Introduction
When online selling first started, anyone could sell almost anything. People could buy brand-name items cheaply and resell them online without needing proof of authenticity or permission from manufacturers. Over time, big platforms like Amazon began limiting who could sell certain products to ensure quality and authenticity. Since 2016, Amazon has introduced many “gated” categories that require sellers to get approval before listing products.
So, if you’re wondering, “What can I sell on Amazon without needing approval?”—this guide will help you find out which categories are open for selling without extra paperwork.
What Are Gated Categories?
Gated categories on Amazon are product types where you need Amazon’s approval to sell. This process helps make sure that sellers meet Amazon’s standards for product quality and authenticity. For example, categories like Jewelry or Fine Art are gated because they are high-value items that need careful checking to avoid counterfeit products.
Why Does Amazon Restrict Some Categories?
Amazon restricts certain categories to keep its marketplace safe and trustworthy. By controlling who can sell these items, Amazon can better monitor the products and ensure they meet high standards. This also helps prevent the sale of fake or substandard goods and ensures that sellers are knowledgeable about the products they’re selling.
What Is Ungated on Amazon?
Ungated categories are those where you don’t need special approval from Amazon to start selling. You can list and sell these products right away. This makes it easier for new sellers to get started without dealing with the lengthy approval process for gated categories.
Full List of Ungated Categories
Here’s a list of categories you can sell on Amazon without needing approval:
Amazon Device Accessories
Amazon Kindle
Baby Products (excluding apparel; some subcategories might need approval)
Beauty
Books
Camera & Photo
Cell Phones & Accessories
Grocery & Gourmet Foods (some subcategories might need approval)
Health & Personal Care (some subcategories might need approval)
Home & Garden
Industrial & Scientific
Kindle Accessories and Amazon Fire TV Accessories
Major Appliances
Musical Instruments
Office Products (some subcategories might need approval)
Outdoors (some subcategories might need approval)
Personal Computers (some subcategories might need approval)
Pet Supplies (some subcategories might need approval)
Software (some subcategories might need approval)
Sports
Tools & Home Improvement
Toys & Games (some subcategories might need approval, especially during holidays)
Video Games (approval might be needed for specific products)
Benefits of Selling in Ungated Categories
1. Start Quickly:
Fast Listings: List your products without waiting for approval.
More Visibility: Reach more customers right from the start.
Establish Your Brand: Build your presence and reputation early.
2. Grow Faster:
Immediate Sales: Start making money right away.
Monitor and Improve: Focus on improving your sales and strategies.
Expand Your Brand: Once you’re successful, you can explore gated categories.
What Can New Sellers Sell?
New sellers can often find success in the following ungated categories:
Amazon Kindle: Sell digital and audible books.
Baby Products: Items like baby shampoo and car seats (excluding apparel).
Beauty: Makeup and health and beauty products.
Books: New and used books, including Kindle books.
Cell Phones & Accessories: Phones, cases, batteries, and more.
Consumer Electronics: Small appliances and grooming tools.
Grocery & Gourmet Foods: Various foods, including specialty diets.
Home & Garden: Household items and garden tools.
Industrial & Scientific: Equipment and tools for various industries.
Pet Supplies: Pet food, treats, and accessories.
Best Ungated Products to Sell
Some popular ungated categories that might be profitable include:
Toys & Games: High demand, especially around holidays.
Electronics: Items like computer accessories and peripherals.
Camera & Photo: Photography equipment and accessories.
Video Games: A profitable category with a broad audience.
Books: Always in demand, both physical and digital.
Other Things to Consider
When choosing a product to sell, think about:
Demand: Look for products with high search volume and low competition.
Seasonality: Consider whether the product is popular year-round or just seasonally.
Starting Costs: Balance the cost of acquiring and selling the product with potential profits.
Familiarity: Pick products you know well to make selling easier.
Conclusion
Starting on Amazon can be simpler by focusing on ungated categories. This way, you can begin selling without needing approval and build your experience. Once you’re established, you might consider selling in gated categories. Using tools like Helium 10 can help you find the best products and optimize your listings.
