How to Sell DVDs on Amazon-A Comprehensive Selling Guide

Syed Usama Bin Sajid
October 31, 2024
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Potential Of Selling DVDs On Amazon

Selling DVDs on Amazon has potential, especially in the U.S., where physical media still holds value for collectors and enthusiasts. Amazon offers two ways to sell: as a third-party seller or through its trade-in program. As a third-party seller, you can list DVDs individually, set your prices, and reach a massive customer base. The trade-in option provides an easy way to offload DVDs quickly, though typically at lower prices.

For sellers, the key is finding DVDs in demand. Popular titles, box sets, and rare DVDs can sell at a premium. Sourcing DVDs from places like thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets is common, and condition matters. Well-preserved DVDs with original cases attract higher prices. You’ll need a professional selling account on Amazon, which costs about $40 per month but removes the per-item selling fee, making it cost-effective for volume sellers

Selling DVDs on Amazon has significant potential, especially in the U.S. market, where physical media still attracts a niche audience. Although the rise of streaming services has led to a decline in overall disc sales, DVDs continue to be popular due to their affordability and the nostalgia they evoke. In 2023, the U.S. DVD and Blu-ray market generated $1.34 billion in sales, with DVDs making up a large portion of those sales. Around 26% of American households purchased physical discs, showing that there remains a market for DVDs despite the shift towards digital content.

Modes Of Selling DVDs On Amazon

There are two main ways to sell DVDs on Amazon: as an individual seller or through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). Each option has its own benefits, depending on how much you plan to sell and how involved you want to be in the process.

Individual Seller

If you only have a small collection of DVDs to sell, you can list them on Amazon as an individual seller. This means you create a listing for each DVD and handle shipping when someone makes a purchase. You only pay Amazon when your DVD sells, which includes a small per-item fee and a percentage of the sale price. This option is simple and doesn’t require any monthly subscription fees, making it ideal for casual sellers.

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)

If you have a larger collection or want a more hands-off approach, FBA is a good choice. With FBA, you send your DVDs to Amazon’s warehouse, and they take care of shipping, customer service, and returns for you. This saves you time and effort, but there are additional storage and fulfillment fees involved. FBA is perfect for sellers looking to scale their business and reach Amazon Prime customers, who often prefer fast, reliable shipping.

Things You Need to Approve Your DVD Selling on Amazon

Before you can start selling DVDs on Amazon, there are a few important steps you need to take for approval. Amazon has certain guidelines for selling DVDs, especially to ensure authenticity and protect buyers. Here’s what you need to get approved:

Approval for Restricted Products

Requirement: DVDs fall under restricted categories. You need specific approval from Amazon to sell these products.
Explanation: Amazon may require sellers to submit invoices from reputable distributors or proof of authenticity. Amazon limits sellers in categories that have a higher risk of counterfeit products, like DVDs. Therefore, sellers must follow Amazon guidelines when selling gated products

Professional Seller Account

To sell DVDs, you must have a professional seller account on Amazon. This is different from an individual account and requires a monthly subscription fee. A professional account gives you access to more selling tools and allows you to sell in categories like DVDs.

Invoices and Proof of Authenticity

Amazon requires sellers to provide invoices from authorized distributors or manufacturers to prove the DVDs are genuine. This ensures you’re selling authentic products and not counterfeit items. Typically, Amazon asks for invoices from the last 90 days, showing at least 10 purchased items.

DVD Approval Process

DVDs fall under Amazon’s “restricted categories,” meaning sellers need special approval to list them. To get approval, you’ll need to submit your invoices, and in some cases, you may be asked for additional documentation, like letters of authorization from the distributor.

UPC or EAN Codes

Each DVD must have a valid UPC or EAN barcode. This helps Amazon identify and categorize the products properly. If your DVDs don’t have these codes, you may need to purchase them from a registered provider.

Following these steps will help you get approval to sell DVDs on Amazon, ensuring a smooth start to your business.

Types Of DVDs You can Sell on Amazon

Amazon offers a broad marketplace for a variety of DVDs, making it a great platform for sellers. Here are the main types of DVDs you can sell:

New DVDs

These are factory-sealed DVDs that have never been opened or used. New DVDs are often the easiest to sell since buyers prefer unwatched, undamaged products. New releases and popular movies tend to sell quickly, especially if they are still trending.

Cost: $10–$20 per DVD
Profit Margin: 20%–40%
Example: Avengers: Endgame (Blu-ray) – Buy for $15, sell for $25, making a profit of $10.

Used DVDs

You can also sell used DVDs, as long as they are in good condition. This includes DVDs that have been opened but are still functional with minimal scratches or damage. Many buyers look for cheaper options, making used DVDs a good choice for budget-conscious shoppers. Be sure to list the condition accurately to avoid returns or negative reviews.

Cost: $2–$5 per DVD
Profit Margin: 50%–150%
Example: The Matrix (Pre-owned DVD) – Buy for $3, sell for $8, making a profit of $5.

Collector’s Edition DVDs

Collector’s editions or limited-edition DVDs are highly sought after by enthusiasts. These often include bonus features, exclusive packaging, or behind-the-scenes content. If you have rare or out-of-print collector’s DVDs, you can sell them for a premium price as collectors are always on the lookout for unique items.

Cost: $20–$50 per DVD
Profit Margin: 50%–100%
Example: Star Wars Collector’s Edition – Buy for $40, sell for $80, making a profit of $40.

Box Sets

DVD box sets, especially for TV series or movie franchises, are popular among buyers who want to own an entire collection. Complete box sets of popular shows or movie sagas often attract more attention and can command higher prices.

Cost: $30–$100 per box set
Profit Margin: 30%–60%
Example: Friends: The Complete Series – Buy for $60, sell for $90, making a profit of $30

Source the DVDs If you are not manufacturer

If you’re not manufacturing DVDs yourself, you’ll need to find reliable sources to purchase them for resale on Amazon. Here are a few ways to source DVDs:

Wholesalers

One of the best ways to source DVDs is through wholesalers. These companies sell DVDs in bulk at lower prices, allowing you to buy large quantities and resell them at a profit. Make sure to choose reputable wholesalers who provide authentic DVDs and can supply invoices for Amazon approval.

Distributors

Distributors work directly with DVD manufacturers and can offer you a wide range of titles. They often have newer releases and can give you access to exclusive editions. By sourcing from authorized distributors, you can also ensure that your DVDs are genuine and meet Amazon’s standards.

Closeout Sales

Look for closeout sales or liquidation events where businesses sell off excess DVD inventory. These sales often offer great discounts, allowing you to buy DVDs cheaply and resell them at higher prices.

Online Marketplaces

You can also source DVDs from other online platforms or marketplaces. However, be cautious when buying from individual sellers to avoid counterfeit items.

By sourcing DVDs through reliable channels, you can ensure authenticity and meet Amazon’s approval requirements.

Crafting a Compelling Branding Strategies

Clearly express what your brand represents. What key values matter to you? Whether it’s quality, sustainability, or community, these values help build a strong emotional bond with your audience.

Identify your ideal customers. Understand their likes, interests, and challenges. This insight will shape your branding approach. Highlight what sets your DVDs apart. It could be how you source your beans, the roasting method, or unique flavors. Make sure this is clearly communicated.

Brand Identity

The first step is to define your brand identity. This includes choosing a memorable business name, logo, and color scheme. Your brand should reflect your target audience’s values, whether that’s collectors, movie lovers, or budget-conscious buyers. A strong identity will help customers easily recognize and remember your business.

Packaging

Thoughtful packaging can make a big difference in customer experience. Consider eco-friendly, durable packaging that protects your DVDs during shipping. Custom packaging with your logo can enhance your brand’s professionalism and leave a lasting impression. Including a thank-you note or special offer in the package can also encourage repeat business.

Pricing Strategy

Pricing is key to your brand’s perception. Conduct research on competitors’ prices and decide whether you want to position your brand as premium or budget friendly. Offering promotions or bundling items (e.g., selling box sets) can also be effective. Be sure to factor in Amazon fees and shipping costs when setting prices.

Inventory Management

Efficient inventory management is critical for customer satisfaction. Always keep track of your stock levels to avoid running out of popular DVDs. You can use Amazon’s FBA service to streamline storage and shipping or manage it yourself. Ensure that your inventory system aligns with your brand’s commitment to fast and reliable service.

Customer Engagement & Marketing

Create an active presence on social media platforms to promote your DVDs and engage with customers. Use your branding colors, logo, and messaging consistently across all platforms. Run Amazon promotions, collect customer reviews, and provide excellent customer service to strengthen your brand’s reputation.

Leveraging Amazon FBA for Selling DVDs

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is a powerful tool for anyone looking to sell DVDs on Amazon. By using FBA, you can streamline your selling process and reach a larger audience, including Amazon Prime members who prioritize fast shipping. Here’s how leveraging FBA can benefit your DVD-selling business.

Fulfillment Fees

Amazon charges around $2.50 to $3.00 per unit for picking, packing, and shipping DVDs, depending on size and weight.

Storage Fees

Monthly storage fees are $0.87 per cubic foot from January to September, increasing to $2.40 per cubic foot during October to December.

Referral Fees

Amazon takes 15% of the sale price for DVDs as a referral fee, so for a $20 DVD, you’ll pay $3.

Calculating Profit Margins

Total FBA fees (fulfillment, storage, and referral) should be subtracted from your selling price to determine net profit margins.

Effortless Shipping and Storage

With FBA, you ship your DVDs in bulk to Amazon’s fulfillment centers. Amazon then handles everything from packing and shipping to customer service and returns. This saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on growing your business without worrying about logistics. It’s especially beneficial if you have a large inventory of DVDs to sell.

Access to Prime Customers

Using FBA makes your DVDs eligible for Amazon Prime, which offers fast, free shipping. Prime members are more likely to purchase items with Prime benefits, giving you access to a wider and more engaged customer base. This can lead to higher sales and increased visibility for your products.

Improved Customer Trust

Amazon handles customer service, which builds trust with buyers. Customers know they can rely on Amazon for fast delivery and easy returns, which makes them more confident in purchasing your DVDs. This can help you maintain a high seller rating and reduce the risk of negative feedback.

By leveraging Amazon FBA, you can efficiently manage your DVD-selling business, reduce your workload, and increase your sales potential

Do Amazon Marketing or Hire An Amazon Consultant

When selling DVDs on Amazon, effective marketing is essential for maximizing visibility and sales. You can choose to manage your marketing efforts yourself or hire an Amazon consultant. Each approach has its benefits, depending on your goals and expertise.

A well-designed Amazon storefront can significantly enhance your brand’s appeal. Whether you do it yourself or hire a consultant, ensure your storefront reflects your branding and showcases your DVD collections attractively. Use high-quality images and compelling descriptions to engage potential buyers.

Amazon PPC is a powerful tool for driving traffic to your listings. By targeting relevant keywords, you can increase visibility and attract more customers to your DVDs. If you’re unfamiliar with PPC campaigns, an Amazon consultant can help you create and manage effective ads, optimizing bids and keywords to maximize your return on investment.

EcomFleet

EcomFleet is dedicated to helping businesses like yours navigate the complexities of Amazon selling. With expertise in storefront design, PPC management, and more, EcomFleet aims to boost your sales and grow your brand.

Tracking Sales and Analyzing Performance

Tracking sales on Amazon is crucial for understanding your performance as a DVD seller. Amazon provides a variety of tools within Seller Central that allow you to monitor sales metrics effectively. You can access detailed reports that show your daily, weekly, and monthly sales figures, which helps you identify trends and peak sales periods. Additionally, using Amazon’s Business Reports can provide insights into which DVDs are selling well, and which are underperforming.

Implementing external tools or software can further enhance your tracking capabilities, providing deeper analytics and visualizations.

Some Top DVDs Sellers Or Benchmark Sellers on Amazon

Here are some top sellers of the “It Ends with Us” DVD, along with their descriptions and prices:

Amazon

Amazon offers the “It Ends with Us” DVD for pre-order, providing a convenient option for those looking to buy it online. Based on the best-selling novel by Colleen Hoover, the film features Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. It tells the poignant story of Lily Bloom, who navigates love and personal growth while confronting her past.

Price: $19.99

Walmart

Walmart provides the “It Ends with Us” DVD with in-store pickup and delivery options. This adaptation focuses on Lily’s journey of self-discovery and her relationship with neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid, exploring themes of love and resilience. It’s a compelling addition to any movie collection, especially for fans of the novel.

Price: $19.96

Target

Target features the DVD for “It Ends with Us,” allowing customers to order online for pickup or home delivery. The movie captures Lily’s challenges and triumphs as she encounters love, loyalty, and difficult choices, making it an emotional and thought-provoking watch.

Price: $19.99

Best Buy

Best Buy lists the “It Ends with Us” DVD as part of its upcoming releases. This film adaptation delves into the complexities of relationships, featuring a star-studded cast and poignant storytelling. It will appeal to both existing fans of the book and new viewers alike.

Price: $22.99

Barnes & Noble

Barnes & Noble offers the DVD as a pre-order item, highlighting its role as a significant cinematic release based on the beloved book. The film explores Lily’s internal battles as she seeks a new life while grappling with her past, promising a heartfelt viewing experience.

Price: $19.99

Conclusion

Selling DVDs on Amazon can be a profitable venture when approached with the right strategies and tools. From understanding the various selling modes and sourcing methods to leveraging Amazon FBA and effective marketing, each element plays a vital role in your success. By tracking your sales and analyzing performance, you can make informed decisions that enhance your business operations.