Where To Buy Products To Sell On Amazon FBA: 10 Strategies

Reading Time: 10 minutes

If you’ve been considering diving into the world of Amazon FBA, but are uncertain about where to buy products to sell on Amazon FBA or how to begin, you’ve come to the right place.

Figuring out where to source products to sell on Amazon FBA is undoubtedly a critical component of building a thriving online business, and the possibilities are virtually limitless.

In fact, when my partner and I first embarked on our Amazon FBA journey, we were astonished to find that a single, seemingly ordinary product could lead to substantial profits and exponential growth in just a short period of time!

Transforming your Amazon FBA business into a million-dollar enterprise may seem like a daunting task, but all it takes is one well-chosen product, priced at $30, selling 100 units per day.

With over 300 million paying customers on the world’s most trusted e-commerce platform, achieving this goal is entirely feasible.

If you’re eager to discover the ins and outs of where to buy products to sell on Amazon FBA, read on!

Where to Buy Products to Sell on Amazon FBA – 10 Strategies

1. Manufacturers

One of the best ways to source products for your Amazon FBA business is by working directly with manufacturers. This approach allows you to purchase products at lower costs and provides greater control over the supply chain.

USA:

screenshot of thomasnet landing page

Overseas:

  • Alibaba (for China)
  • 1688.com (for China)
  • IndiaMART (for India)
  • Kompass (for worldwide ideas)
screenshot of alibaba landing page on where to buy products to sell on amazon fba

2. Wholesalers

Purchasing products from wholesalers can also be a viable option for your Amazon FBA business. Wholesalers typically offer discounted prices when you buy in bulk, allowing you to increase your profit margins.

USA:

screenshot of dollar day landing page

Worldwide:

screenshot of global sources landing page

3. Trade Shows

Attending trade shows is another excellent way to find suppliers for your Amazon FBA business. Trade shows offer the opportunity to meet manufacturers and wholesalers in person, allowing you to establish relationships and negotiate better deals.

One notable trade show to consider attending is the Canton Fair, held twice a year in Guangzhou, China. The fair is one of the largest trade events globally, featuring thousands of suppliers across various industries.

image of canton fair 2023 site as the location on where to buy products to sell on amazon fba

Image Credit: PRnewswire

4. Local Retailers

Another option for sourcing products to sell on Amazon FBA is purchasing items from local retailers like Target, Kohl’s, and Walmart. This method, known as retail arbitrage, involves buying products at discounted prices in-store and reselling them on Amazon for a profit.

Keep an eye out for sales and clearance events to find great deals on products with high resale potential.

5. Thrift Stores

Thrift stores, such as Dollar Tree, Dollar General, and 99 Cents Only, can also be treasure troves for Amazon FBA sellers.

These stores often carry discontinued, unique, or hard-to-find items that can sell for higher prices on Amazon. Be prepared to spend time sifting through inventory and researching product values to identify profitable opportunities.

6. Returns and Liquidations

You can also source products from returns and liquidation sales. Amazon sells returned items through sites like Liquidation.com and DirectLiquidation.com, or through Facebook groups like this one: – Seller Essentials FB Group.

These platforms offer deeply discounted prices on returned or overstocked items, which can lead to significant profits if you can identify high-demand products.

screenshot of the FB group page for seller essentials on where to buy products to sell on amazon fba

7. Creating Your Own Product

If you have a unique product idea or want to establish your brand, consider creating your own product.

This approach requires more time and resources for product development, manufacturing, and branding, but it can result in higher profit margins and greater control over your product’s quality and positioning in the market.

Collaborate with manufacturers to create custom products or modify existing ones, ensuring that you differentiate your offerings from the competition.

8. Making Your Own Product

Are you a crafter by nature? Perhaps you’re already selling at craft fairs or on Etsy. If so, consider selling your handmade products using Amazon Handmade.

Amazon Handmade is the sister microsite of Amazon.com and allows the opportunity for crafters and artisans to promote their products to over 300 million people globally!

Simply create a seller account and list your products as you would with a private label business. If you make your products in bulk you can certainly go the FBA route and send your products to the FBA warehouses. If not you’ll likely go the FBM (fulfilled by merchant) route and deal with packaging and shipping yourself.

screenshot of amazon handmade landing page an example of where to buy products to sell on amazon

9. Reverse Sourcing Method

The reverse sourcing method is a powerful strategy for finding private label products and wholesalers. This approach helps you avoid purchasing low-quality products and eliminates the need for dealing with middlemen, who often pretend to be manufacturers.

Benefits of reverse sourcing:

  • Ensures product quality
  • Cuts out middlemen (trade companies who pretend to be manufacturers)

How to Reverse Source:

  1. Select a product you want to sell
  2. Use the Jungle Scout Supplier Database (you can search by product, company, supplier, or ASIN). Jungle Scout has indexed all the US customs import records, making them easily searchable inside their Supplier Database. You can quickly find a supplier-specific to your product or even your competitor’s suppliers.
  3. Reach out directly to the factory
screenshot of jungle scout supplier database

10. Book a Product Sourcing Tour

If you really want to get into the weeds with your product research and find products at the source, consider going on a product sourcing tour. There are various tours to factories across Mexico, China, India, and more.

Companies such as AMZ Importing run group trips and tours, giving you the opportunity to meet with manufacturers, inspect samples, get quotes, and negotiate prices on the spot!

Simply google Amazon product sourcing tours for a list of tours across the world.

screenshot of a feature article of China tours for the canton fair

Tips When Searching Where to Buy Products to Sell on Amazon FBA

As an aspiring Amazon FBA seller, finding the right products to sell is crucial to the success of your business.

Here are some things to consider when searching for where to buy products to sell on Amazon FBA;

One of the most effective ways to find products to sell on Amazon FBA is by researching what’s currently popular on the platform.

Start by exploring Amazon’s Best Sellers list, which showcases the top-selling products in various categories. Additionally, use tools like Jungle Scout, Helium 10, or AMZScout to identify trending items, analyze sales data, and gather valuable market insights.

Consider seasonal trends and holiday-related products, as they can generate substantial sales within a short period. Also, keep an eye on emerging markets and niches with the growing demand to stay ahead of the competition.

2. Fulfil Amazon FBA Criteria for Success

To increase your chances of success with Amazon FBA, look for products that meet specific criteria, such as:

  1. High demand and low competition: Products with a high sales volume and low competition are ideal, as they offer an opportunity to generate significant profits without having to compete against numerous established sellers.
  2. Lightweight and easy to ship: Smaller, lightweight products are generally cheaper to ship and store, which can help improve your profit margins.
  3. High-quality and durable: Focus on products with positive customer reviews and low return rates to ensure customer satisfaction and maintain a good seller reputation.
  4. Good profit margin: Aim for products with a healthy profit margin to ensure your business remains sustainable and profitable in the long run.

3. Navigate the Competitive Landscape on Amazon

Understanding the competitive landscape of Amazon is crucial when selecting products to sell. Conduct a thorough analysis of your competition by examining product listings, customer reviews, and seller rankings.

Look for gaps in the market or areas where you can differentiate your product through unique features, improved quality, or better pricing.

Avoid entering markets dominated by well-established brands, as it may be challenging to compete on price, quality, or brand recognition. Instead, focus on niches with less competition where you can establish your brand and build a loyal customer base.

4. Explore Retail Arbitrage Opportunities for Amazon FBA

Retail arbitrage is the process of purchasing products from retail stores at discounted prices and reselling them on Amazon for a profit. This method can be an effective way to source products for your Amazon FBA business, especially when starting.

Visit local retailers like Target, Kohl’s, or Walmart, and look for clearance items, discounted products, or store-exclusive deals. Make sure to compare the retail price with the Amazon selling price to determine the potential profit margin before making a purchase.

5. Understand Your Target Market

It’s essential to understand your target audience and their needs, preferences, and pain points. Conduct market research, analyze customer reviews, and engage with potential buyers through social media or online forums to gather valuable insights.

By understanding your target market, you can tailor your product offerings, marketing strategies, and customer service to meet their needs and expectations, ultimately leading to increased sales and customer loyalty.

Strategies and Techniques for Amazon FBA Success

To maximize your chances of success on Amazon FBA, be sure to implement the following strategies:

  1. Optimize your product listings with high-quality images, persuasive descriptions, and relevant keywords.
  2. Offer exceptional customer service to build trust and encourage repeat business.
  3. Use Amazon advertising, such as Sponsored Products or Sponsored Brands, to increase visibility and drive sales.
  4. Regularly monitor your inventory levels and sales data to make informed decisions about restocking, repricing, or discontinuing products.

Finding profitable products to sell on Amazon FBA requires a combination of thorough research, strategic planning, and an understanding of your target market. Also, persistence and adaptability are key when selling on Amazon FBA.

Keep refining your product selection and strategies based on the ever-changing market conditions and customer preferences.

Learn How to Build Your Own 7-Figure Amazon FBA Business

Part of the Junglescout suite of excellent FBA tools, the learning academy is a comprehensive video training library containing hours of content, including training videos, webinars, and interviews with successful Amazon sellers.

Whether you’re just starting your business, or growing your brand, get expert training from Amazon sellers without the hefty price tag.

Where To Buy Products To Sell On Amazon FBA – FAQs

Can I buy products from any store to sell on Amazon FBA?

Yes, you can buy products from various sources such as local retailers, thrift stores, clearance sales, and online stores to sell on Amazon FBA. This is known as retail arbitrage. However, it is essential to ensure that you have the right to sell these products and that they comply with Amazon’s policies.

What are the best types of products for buying and selling on Amazon FBA?

When it comes to buying and selling on Amazon FBA, it’s crucial to focus on products that have high demand, low competition, and good profit margins. Additionally, you’ll want to pick items that are small, lightweight, and easy to ship to keep storage and shipping costs down.

Should I source products locally or from overseas when planning to buy and sell on Amazon?

Both local and international sourcing have their pros and cons for those looking to buy and sell on Amazon. Sourcing products locally offers benefits like quicker shipping times and easier quality control.

On the other hand, buying from overseas, especially places like China or India, often allows for lower manufacturing costs and a broader product range. To make an informed decision, weigh your business objectives carefully.

What are some effective methods to find trustworthy suppliers for my Amazon FBA business?

To find reliable suppliers for buying and selling on Amazon, you have several options. Online platforms like Alibaba and trade shows are excellent places to start. Tools like Jungle Scout’s Supplier Database can also help.

If you’re considering how to buy from Alibaba and sell on Amazon, make sure to perform thorough due diligence, ask for samples, and read reviews to ensure the supplier’s reliability. This is essential for understanding if is it safe to buy from Alibaba or not.

Is it advisable to buy bulk from AliExpress or Alibaba when looking to buy and resell on Amazon?

Should I buy bulk from Aliexpress or Alibaba? When contemplating where to buy things in bulk to resell, the choice between AliExpress and Alibaba depends on your business needs.

Alibaba often requires larger minimum order quantities but may offer more competitive prices, making it a suitable option if you’re wondering where to buy wholesale products to sell on Amazon.

AliExpress generally allows for smaller orders but might have higher prices per unit. Assess your requirements and risk tolerance to decide which platform aligns with your strategy for how to buy and resell on Amazon.

How do I calculate the costs involved in selling products on Amazon FBA?

To calculate the costs involved in selling products on Amazon FBA, consider the following expenses:

  • Product cost (including manufacturing and shipping)
  • Amazon FBA fees (storage and fulfillment fees)
  • Referral fees (percentage of the sale price, varies by category)
  • Subscription fees (if you have a professional seller account)
  • Advertising and marketing costs

You can use the Amazon Profit Calculator App to estimate the potential profit and costs associated with selling your products on Amazon FBA.

How do I know if I’m communicating with a trading firm or directly with a factory?

To determine whether you are communicating with a factory or a trading company, it is essential to review their credentials. Companies must list their credentials on both websites, which can provide valuable information about the entity behind the factory.

By cross-checking the information on QCC.com, a Chinese business intelligence website, you can gain an in-depth understanding of the organization and make informed decisions.

This approach can provide an x-ray view of the company and its operations, allowing you to mitigate risks and ensure successful business dealings.

Can I negotiate with suppliers if I decide to reorder?

When reordering from suppliers, it is possible to negotiate better terms and pricing.

Typically, net 30 payment terms are standard for third or fourth orders, but if you have a good relationship with the supplier and are an important customer, you may be able to negotiate better terms like net 60 or net 90.

Additionally, it’s important to negotiate a lower unit cost with each reorder, especially when increasing your order volume. Doing so will make it difficult for the supplier to negotiate the cost backup in the future.

Do I need insurance to sell products on Amazon FBA?

When selling products on Amazon FBA, it is important to consider product liability and the necessary insurance coverage. If you import products directly from overseas, including China, into the United States, you are considered the manufacturer under the law.

However, if you have an importer or supplier based in the USA who handles the product importation, you can transfer liability to them contractually.

It is important to remember that as the Amazon brand owner, you are responsible for any product liability claims, and you must indemnify and hold Amazon harmless according to your contractual obligations.

Therefore, it is recommended that you have proper insurance coverage and can provide proof of coverage in a certificate of insurance. Amazon will ask for this certificate when you reach $10,000 in sales on its platform.

Where To Buy Products To Sell On Amazon FBA – Summary

Tapping into the potential of Amazon FBA can be a life-changing experience, but it all begins with finding the right products to sell and knowing where to source them.

With a multitude of options available, from manufacturers and wholesalers to local retailers and even creating your own products, the opportunities are boundless.

My partner and I have seen firsthand the incredible growth and success that can be achieved with a well-chosen product and a strategic approach to sourcing. By leveraging the resources and strategies we’ve discussed, you too can build a thriving Amazon FBA business that reaches new heights.

To start your search, tap into the fantastic supplier database provided by JungleScout.

Remember, the road to success may be filled with challenges and setbacks, but with determination, persistence, and a willingness to learn, you can turn your Amazon FBA dreams into reality.

About the author

Disclaimer: Please note this post may contain affiliate links, from which, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Also as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products and services I’ve used or would use myself. If you choose to purchase from any of my links, thanks so much for your support! 😊

2 responses to “Where To Buy Products To Sell On Amazon FBA: 10 Strategies”

View All Comments

2 thoughts on “Where To Buy Products To Sell On Amazon FBA: 10 Strategies”

Leave a Comment