Amazon’s selling platform is not limited and is divided into two different types of selling platforms: Amazon Vendor Central and Amazon Seller Central. Any seller’s online sales increase or decrease depends on the selection of the right selling platform. So, you need to consider the pros and cons first and proceed with the further selection.
By using Amazon Vendor Central, sellers can opt to sell their products to Amazon whereas, using Seller Central, sellers can sell their products directly to the consumers. This blog guide will explore all aspects of Amazon vendor central vs seller central platforms to make you well-informed and help you select the suitable platform!
Amazon Vendor Central vs Seller Central: A Comprehensive Overview
If you want to learn the basics of Amazon vendor central vs seller central selling platform, you have to understand their key and unique purposes which are given below:
What Is Amazon Vendor Central?
It is an Amazon seller platform in which sellers can sell their products to Amazon at wholesale rates. So, as described in the definition, manufacturers and distributors sell their products in bulk quantities to Amazon. The overall marketing, sales, and other promotions of products are taken care of by Amazon itself.
Later, vendors do not have to take care of their product’s pricing and inventory management. This selling platform suits vendors who have a business on a larger scale and have a deeper approach to the e-commerce platform.
Key Features of Amazon Vendor Central
The key features of Amazon Vendor Central are as follows:
- Sellers can create, manage, update, monitor, or track their stock levels and inventories.
- You can also create, manage, and optimize your product listings i-e, images, product descriptions, and other variations.
- Amazon provides purchase orders to the sellers having track records of their product confirmations and fulfillments.
- Vendors can have access to multiple advertisement options on Amazon for their product promotion.
- Amazon allows its users to participate in sponsored discounts and promotions, you also need to set an attractive wholesale price for your product.
- Sellers can have the right to use Amazon FBA for product storage and shipping and receive payment every month based on the sales.
- If you face any problem related to operational and account management, Amazon’s vendor support team will always be there to assist you.
- When you enroll in Vendor Central you also get Amazon Vendor Central API to automate order management, product inventory product cost, etc.
- The two-factor authentication feature is present in the Amazon Vendor Central login for added security to your account.
What Is Amazon Seller Central?
Amazon Seller Central is the seller platform that facilitates sellers to sell their products directly on Amazon’s e-commerce platform. This platform is a web-based selling program and sellers can manage their all activities related to product listing, order management, customer services, etc.
This platform is most suitable for businesses on a smaller scale or the part-time business of individuals. If you want to reach a larger audience for your small business then utilizing the Seller Central platform of Amazon is advantageous for you.
Key Features of Amazon Seller Central
Here is the list of key features of Amazon Seller Central platform:
- You have access to create, manage, bulk upload, and variate your product listings using the Seller Central platform.
- Sellers while enrolled in Amazon Seller Central vs FBA can view and manage all aspects of customer’s orders. In addition, you can also generate shipping labels for the customers.
- You can efficiently manage your inventory, manage stock levels, and set reorder points, in this way, you can receive notifications in low-stock situations.
- Sellers can advertise their products using sponsored advertisements, whereas, they also participate in promotional campaigns offering special discounts, coupons and deals etc.
- Track the key performance of your product or brand with special sales reports, performance analytics, and inventory reports.
- This platform helps sellers to cater and manage a global and diverse audience through international shipping options.
- When you enroll in this platform, you can access seller support, seller academy, and community forums as additional support.
(Tip: Either you choose to enroll in Vendor Central or Seller Central, your brand or product requires optimized and compelling product listings that complement your online presence and visibility. So, book a discovery call with I.T Dolphins now and discuss your requirements because we are experts in transforming Amazon product listings with our exceptional services!)
Amazon Vendor Central vs Seller Central: Key Differences
Let’s take a peek at the key comparisons between Amazon Vendor vs Seller platforms which are given below:
| Feature | Vendor Central | Seller Central |
|---|---|---|
| Selling Structure | 1P, Amazon retail services | 3P, Third party selling service |
| Price | Set by Amazon | Set by the seller |
| Inventory Management | Amazon manages the inventory levels. | Sellers manage stocks and inventories |
| Payment Schedule | Amazon made payments to vendors within 1 to 3 months | Bi-week payment transactions with complete details |
| Marketing Support | Amazon offers marketing tools and support to vendors e.g, A+ Content | Sellers can advertise their brand using self-service advertisement tools |
Final Verdict: Which One to Choose
The final selection between Amazon Vendor Central and Seller Central depends on the specific conditions and requirements of any brand or seller. Both platforms have their unique features, advantages, and limitations. If you are doing a side business on Amazon on a smaller scale, then go for Amazon Seller Central. Whereas, if you have an expanded business on a larger scale on the Amazon marketplace then choose none other than Amazon Vendor Central.
FAQs
1. What Is the Difference Between Amazon Vendor Central vs Seller Central Cost?
When you opt for Vendor Central, it costs no direct fees however, there may be some hidden charges. However, you have to pay subscription fees, referral fees, and other fulfillment charges while enrolled in the seller central.
2. Can I Use Both Seller Central and Vendor Central At the Same Time?
Yes, you can use both Amazon selling platforms at the same time for your business. Amazon allows its sellers to use this hybrid approach.
3. What Is the Way to Shift From Vendor Central to Seller Central?
When you decide to shift from vendor central to seller central, first of all, negotiate with Amazon, then create a seller central account, create and manage your product listings, and then run your account manually. Because Amazon cannot directly shift your account from vendor central to seller central.
