Selling on Walmart as a Non-Resident
Entering the world of e-commerce is an exciting venture, and selling on major platforms like Walmart can offer tremendous opportunities. But for non-residents looking to tap into Walmart’s vast market, the process can seem complex. Don't worry—this guide will break down everything you need to know about starting to sell on Walmart, even if you're not a U.S. resident. Plus, we’ll share how our services can support you in establishing your business smoothly.
Why sell on Walmart?
Walmart is a rapidly growing online marketplace, second only to Amazon in the U.S. It attracts millions of shoppers looking for a diverse range of products at competitive prices. Being part of this platform gives sellers a significant reach and access to an established customer base.
For non-U.S. residents, the opportunity to sell on Walmart means accessing a broader market and boosting sales globally. However, there are some essential requirements and steps that you need to understand before you can get started.
What are the requirements for non-residents?
Walmart is selective about who sells on its platform. It looks for reliable sellers with a history of success, great customer service, and unique or high-demand products. As a non-resident, there are additional requirements you'll need to meet to gain approval to sell on the platform.
1. Registered business entity in the U.S.
To sell on Walmart, you must have a legally registered business in the U.S. This is a crucial requirement that allows you to operate within the country's commercial regulations. You can register your business as an LLC (Limited Liability Company) or another suitable business entity. The registration process will involve choosing a unique business name, filing articles of organization, and obtaining necessary licenses.
2. US business tax ID (EIN)
Your business must also have a U.S. Employer Identification Number (EIN), which acts as a tax ID for your company. The EIN is needed for tax purposes and is required when setting up various business accounts, including opening a business bank account.
3. US business bank account
Walmart requires sellers to have a U.S. business bank account for the collection of funds from sales. As a non-resident, opening a U.S. business bank account may take extra steps, such as providing proper identification, business documentation, and proving that your company is registered and operating lawfully within the U.S.
4. DUNS number
D-U-N-S (Data Universal Numbering System) is a unique identifier for businesses, required by Walmart for verification purposes. You can apply for a DUNS number through Dun & Bradstreet, and it will be linked to your company profile and creditworthiness.
5. Compliance with Walmart's standards
Your business must adhere to Walmart’s guidelines and quality standards. This includes offering quality products, providing excellent customer service, offering competitive prices, and having reliable order fulfillment capabilities. You will need to show that your business has a track record of success on other e-commerce platforms, with consistent sales and positive customer reviews.
Steps to start selling on Walmart
If you meet the basic requirements, you're ready to begin the process of becoming a Walmart seller. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
1. Application process
The first step is to apply to become a Walmart seller. You will need to fill out an online application, providing details about your business, products, fulfillment methods, and more. Be sure to have all the required information ready, such as your business registration, EIN, U.S. bank account details, and product catalog. Walmart will review your application to ensure it meets its criteria.
2. Seller Agreement & onboarding
Once your application is approved, you will receive a Seller Agreement that outlines Walmart's policies and your responsibilities as a seller. You will need to agree to the terms and complete the onboarding process, which includes setting up your seller account, entering tax and banking information, and linking your business to Walmart’s system.
3. Set up your product listings
After completing the onboarding process, it's time to create and optimize your product listings. You’ll need to upload product details, descriptions, pricing, and high-quality images. Make sure your listings are accurate, attractive, and optimized for search to maximize visibility and sales.
4. Fulfillment & shipping strategy
Walmart requires sellers to have a reliable fulfillment and shipping strategy in place. You can either handle fulfillment yourself or use third-party fulfillment services. It’s crucial to offer fast and reliable shipping options to meet Walmart’s customer service standards.
5. Launch & promote your products
Once your product listings are live, you can start selling on Walmart. It’s a good idea to promote your products through various marketing channels to drive traffic and boost sales. Walmart also offers paid advertising options to help increase your product's visibility on the platform.
Overcoming challenges as a non-resident
For non-residents, some challenges may arise, particularly regarding setting up a U.S.-registered business, opening a bank account, and navigating tax requirements. These can be complex if you are not familiar with U.S. regulations. However, with the right assistance and resources, these steps can be managed effectively.
Final thoughts
Starting to sell on Walmart as a non-resident is a great opportunity to expand your business to a new and thriving market. While there are essential requirements and steps involved, with the right support and strategy, you can overcome these challenges and start tapping into Walmart's massive customer base. Let us help you every step of the way to ensure a smooth and successful journey into the world of Walmart e-commerce.
Feel free to reach out to SellerSail today for a consultation and let us help you launch your Walmart business with ease!
