Amazon's US marketplace remains a lucrative destination for cross-border sellers. However, the registration process often presents hurdles, with errors in documentation leading to delays or rejections. This guide highlights frequent mistakes and corrective measures to streamline your registration.
Name Entry: Precision Matters
Incorrect name spelling remains the most frequent registration error due to cultural differences and transliteration challenges. Ensure accuracy by:
- Verifying against official IDs: Cross-check each character against passports or government-issued identification, particularly for letters with similar phonetics (e.g., "n/m," "i/e").
- Handling special characters: Hyphens or apostrophes must mirror their placement in legal documents. Amazon generally accepts these when formatted correctly.
- Formatting compound names: Follow Amazon's prescribed sequence (First + Middle + Last names). For dual surnames, combine without spaces (e.g., "DelgadoCastillo").
Contact Address: Logistics Lifeline
Inaccurate addresses disrupt communications and fulfillment. Key considerations:
- Complete street-level details: Include unit numbers, directional indicators (NW, SE), and standardized postal abbreviations (e.g., "St" for "Street").
- Zip code validation: US ZIP+4 codes (e.g., 10001-0001) enhance delivery accuracy. Verify via USPS tools .
- Suite/floor designations: Place these after street addresses if no dedicated field exists (e.g., "123 Main St, Apt 4B").
Phone Verification: Communication Channel
Functional phone numbers are critical for two-factor authentication:
- Active carrier service: Test SMS reception capability before submission.
- International formatting: Prefix country codes (e.g., +1 for US/Canada, +44 for UK).
Banking Details: Payment Gateway
Financial errors cause payment delays. Essential checks:
- ABA/Routing numbers: Confirm 9-digit codes via bank statements or online banking portals.
- International accounts: Provide both SWIFT/BIC and IBAN where applicable.
- Account holder alignment: Business registrations require matching legal entity names.
Tax Compliance: Legal Obligations
Incorrect tax data triggers compliance issues:
- W-9/W-8BEN forms: US taxpayers require W-9 (SSN/EIN), while non-residents submit W-8BEN.
- State nexus rules: Physical presence or economic thresholds may create tax obligations.
Error Correction Protocol
To amend submitted information:
- Log into Seller Central
- Navigate to Account Information
- Select the relevant section for edits
- Upload supporting documents if prompted
- Allow 3-5 business days for review
Note that fundamental changes (e.g., business entity type) may require new registrations. Consult Amazon's seller support for complex cases.