Welcome to Basilio Inc. Launching Your Brand in Amazon. If you’re thinking about starting up your own business as an Amazon seller, stick around, because you’ve come to the right place.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn a clear path to navigate the initial stages and guides you through the intricate workings of the Amazon’s marketplace. Strategic selection for success is crucial for established brands, with the advantage of choosing products based on past performance. Some opt to add top-selling and evergreen items to ensure a strong start, while others diversify with end-of-season products, exclusive online bundles, or unique variations. Whether you’re pioneering the Amazon channel or expanding your brand’s reach, this guide equips you with the strategies to ensure a successful launch.
Chapter 3 – Business Foundations Checklist
Ensuring your general business setup is in order might not be the most glamorous topic, but it is undoubtedly vital for a smooth start. Avoid frustrating delays by taking care of these crucial tasks upfront. To assist you in navigating this process efficiently, we’ve provided a comprehensive checklist that covers the necessary paperwork and interactions with government agencies and third parties. The checklist will be your handy guide, streamlining the entire process.
Our checklist includes helpful links that directly lead you to the relevant resources, simplifying the process for you.
- When embarking on your Amazon selling journey, it’s essential to tackle the lengthier tasks first to ensure a smooth and successful launch. One crucial step is securing your trademark with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) if you plan to build a brand on Amazon.com. This process can take up to six months, so starting early is key. A trademark is necessary to enroll in the Amazon Brand Registry program, which offers valuable tools for marketing and brand protection on the platform.
- To streamline the trademark process and expedite your Amazon launch, consider using Amazon IP Accelerator, a program designed to assist brands in meeting Amazon’s compliance requirements and shorten the timeline for Brand Registry application. Once you have your trademark secured, it’s time to enroll in Amazon Brand Registry to unlock additional benefits.
- Next, ensure you have UPC codes for each unique product in your catalog, including product variations like size or color. GS1 is a reputable organization that can provide reliable UPCs accepted by Amazon and other retailers.
- Keep in mind that certain product categories, such as toys and baby products, require safety testing and certification like the Children’s Product Certificate (CPC). Automotive products may need Injury, Testing, and Regulation paperwork. Thoroughly review your category’s requirements before listing on Amazon. If you need help with product safety and quality issues our company can help identify compliance requirements before you enter the marketplace with your new product line.
- Be aware of hazmat requirements and category restrictions that may apply to your products. If your products qualify as hazardous materials, ensure you have Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS/SDS) ready to submit to Amazon. The platform is proactive in assisting brands in identifying hazmat products. Familiarize yourself with the Dangerous Goods Identification Guide for more information.
- To ensure smooth and compliant operations in the ever-changing landscape of e-commerce, setting up efficient processes for sales and use tax tracking, storage, and filing is essential. Following the landmark South Dakota v Wayfair decision, online sellers are now required to pay sales tax in states where they surpass the specified sales threshold, even without a physical presence in those states. Once your business is registered within a state, it becomes imperative to file an annual report with the Secretary of State and keep track of your license expiration date to facilitate timely renewals as needed.
- Recognizing the challenges faced by sellers, several states have taken steps to streamline the process and minimize costs. To navigate this complex area of taxation, it’s highly recommended to seek guidance from tax professionals who can provide tailored advice and assistance. At our agency, we collaborate with Prestige Auditors, a Certified Service Provider, to offer comprehensive support for our clients in navigating tax nexus requirements and ensuring compliance.
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