Are you thinking about starting an Amazon FBA wholesale business but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone! Many beginners are drawn to Amazon FBA wholesale because it offers scalability, passive income potential, and the ability to tap into existing brand demand. But jumping in without the right knowledge can cost you time, money, and motivation.
This guide covers everything you need to know before working with wholesale distributors and launching your Amazon FBA wholesale journey.
✅ What Is Amazon FBA Wholesale?
Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) is a business model where Amazon stores, packs, and ships your products to customers. In the wholesale model, you buy branded products in bulk from authorized distributors or manufacturers at discounted prices, then resell them on Amazon for a profit.
Unlike private label or dropshipping, you don’t create new products—you sell existing brands that people already trust.
🧠 Why Choose Wholesale Over Other Models?
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Faster Start – No need to develop a product or brand.
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Trusted Products – You’re selling well-known brands with proven demand.
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Scalability – Easier to order more inventory as your sales grow.
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Lower Risk – You’re not gambling on untested products.
🛍️ Who Are Wholesale Distributors?
Wholesale distributors are companies that buy products from manufacturers and sell them in bulk to retailers like you. To sell brand-name items on Amazon legally and safely, you need to partner with authorized distributors who can provide invoices that meet Amazon’s standards.
🧾 Why Invoices Matter
Amazon often asks for invoices to verify authenticity, especially if you’re selling branded products. If you can’t provide legitimate invoices from a recognized wholesale distributor, you risk:
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Account suspension
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Product listing removal
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Loss of funds
Never buy from random liquidation websites or unknown sources—always go for legit wholesalers!
🔍 How to Find Reputable Wholesale Distributors
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Start with the Brand – Contact brands directly and ask for a list of their authorized distributors.
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Attend Trade Shows – Like ASD Market Week, Toy Fair, or The National Hardware Show.
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Use Wholesale Directories – Such as:
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wholesalecentraldirectory
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Worldwide Brands
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SaleHoo
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Check Industry Forums & Facebook Groups – Many successful sellers share their experiences and sources.
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Google Smartly – Use advanced searches like:
📦 What to Ask a Distributor Before Partnering
Before buying anything, ask the following:
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Are you an authorized distributor for [Brand Name]?
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Do you provide invoices suitable for Amazon?
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What are your minimum order quantities (MOQs)?
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Do you have a catalog or price list?
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What’s your shipping time and cost?
💡 Pro Tips for Beginners
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Create a Business Entity – Most distributors only work with registered businesses.
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Get a Reseller’s Permit – Required for tax-exempt purchasing.
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Open a Business Bank Account – Helps keep finances clean and professional.
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Start Small – Test with low-MOQ items to avoid overcommitting.
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Analyze Competition – Use tools like Keepa, Jungle Scout, or Helium 10 to check product demand and profit margins.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Buying from unauthorized suppliers (e.g., eBay, Alibaba)
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Not checking product sales history or demand
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Overpaying due to lack of negotiation
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Ignoring Amazon’s selling policies
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Scaling too fast without proper cash flow management
📈 Final Thoughts
Amazon FBA wholesale is a fantastic way to build a sustainable, scalable online business—but only if you start with the right knowledge and suppliers. Take your time, build relationships with reputable distributors, and always keep Amazon’s policies top of mind.
By avoiding shortcuts and focusing on real business-building strategies, you’ll be ahead of 90% of beginners.
Want Help Finding Verified Distributors?
Drop a comment or reach out—I’d be happy to share some vetted wholesale sources or help you build a shortlist.