The Ultimate Guide to Getting Ungated on Amazon

Amazon’s customer-first approach empowers sellers with the ability to offer a vast array of products. Although Amazon presents numerous opportunities, certain product categories have restrictions that can constrain your selling capabilities. However, understanding the steps to get ungated can effectively enhance your market reach and increase your chances for sales growth.

What Does Ungating on Amazon Mean?

Unlocking gated categories on Amazon involves obtaining permission to sell products within restricted groups. By navigating this process successfully, you can access new market segments and diversify your product offerings, leading to increased sales and profitability.

Understanding Amazon’s Gating Policy

What Are Amazon’s Gated Categories?

Once your Amazon Seller Central account is active, you might notice certain product categories have limitations. Amazon categorizes products into gated and ungated groups:

• Ungated Categories: These categories allow you to list and sell products without restrictions.
• Gated Categories: Products in these categories require Amazon’s approval before you can sell them.

Amazon employs gating in several ways:

• Product Category: Obtain authorization to list products within designated categories.
• ASINs: Certain ASINs may be restricted to specific sellers or regions, often requiring transparency codes for verification.
• Brand: Permission is needed to sell branded items (e.g., Nike shoes).
• Miscellaneous Restrictions: Some products face unique limitations not covered by the above categories.

Why Are These Categories Gated?

For Customer Safety
Amazon prioritizes customer safety, enforcing quality standards and certifications through gating. This ensures that only qualified sellers can offer products, maintaining high standards and protecting customers.

To Prevent Fraud and Counterfeiting
Gated categories help combat fraud and counterfeit goods. By restricting access, Amazon ensures that only authentic products are sold, protecting both consumers and brand reputation.

Requirements for Amazon Ungating

Fulfill specific criteria to secure approval for selling in restricted categories.  These requirements vary by category but generally include:

Essential Business Requirements

• Valid Address
• Government ID of the Seller
• Tax Information
• Professional Seller Account
• Proof of Authorized Relationships With Suppliers

Product Requirements

• Ten Invoices from Different Items in the Desired Category
• Documents Certifying Product Authenticity and Quality
• Provide evidence of permission from the brand owner to sell their products.

Product Performance Metrics

• Order-Defect Rate
• Return Rates
• Late Shipment Rate
• Customer Satisfaction Ratings

How to Ungate Your Amazon Listings

Application Process

1. Log into Amazon Seller Central: Add a product from the restricted category to your inventory.
2. Start the Approval Request: Select “Listing limitations apply” and press “Request approval” to commence the approval procedure.
3. Complete the Application Form: Provide required documentation, including proof of legal business status and contact information.

Submission of Invoices

Submit invoices to validate your supply chain and product legitimacy. Ensure invoices are clear and meet Amazon’s criteria, including details like company name and invoice date.

Brand and Category Approval

Amazon will review your documentation and assess your business’s ability to meet their standards. If approved, you can start listing products in the gated category. If rejected, review your submission, make necessary adjustments, and reapply.

Common Issues: Handling Rejected Applications

Rejected applications are not uncommon. If your request is denied, carefully review your application for errors or omissions. Seek guidance from seller forums or consider professional ungating services for additional support.

Need Help with Ungating? Partner with Pro Seller Marketing

Unlock the full potential of your Amazon business with expert assistance. At Pro Seller Marketing, we specialize in guiding sellers through the ungating process and managing Amazon Seller accounts. Contact us today to streamline your ungating efforts and enhance your selling strategy.

Ready to Expand Your Selling Potential?
Get in touch with Pro Seller Marketing now to discover how we can help you overcome gating restrictions and grow your Amazon business. Book a consultation with our experts today!