Overview

Before you can list your first product on Amazon, you need to properly configure your seller account. This reference guide from Amazon's Seller Central Help Hub walks through the essential setup steps every new seller must complete — from filling out your business profile and payment details to configuring shipping rates and understanding how to manage your account over time. Getting these foundational elements right from the start helps avoid delays, payment issues, and listing problems down the road.

Key Points / What Sellers Need to Know

• Account setup is your first required step — After registering, Amazon requires you to complete your seller profile, payment information, business details, selling plan selection, shipping settings, return policies, and vacation status before you can begin selling.
• Your storefront information matters — You can customize your seller profile with details about your store, privacy policy, shipping rates and restrictions, and custom help pages such as sizing charts or category-specific information.
• Shipping rates depend on your product type — Media products (books, music, video, and DVD) have shipping credits set by Amazon, while non-media products use configurable default rates that you control.
• Two shipping models are available — For non-media items, sellers can choose between an item/weight-based shipping model or a price-banded model, giving you flexibility in how shipping costs are calculated for buyers.
• Account closure is permanent — If you close your seller account, it cannot be reactivated or reinstated, so Amazon recommends using vacation mode instead for temporary breaks.
• Support is available through multiple channels — Amazon provides online help topics, Seller University, help pages, webinars, and direct email or phone support through the Seller Central Help menu.

Setting Up Your Account Information

Once your seller registration is complete, your first priority should be filling out every section of your account information thoroughly. This includes your public-facing seller profile, which is what customers see when they visit your storefront. You will also need to provide accurate payment and business information so Amazon can process disbursements and verify your identity. Your selling plan selection — either Individual or Professional — determines your fee structure and access to certain tools. Take the time to review each section carefully, as incomplete or inaccurate account information can lead to holds on your funds or restrictions on your ability to list products.