How to Become a Vendor on Amazon (2025 Guide)

Table of Contents 

1. Introduction 
2. What is an Amazon Vendor? 
3. Amazon Vendor vs. Amazon Seller 
4. How to Become a Vendor on Amazon 
5. Pros and Cons of Being an Amazon Vendor 
6. Tips for Attracting a Vendor Invitation 
7. How SentryKit Helps Vendors Thrive 
8. Conclusion 

Introduction 

Amazon offers two primary business models for third-party businesses: Seller Central (for third-party sellers) and Vendor Central (for first-party suppliers). While many are familiar with selling on Amazon, becoming a vendor—where Amazon buys your products directly and sells them under its name—is a more exclusive path that can lead to bigger opportunities and challenges alike. 

In this guide, we break down how to become a vendor on Amazon, what makes the Vendor program different, and how you can prepare to receive an invitation. 

What is an Amazon Vendor? 

An Amazon Vendor is a manufacturer, brand owner, or distributor who supplies products directly to Amazon. Once accepted into the program, Amazon purchases your inventory wholesale, stores it in their fulfillment centers, and sells it to customers directly. 
Your products appear as "Ships from and sold by Amazon.com", lending them more credibility and customer trust. 
Vendor Central access is invite-only—you cannot simply apply. 

Amazon Vendor vs. Amazon Seller

How to Become a Vendor on Amazon 

1. Build a Strong Brand Presence 
   a. Focus on a niche and grow visibility on and off Amazon.
   b.  Secure positive reviews and a consistent sales track record.
2. Gain Traction on Seller Central 
   a. Many vendors are selected from top-performing 3P sellers. 
   b. Demonstrate reliability, customer satisfaction, and growth potential.
3. Network at Trade Shows & Events 
   a. Amazon buyers often attend industry expos. A strong pitch and product line can get you noticed. 
4. Get Featured in Media or Publications 
   a. Buzz and press coverage increase your chances of catching Amazon’s attention.
5. Wait for an Invitation 
   a. If Amazon is interested, they’ll reach out with an invite to Vendor Central. 

Pros and Cons of Being an Amazon Vendor 

Pros 

• "Sold by Amazon" Badge improves trust and conversion rates. 
• Larger Purchase Orders and predictable wholesale income. 
• Increased Marketing Opportunities like Amazon Vine, A+ Content, etc. 
• Less Customer Service Burden as Amazon handles returns and fulfillment. 

Cons 

• Pricing and Listing Control Goes to Amazon. 
• Strict Compliance & Chargebacks for delivery or content issues. 
• Longer Payment Terms, typically net 60 days or more. 
• Less Agility in Promotions or Stock Adjustments. 

Tips for Attracting a Vendor Invitation 

• Optimize Your Listings: Clear titles, compelling descriptions, high-res images. 
• Demonstrate Market Demand: High-performing ASINs with good velocity. 
• Maintain Operational Excellence: Low order defect rate, fast shipping, responsive support. 
• Leverage Influencer or Press Attention: Get noticed through buzz. 
• Use Amazon Tools Smartly: Sponsored Products, Amazon Brand Analytics, etc. 

How SentryKit Helps Vendors Thrive 

Even after joining Vendor Central, maintaining listing integrity and brand protection is critical. Here’s how SentryKit supports vendors: 

• 24/7 Listing Monitoring: Instantly detect content changes, image swaps, and unauthorized edits. 
• Review Alerts: Stay updated on star rating changes or sudden influxes of negative reviews. 
• Hijack Detection: Know if unauthorized sellers appear on your listings—even as a vendor. 
• Compliance Tracking: Monitor if listings are compliant with Amazon’s policies. 
• Buy Box & Price Changes: Vendor or not, visibility into price changes remains vital. 

SentryKit gives vendors peace of mind so they can focus on scaling their business—not chasing problems. 

Conclusion 

Becoming a vendor on Amazon isn’t just about reaching out—it’s about being visible, reliable, and appealing to Amazon’s buyers. While the process isn’t open to everyone, smart branding, great products, and a strong presence can put you on Amazon’s radar. 

Once you’re in, tools like SentryKit help you stay ahead of the competition, protect your brand, and get the most out of Vendor Central. 

Want to protect your brand on Amazon? Try SentryKit free for 30 days!