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Amazon’s New “Amazon Haul” Feature: A Game-Changer for Low-Cost Sellers

by | Nov 18, 2024 | Amazon’s New “Amazon Haul” Feature

Amazon’s New “Amazon Haul” Feature: A Game-Changer for Low-Cost Sellers

Cash Riley Jr.
Global Amazon Growth Strategist & E-commerce Brand Builder

As a Amazon Strategist I am dedicated to helping brands grow on Amazon, and my Full Service Ecommerce Growth Agency called The Machine Agency is constantly watching for new developments that can provide our clients with an edge. Amazon’s latest rollout, Amazon Haul, promises exactly that. With a focus on products priced under $20, Amazon Haul is Amazon’s strategic move to capture more of the low-cost market and challenge popular budget shopping platforms like Shein and Temu. For sellers of affordable products, this presents a massive opportunity to reach a broader audience with Amazon doing most of the heavy lifting. Here’s why we’re excited and what this could mean for sellers aiming to thrive in the low-cost segment.

What is Amazon Haul?

Amazon Haul is a dedicated space within the Amazon app and website, specifically tailored for products priced $20 or less, with most items under $10. It offers budget-conscious customers a range of affordable items across categories like fashion, home, lifestyle, and electronics. Amazon Haul also benefits from the A-to-z Guarantee, meaning customers can shop confidently, knowing Amazon backs the product quality and condition.

In addition to competitive pricing, Amazon Haul promises delivery within one to two weeks, allowing for affordable items to reach customers quickly. This balance between low prices and efficient delivery directly targets a demographic that might traditionally shop on other low-cost platforms but values Amazon’s reliability and customer service.

Why Amazon Haul is a Game-Changer for Sellers

For sellers in the low-cost product space, Amazon Haul is a golden opportunity. Here’s why:

  1. Amazon’s Support with Logistics and Customs Amazon Haul is designed to simplify international selling and cross-border logistics. Amazon handles customs and the delivery process, making it easier for sellers to list products without worrying about the complexities of international shipping. Although the buyer is listed as the importer, Amazon streamlines the process, ensuring items move efficiently through the supply chain.

    1. Reaching a Massive New Audience With Amazon Haul, sellers can access a vast audience seeking ultra-affordable items, all within the trusted Amazon ecosystem. Amazon’s loyal customer base is extensive, and Haul is expected to drive even more customers to budget-friendly products they might otherwise seek on sites like Shein and Temu. This means more eyes on your products and more sales potential.

      1. Enhanced Customer Confidence Amazon’s A-to-z Guarantee builds customer confidence by covering product authenticity, quality, and condition. For sellers, this removes some of the risks associated with selling budget-friendly products, where customers may have concerns about quality. This guarantee, coupled with Amazon’s customer service, makes it easier for new customers to try low-cost products on the platform.

        1. Discounts on Larger Orders Drive Up Volume Amazon Haul offers discounts for multi-item purchases, encouraging shoppers to buy in bulk. Sellers benefit from increased order sizes, which drives volume and helps reach a broader audience while maximizing each sale.

          1. Free Returns at Convenient Locations Amazon Haul includes free returns on products priced over $3.00, offering customers peace of mind when trying out budget-friendly items. Returns are simple, with drop-off locations at Amazon Lockers, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods, UPS, and Staples locations across the U.S., making it easy for customers and attractive for new shoppers.
          Amazon Haul Competitors Going After Low Cost Ecommerce Competitors

          Amazon Haul vs. Shein and Temu: Amazon Expands Its Reach

          With Amazon Haul, Amazon is directly competing with popular low-cost platforms, offering the same affordability but with the added advantage of its robust logistics, support, and guarantees. By integrating this low-cost shopping experience into its existing ecosystem, Amazon has created a compelling alternative that makes budget-friendly shopping more accessible and reliable.

          Unlike these other platforms, Amazon has a global reputation for high standards and excellent customer service, which can be a significant advantage when attracting value-conscious customers who also prioritize quality and peace of mind.

            How Sellers Can Make the Most of Amazon Haul

            1. Optimize Listings for High Visibility As with any Amazon category, optimizing listings to ensure they stand out is crucial. Keywords, clear product descriptions, and professional images are essential for capturing shopper attention.

              1. Leverage Amazon FBA to Streamline Delivery By using Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), sellers can let Amazon handle packaging, delivery, and customer service. For products featured in Amazon Haul, FBA ensures items are shipped quickly, reinforcing Amazon’s reliability.

                1. Offer Discounts on Larger Orders Sellers can set up discounts for bulk purchases, which encourages customers to spend more, leveraging Amazon Haul’s price breaks. This strategy can help increase sales volume and revenue per order.

                  1. Engage in Customer Service and Follow-Up Providing excellent customer service and ensuring that buyers are satisfied with their purchases can encourage repeat purchases, positive reviews, and brand loyalty. Building a trusted brand within Amazon Haul can lead to ongoing customer relationships, even within the budget segment.
                    Consumer Shopping in the new Era of Budget Friendly Options

                    The Road Ahead: A New Era of Budget-Friendly Amazon Shopping

                    Amazon Haul is still in its early days, but the impact could be significant for sellers of affordable products looking to increase their visibility and reach on Amazon. By integrating this low-cost shopping experience into the Amazon app, Amazon has once again proven its commitment to expanding customer options and capturing more market share in the low-cost space.

                    As an agency, The Machine Agency is ready to help clients leverage Amazon Haul to reach new audiences, grow their sales, and make the most of this opportunity. This is the perfect time for sellers to capitalize on Amazon’s reach, infrastructure, and guarantee-backed customer experience to elevate their brand and gain a foothold in the budget-friendly market segment.

                    If you’re interested in learning more about how Amazon Haul can benefit your business or need assistance optimizing your listings, reach out to us at The Machine Agency. Let’s take your products to new heights in this exciting new space!

                    Why Your Amazon Brand Needs a Strategic Partnership Plan to Succeed in the U.S. Market

                    by | Nov 6, 2024 | Strategic Partnership

                    Why Your Amazon Brand Needs a Strategic Partnership Plan to Succeed in the U.S. Market

                    In today’s eCommerce landscape, the Amazon marketplace continues to be an ever-evolving battleground, especially for international brands looking to enter the U.S. market. The Machine Agency specializes in crafting and implementing winning Amazon brand strategies tailored for international sellers. One of the most effective ways to make an impactful entry is through a robust partnership strategy, engaging with content creators, influencers, and affiliates.

                    Let’s explore the significance of this approach and why it’s a cornerstone of The Machine Agency’s approach to Amazon brand management for global brands.

                    Navigating the U.S. Market with Strategic Partnerships

                    The U.S. consumer market is known for its diversity and competitiveness, presenting unique challenges for foreign brands. Standing out among U.S.-based competitors requires more than just a presence; it demands connection, visibility, and trust. Leveraging partnerships on Amazon can significantly boost brand awareness, allowing new entrants to gain credibility through reputable voices that resonate with local audiences. Collaborating with creators, influencers, and affiliates can introduce a brand’s story and values in a way that traditional advertising often struggles to achieve.

                    For instance, an influencer with a devoted following in the pet care space can build trust around a new pet supplement from an international brand by sharing personal experiences and demonstrating the product’s benefits. The Machine Agency helps brands select partners that align with their message, ensuring that each collaboration genuinely connects with the target audience.

                    Creators, Influencers, and Affiliates: Understanding the Key Players

                    Each type of partnership serves a distinct role in brand building on Amazon:

                    1.⁠ ⁠Content Creators: These individuals are experts in crafting engaging, informative, or entertaining content tailored to specific audiences, using platforms like TikTok, YouTube, or Amazon Live. Their work captures interest and helps potential customers envision the product’s benefits through real-life use, tutorials, and demonstrations.

                    2.⁠ ⁠Influencers: Influencers bring an engaged, loyal following. They use their platform authority to impact purchasing decisions, making them ideal for fostering trust and awareness around a brand. Partnering with influencers who have a solid reputation in niche areas, like wellness or tech, aligns a brand with a community already interested in related products.

                    3.⁠ ⁠Affiliates: Often running their own sites, blogs, or newsletters, affiliates earn commissions through promotions. They are instrumental in directly driving sales, using detailed descriptions, images, and personalized tracking links to encourage transactions.

                    Why You Need a Cohesive Amazon Brand Strategy for the U.S. Market

                    At The Machine Agency, we believe a well-rounded Amazon brand strategy is essential. Here’s why:

                    • ⁠ ⁠Clarity and Consistency: For international brands, understanding the nuances of the U.S. market is critical. Each message, image, and review must maintain consistency, building a cohesive story that resonates with potential customers.
                    • ⁠ Maximized Reach: Creators, influencers, and affiliates expand reach by introducing your products to audiences across different channels, catering to various consumer preferences and buying behaviors.
                    • ⁠ ⁠Long-term Growth: Strategic partnerships are more than quick fixes. Long-term collaborations with creators and influencers foster authentic brand loyalty, while affiliates drive sustainable traffic.

                    How The Machine Agency Can Help

                    We go beyond connecting brands with partners; we create tailored strategies that maximize each partnership’s potential, ensuring they align with the brand’s core message and growth goals. From initial consultation to the development and management of Amazon campaigns, The Machine Agency provides end-to-end services that empower international brands to thrive in the U.S. market.

                    Ready to Transform Your Brand’s U.S. Amazon Presence?

                    As the eCommerce landscape continues to shift, so too must your strategy. The Machine Agency is here to guide international brands in establishing a meaningful foothold on Amazon’s U.S. marketplace. Let’s partner together to help your brand succeed through powerful partnerships and an unwavering commitment to your growth.

                    Reach out to The Machine Agency today and explore how we can elevate your brand’s Amazon journey.

                    Amazon Live: The Ultimate Tool for Brand Visibility and Real-Time Engagement

                    by | Nov 6, 2024 | Amazon Live

                    Amazon Live: The Ultimate Tool for Brand Visibility and Real-Time Engagement

                    Amazon Live has transformed how brands connect with their customers, offering a dynamic, interactive platform that brings product stories to life. And the best part? It’s completely free for brands to use, making it a golden opportunity to engage a large audience, showcase products in an authentic setting, and drive real-time sales. Here’s why Amazon Live should be part of every brand’s digital strategy and how to make the most of it.

                    Reach and Engage – For Free

                    Amazon Live is free to use, giving brands a unique way to showcase their products directly to potential buyers. For brands looking to stretch their marketing budgets, this free platform can amplify their reach without any additional costs. By broadcasting on Amazon Live, brands gain access to a vast, built-in audience actively seeking products.

                    Real-Time Customer Engagement

                    One of Amazon Live’s greatest strengths is its ability to provide real-time engagement. During a live session, customers can ask questions, get immediate answers, and learn about product features directly from the source. This live interaction creates a connection between the brand and its audience, instilling trust and making it easier to convert viewers into buyers.

                    Exclusive, Live-Only Promotions

                    Amazon Live offers brands the chance to run exclusive, live-only promotions, creating a sense of urgency for viewers. By offering discounts or special deals only available during the livestream, brands can boost conversions and incentivize viewers to tune in for future sessions, increasing repeat viewership.

                    Boost Brand Awareness and Discoverability

                     In today’s competitive digital marketplace, discoverability is everything. Amazon Live is an ideal way to enhance brand awareness as it allows products to be seen by a broader audience in a format that captures attention. As viewers watch livestreams, they become more familiar with the brand, which helps drive long-term loyalty.

                    Educational and Inspirational Content

                    Brands aren’t limited to promoting products in a hard-sell format; they can also create educational and inspirational livestream experiences that add value for the viewer. For instance, a beauty brand could host a tutorial on skincare routines or a cooking brand might showcase creative recipes. These types of content build trust, showcase expertise, and foster deeper connections with the audience.

                    Shoppable Campaigns for Product Discovery 

                    Amazon Live integrates shoppable links into livestreams, making it simple for viewers to add products directly to their carts. This seamless shopping experience is perfect for driving product consideration, allowing customers to discover, engage, and purchase products all in one place.

                    Leverage Influential Creators

                    Amazon Live lets brands partner with creators who bring their own unique audiences and voices to the table. By working with popular creators, influencers, or brand ambassadors, brands can tap into new segments, increase social reach, and deliver authentic brand storytelling that resonates with viewers.

                    Flexible Scheduling with Pre-Recorded Content

                    Not all livestreams need to be, well, live. Amazon Live lets brands pre-record sessions, which can be scheduled to go live at a convenient time, allowing brands to plan and produce high-quality content that works for their schedule.

                    Tips for Making the Most of Amazon Live

                    To truly stand out on Amazon Live, brands should focus on a few essential strategies:

                    1. Consistency is Key: Regular, scheduled live sessions help build an audience that knows when to tune in.
                    2. Showcase Authenticity: Being genuine resonates. Don’t be afraid to be yourself and show the human side of your brand.
                    3. Share Your Journey: Transparency and even a little vulnerability go a long way in building trust. Share your brand’s story, journey, and vision.

                    Why Amazon Live? The Numbers Don’t Lie

                    The impact of Amazon Live is hard to ignore. Nearly all Amazon Live viewers—96%—take some action with brands they watch, whether that’s learning more, adding products to their cart, or making a purchase. Additionally, two-thirds of Amazon Live shoppers enjoy discovering new products through creators, and 76% of sales from sponsored Amazon Live streams come from new-to-brand customers, showcasing Amazon Live’s power to bring in fresh audiences.

                    Partner with Experts for Success

                    Amazon Live has best-in-class production resources that brands can leverage for custom campaigns or integrations into existing Amazon Live programs. With expertise in live and shoppable content, The Machine Agency offers end-to-end creative asset development, from initial concept to live broadcast. Whether you’re aiming to educate, inspire, or entertain, our team knows how to craft experiences that deliver.

                    Ready to Go Live?

                    At The Machine Agency, we specialize in producing high-impact Amazon Live experiences that captivate audiences and convert viewers into lifelong customers. Reach out to explore how Amazon Live can elevate your brand’s digital presence and drive sales in an exciting, innovative way.

                    Amazon Introduces Low Inventory Level Fee to Encourage Stock Consistency

                    by | Apr 3, 2024 | Amazon Low Inventory Level Fees

                    Amazon Introduces Low Inventory Level Fee to Encourage Stock Consistency
                    In a move that reflects its commitment to enhancing the customer experience, Amazon announced a significant update to its inventory management policies, effective April 1, 2024. The e-commerce giant will introduce a Low Inventory Level Fee aimed at sellers who struggle to maintain inventory levels that meet buyer demand. This initiative underscores Amazon’s efforts to ensure that its marketplace remains stocked with products customers need and want, without facing the frustration of frequently out-of-stock items.

                    Understanding the Low Inventory Level Fee

                    Amazon’s Low Inventory Level Fee is designed to incentivize sellers to keep a consistent stock of their products. The fee will be applied to standard-sized items which, over time, have consistently shown inventory levels that fall short of meeting buyer demand. Specifically, this fee targets items with both long-term (past 90 days) and short-term (past 30 days) historical days of availability of fewer than 28 days.

                    The “Historical Days of Availability” is a metric calculated by Amazon, taking into account the average daily number of items in stock. This figure is derived from the sellable inventory, volume of items delivered from warehouses, and reserved inventory, excluding unsellable items. Essentially, it’s a measure that helps Amazon gauge whether sellers are keeping up with the demand for their products.

                    Exemptions and Considerations

                    Notably, Amazon has outlined specific conditions under which sellers can be exempt from the Low Inventory Level Fee. These exemptions aim to support sellers in various stages of their journey on the Amazon platform, including:
                     • New Professional sellers, who will be exempt for the first 365 days following their initial inventory receipt.
                     • New-to-FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) parent products, exempt for the first 180 days post their first inventory-received date, provided the sellers are enrolled in the FBA New Selection program.
                     • Products automatically replenished by Amazon Warehousing & Distribution (AWD), recognizing the role of automated systems in maintaining optimal inventory levels.

                    Strategic Implications for Sellers

                    This policy update from Amazon has significant implications for sellers on the platform. It underscores the importance of inventory management as a critical aspect of e-commerce success. Sellers must now pay closer attention to their inventory trends over the past three months and the preceding month. By doing so, they can avoid the pitfalls of low inventory or stockouts, which would not only lead to the Low Inventory Level Fee but could also potentially harm sales and customer satisfaction.

                    Moreover, this move by Amazon highlights the increasing importance of sophisticated inventory planning and forecasting tools. Sellers are encouraged to leverage available technologies and Amazon’s own resources to better predict demand and plan their inventory accordingly.

                    In conclusion, Amazon’s Low Inventory Level Fee is a strategic initiative aimed at ensuring that its marketplace remains reliable and well-stocked, thereby enhancing the overall customer experience. Sellers, for their part, must adapt to these changes, focusing on improving their inventory management practices to avoid additional fees and meet the evolving expectations of Amazon and its customers.

                    The Impact on Vendor Central Sellers

                    The introduction of Amazon’s Low Inventory Level Fee is not just a consideration for third-party sellers; it also holds significant implications for Vendor Central sellers. Those who sell directly to Amazon, acting as suppliers to the e-commerce giant, must also be vigilant in maintaining adequate inventory levels to meet Amazon’s purchasing demands. For Vendor Central sellers, this new fee underscores the importance of forecasting, production planning, and timely logistics to ensure that Amazon’s orders can be fulfilled without delay. Failure to do so could result in financial penalties, strain the relationship with Amazon, and ultimately impact the visibility and sales of their products. This policy change serves as a reminder to all vendors of the critical role inventory management plays in sustaining a successful partnership with Amazon, urging them to adopt more strategic and efficient inventory practices.

                    Need Assistance with Your Amazon Inventory Management?

                    Navigating the complexities of Amazon’s new Low Inventory Level Fee and its implications for inventory management can be challenging for many sellers. Staying ahead in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape requires a deep understanding of Amazon’s policies, strategic inventory planning, and the ability to adapt quickly to changes.

                    If you find yourself struggling to maintain optimal inventory levels or are seeking ways to avoid the new fees while maximizing sales and customer satisfaction, The Machine Agency is here to help. Our team of experts specializes in Amazon sales strategies, inventory management, and compliance with Amazon’s policies. We offer tailored solutions to ensure your business not only meets Amazon’s requirements but thrives on the platform.

                    Whether you’re a new seller on Amazon looking to navigate the early days of your business or an experienced merchant facing challenges with the new inventory fee, The Machine Agency can provide the guidance and support you need. Our services include inventory forecasting, strategic planning, compliance advice, and much more. Let us help you optimize your Amazon operations, avoid unnecessary fees, and drive your business towards greater success.

                    Contact The Machine Agency today at info@themachineagency.com, and let’s work together to make your Amazon selling experience smooth, profitable, and compliant with the latest policies. Our team is ready to assist you in taking your Amazon business to the next level.

                    How TMA Drives Amazon Sales with SEO Funnels

                    by | Feb 12, 2024 | TMA and SEO Funnels

                    How TMA Drives Amazon Sales with SEO Funnels

                    Search Engine Optimization (SEO) attracts targeted search traffic that is likely to convert. The Machine Agency (TMA) does this by creating relevant, optimized articles to address prospects’ needs and questions.

                    Executive Summary

                    • TMA’s Content Marketing leads the customer through 3 funnel stages: Awareness, Consideration and Conversion.
                    • TMA uses data from your Amazon sales to create content tailored to customer needs, questions and search intent.
                    • TMA uses proprietary software to create, monitor and refine your campaigns to increase conversion in each funnel phase.
                    • Content Marketing increases Amazon sales and cuts your ad budget by driving traffic to your listing with zero PPC cost.

                    Understanding SEO and Its Importance

                    SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, aligns your content with what search engines value and what your audience seeks.
                    TMA starts with a substantial advantage: DATA. Your Amazon campaigns are already tracked by our custom-built software, giving you an unfair advantage you can now apply to Google.
                    We use this in-house data to create targeted content that satisfies Search Intent. Search Intent is what users are actively looking for when they type a query.
                    Matching your content to this intent raises your appearance in search results, which drives page traffic, brand awareness, and new customers.

                     

                    The Stages of the SEO Funnel

                    Top of the Funnel: Awareness

                    At the top of the funnel, your goal is to generate awareness. Your content should be designed to educate and inform, focusing on broad topics related to your industry.

                    Why publish on OTHER sites? We publish on sites with strong traffic to: drive referral traffic to your site, expand your brand’s visibility to new customers, and to raise your rank in search results.
                    • Find and Engage Customers: We tailor your content to the questions, needs, and interests of your readers while establishing a helpful relationship with the publishing site
                    • Obtain Backlinks: Backlinks are links from other websites back to content on your website. These are a crucial signal to Google, and buoy your site’s search rank quickly
                    • Content type: Blog posts and infographics on Other Sites
                    • Keywords: Broad, informational, inspirational, fun
                    • Objectives: Expand brand presence, widen funnel and secure a link back to Your Site
                    • Example: Ways to Incorporate Fasion into Home Decor

                    Middle of the Funnel: Consideration

                    During the mid-funnel Consideration phase, your audience is considering whether your offer fits their needs. Your content here should go deeper into specific features, benefits, and pain points.
                    To captivate your audience, blog posts should deliver value and resonate with the interests of your readers. Here’s how you can make them more engaging:
                    • Engage Your Audience: Tailor your content to their questions, needs, and interests
                    • Present Your Call to Action: While educating your audience, present your solution
                    • Content types: Blog posts and infographics on Your Site
                    • Keywords: More focused, problem-solving, technical
                    • Objectives: Address specific user problems, provide comparison, prevent returns
                    • Example: How to Clean Bed Pillows

                    Bottom of the Funnel: Conversion

                    At the base of your funnel are commerce-focused Landing pages that guide visitors toward a desired action. We feature persuasive, conversion-focused content to reassure users that your product is the right choice and to proceed with checkout, either on your site or on Amazon.
                    • Focus on the Sale: We ensure your message is clear with a compelling call to action (CTA).
                    • Visually Appealing: We use design strategies that direct attention to the CTA while
                    providing a pleasant user experience. This page is concise and focused on the CTA.
                    • Content types: Testimonials, product demos, free trials, can be an Amazon page
                    • Keywords: High intent, transactional
                    • Objective: Encourage action and close the sale
                    • Example: 30 Best Cozy Throw Pillows

                    Frequently Asked Questions

                    What metrics are important for monitoring the top of the funnel in SEO?

                    Important metrics for the top of the funnel in SEO include website traffic, click-through rates, bounce rates, and indexed pages. TMA uses these and dozens of other indices to gauge effectiveness.

                    Can you provide some examples of successful SEO funnels?

                    Successful SEO funnels in digital marketing feature a synergy between high-quality content, strategic keyword targeting and user-friendly website design to engage and move readers through the funnel stages. Here are two examples:

                    Services and Products

                    Awareness: https://www.soundtrap.com/content/blog/audio-formats-explained

                    Consideration: https://teropotila.com/how-to-produce-music

                    Conversion: https://teropotila.com/best-computers-for-music-production

                    Law and Software-as-a-Service (SAAS)

                    Awareness: https://www.lawinsider.com/resources/contributors/lisa-wilcox

                    Consideration: https://lisareneewilcox.com/texas-remote-online-notarization

                    Conversion: https://lisareneewilcox.com/contact

                    What are the key stages along an SEO marketing funnel?

                    Awareness, where potential customers first encounter your content; Consideration, where you pique their curiosity with more detailed information; Conversion, where they become customers.

                    In what ways does an SEO funnel differ from a traditional sales funnel?

                    TMA’s SEO sales funnel drives your organic traffic and brand visibility. We emphasize content value and user experience as key drivers at each stage, rather than direct sales pressure.

                    How does SEO integrate with other channels in a comprehensive marketing funnel strategy?

                    Content is King. Whether you focus on Amazon traffic, social media, email marketing or paid advertising, you need content that engages and motivates your readers.

                    SEO integrates particularly well with Amazon, as the Amazon page for your products can serve as the Landing Page at the base of your funnel. SEO augments your current processes and success.
                    Knowledge is your Company, Products are your Transaction, Content Marketing Elevates Both.