Amazon Global Selling Fees: What Costs Should You Expect?

Expanding your business through Amazon Global Selling offers massive opportunities – but understanding the fees is crucial for profitability. This guide breaks down all mandatory and optional Amazon seller costs, including registration charges, commissions, and hidden expenses most beginners miss.

1. Registration Fees to Start Selling

The first Amazon Global Selling cost comes from account registration. While Amazon doesn’t charge registration fees in most markets, exceptions exist:

• Japan: ¥4,900 monthly (≈$35 USD)
• Mexico: $600 MXN annual fee (≈$35 USD)
• India: ₹0 registration (Professional plan requires ₹1,500/month)

Always check Amazon Seller Central for updated rates in your target countries. Pro tip: Many sellers use Amazon’s North America Unified Account to access US/Canada/Mexico markets with one subscription.

2. Platform Usage Fees Explained

Amazon charges two types of recurring platform usage fees:

Monthly Subscription Fees

• Individual Plan: $0.99 per item sold (best for <40 sales/month)
• Professional Plan: $39.99/month (unlimited listings)

Referral Fees (Sales Commission)

This percentage-based fee varies by category:

• Electronics: 8-15%
• Home Goods: 15%
• Amazon Device Accessories: 45%

Use Amazon’s Revenue Calculator to estimate exact commissions. Remember: These fees apply to total sale price including shipping charges.

3. FBA Costs: Storage and Shipping

Using Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) involves three cost components:

Inventory Storage Fees

• Standard Size: $0.75 per cubic foot/month (Jan-Sept) → $2.40 (Oct-Dec)
• Oversize Items: $0.48 → $1.20

Fulfillment Fees

Based on product dimensions/weight:

• Small Standard (≤1 lb): $3.07
• Large Standard (2 lbs): $4.95
• Extra Large (10 lbs): $9.73 + $0.38/lb above first 10 lbs

Additional FBA Services

• Label Service: $0.30/item
• Returns Processing: 20% of referral fee
• Long-Term Storage: $6.90 per cubic foot after 365 days

Amazon’s FBA Calculator helps estimate these logistics costs accurately.

4. Advertising and Promotional Costs

While optional, 89% of top sellers use Amazon’s advertising solutions:

• Sponsored Products: $0.30-$5.00 per click (average)
• Amazon DSP: $35,000 minimum spend
• Coupons: $0.60 redemption fee per used coupon

Budget at least 10-15% of projected sales for marketing. Remember: High-converting listings reduce advertising costs through organic rankings.

5. Hidden Costs Most Sellers Forget

These often-overlooked Amazon seller expenses impact profitability:

Currency Conversion Fees

• 3-4% foreign transaction fees from payment processors
• Use Amazon Currency Converter for 1.5% fee instead

Return Processing Fees

Charged when customers return FBA items:

• $5.90 return processing fee + inbound shipping costs
• 15% restocking fee deducted from refund amount

Account Health Fees

• High return rate penalty: Up to $5,000/month
• Late shipment fee: $4 per transaction

Monitor your Account Health Dashboard regularly to avoid these charges.

6. Cost-Saving Strategies for Sellers

Reduce your Amazon Global Selling costs with these proven tactics:

Inventory Management

• Use just-in-time inventory to minimize storage fees
• Liquidate slow-moving stock before 6-month mark

Shipping Optimization

• Negotiate better rates with freight forwarders
• Use Amazon Partnered Carrier program for 30% discount

Tax Considerations

• Apply for VAT refunds in EU countries
• Use Amazon’s Tax Exemption Program for business purchases

Final Cost Breakdown Example

Let’s examine costs for selling $10,000 worth of electronics:

This demonstrates why understanding Amazon selling costs is critical before setting prices.

Conclusion: Smart Fee Management = Higher Profits

Mastering Amazon Global Selling fees requires ongoing attention. Bookmark Amazon’s Fee Schedule page and revisit your cost structure quarterly. By optimizing each cost component, sellers can maintain healthy 30-60% profit margins even after all Amazon charges.