When selling products on Amazon, there are two primary options available for businesses: Vendor Central and Seller Central. Both platforms have unique benefits and drawbacks, making it essential to understand their differences.
This article will look closer at Vendor Central vs Seller Central and provide insights to help businesses choose the right option for their Amazon marketplace strategy.
Seller Central is a self-service platform designed for third-party Amazon sellers that want to sell products on the Amazon platform. The Seller account sell directly to Amazon customers and offers retail pricing. With Amazon Seller Central, businesses can create listings, set prices, and manage their inventory, shipping, and customer service.
What are the differences between Vendor Central and Seller Central?
Vendor Central and Seller Central are two different Amazon platforms businesses can use to sell their products. While they both provide access to Amazon’s vast customer base, there are some critical differences between the two that companies should consider when deciding which platform is right for them.
Amazon Sellers in Seller Central have more control over their product pricing and inventory levels, allowing them to tailor their strategy to their target audience.
Low fees
Fees are significantly lower in Amazon Seller Central vs Vendor Central. The Professional seller accounts require you to pay a monthly subscription of $39.99, while the individual seller accounts will be charged $0.99 for every item sold, including referral fees.
Brand Control
A third-party Amazon seller have more control over their brand image and product positioning, allowing them to differentiate themselves from competitors.
Customer Interaction
A Seller central account has direct access to feedback and reviews, allowing them to respond to customer complaints and improve their products and services.
Cons
Limited access to Amazon Marketing Services
Compared to Vendor Central, Seller Central sellers have limited access to Amazon Marketing Services, which can limit their ability to boost product visibility and drive sales.
Because Seller Central sellers are responsible for their marketing and promotional programs, they may have a smaller customer base than those on Vendor Central.
How to Become a Seller in Amazon Seller Central?
To become a Seller Central, here’s a step-by-step procedure to follow:
Create an Amazon account on the Amazon homepage.
Register as a seller. Go to Amazon Seller Central and click “Register now” to start the registration process.
When choosing between Amazon Seller Central and Amazon Vendor Central, businesses must carefully consider their individual needs and how each platform can help them achieve their business goals. Both platforms offer unique advantages that can help companies succeed in the online marketplace and maximize profits.
What is the difference between Amazon Vendor Central and Seller Central?
The main difference between Vendor Central and Seller Central is that Vendor Central is a wholesale platform for manufacturers and distributors who sell their products directly to Amazon, while Seller Central is a self-service platform designed for third-party sellers of all sizes who sell products directly to customers on Amazon’s platform.
What are the pros and cons of Amazon Seller Central?
The main advantages of Amazon Seller Central include inventory and pricing control, lower fees, brand control, and customer interaction. On the other hand, some disadvantages include limited access to Amazon marketing services, customer service responsibility, and a smaller customer base.
8-figure Amazon seller and serial online entrepreneur since 2015. Research and practice various online business models, and apply his in-depth learnings to further expand and grow his businesses as well as help others to achieve greater successes. Ex-VP of a high tech VC in Vancouver and a Management Consultant with over a decade of experience in the industry. Master's Degree from HEC Paris.