There is a difference between ungated & gated categories. In this article, I will explain the differences between them, including the Brand gates and negative product reviews that are roadblocks for new sellers. I will also talk about how to unrestrict a product from a gated category. Here are some tips to make the transition smoother for you. If you’re considering selling on Amazon, be sure to check out these articles first.
Ungated vs. Gated Categories
The question is, “What is the difference between UNGATED and gated categories on Amazon?” Often, sellers confuse ungating and branding. However, both can benefit your sales. The main difference is in the type of restrictions you are subjected to. In other words, gated categories are restricted to certain products that you can only sell on the site. There are two types of Amazon restrictions: gated categories and restricted brands.
If you are a drop-shipper, you must provide your supplier’s contact information when applying for an Amazon FBA account. Amazon has been calling sellers frequently to check their reliability and credibility. Make sure you have a copy of your invoices. However, some brands and categories require more documentation than others. If you have a physical invoice, take a photo of it or scan it in order to be accepted.
Gated categories have higher competition than ungated categories. This means less competition for a particular product. However, you can increase your chances of being accepted for an ungated category by performing well and spending significant time selling on Amazon. There are also fewer third-party sellers in ungated categories. As a result, the prices for ungated products are more stable. Therefore, ungated categories are a great option if you want to sell your products on Amazon.
While selling in restricted categories on Amazon can be frustrating, the process of ungating your product is relatively easy. Although it may take longer to get approved than ungated products, it can be much simpler. However, it is important to understand that gated categories often attract counterfeiters. Music, videos, and gift cards are some examples of items that can easily be duplicated. Aside from that, gated categories often require higher selling fees and more stringent screening processes.
Brand Gates vs Ungated Categories
Choosing between gated and ungated categories depends on your specific objectives and marketing goals. Gated content helps you build brand awareness and nurture leads, while unrestricted content allows more people to see your product and get a feel for it. Ultimately, choose gated content based on your customers’ preferences and pain points. Often, you’ll find the best balance of both.
When selling on Amazon, it’s essential to know your product’s UPC code. Most sellers have to provide their UPC code. The only exception is the “certified refurbished” category. Besides that, you have to comply with the seller’s listing rules and guidelines. To ensure your compliance with these guidelines, you may need to submit several additional documents and provide proof of your sourcing. For example, if you’re selling wine, Amazon may ask you for a copy of your wholesaler or distributor’s invoice, or monetary payment.
A balanced approach to marketing is necessary, as is providing long standing service. Gated content allows you to better understand your audience and nurture your leads. It also helps you create a sense of authority and value among your audience. In addition, people who invest in gated content are likely to view it as authoritative and valuable. It can also streamline your sales process. A gated category can be a good strategy if it fits your business goals.
In addition to ensuring your products are authentic and of high quality, gated categories also offer low competition. This makes them a great option for sellers and customers alike. Unlike ungated categories, gated categories protect the brand from counterfeiters and other unscrupulous sellers. It’s easy to sell in a gated category if you already have an established customer base. It’s also a good option for new sellers to focus on scaling their business and establishing a customer base.
A brand gate on Amazon requires approval and can be beneficial or harmful. For example, Amazon can restrict a certain product category from being sold because of its ASIN (unique identification number).
Negative Product Reviews
Amazon sellers have been facing the same problem as all other online sellers: how to respond to negative product reviews. Until December 2020, sellers were not able to comment on a buyer’s review, so they were forced to write a templated message instead. Sellers can also reply to buyers with templated messages, including offering to provide refunds or replacements or clarifying any product issues.
Amazon sellers can see reviews on the Customer Reviews page in Seller Central. These reviews are retained for thirty days. If you’re interested in tracking the history of your reviews, you can try using FeedbackFive. This software offers powerful review analytics features. It also lets you import 90 days’ worth of historical review data. And since new reviews are added automatically, it’s easy to analyze trends over time.
Amazon also imposes stricter regulations on some categories. Certain brands and products are not allowed on the platform, and it discourages new sellers from selling them. As a result, brands often want to sell their products elsewhere exclusively, so that Amazon doesn’t become a source of fake goods. Unfortunately, these lists are long, and Amazon may change these regulations at any time.
One way to overcome this issue is to use negative product reviews as a learning opportunity. Amazon has a large number of wide-open categories now, and in the past, only three categories were gated. The gated categories were for established sellers, and they were grandfathered in. This is no longer the case. Moreover, many sellers have successfully managed to sell in both gated and ungated categories.
How to Unrestrict a Product
Unrestricted products from a gated category are possible if you meet a number of requirements. Listed below are some guidelines that will help you get started. You can try the process only during US business hours, and reply to the support team’s messages as necessary. You must also provide the additional information requested in order to be approved for unrestricted products. If you do not have the required information, you will need to contact Amazon Customer Service to get further assistance.
Amazon often leaves some categories unrestricted. Toys and games, for example, are typically left open. However, Amazon may impose certain restrictions, including ASINs and holiday seasons. To learn how to unrestrict a product from a gated category, you should read the instructions carefully. You should also check the restrictions for your specific category to see what other restrictions might apply.
When unrestricting a product from a gated category, you must mail Amazon a letter requesting permission. Once you have received a response, you can unrestrict your product from the gated category. This will prevent your competitors from competing for your customers. If you wish to unrestrict your product from a gated category, you must send Amazon a written request during normal business hours.
If you are a new seller in an Amazon category, you should first know why it was gated. Most sellers are afraid to enter these categories since they don’t understand the process to get approval. Amazon makes the process extremely easy. Simply log in to your Seller Central account and click on the Inventory tab. Once you have received approval, follow the instructions in the emails that you receive. Then, you’ll be able to list your product in the category.
Some categories have strict rules about the content of their products. Branded products can potentially infringing on the trademark of a brand. There are many doppelgangers for popular brands and products. You may have to pay a fee to remove such restrictions. Amazon will also require you to provide proof of authenticity. In addition, Amazon might request you provide an invoice as proof of purchase.