Hi Sellers!

We asked for winning strategies in our Spring Sweepstakes, and you delivered! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these top tips from sellers like you can help you thrive this spring and beyond. Let's dive into the first 5 themes we saw throughout the event.

1. Master the FBA-FBM Balance

Many successful sellers utilize a strategic combination of Fulfillment by HAQM (FBA) and Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) options to optimize their operations. Understanding when to leverage each fulfillment method can be beneficial for sellers looking to maximize efficiency and profitability.

💬 Seller Insight: "Do not FBA everything. Wait to see what sells well via FBM and only FBA those items that sell well."

Key Takeaways:

• Consider testing new products with FBM, and moving best-sellers to FBA
• Consider maintaining flexibility with multiple fulfillment options
• Choose the best option based on your specific items and business needs

📚 Resources for you:

• Intro to FBA
• Intro to FBM
• Set up Buy with Prime

2. Plan Ahead for Seasonal Success

Smart seasonal planning can make or break your Q2 performance. Start early and think regionally.

💬 Seller Insights: "Spring happens in phases across the country. May want to adjust shipping templates accordingly depending on where you are."...."Lead Time Buffer: Ship spring‑critical SKUs early so stock lands by March. Safety Stock: Increase buffer to 45–60 days for top spring sellers."

Key Takeaways:

• Begin preparations 2-3 months in advance
• Account for regional climate differences
• Create a buffer for extended FBA receiving times (up to 6-8 weeks)

📚 Resources for you:

• Prime Day 2025 Readiness Playbook
• Overview of Manage All Inventory
• Drive Seasonal Sales

3. Boost Visibility with Strategic Marketing

Great products need great visibility. Optimize your listings and advertising for maximum impact.

💬 Seller Insight: "I've learned that even the best product won't sell if no one sees it. What I wish I knew early is how important ad strategy is."

Key Takeaways:

• Invest time in optimizing listings with strong images and keywords
• Use PPC (Pay-Per-Click) advertising strategically and monitor costs carefully
• Take advantage of promotional opportunities and focus on building brand presence

📚 Resources for you:

• Introduction to Ads
• Advertising with Goals in Mind
• Intro to Stores & A+ Content
• Amplify Sales in the HAQM Store (game)

4. Grow Smartly and Sustainably

Avoid overextending by starting small and scaling based on real data.

💬 Seller Insight: "As a newcomer, go slow, don't invest too much into the platform. Start with small MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity), see what sells, keep the flow going of that product."

Key Takeaways:

• Test products with minimal inventory at first
• Use sales data to guide expansion
• Learn from small mistakes to avoid big ones

📚 Resources for you:

• Sales Trend FAQ
• Business Reports - This link only works for Professional Sellers (upgrade to see all the data)
• Product Opportunity Explorer - Dashboard visible to only for Professional Sellers (another reason to upgrade 😉)
• HAQM Business (B2B)

5. Master Your Financials

Understanding and controlling your costs is crucial for long-term success.

💬 Seller Insights: "Know your numbers when it comes to running ads. Aim for TACOS (ad spend divided by revenue) of less than 10% as a rough rule of thumb."..."Watch your margins. It's easy to get excited by sales and forget about fees, shipping, returns, and ads. Keep a simple spreadsheet or system to make sure you're not losing money on what looks like a 'win.'"

Key Takeaways:

• Calculate all fees before listing (storage, advertising, shipping)
• Monitor and optimize advertising spend
• Regularly review and adjust pricing strategies

📚 Resources for you:

• Estimate Core Selling & FBA Fees
• Revenue Calculator
• Learn how product weights and dimensions impact fees
• Review Fees You’ve Paid

Your Turn to Shine! Which of these strategies resonates most with your business? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below or start a new discussion in the forums. Let's learn from each other and make this spring our best selling season yet!

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Spring Sweepstakes Recap, coming soon. Hit "Follow" on this discussion to get notified when it's live!