If you’re a new or relatively inexperienced Amazon seller, you may have already come across “gated” categories (restricted categories). At first, these categories can seem challenging to navigate, but they often represent profitable opportunities when handled correctly. In this detailed guide, we’ll show you how to quickly identify gated products, how to prepare to meet Amazon’s requirements, and how to easily get “ungated” approval to sell within these special categories.
What Is a Gated Category on Amazon?
A “gated” category on Amazon is a product category for which you must receive special permission before you can start selling. These restrictions help Amazon maintain high quality standards and prevent counterfeits or potential risks for consumers. Common examples include fine jewelry, groceries, health and beauty products, and collectibles.
Why Does Amazon Restrict Certain Categories?
Amazon imposes restrictions on certain categories primarily for reasons of safety, quality, authenticity, and legal regulations. Doing so helps Amazon maintain a high level of customer trust by ensuring products are genuine and safe. The main reasons a category can be gated include:
- Requirement of specific licenses or certifications
- High prevalence of counterfeit or imitation items
- Potential health and safety risks for customers
Always consult
Amazon’s Compliance & Safety policies to ensure your products meet all necessary requirements.
How to Quickly Check If a Product Is Gated
Using the
SellerMagnet Product Sourcer, you can instantly see if a product is subject to gating. Beyond telling you if you can sell a particular item, it also provides valuable insights into profitability and market potential, greatly simplifying your product selection process.
How to Get Ungated on Amazon: Detailed Guide
The process of getting ungated on Amazon may look complicated at first, but it becomes more manageable if you carefully follow these steps:
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Specific Requirements for Major Gated Categories
Grocery & Gourmet Foods
- Order defect rate below 1%
- Provide valid invoices from authorized wholesalers
Fine Jewelry
- Order defect rate below 1%
- Entrance fee up to $5000
- Strict product quality checks
Toys & Games (During Holidays)
- Order defect rate below 1%
- At least 25 completed orders prior to the holiday season
Video, DVDs & Blu-rays
- Order defect rate below 1%
- Verified inventory sources (mandatory invoices)
Check out the full list of
Amazon Restricted Categories.
5 Useful Tips to Speed Up Approval on Amazon
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Consequences of Violating Amazon Policies
Violating Amazon’s policies may lead to:
- Listing removal
- Account limitations or suspension
- Permanent revocation of selling privileges
Always consult
Amazon’s official policies to avoid issues.
SellerMagnet: Your Strategic Partner for Amazon Success
SellerMagnet is an indispensable ally for every Amazon seller, regardless of the category you operate in. With advanced tools like the
Product Sourcer, SellerMagnet helps you quickly assess product profitability and gated status, optimize your product listings (
learn more), and manage your inventory efficiently.
Start now with a free 7-day trial of SellerMagnet, no credit card required, and see how it can become your ideal partner for successful selling on Amazon.
Try SellerMagnet Now
Why Choose SellerMagnet?
With SellerMagnet, you have everything you need to dominate the Amazon marketplace and grow your business without the burden of manual management. The platform includes tools to monitor profits, optimize pricing, analyze products and gather reviews - boosting your efficiency and competitiveness.
Amazon
Analytics Dashboard
The Analytics Dashboard gives you a clear view of your finances and profits.
Amazon
Repricer
The Repricer keeps your prices competitive to boost BuyBox chances.
The SellerMagnet Sourcer helps you find profitable products with ease.
The Review Requester automates gathering customer reviews for credibility.
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