Can you sell DVDs on Amazon?

Amazon has progressively cracked down on DVD sales over the years because of bootlegging and counterfeits on the platform.

Previously, there were plenty of loopholes in Amazon’s DVD selling policies. Some sellers were grandfathered into policies that permitted DVD sales because of their history as reputable sellers. Other third-party sellers were allowed to sell DVDs as long as the MSRP was below $25.

But even these measures didn’t solve the counterfeit issue. That’s why Amazon now has a zero-tolerance policy for most DVD sales.

Today, Amazon will only permit you to sell DVDs if:

• You’re selling a small, personal collection of DVDs through Amazon’s trade-in service
• You sell DVDs professionally and have several invoices, purchase orders, or receipts from verified DVD manufacturers

In other words, it isn’t easy to sell used DVDs on Amazon. While liquidation is a legitimate business, Amazon needs to see invoices from wholesale manufacturers to approve your listings—that’s why liquidators may have better success selling on other platforms.

Two approved methods for selling DVDs on Amazon

Selling DVDs on Amazon is a bit trickier in 2023. If you want to stay on the good side of Amazon’s seller guidelines, you can try these two approved ways of selling DVDs on Amazon.

Amazon Trade-In

Do you have a huge shelf full of old DVDs? Amazon will allow you to trade in your DVDs for an Amazon gift card. As long as the DVDs are in good shape and still work, you can quickly liquidate them through the platform.

To trade in your DVDs:

• Visit the Amazon Trade-In store.
• Click “Find more items” to see which DVDs Amazon accepts. Double-check to make sure the title is a perfect match to the product you’re trading in.
• List the product’s condition. Amazon will accept “Used-Like New” and “Used – Acceptable.”
• If they want your trade-in, Amazon will send you a free shipping label.
• Once you send off the DVDs, it can take up to 10 days to hear back from Amazon’s trade-in team. They’ll let you know how much your trade-in is worth and which items, if any, didn’t make the cut. If Amazon doesn’t want a DVD, they’ll ship it back to you for free.
• If you accept the trade-in, the amount will be credited to your Amazon account within a few days.

This isn’t the most profitable option for selling DVDs on Amazon, but if you’re selling a personal collection to clear out your entertainment center, a trade-in is the easiest option.

Third-party sales

Amazon does allow third-party sellers to list DVDs on the platform, but there’s a huge caveat: You need approval before you can sell DVDs.

Amazon requires all third-party sellers to provide proof that their products are legitimate. If you try to list DVDs without approval, Amazon can cancel the listing, forfeit your earnings, and even remove your rights to sell on the platform.

They’re serious about this, so it’s crucial to receive approval before you try selling DVDs on Amazon. The good news is that, once you’re approved, you add the DVDs to your Amazon account as you would any other item.

How to get approved to sell DVDs on Amazon

According to Amazon, you can only sell DVDs if you have:

• A Professional selling plan
• An order-defect rate (ODR) of 1% or less
• A cancellation rate of 2.5% or less
• A late shipment rate of 4% or less

They will also ask you for information like:

• Where you source your inventory
• Your estimated inventory quantities
• Three past purchase orders or invoices from your manufacturers or distributors. The invoices need to include your name and address, the manufacturer’s name and address, pricing information, and order quantities of at least ten combined units. Keep in mind that these need to be wholesalers, not liquidators.

Amazon reserves the right to verify all of this information before they approve your listings. If anything doesn’t check out, they will cancel your selling privileges—so tread carefully.

The easier way to sell DVDs on Amazon

Selling DVDs on Amazon can be lucrative, but you need the platform’s blessing before you list anything. Always err on the side of caution and provide the correct information so Amazon can approve your DVD sales quickly. If you’re selling a small, personal collection of DVDs, you’re better off trying Amazon Trade-In. You won’t earn as much this way, but it will keep you on Amazon’s good side.

Selling on Amazon is no cakewalk, and you need the best tools on your side to stay profitable. AccelerList helps Amazon sellers with the day-to-day operations of their business. List products, do faster research and track all of your accounting in one place with AccelerList. See the difference for yourself: Try AccelerList free for 14 days.

If you would like to start by selling books (the easiest) and then work your way up to selling DVDs on Amazon then the rest of this article is for you!

Getting Started with Selling DVDs on Amazon

Creating an Amazon Seller Account

To begin selling DVDs on Amazon, you'll need to create an Amazon Seller account. Go to Amazon's website and click on "Sell" at the top of the page. From there, you'll be guided through the process of setting up your account. You'll need to provide basic information about yourself, such as your name, address, and contact information. Additionally, Amazon will require your tax identification information and bank account details for payment purposes.

Understanding Amazon's Selling Plans

Amazon offers two selling plan options: the Individual selling plan and the Professional selling plan. The Individual plan is preferable if you are planning to sell fewer than 40 DVDs per month. This option charges a per-item fee for every sale you make. Conversely, the Professional plan will require a monthly subscription fee but comes with added benefits, such as bulk listing tools and access to additional product categories. Consider your anticipated sales volume and weigh the pros and cons before choosing a selling plan that suits your needs.

Navigating Seller Central

Once you've created your Amazon Seller account and selected a selling plan, you'll gain access to Seller Central, your primary hub for managing your business on Amazon. Seller Central allows you to add product listings, manage inventory, and track sales.

To add DVDs to your inventory, either search for an existing product listing or create a new one. Ensure that product details, such as title, image, and description, accurately reflect the DVD you're selling. Additionally, set a competitive price to attract more buyers.

Consider incorporating the following to enhance your listings:

• Use bullet points to highlight key features of the DVD.
• Utilize bold text to emphasize important information.
• Include a table to compare different DVD formats or editions, if applicable.

Remember, your success in selling DVDs on Amazon depends on your ability to create compelling product listings and manage your inventory efficiently. Now that you're familiar with the basics of setting up an Amazon Seller account, selecting a selling plan, and navigating Seller Central, you're well-equipped to begin your journey in selling DVDs on Amazon.

Listing DVDs for Sale

Product Categories and Approval

When listing DVDs for sale on Amazon, it's important to first ensure that your product complies with Amazon's guidelines and falls within the appropriate category. To do this, visit Amazon's Product Classifier tool and follow the instructions.

Finding the Correct UPC and ASIN

To properly list your DVD, locate the Universal Product Code (UPC) and the Amazon Standard Identification Number (ASIN) on the packaging. These codes are essential for proper listing and inventory management.

UPC and ASIN can be located:

• On the back cover or bottom of the DVD case
• In the product details section on Amazon's product page

Keep in mind there might be multiple ASINs for a single movie, each representing a different version, edition, or product bundle.

Title, Name, and Edition

The title of your listing should include the name of the movie and any specific edition information, such as "Collector's Edition" or "Director's Cut." Be sure to indicate specifics like DVD or Blu-ray format. Use the correct capitalization, and avoid using unnecessary keywords or marketing phrases.

Example: "The Super Mario Bros. Movie (Collector's Edition DVD)"

Condition and Quality Standards

Honesty is key when listing the condition and quality of your DVDs. Accurately describe any imperfections, such as scratches or damage to the packaging. Amazon's condition guidelines provide detailed examples of acceptable condition classifications.

For instance, you could list your DVD as:

• New
• Like New
• Very Good
• Good
• Acceptable

Pricing Strategies

When determining a price for your DVD, consider the following factors:

1. Competitive listings: Check the prices of similar DVDs currently listed on Amazon to gauge the market value of your item.
2. Format and edition: DVDs with unique editions or formats may command higher prices.
3. Condition: DVDs in better condition typically sell for more.
4. Quantity: If you have multiple copies, consider offering a discount for bulk purchases.
5. Buy Box strategy: Aim for a price that will make your listing eligible for the Buy Box, increasing its visibility to potential buyers.

Remember to remain flexible with your pricing strategy and make adjustments as necessary.

Fulfillment Options

When selling DVDs on Amazon, you have multiple fulfillment options to choose from. This section will discuss two popular options: Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and handling your own orders.

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is a service that allows you to store your inventory in Amazon's fulfillment centers. Amazon takes care of storage, packaging, and shipping of your products to the customers. To use FBA, follow these steps:

1. Set up FBA by creating your Amazon selling account and logging in to Seller Central.
2. Create product listings and specify FBA inventory.
3. Prepare your products for shipment and send them to Amazon's fulfillment centers.

By using FBA, you can take advantage of Amazon's vast shipping network and decrease fulfillment headaches as you scale your business. However, there are fees associated with FBA, including fulfillment fees that depend on the size and weight of your products and storage fees for maintaining your inventory in Amazon's warehouses. Keep an eye on these costs to make sure they fit within your budget.

Handling Your Own Orders

If you prefer to have more control over your inventory and fulfillment process, you can choose to handle your own orders, also known as Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM). In this method, you store, package, and ship orders from your place of business or a third-party logistics provider.

When handling your own orders, consider the following:

• Shipping fees: As an MFN seller, you can set your shipping rates, or use Amazon's standard shipping rates for your products.
• Delivery speed: Ensure that your delivery speed matches or surpasses Amazon's required standards to maintain customer satisfaction.
• Inventory management: Develop an efficient inventory management system to avoid stockouts and delays in order fulfillment.

By handling your own orders, you have more control over your inventory and shipping process, but it also requires more time and resources from you. Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each fulfillment option and choose the one that best fits your needs and goals.

Seller Fees and Commissions

When selling DVDs on Amazon, it's important to understand the different fees and commissions incurred. As a seller, you will face two primary fee categories: account fees and sale-related fees.

Account fees come in two forms: Individual and Professional plans. With the Individual plan, you pay $0.99 per unit sold, while the Professional plan costs $39.99 per month, regardless of the number of units sold. The choice between these plans depends on your sales volume and business strategy.

Sale-related fees are mainly composed of referral fees and fulfillment fees. Referral fees are charged for each item sold and vary depending on the product category. For most categories, including DVDs, these fees range between 8% and 15% of the item's selling price.

Fulfillment fees depend on your chosen method of order fulfillment. If you decide to handle shipping yourself, costs will widely vary based on the weight and dimensions of your products and the selected shipping method. However, if you opt for Amazon's Fulfilled By Amazon (FBA) service, you may face additional fulfillment fees.

For FBA items selling on Amazon for no more than $7, the following fees apply:

• Small standard-sized items (15x12x0.75 inches max.): $2.16 for anything weighing 6 oz. or less, and $2.35 for items weighing 6-12 oz.
• Large standard-sized items (18x14x8 inches max.): $2.35 for items weighing 6 oz. or less, and $2.60 for items weighing 6-12 oz.

Keep in mind that when selling DVDs on Amazon, some restrictions apply to items with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) over $25. This is due to an agreement reached between Amazon and movie studios to avoid potential legal disputes.

In conclusion, when selling DVDs on Amazon, be aware of the different fees and commissions that will affect your profits. Ensure that you choose the appropriate account type and fulfillment method, and consider these costs when pricing your products for sale.

Expanding Your Inventory

In order to maximize your profits from selling DVDs on Amazon, it's important to expand your inventory to include a diverse range of products. This not only helps to cater to a wider customer base but also gives you more opportunities to capitalize on trending items and seasonal demands.

Diversifying Your Products

Books: Branching out into the world of books can be a lucrative step as you can target both fiction and non-fiction readers across various genres. Focus on popular authors and latest releases, but also consider niches like textbooks for potentially higher profit margins.

Electronics: Diversifying into electronics can provide excellent opportunities to sell high-demand items like tablets, cell phones, and video game consoles. Research best-selling brands and models to ensure you're well-stocked with sought-after products.

Textbooks: A specifically profitable niche within books, textbooks cater to students who are constantly in need of updated editions and who often turn to Amazon for more affordable study materials. Look for in-demand titles across various subjects and educational levels.

Jewelry: Including jewelry in your inventory can attract a different customer base altogether. Amazon's marketplace is ideal for selling costume jewelry that offers good quality at affordable prices. Ensure your listings are accurate and include high-quality images to showcase the products effectively.

When expanding your inventory, always keep in mind your storage capabilities and the management of increased stock levels. Stay informed about current market trends and demands in order to make informed decisions about which products to offer. By carefully choosing the right items to diversify your inventory, you can elevate the success of your Amazon business.

Dealing with Customers

When selling DVDs on Amazon, it is essential to keep your customers' satisfaction in mind. Handling customer interactions effectively will help you maintain a positive seller reputation. This section will provide guidance on customer service best practices, handling returns and refunds, and devoting attention to your account management.

Customer Service Best Practices

As a seller, it is important to prioritize customer service and address issues promptly. Here are some best practices:

• Communication: Respond to buyer messages promptly and professionally. Timely responses can prevent conflicts from escalating.
• Clarity: Ensure your product listings and descriptions accurately represent the DVDs you are selling. Use clear images, accurate titles, and detailed descriptions to minimize confusion.
• Shipping: Use reliable shipping methods and provide tracking information to your customers. This will help to prevent delays and lost shipments.

Handling Returns and Refunds

Addressing returns and refunds efficiently is critical to maintaining customer satisfaction. Follow Amazon's policies, and establish a clear return policy:

1. Identify cause: Determine if the return is due to an inaccurate description, a damaged DVD, or a buyer's change of mind.
2. Adhere to Amazon policies: Follow Amazon's guidelines for returns and refunds, which stipulate when to accept or deny a return request.
3. Issue refund: If a return is accepted, promptly refund the customer. Update your account with the information on returned items and refunds.
4. Learn from feedback: Analyze return reasons and customer feedback to identify where improvements can be made.

Managing Your Account

To provide a better customer experience, monitor and maintain your Amazon seller account. This includes:

• Inventory management: Ensure your inventory is up to date to avoid selling out-of-stock items.
• Monitoring feedback: Keep track of customer feedback and identify areas that require improvement.
• Optimizing listings: Regularly update and optimize your listings to increase visibility and attract more potential customers.

By focusing on providing excellent customer service, addressing returns and refunds efficiently, and managing your account effectively, you will build a sustainable and successful DVD selling business on Amazon.

Alternative Platforms for Selling DVDs

While Amazon is a popular platform for selling DVDs, there are other options available to you. In this section, we will explore some alternative platforms that might better suit your needs, like eBay, Decluttr, Bonavendi, Eagle Saver, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and FYE.

eBay

eBay offers a large user base and easy-to-use interface for selling your DVDs. With their auction-style selling feature, you can potentially reach a larger audience and sell your items at a higher price.

To list your DVDs on eBay:

• Create an account and click "sell" to start a new listing.
• Provide detailed information about the DVD, including its title, condition, and any specific features.
• You can choose either the auction or fixed-price format for your listing.
• Set your shipping options and preferences.

Decluttr

Decluttr is an excellent choice for selling your used DVDs quickly and easily. Since they buy directly from you, there's no need to wait for a buyer to express interest.

To sell on Decluttr:

• Scan your DVD's barcode or enter its code to receive a quote.
• If you accept the offer, the company will send you a prepaid shipping label to mail your DVDs.

Bonavendi

Bonavendi compares offers from various buyback websites, ensuring you get the best price for your DVDs. The platform is easy to use and lets you find the highest offers from reliable buyers.

To sell on Bonavendi:

• Enter your DVD's barcode or title to receive a list of offers from different buyers.
• Choose the offer that best fits your needs and follow the instructions provided by the buyer to complete the sale.

Eagle Saver

Eagle Saver is another platform that buys used DVDs directly from sellers. The website offers competitive quotes and free shipping for your items.

To sell on Eagle Saver:

• Enter your DVD's barcode or title to receive a quote.
• If you accept the offer, print out the free shipping label and send your DVDs to the company.

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace is an excellent option for selling DVDs locally. It's entirely free to use and allows you to reach a wide range of potential buyers in your area. To list your DVDs on Facebook Marketplace:

• Create a new listing and include a title, price, condition, and photos of your DVDs.
• Communicate with potential buyers using Facebook Messenger and arrange pickup or delivery.

OfferUp

OfferUp is another platform that allows you to sell your DVDs locally. With its user-friendly app and website, you can easily connect with potential buyers in your area.

To sell on OfferUp:

• Create a new listing, including details about each DVD and photos.
• Communicate with potential buyers through the app or website and arrange pickup or delivery.

FYE

FYE is a popular entertainment retailer that also buys used DVDs, making it a convenient option for selling your items. Visit an FYE store near you to sell your DVDs in-person.

To sell at an FYE store:

• Bring your used DVDs to a local FYE store.
• A staff member will assess the condition of your items and provide a cash or store credit offer based on their current value.

Keep these alternative platforms in mind as you explore your options for selling your DVDs. Each platform offers unique features and benefits tailored to different needs, so be sure to choose the one best suited to your selling preferences.

Essential Tips for Success

Pricing DVDs Competitively

To succeed in selling DVDs on Amazon, it's essential for you to price your DVDs competitively. Research the market and track the going prices for both new and used DVDs in your niche. Be mindful of factors, such as the rarity and condition of the DVDs, as these will affect the price. Keep your prices updated regularly to stay ahead of your competition and ensure a better chance at making sales.

Understanding Amazon's Policies

Before you start selling DVDs on Amazon, make sure you are well versed in the platform's policies and guidelines. Familiarize yourself with Amazon's rules on restricted categories, gated categories, and allowed selling practices. Compliance with these policies will keep your seller account in good standing and prevent potential issues that could arise from non-compliance.

Utilizing Advertising and Promotion

Effectively advertising your DVDs on Amazon is crucial to increasing visibility and sales. Make use of Amazon's advertising tools, such as Sponsored Products and Sponsored Brands, to showcase your products in strategic placements on the platform. Additionally, utilizing social media and other online marketing avenues can further increase the reach of your listings and drive traffic to your products.

Expanding Sales Channels

While Amazon is a great platform for selling DVDs, it can be beneficial to expand your sales channels to capitalize on other potential opportunities. Consider exploring other marketplaces, such as eBay, or creating your own e-commerce website to sell your DVDs alongside your Amazon listings. This diversified approach can lead to more sales opportunities and help you reach a wider audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get approved for selling DVDs on Amazon?

To get approved for selling DVDs on Amazon, you need to apply for the Video, DVD, and Blu-ray category in Amazon Seller Central. Ensure that your account has good performance metrics and follow Amazon's guidelines when listing your DVDs for sale. Keep in mind that selling counterfeit items is strictly prohibited.

What are the best alternatives to Amazon for selling DVDs?

There are several alternatives to Amazon for selling DVDs, including eBay, Decluttr, and Facebook Marketplace. These platforms offer varying fee structures, listing options, and customer bases, so explore each one and choose the best fit for your needs.

How does selling DVDs on eBay compare to Amazon?

Selling DVDs on eBay has its advantages and disadvantages compared to Amazon. eBay often has lower fees and allows for more flexible listing options, such as auctions. However, Amazon has a larger customer base and the Fulfilled by Amazon option, which may help with order fulfillment.

What factors should I consider when choosing a platform to sell DVDs?

When choosing a platform to sell DVDs, consider factors like fees, listing options, customer base, and ease of use. Additionally, think about your preferences regarding shipping and fulfillment, as well as whether you want to sell new or used DVDs.

How profitable is selling DVDs online?

The profitability of selling DVDs online depends on factors like your sourcing strategy, the platform you choose, and the titles you offer. By sourcing DVDs at a low cost and targeting niche markets, you can potentially increase your profits. However, be aware that digital streaming has reduced the demand for physical DVDs.

Are there any restrictions or guidelines for selling DVDs on Amazon?

Yes, Amazon has guidelines for selling DVDs, such as avoiding counterfeit products and adhering to the Video, DVD, and Blu-ray category requirements. Ensure that you follow these guidelines to maintain your selling privileges and avoid account suspension.