If Amazon is likened to a goldmine of e-commerce opportunities, does having a US local account function as a VIP pass to easier wealth extraction? Sellers frequently encounter claims about US accounts having "weight advantages" and concerns about the security of accounts registered by Chinese companies. But where do the real benefits of US local accounts lie?
Core Advantages of US Local Accounts
1. Expanded Product Eligibility: US local accounts can sell certain products that are restricted for non-US sellers. Examples include specific types of insecticides and disinfectants. Amazon maintains strict controls over pesticide-related products, granting sales permissions exclusively to US accounts that pass its compliance review. Recent updates to Amazon's "Pesticide Claims and Product Information Training Module" further clarify listing requirements and prohibited claims for such items. Additionally, sensitive products like certain liquids or cosmetics may also require a US local account.
2. Enhanced Permissions and Variant Merging: US accounts typically enjoy superior permissions compared to those registered by foreign entities, particularly regarding product variant merging. Some sellers leverage "zombie listing" mergers to boost rankings—a practice predominantly observed among US local accounts, likely due to their perceived higher security thresholds.
3. Improved Account Security: US accounts may demonstrate greater resilience against suspensions. While domestic accounts often face swift termination after accumulating performance violations, US accounts can frequently continue operating despite unresolved performance issues.
The Reality of "Weight Advantages"
Claims by service providers about US accounts receiving algorithmic preference in promotions lack substantive evidence. Were Amazon truly favoring local accounts in search rankings, marketplace dynamics would have already shifted toward universal US account adoption. Sellers should critically evaluate such assertions before committing to local account registration.
When to Consider a US Local Account
The decision to establish a US account should align with specific business needs. Sellers dealing in products requiring special certifications or operating in regulatory gray areas may benefit from local registration. However, for standard product categories without special restrictions, pursuing a US account offers negligible advantages.
Conclusion
While Amazon US local accounts present tangible benefits in product eligibility, permissions, and security, they aren't universally necessary. Strategic sellers must objectively assess their operational requirements rather than succumb to marketplace myths. Informed decisions based on factual analysis—not unverified claims—ultimately drive sustainable Amazon success.