The Pet Supplies market on Amazon is one of the fastest-growing categories, and it’s a great opportunity for sellers looking to tap into the booming pet care industry. However, unlike some other categories, Pet Supplies is "gated," meaning that Amazon requires sellers to get approval before listing their products. If you're feeling a little uncertain about the process of getting ungated, don’t worry—it's simpler than it might seem when you follow the right steps. In this guide, we’ll break down what it takes to get ungated in Pet Supplies and start growing your Amazon business.
What Does It Mean to Get Ungated on Amazon?
In Amazon lingo, getting “ungated” means obtaining permission from Amazon to list products in a restricted category, like Pet Supplies. To ensure product quality and safety for customers, Amazon requires sellers to meet specific criteria and submit documentation before they can sell pet-related products. Categories such as Pet Supplies, Health & Beauty, and Home & Kitchen are often gated to maintain trust and avoid the sale of subpar or non-compliant products.
Is Pet Supplies Gated on Amazon?
Yes, the Pet Supplies category is gated, meaning you need Amazon's approval to sell products there. To get ungated, sellers typically need to submit documents like supplier invoices, a positive seller performance history, and proof that they are authorized to sell pet products. If you’re feeling unsure about how to go about it, you can also consider using an Amazon ungating service for assistance.
How to Get Ungated in Pet Supplies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get started? Here's what you need to do to get ungated in the Pet Supplies category:
1. Ensure Your Amazon Seller Account is in Good Standing
Before applying for ungating, ensure your Amazon Seller account is active and in good standing. A clean account with no performance issues or negative feedback will increase your chances of approval.
2. Meet Amazon’s Basic Requirements
Amazon typically requires sellers to have a Professional Seller account (not an Individual Seller account) in order to apply for ungating. If you haven’t already, make sure to upgrade to a Professional Seller account.
3. Source Products from a Reliable Supplier
To submit your application, you’ll need invoices from a reputable supplier that show you’ve purchased the pet products you intend to sell. Here’s what the invoice should include:
- The supplier's name and address
- A list of the products you're planning to sell
- A date within the past 180 days
- A clear breakdown of prices and quantities of the products
4. Submit Your Application
Log into your Seller Central account and navigate to the “Inventory” tab. From there, search for a product in the Pet Supplies category and click “Apply to Sell.” This is where you’ll upload your invoice(s) and any other required documents.
5. Provide Additional Documents (If Needed)
In some cases, Amazon may request further documentation to complete your application, such as:
- Business licenses or tax information
- Product images, barcodes, or certifications to confirm the authenticity and safety of the items you're selling
6. Wait for Amazon’s Response
Once you've submitted your application, Amazon will review it. The approval process typically takes anywhere from a few hours to several days. If you’re approved, you’ll be able to list your products in the Pet Supplies category. If not, Amazon will provide reasons for the rejection and allow you to correct any issues.
7. Start Listing and Selling Your Products
Once you’re ungated, you can begin listing your pet products. Be sure to complete your listings with detailed descriptions, proper images, and any certifications or labels required.
How Long Does It Take to Get Ungated in Pet Supplies?
The time it takes to get ungated in Pet Supplies can vary. In many cases, you can expect a response within a few business days, though it may take up to 2 weeks, depending on how complete your application is. If additional documentation is needed or issues arise, it could take longer. Be patient, and make sure your submission is as complete as possible to speed up the process.
Is Selling Pet Supplies Still a Profitable Venture on Amazon?
Absolutely! The pet care industry is expanding rapidly, and with millions of pet owners worldwide, the demand for pet products continues to soar. Selling on Amazon—one of the largest e-commerce platforms—gives you access to a huge customer base, and categories like pet food, toys, grooming supplies, and accessories have strong sales potential.
That said, competition in the Pet Supplies category is intense. Success will depend on factors like choosing high-demand products with good profit margins, competitive pricing, and efficient sourcing strategies. Keep in mind that standing out in this category requires offering quality products and excellent customer service.
Final Thoughts
Getting ungated in Amazon’s Pet Supplies category opens up exciting opportunities in a fast-growing market. While the process might seem intimidating at first, following the correct steps—like maintaining a clean seller account, sourcing from reliable suppliers, and submitting all necessary documentation—can make the process smoother. Once approved, you’ll be well-positioned to take advantage of the growing demand for pet products and build a profitable business on Amazon.
