with any changes or updates to your products. By following these guidelines, you can create compelling and effective product listings that captivate customers and increase your chances of success as a Nigerian seller on Amazon.

4. Promote Your Products:

To maximize the visibility and sales of your products on Amazon as a Nigerian seller, it is essential to actively promote them. Amazon offers several advertising tools and services that can help you reach a wider audience and increase your chances of attracting potential customers. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Amazon Advertising: Utilize Amazon\’s advertising platform to promote your products directly within the Amazon marketplace. Two popular advertising options are Sponsored Products and Sponsored Brands. Sponsored Products allow you to promote individual products, increasing their visibility in search results and related product listings.
  Sponsored Brands, on the other hand, enable you to showcase your brand and multiple products in a customized ad format. These advertising tools help you target potential customers who are actively searching for products similar to yours.
• Social Media Promotion: Leverage the power of social media platforms to drive traffic to your Amazon listings. Create engaging and visually appealing posts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, highlighting the unique features and benefits of your products. Consider running targeted social media ads to reach specific demographics or interest groups. Encourage your followers to share your posts and spread the word about your products.
• Email Marketing: Build an email list of potential customers who have shown interest in your products or have made previous purchases. Regularly send out targeted email campaigns to promote new product launches, special offers, or exclusive discounts. Personalize your emails based on customer preferences and buying behavior to increase engagement and conversions. Include direct links to your Amazon listings within the emails for convenient access to your products.
• Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with relevant influencers or bloggers who have a significant following and influence in your target market. Reach out to them and offer your products for review or promotion. Authentic and positive reviews from trusted influencers can significantly impact buyer decisions. Ensure that the influencers disclose their relationship with your brand and comply with relevant advertising guidelines.
• Content Marketing: Create compelling and informative content related to your products or industry. Publish blog posts, articles, or guides on your website or other platforms to establish yourself as an authority and attract organic traffic. Optimize your content with relevant keywords to improve search engine rankings and increase visibility. Include links within your content that direct readers to your Amazon listings for seamless conversion opportunities.
• Cross-Promotion and Partnerships: Explore opportunities for cross-promotion and partnerships with complementary brands or sellers. This can involve co-marketing initiatives, joint advertising campaigns, or product bundles. By collaborating with other sellers or brands, you can leverage each other\’s audiences and expand your reach.

Remember to track the performance of your promotional efforts using Amazon\’s reporting tools and other analytics platforms. Continuously refine your strategies based on the data and customer feedback to optimize your promotional efforts over time.

By actively promoting your products using a combination of Amazon\’s advertising tools, social media, email marketing, content marketing, and strategic partnerships, you can significantly increase the visibility and sales of your products as a Nigerian seller on Amazon.

5. Provide Excellent Customer Service:

Exceptional customer service is not only crucial for building a successful Amazon business but also for nurturing a positive reputation and fostering customer loyalty. As a Nigerian seller on Amazon, providing exceptional customer service should be one of your top priorities. Here\’s how you can ensure a remarkable customer service experience:

• Prompt and Responsive Communication: Respond promptly to customer inquiries, messages, and feedback. Aim to address customer concerns or questions within 24 hours or sooner. Timely responses show that you value your customers and their needs, which helps build trust and satisfaction.
• Professional and Polite Tone: Maintain a professional and polite tone in all your interactions with customers. Be patient, understanding, and empathetic when addressing their concerns. Use clear and concise language to ensure effective communication and avoid any misunderstandings.
• Resolving Issues and Providing Solutions: When customers encounter issues with their orders or products, prioritize finding quick and satisfactory solutions. Take responsibility for any mistakes or errors and provide appropriate remedies, such as replacements, refunds, or exchanges. Strive to turn a negative experience into a positive one by going above and beyond to resolve the problem.
• Proactive Order Tracking and Delivery Updates: Keep customers informed about the status of their orders. Provide tracking information promptly and proactively update customers on any delays or issues with delivery. Transparency and proactive communication during the shipping process help manage customer expectations and minimize potential frustrations.
• Feedback and Reviews: Encourage customers to leave feedback and reviews for your products. Monitor and respond to customer reviews, thanking them for positive feedback and addressing any concerns or negative experiences. Engaging with customer reviews demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction and helps build a positive reputation.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly evaluate your customer service processes and identify areas for improvement. Pay attention to recurring issues or feedback and take steps to address them. Continuously strive to enhance the customer experience and exceed their expectations.
• Going the Extra Mile: Consider going above and beyond to surprise and delight your customers. This can include adding a personal touch to your packaging, including handwritten thank-you notes, or offering unexpected freebies or discounts. These small gestures can leave a lasting positive impression and encourage repeat purchases.

Remember, exceptional customer service is a key differentiator in the competitive Amazon marketplace. Positive reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and repeat business rely heavily on the satisfaction of your customers. By prioritizing exceptional customer service as a Nigerian seller on Amazon, you can build a loyal customer base, attract new buyers, and establish a reputable and thriving business.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selling on Amazon as a Nigerian seller offers numerous benefits and opportunities for success. By following the necessary steps, such as creating an Amazon seller account, choosing the right fulfillment method, listing your products effectively, promoting your offerings, and providing exceptional customer service, you can position yourself for growth and profitability.

Creating an Amazon seller account serves as your gateway to the vast Amazon marketplace, allowing you to reach millions of potential customers worldwide. The fulfillment options provided by Amazon, including Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM), and Seller-Fulfilled Prime (SFP), offer flexibility and convenience based on your resources and preferences.

When listing your products, it is crucial to provide accurate and detailed information, including product descriptions, prices, and high-quality images. This ensures that customers have the necessary information to make informed purchasing decisions.

To increase the visibility and sales of your products, take advantage of Amazon\’s advertising tools, such as Sponsored Products and Sponsored Brands. Additionally, consider leveraging social media platforms, email marketing, and other online channels to drive traffic to your Amazon listings.

Exceptional customer service is key to building a successful Amazon business. Promptly respond to customer inquiries, address concerns, and strive to exceed their expectations. Positive reviews and satisfied customers contribute to a good reputation and attract new buyers.

By implementing these strategies and continuously refining your approach, you can establish a thriving business on Amazon as a Nigerian seller. Embrace the opportunities presented by the platform, and with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your selling goals and unlock new possibilities for growth and success.