Selling on Amazon can make money, but not all products are a good choice. Some can cause problems, cost more, or have low profit. Here are 7 product types beginners should avoid:
1. PRODUCTS WITH LOTS OF RULES (REGULATED ITEMS)
Examples: health supplements, cosmetics, alcohol, and medical devices.
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You need special certificates or approvals.
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One small mistake can get your listing or account suspended.
Tip: If you want to sell in these categories, only do it after researching compliance and certificationthoroughly.
2. PRODUCTS PEOPLE RETURN OFTEN
Examples: clothes, shoes, electronics.
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High return rates → lost money and bad seller ratings.
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Hard to make a profit if customers keep sending items back.
3. FRAGILE ITEMS
Examples: glass, ceramics, delicate electronics.
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Easy to break during shipping → refunds and complaints.
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Extra packaging costs reduce your profit.
Tip: Stick to durable, lightweight products for beginners.
4. PRODUCTS WITH TOO MUCH COMPETITION
Examples: phone cases, USB cables, kitchen utensils.
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Many sellers → very low prices → very small profit.
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Hard to stand out unless you brand the product.
Tip: Look for products with moderate demand and low competition, or products you can brand uniquely.
5. SEASONAL PRODUCTS ONLY
Examples: Halloween costumes, Christmas decorations.
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Sell well only a few months a year → low cash flow the rest of the year.
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Storage fees can be high if items don’t sell quickly.
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6. BIG OR HEAVY PRODUCTS
Examples: furniture, large electronics, gym equipment.
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Shipping and storage cost is high → low profit.
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Returns are harder to handle.
Tip: Start with small to medium-sized products that are cheaper to store and ship.
7. PRODUCTS WITH TRADEMARK OR IP ISSUES
Examples: branded items, copied designs.
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Selling these can get your account suspended.
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Legal problems are possible if you sell someone else’s brand or idea.
KEY TIP
Start with small, durable, evergreen products (things that sell all year) and low competition. Avoid these 7 product types until you’re experienced.
Remember: Selling smart is more important than selling fast.