How to create your Amazon UK seller account - sell on Amazon UK
5-minute read
With over 450 million visits per month, selling on Amazon UK offers a tantalising opportunity to reach a vast audience of potential customers.
Whether you're an established brand or a small start-up, Amazon can become an integral part of your online sales strategy.
But where do you start? How do you create an Amazon account in the UK, and what should you expect along the way?
In this guide, we'll take you through each step of the process so your brand can start selling on the UK's largest online marketplace.
What do you need to set up a UK Amazon seller account?
To register with Amazon UK, you will need:
Business email address: Crucial for account setup and ongoing communication.
Bank account and credit card details: These are needed to process payments to and from Amazon.
Business information: This includes the business name, address, registration number, and VAT registration number (if applicable).
Passport or government-issued ID: Required for personal identity verification.
What selling plan should you choose?
We highly recommend you select the professional plan.
Why? Because it's made for brands that are serious about making their mark on Amazon. With this option, you can utilise Amazon advertising and gain access to advanced tools and reports that can help take your selling game to the next level. You'll pay a flat fee of £25 a month.
However, if you’re just dipping your toes into the Amazon waters, the individual plan might be more your speed. It’s great for those who don’t plan to push a ton of items each month. There's no monthly fee, but keep in mind that you'll pay an extra £0.75 for every item sold, so it'll only be worth it if you plan to sell less than 35 units per month.
Step-by-Step guide- How to set up your UK Amazon seller account
Your primary image is the first thing customers see when browsing on Amazon, and as such, it needs to be perfect. A well-executed main image can single-handedly boost click-through rates and conversions (we’ve seen up to a 20% increase in conversion rate from primary image optimisation alone!).
The main image is the hero shot, providing a clear view of what the customer can expect. It should be visually appealing, clearly showcase the product, and accurately represent its features and benefits.
Invest in professional photography or a high-end 3D image render. Ensure the image is sharp, well-lit, anVisit the Amazon Seller Central website: To get started, visit the Start selling with Amazon of Amazon.co.uk
Select ‘Sign Up’: Here, you can create a new account with your business email address.
Enter personal and business information: Follow the prompts to provide your personal and business details.
Select your selling plan: Opt for either the Professional or Individual plan.
Once you’ve filled in the necessary info, Amazon will verify your account within a few days to a week before giving you the green light to start selling. Once you’re approved, you’ll be all set to list your items for sale!
Fulfilment methods for Amazon UK
When it comes to fulfilling your Amazon UK orders, you have two options: Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) and Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM). Both have their unique advantages, and depending on your business model, one may be more suitable than the other.
What is Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)?
FBA is a service provided by Amazon where they take on the bulk of the legwork for you.
Here's how it works: you send your products to Amazon's fulfilment centres, and they handle storage, packaging, and shipping on your behalf. They even take care of customer service and returns, allowing you more time to focus on growing your business.
One significant advantage here is that your products become Prime-eligible, which can greatly enhance your conversion rates. Plus, with Amazon's logistics network, your items are likely to reach customers faster and more efficiently.
What is Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM)?
On the flip side, FBM allows you to retain control over your fulfilment process. You store, pack, and ship products directly to customers. This method can be more cost-effective if you already possess a robust logistics system or if you're selling products with low turnover, where Amazon's storage fees might eat into your profits.
Choosing the right fulfilment method boils down to evaluating your business needs, costs, and capacity to manage logistics.
If your margins allow, we highly recommend utilising Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) for its advantages in conversion rates and customer service.
What does it cost to sell on Amazon UK?
Understanding the costs associated with selling on Amazon UK is vital for budgeting and profitability. Your professional plan will cost £25 p/m, but you'll encounter more Amazon UK fees along the way.
We always recommend using the free Amazon UK Revenue Calculator for a comprehensive breakdown of your fees. Click 'define product' and enter your product details including the category, dimensions and cost of goods.
Referral fees
Amazon charges a referral fee on each item sold, which varies depending on your product category. This fee is calculated as a percentage of the total sale price, including any shipping or gift wrapping charges. Most referral fees are between 8% and 15%.
You can check your category's referral fees here.
FBA fees
If you opt for Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA), you will incur additional fees for storage, handling, and shipping. FBA fees are charged per unit and are based on the weight and dimensions of your products.
There are also fees for specific services such as returns processing and disposal. While these fees can add up, the benefits of Prime eligibility and Amazon's efficient logistics often outweigh the costs for many sellers.
You can check your FBA fees with theAmazon UK Revenue Calculator.
Storage fees
Amazon also charges storage fees for goods held in their fulfilment centres. These fees are calculated on a monthly basis per cubic metre. Standard storage rates apply throughout most of the year, but during the peak season (October to December), higher rates are used. This encourages sellers to maintain efficient inventory levels, removing slow-moving stock to make room for high-demand items.
You can see the Amazon UK storage fees here.
By understanding and managing these costs, you can maintain healthy profit margins while leveraging Amazon's vast marketplace to grow your business.
FAQ
How long does it take to set up an Amazon UK seller account?
Setting up an Amazon account typically takes three days to a week, depending on the verification process and document submission. You may be asked to have a verification video call with an Amazon employee.
Can I change my selling plan later?
Yes, you can switch between the Individual and Professional Plans as your business needs evolve. We recommend the professional selling plan.
Do I need a VAT number to sell on Amazon UK?
A VAT number is required if your sales exceed the UK VAT threshold or if you want to reclaim VAT on expenses.
In summary
Learning how to set up an Amazon shop is just the beginning of your Amazon journey.
Once your business account is live, it's time to optimise & upload your product listings, create your product launch strategy, and maximise your sales potential.
Want to talk to an Amazon UK expert to help you get started?
