I want to share about the issue of Amazon and FBA. Contrary to popular belief, FBA does not mean “brand-new”. It simply means that Amazon will send out your orders on your behalf. FBA (Fulfillment By Amazon) is a great way to sell on Amazon, as long as you follow the listing rules.
As I have read some of the posts on PS101, I have gotten the impression that there is a bit of a misunderstanding, as it concerns what Amazon will send out on your behalf. I see many new to PS101 members asking to buy new items so they can FBA. However, what some may not know is that Amazon does not limit FBA selling to only new items.
As you know, when listing on Amazon, you have to follow product condition guidelines. There are some variations within certain categories, so you will have to research. Here are Amazon’s general condition guidelines:
New: Just like it sounds. A brand-new, unused, unopened item in its original packaging, with all original packaging materials included. Original protective wrapping, if any, is intact. Original manufacturer’s warranty, if any, still applies, with warranty details included in the listing comments.
Refurbished: Use only if noted in the Category-Specific Condition Guidelines. A refurbished product has been professionally restored to working order. Typically this means that the product has been inspected, cleaned, and repaired to meet manufacturer specifications. The item may or may not be in its original packaging. The manufacturer’s or refurbisher’s warranty must apply and should be included in the listing comments. Refurbished items are sometimes referred to as remanufactured.
Used – Like New: An apparently untouched item in perfect condition. Original protective wrapping may be missing, but the original packaging is intact and pristine. There are absolutely no signs of wear on the item or its packaging. Instructions are included. Item is suitable for presenting as a gift.
Used – Very Good: A well-cared-for item that has seen limited use but remains in great condition. The item is complete, unmarked, and undamaged, but may show some limited signs of wear. Item works perfectly.
Used – Good: Use only if noted in the Category-Specific Condition Guidelines. The item shows wear from consistent use, but it remains in good condition and works perfectly. It may be marked, have identifying markings on it, or show other signs of previous use.
Used – Acceptable: Use only if noted in the Category-Specific Condition Guidelines. The item is fairly worn but continues to work perfectly. Signs of wear can include aesthetic issues such as scratches, dents, and worn corners. The item may have identifying markings on it or show other signs of previous use.
NOTE: Any of these conditions can be sold through Amazon’s FBA program. You are not required to have only new items to FBA. You can also send out “used like new” items through FBA. As long as you send your item properly prepped, Amazon will ship anything on your behalf. When we were selling heavily on Amazon, we would pre-box some of these categories. We did it to make sure these items were packed properly. Ploy bags are nice, but they can be cut open or break.You also need to do your due diligence in listing any condition notes for customers to see. One of our favorite lines when selling items of “VERY-GOOD” condition was “Item is brand new, packing has wear or minor damage.” We would sell these items just below the lowest “new” price and did quite well. In fact, we sold as many “used” items as we did “new”.
Why share this information? Because I think many buyers misunderstand the process and miss out on great liquidation deals because they believe that FBA means only new items. There are ways around it, and there are ways to make additional money with “used” items. Both can be sent into FBA.
Don’t pass up great buys because the item is not perfect. Everyone is looking for a bargain. That includes buyers on Amazon.
Stephen Gray – Kairos Wholesale
301 S Main St
McPherson, KS 67460
(512) 550-3212
