The Smartest Amazon Seller
Scott Needham is the Founder of SmartScout. An Amazon software developer for 10 years his company BuyBoxer has done over $300m in sales on Amazon. Scott has accumulated a deep knowledge about selling product online, and in the podcast he shares his knowledge with you to help you become a better Amazon seller.
Listen on:
Episodes
7 days ago
7 days ago
Discover the underutilized potential of Amazon Carrier Central for enhanced shipment trackability, effective management, and avoiding costly delays, especially during peak times such as Prime Day. Tyler Allgaier, Founder & CEO of Pitted Labs, breaks down how live loads directly at fulfillment facilities can be a game-changer for your operations.
But that's not all – Scott and Tyler dive deep into Amazon bundling strategies, exploring how recent policy updates impact consumable categories and how creating unique offers can give you a competitive edge. Learn how smart bundling can significantly increase your AOV, thereby reducing the percentage impact of FBA fees, much like Costco’s successful model.Tyler also shares insights on using virtual bundles as a low-risk way to test market demand. Plus, get tips on navigating D2C shipping and direct carrier negotiations in light of changing postal service rates.
Episode Notes:
00:22 - Tyler Allgaier Introduction
02:20 - Background and Origins of the Carrier Central
03:32 - The Importance of Carrier Central: Practical Advice
09:07 - Amazon’s Bundle Policy Updates
13:19 - The Benefits and Strategy of Bundling on Amazon
14:29 - Types of Bundles and Customer Behavior Insights
16:00 - Bundling Tactics: Operational Considerations and Virtual Bundles
20:11 - Catalog Expansion vs. Profit Optimization Through Bundling
21:31 - Innovative Bundling: Cross-Brand Collaborations
23:47 - Trends in Logistics and the Role of Direct Carrier Relationships
26:52 - Tyler Allgaier Future Plans and Final Thoughts
Related Post: How to Leverage Amazon A+ Content for Brand Building
How to Reach Tyler:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tylerallgaier
Website: pittedlabs.com | pittedlogistics.com
Scott’s Links:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Learn legal strategies to minimize tariffs with Burak Yolga, CEO and co-founder of Forceget.
Discover the importance of understanding HTS codes and how they impact global shipping costs. Burak shares creative, legal methods like product disassembly and reassembly that businesses use to mitigate the financial burden of import tariffs. Drawing from his recent visit to China, Burak provides firsthand observations on the evolution of China's manufacturing and export strategies, offering a fresh perspective on global sourcing.Explore the shifting landscape of global sourcing as businesses look beyond China to countries like Vietnam, India, and Turkey, and understand the inherent risks and challenges in international supply chains, including the crucial need for verifying suppliers' country of origin claims.Burak delves into the current impact of tariffs on shipping container volumes from China, the strategic use of bonded warehouses, and makes predictions on how persistent tariffs will affect product pricing and consumer markets.Learn how Forceget is assisting businesses with global shipping and marketplace entries, and gain actionable advice on navigating these turbulent times without panic.
Episode Notes:
00:30 - Burak Yolga Introduction
01:30 - Background and Global Trade Insights
03:28 - Understanding Tariffs and HTS Codes
05:15 - Strategies to Minimize Tariffs
07:29 - Risks and Challenges in International Supply Chain
09:10 - Shifts in Global Sourcing
12:33 - The Unfair Competition
14:15 - Balancing the Playing Field
18:35 - Impact on Shipping and Consumer Markets
23:00 - Market Responses and Predictions
Related Post: How to Leverage Amazon A+ Content for Brand Building
How to Reach Burak:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/burakyolga1 | linkedin.com/company/forceget/
Scott’s Links:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Discover the challenges large brands face on the Amazon marketplace and how to navigate this complex landscape with Scott and Aaron Conant, Co-Founder & Chief Digital Strategist at BWG Connect.
Aaron shares his journey from corporate executive to building BWG Connect, a key platform for networking and sharing knowledge. Learn how peer-to-peer learning is crucial for overcoming operational hurdles, finding trusted service providers, and adapting traditional business models for Amazon.
This episode tackles critical issues affecting brand profitability on Amazon, including rising costs, tariffs, and the growing impact of retail media networks. Aaron also offers insights on how AI tools can boost profitability and explores the debate around Amazon's role as a sales channel versus a marketing powerhouse.
Episode Notes:
02:22 - Aaron Conant Introduction
01:10 - The Genesis of BWG Connect
03:09 - The Dynamics of Networking and Knowledge Sharing
05:43 - Challenges Faced by Large Brands on Amazon
08:51 - The Role of Retail Media and Advertising Technology
17:02 - Navigating Profitability and Unit Economics
21:39 - The Impact of PE and VC Money on Tech Industry
22:11 - BWG Connect as a Resource for Brands and Agencies
Related Post: Why Amazon Vendors Feel Ignored and What They Can Do About It
How to Reach Aaron:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aaronconant
Email: aaron@bwgconnect.com
Scott’s Links:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Jon Derkits, a former Amazon marketplace leader and now independent brand owner, shares his expert insights for Amazon entrepreneurs.
He draws from his experience creating the "Best at Amazon" newsletter and his finance background to discuss Amazon Selling Strategies, Collaboration on Amazon, Impact of U.S.-China Tariffs, Essential Amazon Seller Tools, Balancing Content and Engagement, and Financial Acumen in E-commerce.
Ready to level up your Amazon game? Tune in and gain the insights you need to thrive in this competitive Amazon marketplace!
Episode Notes:
00:17 - Jon Derkits Introduction
02:06 - Jon Derkits Background
05:02 - Role of Finance in Amazon Business Strategy
06:14 - The Newsletter: Best at Amazon
11:27 - Navigating the Amazon News Cycle
13:05 - Tariffs and Their Impact on Amazon Sellers
17:33 - Anker Price Increase
19:46 - The Concept of One-Way Doors in Business Decisions
22:12 - Decision-making Frameworks
22:56 - Tech Stack and Tools for Amazon Sellers
25:05 - Combining SmartScout with Keepa
29:10 - The Simplicity and Power of SmartScout Data
32:38 - Jon Derkits’ Favorite SmartScout Features
39:35 - Two Best Tips From Jon
Related Posts: Why Amazon Vendors Feel Ignored and What They Can Do About It
How to Reach Jon:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jon-derkits
Websites: auxoecommerce.com | tidycal.com/jonderkits/quick-chat
BEST@AMAZON NEWSLETTER: https://bestatamazon.ck.page/
AMAZON COACHING & ADVISORY: https://tidycal.com/jonderkits/amazon-coaching-and-advisory
Scott’s Links:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
The e-commerce landscape is experiencing seismic shifts as new tariffs against China send shockwaves through Amazon's marketplace.
Scott explores how these economic tremors are disrupting the delicate balance of global online retail—potentially the most significant supply chain disruption since COVID. Through exclusive insights from a conversation with one of the largest Chinese sellers in the world, Scott uncovers why businesses importing from China are facing unexpected cash crunches and how these tariffs might reshape the competitive landscape for sellers worldwide.
But tariffs are only half the story. Scott pulls back the curtain on the controversial tactics Chinese sellers use to dominate Amazon, controlling approximately 50% of third-party revenue on the platform. You'll discover the inner workings of tools like the Ziniao browser—software specifically designed to help sellers create multiple Amazon accounts against platform policies—and why some sellers can operate "10 stores selling one product" while others face immediate suspension for similar behavior. This rule-breaking reality explains why 75% of Amazon sellers believe the marketplace isn't fair.
As billionaires like Mark Cuban and Chamath share data showing Chinese sellers capturing up to 60% market share in certain Amazon categories, Scott examines what this new e-commerce reality means for businesses, consumers, and the global economy.
Episode Notes:
00:23 - Dinner with a Top Chinese Seller & Introduction to China Topic
01:13 - China’s Amazon Seller Landscape & Entrepreneurial Drive
02:30 - Energy & Business Culture in China
04:47 - Chinese Sellers' Approach to Amazon’s Rules
05:40 - The Ziniao Browser Tool
09:00 - Widespread Multi-Account Strategy & Aggressive Tactics
10:17 - Amazon’s Evolving Policies & Fairness Concerns
11:52 - New Tariffs on Chinese Goods & Impacts on Sellers
13:39 - Preparing for a Cash Crunch
15:05 - The Role of Chinese Sellers and the Political Spotlight
15:30 - Building Influence Through Data
17:58 - Immediate Reactions from Brands
18:48 -Bias and Hopes for U.S.-Based Sellers
Related Post: Break the Profit Squeeze: How Leading Amazon Sellers Use Growth Capital To Beat Their Competition
Links:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: @smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Tuesday Apr 01, 2025
Scott brings you the latest from Prosper 2025, revealing the innovations that will empower you to succeed on Amazon.
Discover cutting-edge tech for listing optimization, TikTok marketing, and private label repricing, and how other AI and emerging tools are reshaping e-commerce.
Episode Notes:
00:23- New Tech for Selling on Amazon in 2025
01:35 - Autopilot Brand
03:00 - Automato AI
05:12 - The TikTok Influence
08:06 - Tools and Agencies Aiding TikTok Marketing Efforts
10:05 - Pricing Innovations
11:15 - Variations and Optimization
14:27 - Prosper Show Reflections
16:25 - Conferences Comparison
Related Post: The Ultimate Amazon Repricing Strategies: AI-Powered Price Optimization
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Tuesday Mar 25, 2025
Ever wondered what it's like to sell on Amazon? Here’s the best damn industry report for you.
The Voice of the Amazon Seller unveils insights from over 300 Amazon sellers, revealing the challenges and triumphs of navigating this vast marketplace.
Scott discusses everything from competition pressures and fee structures to the impact of international sellers and the fairness of Amazon's platform.
Episode Notes:
02:05 - Survey Overview
02:25 - Seller Demographics
02:55 - Amazon as Main Business
03:14 - Income statistics
03:46 - Challenges of Selling on Amazon
04:54 - Seller Suspension Concerns
07:36 - Perceptions of Fairness in Amazon Marketplace
10:05 - Impact of Amazon's AI Efforts
11:46 - Recommendation to Others
13:59 - Seller Support Satisfaction
16:31 - Business Growth and Profitability
Voice of the Amazon Seller Survey
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Is Amazon neglecting its sellers?
Scott tackles this question head-on, brings you exclusive insights from Amazon employees and industry experts, and delves into the challenges sellers face, from navigating 1P and 3P complexities to dealing with account suspensions.
Learn the truth behind the trend urging brands to switch selling models and how nuanced decisions based on product categories can make all the difference.
Scott also unveils Amazon's new reseller support initiatives and strategic account services designed to empower your business.
Episode Notes:
00:09 - Amazon's commitment to sellers
01:05 - Understanding 1P vs 3P
02:30 - Nuances of 1P and 3P models
05:35 - Strategic Account Services at Amazon
06:55 - New Initiatives for Resellers at Amazon
07:50 - Importance of Compliance and Advocacy
09:11 - Amazon’s Internal Complexity
Related Post: The Top 10 Amazon Sellers in the U.S. Marketplace
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Tuesday Mar 11, 2025
Join Scott as he unpacks the remarkable growth of Tiege Hanley with founder Kelly Thornton.
From initial struggles to becoming a powerhouse in men's skincare, Kelly shares invaluable insights into building a consumer brand on Amazon.
Learn how Tiege Hanley leveraged YouTube for content-driven growth, simplified its product offerings, and mastered omnichannel expansion, including significant penetration into European markets.
They delve into the challenges of scaling internationally, navigating digital marketing shifts, and maintaining brand integrity across platforms. Kelly also shares his perspective on the future of brand building, emphasizing long-term vision over short-term gains.
Episode Notes:
00:15 - Kelley Thornton Introduction
01:44 - Building a Scalable Brand
04:00 - The Genesis of Tiege Hanley
05:14 - Overcoming Early Challenges
07:23 - Content-Led Approach
11:00 - Content Creation Strategy
12:25 - Navigating Digital Marketing Challenges
14:10 - Amazon as a Sales Channel
18:27 - Overcoming Business Plateaus
21:57 - International Market Expansion
23:01 - Surviving the Aggregator Wave
27:00 - The Importance of Early Amazon Presence
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kelleythornton-ceo-tiege-hanley
Website: www.tiege.com
Related Post: How To Find Amazon Sellers as an Agency Using SmartScout
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Tuesday Mar 04, 2025
Are you unintentionally sabotaging your Amazon profits?
Dive into this week's episode and learn about the hidden "dead zones" in Amazon pricing, particularly within high-volume categories such as Grocery, Beauty, and Clothing.
Scott reveals why pricing products between $10-$12 is a critical mistake due to Amazon's intricate FBA fee structures. Learn how these "dead zones" can significantly impact your bottom line and discover strategic pricing adjustments to maximize your margins.
Beyond pricing, Scott also breaks down the latest annual changes to Amazon's Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) fees, a crucial factor for any seller looking to maintain profitability. Understand how these fee adjustments directly affect your operational costs and how to adapt your business strategy accordingly.
Plus, Scot analyzes new data on Buy Box wins, revealing that nearly 40% of products now see multiple sellers sharing this coveted spot. Discover the key factors, including shipping speed and price competitiveness, that influence Buy Box rotation.
Finally, get exclusive insights into Amazon's global revenue breakdown, with a deep dive into the US market's dominance, offering strategic opportunities for expansion.
Episode Notes:
00:10 - Overview of dead zones in Amazon pricing
01:36 - Impact of Amazon FBA Fees
02:30 - Dead Zone Pricing Insights
04:38 - Importance of FBA Fee Structures
06:38 - Multi-Seller Buy Box Dynamics
08:41 - International Amazon Market Insights
Related Post: Amazon FBA Fees Have Increased 50-200%—Here’s How It’s Changed Over the Years
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scott-needham-a8b39813
X: @itsScottNeedham
Instagram: @smartestseller
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@smartestamazonseller2371
Newsletter: https://www.smartscout.com/newsletter-sign-up
Blog: https://www.smartscout.com/blog