What Is Amazon Handmade?
Amazon Handmade is an online marketplace designed to help artisans and small businesses sell their handmade goods. Launched in 2015, it is a unique platform where sellers can offer one-of-a-kind items that are made by hand. This sets Amazon Handmade apart from regular Amazon listings, which tend to feature mass-produced goods. On Amazon Handmade, every item sold must be created, hand-altered, or hand-assembled by the seller, ensuring authenticity and craftsmanship.
For buyers, Amazon Handmade provides access to a wide range of products like jewelry, home décor, clothing, and art, all made by real people rather than factories. It’s a platform that allows customers to support small businesses and discover items that are unique, often custom-made to their preferences. In this article, we’ll explore how Amazon Handmade works, its benefits for both buyers and sellers, and compare it to other similar platforms like Etsy.
How Does Amazon Handmade Work?
Amazon Handmade works by giving artisans and small businesses the tools to set up an online store and reach a wide audience. Sellers first need to apply to join the platform, and Amazon reviews each application to make sure the products meet their standards for being handmade. Once approved, sellers can list their products in various categories, from jewelry to home furnishings, and start selling.
Amazon provides sellers with a range of features to manage their shops. For example, sellers can track their inventory, update product descriptions, and manage customer orders. Unlike other platforms, Amazon Handmade is connected to the larger Amazon ecosystem, so sellers also benefit from services like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and Amazon Prime, which allow for fast shipping.
What Are the Benefits of Selling on Amazon Handmade?
There are several benefits to selling on Amazon Handmade. One of the biggest advantages is access to Amazon’s large customer base. Since Amazon Handmade is part of the larger Amazon website, sellers have the opportunity to reach millions of potential buyers. This is especially valuable for small businesses that may struggle to gain visibility on their own.
Another benefit is the lack of listing fees. Many online marketplaces charge fees for listing products, whether or not they sell. On Amazon Handmade, sellers only pay a referral fee once a sale is made, making it more cost-effective for small businesses or individuals just starting out.
For buyers, Amazon Handmade offers a trusted platform to purchase handmade goods with the same customer protections they would get from regular Amazon purchases. The platform also offers the convenience of fast shipping, especially for Amazon Prime members.
Who Can Sell on Amazon Handmade?
Amazon Handmade is open to any seller who makes handmade products. To qualify, sellers must create, hand-alter, or hand-assemble their products. This means that sellers cannot list mass-produced items or products that are made in factories. Each seller must apply and be approved by Amazon to ensure they meet these criteria.
The platform is designed for a wide range of artisans, from those who create handmade jewelry to those who make home décor items. It’s also open to small businesses that specialize in handmade goods. Amazon Handmade allows these artisans and businesses to reach customers across the globe without having to manage a large online presence on their own.
Can Anyone Sell on Amazon Handmade?
While Amazon Handmade is open to artisans and craftspeople, not everyone can sell on the platform. Amazon has a vetting process that ensures only high-quality, handmade products are sold. This is why sellers need to apply and provide details about their products before they can start selling. Amazon Handmade also requires that sellers be based in certain countries, limiting participation from some regions.
For sellers who meet the criteria, Amazon Handmade is a fantastic opportunity to showcase their talents and grow their business. It is especially beneficial for individuals or small businesses that may not have the resources to set up their own e-commerce website.
How Do You Apply to Sell on Amazon Handmade?
The application process for Amazon Handmade is straightforward but requires sellers to meet specific criteria. First, sellers need to create an Amazon account or use an existing one. Then, they must submit an application to Amazon Handmade, explaining what kind of handmade products they create and how they make them.
The application asks for details like what materials are used, how the product is made, and whether any part of the process is outsourced. This helps Amazon ensure that the products meet the definition of handmade. The approval process can take some time, but once approved, sellers can start listing their products on the platform.
How Long Does It Take to Get Approved on Amazon Handmade?
The approval process for Amazon Handmade can vary in length, but it typically takes a few weeks. Amazon carefully reviews each application to ensure that the products being sold meet the platform’s standards. Sellers are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible about their products and production process to speed up approval. Once approved, sellers can immediately begin setting up their shop and listing products for sale.
How Much Does It Cost to Sell on Amazon Handmade?
One of the great things about Amazon Handmade is that it does not charge listing fees, which is a huge advantage for small businesses and artisans. Many other platforms charge fees each time a seller lists a new product, but on Amazon Handmade, sellers only pay a referral fee when they make a sale. This fee is generally 15% of the sale price, which covers Amazon’s marketing and operational costs.
This fee structure makes it easier for new sellers to get started without worrying about upfront costs. It also means that sellers can list as many products as they want without any additional charges.
What Is the Referral Fee on Amazon Handmade?
Amazon Handmade charges a 15% referral fee on each sale. This means that for every item a seller sells, 15% of the sale price goes to Amazon. While this might seem high, it includes access to Amazon’s vast customer base, secure payment processing, and reliable shipping options. Since there are no listing fees, sellers only pay when they make a sale, which helps them manage their costs more effectively.
How Does Amazon Handmade Compare to Etsy?
Many people compare Amazon Handmade to Etsy, as both platforms focus on handmade products. However, there are some key differences between the two. Etsy has been around longer and is specifically known for its community of artisans and small businesses. On the other hand, Amazon Handmade benefits from being part of the larger Amazon ecosystem, giving sellers access to a larger audience.
One major difference between the two platforms is the fee structure. Etsy charges listing fees and transaction fees, while Amazon Handmade only charges a referral fee when a product is sold. Etsy also allows for more shop customization, while Amazon Handmade focuses on simplicity and ease of use.
| Comparison of Amazon Handmade and Etsy | Amazon Handmade | Etsy |
| Listing Fees | No listing fees | $0.20 per item |
| Referral/Transaction Fees | 15% of the sale | 5% of the sale |
| Customization | Limited | More options |
| Customer Base | Millions of Amazon shoppers | Niche artisan audience |
| Shipping Options | Amazon Prime available | Seller-arranged shipping |
What Are the Benefits of Buying on Amazon Handmade?
For buyers, Amazon Handmade offers a unique shopping experience. Instead of mass-produced items, customers can purchase handcrafted products made by real people. Whether it’s a piece of jewelry, a home décor item, or a personalized gift, buyers can find products that are one-of-a-kind and often customizable.
In addition, buyers on Amazon Handmade can trust that they are purchasing high-quality items. Since Amazon vets all sellers and products, customers can feel confident in their purchases. The platform also offers the convenience of Amazon’s reliable shipping and customer service, making it easier for buyers to shop for handmade goods without any worries.
Why Choose Amazon Handmade Over Other Marketplaces?
There are many reasons why buyers might choose Amazon Handmade over other marketplaces. One of the biggest advantages is the convenience of Amazon Prime, which offers fast and often free shipping on many Handmade items. This is especially appealing for buyers who want their products delivered quickly without paying extra for shipping.
Another reason to choose Amazon Handmade is the trust factor. Since Amazon is a well-known and trusted platform, buyers can feel more secure shopping on Amazon Handmade than on smaller or less established websites. Amazon’s customer service and return policies also apply to Handmade purchases, giving buyers peace of mind.
Can You Use Amazon Prime with Amazon Handmade?
Yes, many products on Amazon Handmade are eligible for Amazon Prime, which offers fast and free shipping for Prime members. This is one of the advantages of buying and selling on Amazon Handmade, as Prime customers are often more likely to purchase items that come with quick shipping.
For sellers, offering Amazon Prime can be a great way to attract more buyers. To do this, sellers can use Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service, which allows them to store their products in Amazon warehouses and let Amazon handle the shipping.
What Are the Shipping Options for Amazon Handmade Sellers?
Sellers on Amazon Handmade have two main options for shipping their products: they can either handle the shipping themselves or use Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service. With FBA, sellers send their products to Amazon’s warehouses, and Amazon takes care of the packaging and shipping. This allows sellers to offer fast shipping through Amazon Prime, which can increase sales.
For sellers who prefer to handle shipping on their own, Amazon provides tools to help manage orders and track shipments. However, sellers who opt for FBA often find it easier to manage logistics, especially as their business grows.
Conclusion
Amazon Handmade is a unique marketplace that offers artisans and small businesses the opportunity to reach a global audience. With no listing fees, access to Amazon’s vast customer base, and the ability to offer Prime shipping, it’s an excellent platform for sellers of handmade goods. For buyers, Amazon Handmade provides a trusted and convenient way to shop for unique, handcrafted items while supporting small businesses. Whether you’re a seller looking to expand your reach or a buyer searching for something special, Amazon Handmade is a platform worth exploring.
