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Many see Amazon as a colossal marketplace to buy things and treat themselves.
However, there’s another way to look at it: for every “add to cart” moment, there’s an entrepreneur laughing their way to the bank.
Instead of watching your bank balance go down the drain and leaving yourself with a bit of heartbreak, why not be on the receiving end? Think of Jeff Bezos crying tears of joy with every penny rolling in!
By transitioning yourself from a seasoned shopper (or even a shopaholic) to a strategic seller, you open doors to a world of possibilities. Life is all about taking different perspectives.
By the way, I only say this because I was once just another Pinterest user, scrolling for bathroom design inspiration. What I hadn’t anticipated was how this would lead me in a different direction. The more I played around on Pinterest, the more it became clear that it wasn’t just an app filled with pretty images of fashion, home decor, or luxury items—it had serious business potential! As I kept learning, I discovered ways to make money on Pinterest and wrote a blog post all about it here.
Fast forward, and I’m not just pinning dreamy sunset pics or mouth-watering recipes anymore. Nope, I’m sharing product details, posting articles, and even driving folks over to my blog. So now, Pinterest isn’t just a fun distraction while my tea cools down — it’s my digital office that helps me earn over $150,000 a year. Who knew that my fun hobby could turn into my paycheck? Life’s wild like that, huh?
You might believe that the only way to make money on Amazon is by selling products, but there’s a whole array of opportunities you’ve likely never thought of! From promoting products as an affiliate, taking charge of deliveries, to even unleashing your creativity by publishing a Kindle book.
No matter if you are an eager-beaver entrepreneur or a seasoned online business guru, these clever tricks aren’t just for Amazon; they apply to other e-commerce big shots like Shopify, Etsy, and Walmart too.
Are you excited to step up your eCommerce game? Let’s get right into it and shake things up!
PIN THIS: I’ll be updating this post so make sure to pin this image here and save it to your Pinterest board. That way you’ll be able to come back to this page and learn the best ways to make money on Amazon.
1. Amazon FBA (Fulfilled By Amazon)
You know when you’re shopping for a luggage set on Amazon and see “Sold by ABC Company and Fulfilled by Amazon” next to a product? That means Amazon is handling all the nitty-gritty stuff like storage, packaging, and shipping at their fulfillment centers. It’s a total game-changer for eCommerce because it allows sellers to concentrate on expanding their businesses while Amazon handles the heavy lifting.
Using Amazon’s FBA service means you’re basically entrusting them with all the logistical work, something they’re pretty darn good at. What’s the outcome? More time for you to attract buyers and sell your goodies. Actually, FBA sellers have reported a sales bump of over 20%!
Since Amazon takes care of the storage, you need to send the products to the store which is where your journey begins. Start by choosing the items you want to sell, which you can get from a wholesale supplier on Alibaba. Then, set up your Amazon seller account and make sure your products meet Amazon’s guidelines, like having proper labels, barcodes, and packaging. Once you’re all set, ship your products to an Amazon fulfillment center. They’ll take care of storage, packaging, and shipping when customers hit that checkout button and purchase your items.
To really make the most of Amazon FBA, you’ll need to optimize your listings so buyers can find what you’re selling. That means testing titles, images, and descriptions to catch their eye.
Don’t forget the importance of customer feedback, either. Even though Amazon oversees this area, it’s smart to nudge buyers to drop stellar reviews.
2. Selling Used Products
We all know Amazon as the place to score the latest gadgets or the most binge-worthy books. But of course, behind those items are sellers, and that can only mean one thing: you can sell on the platform, too!
Forget about letting your old stuff gather dust in the attic or clutter up your garage. Selling items on Amazon is a common way for many people to make money on the platform.
Just think about it: that stack of limited edition DVDs that are still working but you haven’t watched in years? Someone wants to get their hands on them. Those vintage video games? There’s someone out there who wants to add that to their collection.
You can clear out your preloved items, whether they be gadgets, books, or sports gear, as long as they’re still complete and in working order. Of course, they have to be genuine, too! Counterfeit products are strictly prohibited on Amazon. If you want to know more about what’s acceptable and what’s not, you can check out Amazon’s condition guidelines.
What’s great about selling on Amazon is that the platform is so easy to navigate. Plus, Amazon’s seller tools make it a breeze to manage your inventory and track your sales. With just a few clicks, your products can fly off the virtual shelves!
Maybe those preloved items just aren’t cutting it out for you and you want to be more serious about selling on Amazon. Well, you can get the Professional Seller plan for $39.99 a month, which allows you to list and manage products in bulk, create promotions, and integrate selling apps, among other things. But if you’re just going to look at selling as a side hustle you can do from home, the Individual Seller plan, priced at $0.99 per sold item, is enough to get started.
Regardless of the plan you choose, there are millions of customers browsing Amazon every day, which means that your products have the potential to reach a massive audience.
3. Merch By Amazon
Some people are blessed with the creativity to make designs that turn heads. They have a mind overflowing with creative ideas and witty slogans. Unfortunately, they may not be the best at turning those designs into real things that can fill their pockets with cash.
Enter Amazon Merch on Demand. With this program, the creative people out there don’t have to worry about the logistics of printing, shipping, or even customer service. Amazon will handle all of that for you. You can breathe easily knowing you can watch your royalties roll in. The only thing you really have to do is upload your designs and encourage people to purchase from you.
This program is perfect for content creators who already have a large following. Your designs or logo, already loved by your audience, are just waiting to be plastered on shirts, hoodies, mugs, and any other merch you can think of. Since Amazon will do all the work for you, you can focus on continuously creating content to bring in more followers who will be willing to buy your products.
Amazon Merch on Demand isn’t just for the big shots, though. Don’t worry even if you’re just starting out. You can still cash in on your creativity. After all, over 300 million people use Amazon! Some of them are bound to see your creations.
Keep in mind, though, that since it is Amazon, they have strict guidelines on the size and format of your designs. They have detailed guidelines and templates that you can check before you start.
I also suggest that you learn how their royalties work. I have only good things to say about how great this program is, especially for those starting out. But once the platform seems to put more profit into Jeff Bezos’ pockets, maybe it’s time for you to move to a more flexible website.
4. Amazon Handmade
Don’t be surprised if you’re like most people who go gungho about crafting unique items to sell online. I can’t hide the fact that I love unique creations, and that’s where Amazon Handmade is here to serve you! It’s an exclusive artisan community that lets you showcase and sell your handcrafted items to a global audience, where you can leverage Amazon’s brand and credibility worldwide.
Honestly, I don’t think many people know that Amazon Handmade exists, so it feels like a hidden gem for now. I was amazed by the variety of categories it offers, from wedding decor, gifts, jewelry, invitations, and clothing, to home decor, beauty and grooming, handbags, and even pet accessories. It’s the kind of spot where you can’t help but keep scrolling, uncovering all sorts of quirky and delightful products. It really fires up the artisan and entrepreneur in you to delve into this mysterious niche.
How to get started on Amazon Handmade
So, if you’re excited to join this community, here’s a simple two-step process to get you started:
Step 1: Create a seller account
Apply for Amazon Handmade by submitting information about your products, craftsmanship, and creative methods.
Step 2: Set up your shop
Once accepted and eligible, you can start setting up your shop. You’ll need a banner, a logo, and a description of your brand and products.
A lot of entrepreneurs in this creative arena usually have a soft spot for Etsy as their go-to platform and for good reasons. But let’s be real, Amazon has a monster reach and a ton of users just itching to stumble upon your unique items. Setting up on Amazon Handmade is very simple, and it’s a platform people trust with Amazon services smoothly integrated. It’s a great opportunity for talented artisans like you to shine!
Lastly, why not double-dip and list your products on both Etsy and Amazon Handmade? That way, you’ll widen your net and connect with even more customers who are keen to snap up your creations.
5. Amazon Associates Program
Affiliate marketing is an evergreen classic, and it’s my absolute favorite method! Just imagine earning $1,000 to $10,000 a month simply by tapping into your influence within your sphere. Trust me, I’ve been there and done that—I’ve made a jaw-dropping $100,000+ through affiliate marketing alone! No wonder I’m so fond of this strategy.
Visualize yourself earning passive income while you’re sipping wine and enjoying a delectable meal in a charming Parisian bistro. That’s the power of affiliate marketing!
Let me introduce you to Amazon Associates, Amazon’s fantastic affiliate program that enables content creators, influencers, and personal brand enthusiasts to earn some sweet commissions by showcasing Amazon products to their audience.
The principle is simple: when someone uses your unique link to buy something (without any extra cost to them), you get rewarded by the company for helping make that sale happen.
One substantial benefit of becoming a part of Amazon Associates is the credibility you inherit from Amazon’s established reputation. When your audience clicks on your link and lands on Amazon, any reservations or skepticism disappear because they are on a familiar and trusted platform.
But here’s the thing: having a personal brand is the secret ingredient of affiliate marketing success. It’s what gives you authority and credibility in your niche. Without an audience hooked on your posts and brand, you won’t be able to sell a single affiliate product. So, it’s crucial to build an audience first before attempting this method.
The key to making money with this program is crafting content so valuable it convinces people to buy your affiliate products. If you don’t win them over, they won’t even think about clicking your link.
Let’s say you’re promoting headphones. Don’t just stick to listing the features. Share your personal experience with your readers/viewers! Tell them how the noise cancellation is so amazing that even when you’re working in a noisy office environment, all you hear is your favorite tune. And what about comfort? Those headphones are like clouds on your ears, even after hours of listening!
By promoting the experience, rather than just the product, you engage your audience and trigger that FOMO (fear of missing out) feeling.
6. Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP)
Ready to get paid for your words? Meet Amazon KDP, your soon-to-be BFF. It’s a game-changer for all the word wizards out there dreaming of publishing their masterpieces without the migraine-inducing madness of traditional publishing. It’s common knowledge that capturing the attention of publishers is no different from locating a needle in a haystack. Amazon KDP not only makes the process simpler but also lets you keep more of the money you make from sales.
Amazon KDP offers a realm where every narrative has its place. Whether you’re painting stories of enchantment, capturing moments of raw reality, targeting the youthful spirit, or appealing to a mature audience – every genre finds its niche here.
Before you embark on the Amazon KDP voyage, ensure your book isn’t just a draft but a refined masterpiece. After that final punctuation mark is set, it’s time for a change of roles from being a writer to an editor. Think of this phase as the finishing touches to a sculpture. Patiently chip away imperfections, smooth rough edges, and make sure it’s as polished as possible.
If sifting through your own words isn’t your cup of tea—or you’re simply pressed for time – let an Upwork editor come to the rescue. Beyond reclaiming precious hours, it’ll clear your mind, letting you zone in on other top-tier tasks, like creating a killer marketing strategy.
Post-editing, head straight to Amazon’s eBook Manuscript Formatting Guide. It spells out the requirements for margins, fonts, dimensions, and other finer details.
And then, the moment you’ve been anticipating… It’s time to upload your work to your Amazon KDP account. Input the essentials, snag the best category fit, and bam – you’re inching towards your name being the talk of the town, or at a minimum, shining in an e-bookstore!
7. Online Arbitrage
Storage Wars has managed to captivate viewers for years, and it’s no wonder it’s still airing. The thrill of the hunt, uncovering hidden treasures, and the potential for huge profits is undeniably appealing. This excitement can also be found in the world of online arbitrage, where people buy items from one platform and sell them at a higher price on another website, like Amazon. Many flippers find success in this lucrative side hustle, especially when they score an underpriced gem.
I bet you’ve seen folks boasting about pulling in five or six figures a month from online arbitrage. Even the big shot, Gary Vaynerchuk, has this segment on his YouTube channel, Trash Talk. He takes us along for the ride as he scours garage sales for goodies and then flips them on eBay or Amazon.
To start your online arbitrage adventures, set up an Amazon seller account so you can list your finds on the platform. Make sure to read the guidelines to gain a better understanding of the process.
Next comes the most enjoyable part: scouting for potential items to sell, which is where the treasure hunt begins. Search for underpriced items in various places, like clearance and garage sales, or explore online platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and eBay. Occasionally, you’ll stumble upon mispriced items – just be quick to grab them!
After scouting an item, do some research online. For instance, if you spot a pair of vintage Fendi sunglasses for $20, check their going rate on Amazon. If they’re selling for $200, it’s worth buying them, considering the potential profit.
And there you have it, the ABCs of online arbitrage. There’s no hard and fast rule on how big the price gap needs to be to make a successful flip. If you reckon a hundred bucks difference is worth it, then go for it, my friend!
8. Amazon Mechanical Turk
Even with the staggering progress in artificial intelligence, we’re not quite at a point where robots can take over all human jobs. There are still a multitude of tasks where humans outperform computers. That’s where Amazon Mechanical Turk, or MTurk, becomes invaluable. This microgig platform serves as a crucial link between businesses and individuals who are skilled at performing tasks that humans can do far better than computers.
The essence of “MTurk” lies in its functionality — it masterfully converts gigantic, daunting projects into digestible ‘microtasks’ that can be conquered online by individuals from every corner of the globe. This ingenious feature enables businesses to offload tasks and jobs to remote workers, granting them the freedom to complete them online, work from the comfort of their homes, and pocket some extra cash.
So, how does Amazon Mechanical Turk work? MTurk operates by providing a daily income to individuals who complete Human Intelligence Tasks (HITs) on the Amazon MTurk website. These tasks cover a wide range of activities, from data analysis and content moderation to browser games and creating content for websites. As a worker, you have the opportunity to browse through a vast array of HITs and secure an hourly pay rate, which ultimately determines your overall earnings on Amazon Mechanical Turk.
While MTurk is a fantastic platform, when compared to more specialized platforms like Upwork, the latter tends to outperform in terms of providing dedicated services for both clients and employees. Amazon, being the multifaceted giant it is, has MTurk as just one of its many ventures.
It is crucial to understand that tasks on MTurk are generally simple, which impacts the compensation rates. Therefore, it is not advisable to expect extremely high pay. Reports indicate that workers may earn anywhere from $6 to $10 per hour – a fact to bear in mind, as it is somewhat lower than what other websites might offer.
9. Amazon Influencer Program
The Amazon Influencer Program is like a special club for those big on social media. Though it shares some similarities with the Amazon Associates program, it’s got its own spin. It’s really tailored for creators who have a strong social media presence.
Got followers flocking to you like birds on breadcrumbs at the park? This might be your next big thing. Jump in, and you’ll get your hands on some sweet perks that’ll make your buddies a tad jealous. The best part? Creating your own Amazon Storefront. It’ll be your personal little space on Amazon where you can share your top picks and fave products.
To make sure your fans can find your digital shop, it’s a no-brainer: sprinkle that Storefront link everywhere – in your videos, posts, and even your bio. This makes it easy for your audience to find and click on the link, so they can explore the brands and products you’re promoting.
Now, the tricky part? How many followers do you need to get in? It’s kind of like guessing the number of jellybeans in a jar. Instead of getting tangled up in the numbers game, just give it a shot and apply.
As for how much you can earn, it depends on what you’re promoting. Each product category has its own rate. If you’re curious about the specifics, just pop over to Amazon’s site and check it out.
10. Amazon Home Services
Amazon’s stepping up! Amazon’s not just competing with the big retail whales like Walmart and Target anymore. Taking a page (or maybe the whole book?) from Best Buy’s Geek Squad playbook, they’ve launched Amazon Home Services. It’s no different than a digital bulletin board where you can find local pros to help you out with home tasks and other to-dos.
Amazon’s new venture offers a seamless experience from start to finish – be it finding the right professional for a job or ensuring a hassle-free payment process. Plus, Amazon makes sure each expert is checked out and up to par before they’re listed. Safe and sound!
So where do YOU come in?
House Whisperer: Whether it’s getting rid of cobwebs, sorting those moody gutters, or making windows gleam like a teen’s skin post-facial, folks need you.
Assembly Guru: A wizard with flat packs? Be the hero for those trembling at the thought of assembling IKEA’s labyrinthine furniture.
Home Heroes: If you can tackle those nagging house issues like a leaky faucet or worn-out floors, step right in!
Lawn Magicians: Can you turn a garden from ‘meh’ to ‘marvelous’? Transform spaces and be the envy of every garden gnome in town.
With Amazon expanding its services, it’s not just about that 2-day shipping life anymore. If you’ve got the chops, why not flaunt them on Amazon? You might just hear some extra cha-chings!
11. Driving For Amazon Flex
Beyond the vast e-commerce facade of Amazon lies an opportunity for proactive individuals. With Amazon Flex, your steadfast vehicle does more than just commute—it serves as the bridge between Amazon and its esteemed customers. Step forward and be part of a sophisticated delivery system, bringing Amazon’s promise directly to doors.
A prominent edge this role offers is the autonomy over your day-to-day. The traditional 9-to-5 cadence fades away; as an Amazon Flex driver, you have the liberty to design your work periods around your individual preferences and commitments.
First things first, get the Amazon Flex app up and running, initiate your account, and input some basic particulars – your full name, preferred contact method, and of course, that all-important social security number.
Age-wise, be sure you’ve crossed that 21 mark. Do you have a legit US driver’s license? Sweet. And hey, a bit of friendly advice – having a spacious ride can be a total win. More room in the trunk? That’s fewer trips back to the warehouse and more parcels dropped off in one go.
Wondering about the earnings? Well, expect somewhere between $18 to $25 an hour, depending on where you’re at and how awesome your customers are with tipping. Those bonus tips? Every dime is your reward. So, as you cruise the streets, remember you’re not just delivering packages; you’re delivering moments of joy.
12. Amazon Vine
How about scoring free stuff just for sharing your honest thoughts? That’s the deal with an Amazon Vine invite. Amazon handpicks customers to test products, and all they have to do is write a genuine, in-depth review in return.
Amazon Vine is an exclusive, invite-only club where Amazon enlists folks to review new products. Wondering how to score an invite? It’s all about the quality and usefulness of your past reviews.
If you’re a frequent Amazon shopper, take a moment to leave insightful reviews on the products you’ve bought. Be authentic, informative, and help other buyers know what to watch for or praise the product if it’s a winner.
While you won’t be raking in cash for your reviews, you’ll enjoy free products from Amazon. The goodies you’ll get to keep usually include the items you’re reviewing, from books and electronics to clothes and home goods.
Since there’s no monetary reward here, this can’t be your primary job but it’s a good side hustle to get free items!
13. Amazon Jobs
There are hundreds of Amazon jobs open for you to apply for. It can be for students, workers looking for warehouse jobs, or people with tech expertise wanting to be part of the software team.
Opportunities for students can come in different forms. Amazon offers internships that immerse you in their dynamic culture, as well as entry-level roles in various locations across the US and Canada.
For those after hourly warehouse gigs, Amazon’s got positions all over the world, including the US, Canada, Mexico, and the UK. You can work in fulfillment centers, grocery warehouses, delivery stations, or sortation centers.
Are you a software development pro with 10+ years of experience? Amazon has senior roles just waiting for you.
They’re also on the hunt for talent in:
- Data Science
- Admin Support
- Amazon Design
- Business Development
Nervous about the interview process? Don’t worry! They’ve whipped up a batch of useful interview pointers to help you tackle those unexpected questions and provide a glimpse into the types of interview styles you might encounter. So, gear up and prepare to nab that dream job with Amazon!
14. Wholesale Selling
Steering toward wholesale buying? It’s like having backstage access: you get the goods without the retail performance markup. And the best part? When you offload these items one by one, your bottom line doesn’t just increase — it multiplies.
However, before enthusiasm sweeps you off your feet, take a moment to refine your strategy. Get a feel for the ins and outs of wholesale buying, especially for those products on your wishlist. Just a heads-up: the selling scene is a bit like a sports match – everyone’s trying to outdo each other, flashing those oh-so-inviting deals.
If the product that you’re into is already going for a bargain elsewhere, and your quick math says the profit’s kinda… well, sad, maybe it’s time to rethink. It seems like too much work for too little reward.
Instead, search for products that haven’t been flooded by sellers. This means the resale prices are still holding steady, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a healthier profit once you begin selling.
Alibaba and SaleHoo are fantastic platforms to discover reliable wholesalers for your desired products. These websites have made sourcing products from a wide range of suppliers a lot easier. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that, like any online marketplace, there can be scammers lurking in the shadows.
Before shaking hands with any seller, make it your business to dig a bit deeper. Pour over those reviews, get the lowdown from others who’ve dealt with the same suppliers. A bit of proactive research now? It’s your best bet against unwanted surprises and financial stumbles in the future.
15. Amazon Launchpad
Created something you’re proud of and are ready to make some noise? Check out Amazon Launchpad. It’s designed to elevate your Amazon presence, potentially boosting sales. With this program, your business won’t just be a small fish in a big pond; you’ll get VIP listings, cheeky email mentions, and some online buzz.
Also, when Amazon gives you a nod, it’s like being endorsed by the biggest celeb around. Online shoppers can be a tough crowd, but when they see Amazon’s got your back, they’re way more inclined to trust what you’re selling.
And guess what? Zero extra bucks to get in! The only string attached? Stay in the program for a year to be part of the Prime Day frenzy—a day when your cash register won’t stop ringing.
Want a ticket to Amazon Launchpad? Your small shop needs to pass the test. You need that killer product everyone wants to get their hands on, an Amazon seller account that means business, and sales hanging below the $10 million ceiling. Amazon’s scouting for startups with the ‘it’ factor, ensures you’re truly fit for their program.
FAQs
1. Can you actually make money with Amazon?
Are you aware that an impressive 58% of Amazon sales come from third-party sellers? They’re regular Joes and Janes, like you and me. No joke! Turning a profit on Amazon isn’t just possible; it’s the primary source of income for many entrepreneurs and individuals.
A multitude of ways to earn on the platform are waiting for you to explore. Find that one gig that sets your soul on fire, then go all in to ace it.
Let’s say online arbitrage has grabbed your attention. It’s time to immerse yourself, picking up the tricks of the trade. And yep, there’ll be hurdles and slip-ups. But embrace them; they’re just detours on your journey to the top.
2. How much can you realistically make on Amazon?
On Amazon, there’s no ceiling to your earnings potential. From affiliates pocketing thousands to private label sellers hitting the jackpot, the success stories are endless. Case in point: some influencers are laughing all the way to the bank with a jaw-dropping $25,000 each month from affiliate sales alone. Talk about the power of a loyal crowd. When you’re the go-to guru in your niche, your word becomes gold to your followers.
Deanna Slamans, an Amazon seller who also coaches fellow sellers, made an incredible $10 million in revenue last year. Deanna and her husband spent two years selling on Amazon before they began seeing a profit. But with grit and relentless learning, they turned their hustle into a million-dollar gig.
Behind these awe-inspiring success tales is a simple truth: the magic begins with step one. You won’t collect a cent from Amazon until you channel your insights into action.
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