Overview

Amazon requires costume sellers to follow distinct category rules and upload templates based on the intended wearer’s age. Using the correct classification and files is essential for visibility, especially during high‑traffic periods like Halloween.

Key Points

• Age‑based category split — Children’s costumes must be placed in a dedicated kids’ category, while adult and baby costumes share a separate clothing category.
• Mandatory flat‑file templates — Each category has its own inventory spreadsheet; uploading a costume with the wrong template triggers errors and delays.
• Clothing‑category gating — Before listing any costume in the broader Clothing section, sellers must obtain Amazon’s prior approval, which involves an application and supporting documents.
• Discoverability hinges on accuracy — Mis‑categorizing a product or using an incorrect template can suppress the listing, preventing it from appearing in relevant searches.
• Safety documentation for kids’ items — Children’s costumes are subject to CPSIA regulations, requiring certificates and test reports to stay listed.

How Costume Listing Works

1. Identify the target age group — Determine whether the costume is for a baby, child, or adult; for example, a “Superhero Onesie” belongs to the baby segment, while a “Pirate Costume – Size L” is an adult item.
2. Select the appropriate Amazon category — Navigate to the children’s costume category for the onesie, or the adult/baby clothing category for the pirate outfit.
3. Download the matching flat‑file template — From the “Add Products via Upload” page, pull the children’s‑costume spreadsheet for the onesie and the adult‑costume spreadsheet for the pirate costume.
4. Populate required fields — Fill in SKU, product title, brand, size, material, and safety attributes; include a “CPC” column for children’s items with the certificate number.
5. Submit for approval (if needed) — For adult and baby costumes, upload the file and then request category approval, attaching invoices and product images; the process typically takes several days before the listings become active.