Here are a series of steps to make a profit by selling products on Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) in the US.
1. Market research and product selection
First, let's start with product selection. The key to successful sales on Amazon.com is choosing products that balance supply and demand. It's important to take the time to do some research to find out which products are selling well and which products are selling poorly.
2. Securing suppliers
You need to find a reliable supplier to purchase your products in Japan. This can include manufacturers, wholesalers, or other suppliers.
3. Pricing
Selling prices on Amazon must be set by taking into account the purchase price of the product, Amazon's fees (including FBA fees), shipping costs, return processing costs, taxes, etc. Taking all of this into consideration, we set a price that will give us a reasonable profit.
4. Listing and selling products
List (register) your products on Amazon and sell them. This includes a detailed product description, images, and price. List your products using appropriate keywords to help customers find your products.
5. Export of goods
Decide on a shipping method to safely send your product to the United States. The appropriate method will vary depending on the type, size, and weight of the product. You also need to understand the customs duties and tax system.
6. Sending to Amazon FBA
Once the item arrives in the US, it will be sent to Amazon's FBA warehouse.
Generally, you will use an overseas export agency. Amazon then takes care of storing, packaging, shipping, and providing customer support.
7. Sales management and inventory management
You will receive a notification from Amazon when your product sells. We carefully manage sales and inventory, and are careful not to run out of stock. Also, regularly review your profits and expenses to maintain the health of your business.
8. Customer Service
With Amazon FBA, Amazon handles the logistics such as shipping and returns, but it also requires you to respond to customer questions and feedback about your products. Providing good customer service is important for increasing customer satisfaction, repeat purchases, and positive reviews.
9. Manage reviews and ratings
Reviews and ratings are important criteria for new customers when purchasing products. It's important to maintain the quality of your products and services and get as many positive reviews as possible.
10. Marketing and Promotion
Competition within Amazon is fierce, so marketing and promotional efforts are necessary to make your products stand out. This may include the use of advertising services within Amazon, promotion on external websites or social media, etc.
By following the above steps and precautions, and proceeding with your business in a planned and efficient manner, you can earn profits through Amazon FBA. However, international business comes with many challenges, and careful market research, understanding of laws and regulations, and financial management are the keys to success.
Japanese products selling on Amazon.com in the US
Popular Japanese products on Amazon.com in the US are wide-ranging and span many different categories. Below are some categories and their popular products. However, the popularity of specific products and brands fluctuates depending on the time and trends, so it is important to regularly conduct market research.
1. Beauty and personal care
- Japanese skin care products: Recognized as skin-friendly and high-quality products. For example, Hada Labo's lotion and DHC's cleansing oil are popular.
- Make-up products: Japanese mascara, eyeliner, etc. are praised for their quality and staying power.
2. Food and beverages
- Japanese Tea: Japanese teas such as green tea and matcha are valued for their health benefits and unique flavor.
- Japanese sweets: Japanese sweets such as matcha-flavored Kit Kats and Hi-Chews are also popular.
- Instant Ramen: Ramen brands such as Nissin and Myojo are well known in the United States.
3. Electronics
- Cameras and audio equipment: Japanese electronics brands (such as Sony and Panasonic) are known for their high quality and innovation.
4. Anime and manga related products
- Anime DVDs and Blu-rays: Japanese anime, including Studio Ghibli movies, is popular all over the world.
- Manga: Manga books translated into English (such as ``One Piece'' and ``Attack on Titan'') also sell well.
- Anime and manga character goods: figures, T-shirts, posters, etc. are also popular.
Within these categories, it is important to choose the products that best suit your business. When selecting a product, choosing a product that you are interested in and about which you have sufficient knowledge is the first step to success.
5. Kitchenware
- High-quality Japanese knives: Depending on the brand, Japanese knives are valued for their durability and sharpness.
- Rice Cookers: Rice cookers from brands like Zojirushi and Panasonic, among others, are known for their performance and convenience.
6. Hobbies and toys
- Plastic models and models: Plastic models such as Gundams, airplanes, and cars are especially popular. These are offered by famous Japanese brands such as Bandai.
- Board Games: Uniquely Japanese board and card games are also very popular with some enthusiasts.
7. Fashion
- Japanese Denim: Japanese denim and streetwear brands are popular with some fashionistas.
8. Health and Fitness
- Yoga equipment: Japanese-made yoga equipment is also popular in some areas, such as the Mukwa yoga block.
These products are just examples, and are valued and sought after by American consumers for their unique characteristics and high quality as Japanese products. However, when choosing a product, it is important to research its profitability, competition, and market demand. Product packaging and marketing strategies are also important factors, so careful planning and preparation are required.
9. Books
- Language learning materials: English to Japanese learning materials and books on Japanese culture and history are also popular in the United States.
10. Automotive related products
- Auto parts: Genuine parts and aftermarket parts for Japanese car brands (e.g. Toyota and Honda) are also in demand in some areas.
11. Furniture and interior
- Minimalist design furniture and homewares: Furniture and homewares from brands like MUJI are popular in some circles for their simplicity and functionality.
12. Stationery
- High-quality ballpoint pens and markers: Japanese writing instrument brands such as Pigma Micron and Uniball, for example, are highly praised for their writing feel and quality.
- Notebooks: Brands like Midori and Moleskine are also popular in some circles for their design and quality.
13. Music
- J-Pop and K-Pop CDs: CDs by certain artists are in high demand by overseas fans of that artist.
These are some of the popular Japanese products on Amazon in the US, but the market is constantly changing and regular market research is required to stay on top of the latest trends. Furthermore, in order to run a successful business, it is important not only to select products, but also to set appropriate prices, create an attractive product list, have an effective marketing strategy, and have high-quality customer service. Comprehensive consideration of these factors and careful planning will lead to successful business expansion overseas.
14. Video games and consoles
- Japanese game software: Japanese game companies such as Nintendo, Sony, Capcom, and Square Enix are highly regarded around the world. New games and classic games are in high demand.
- Retro games: Old game consoles and game software are also in demand from retro game enthusiasts.
15. Gift items
- Japanese-style gift items: Origami cranes, origami sets, traditional Japanese chopsticks, and chopstick rests are popular gifts.
16. Health supplements
- Japanese-made vitamin supplements and health supplements are also valued for their quality and effectiveness.
These products are just examples; market needs and trends are constantly changing, so regular market research and flexible responses are required. Additionally, factors other than product selection are important for business success, such as appropriate pricing, high-quality customer service, and effective marketing strategies. It is necessary to take all of these into account and develop business strategically.
17. Arts and Crafts Supplies
- Japanese origami paper or washi: Origami paper or washi is popular among arts and crafts enthusiasts.
18. Pet supplies
- Japanese-made pet supplies: Products that are designed with the health and safety of pets in mind are highly evaluated. Cat towers, dog clothes, and toys are especially popular.
19. Sports equipment
- Baseball supplies: Baseball supplies such as gloves and bats made in Japan, where baseball is popular, are popular in some areas.
20. Figures and models
- Japanese anime and manga character figures: Character figures from Japanese anime and manga, such as One Piece, Dragon Ball, and Demon Slayer, are popular collector's items.
Summary of sales methods on Amazon Export America (Amazon.com)
These products are some of the popular Japanese products on Amazon in the US, but market supply and demand, competitive conditions, pricing, logistics management, etc. must be carefully considered. Attractive product descriptions for buyers, effective marketing strategies, and high-quality customer service also have a significant impact on business success. You will be required to regularly research market trends and flexibly adjust your business strategy.
