How to Find the Best Items to Sell on Amazon in 2025?

Learning how to find items to sell on Amazon is the first step toward building a successful e-commerce business. From identifying trending products to sourcing cost-effective inventory, choosing the right items can maximize your profits.

In this guide, we’ll explore proven strategies and tools to help you discover winning products.

Understanding the Amazon Marketplace

The Amazon Marketplace is a vast platform where third-party sellers reach millions of customers globally. To succeed, it’s crucial to understand how it operates and to know how to find items to sell on Amazon effectively.

Sellers can choose:

• Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA): Where Amazon handles storage, shipping, and customer service.
• Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM): Where you manage logistics. 

Each method has its advantages depending on your business model.

Amazon’s categories range from electronics to handmade goods, providing opportunities to cater to various customer needs. Exploring these categories can help you identify how to find items to sell on Amazon by targeting profitable niches and trends.

Analyzing the Best Seller Rank (BSR) and Movers & Shakers lists offers insights into high-demand, trending products. This knowledge helps align your offerings with market demands and customer preferences, ensuring you maximize your marketplace potential.

Characteristics of a Good Product to Sell

Choosing the right product is essential for success on Amazon. To maximise profitability and reduce risks, consider these key characteristics:

• High demand, low competition:
  
  • Research niche markets and trending categories to find products with strong demand but fewer competitors.
  • Avoid oversaturated markets dominated by established sellers.
• Lightweight and compact:
  
  • Prioritise products under 2 pounds to minimise storage and shipping costs.
  • Smaller items are easier to manage within Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA) and often offer better profit margins.
  • Avoid fragile or complex products to reduce return rates.
• Profitable pricing structure:
  
  • Source products at a cost that allows for at least a 30% profit margin after Amazon fees, shipping, and marketing expenses.
  • Factor in additional costs such as branding, packaging, and potential discounts.
• Compliance with Amazon’s policies:
  
  • Ensure the product is not restricted or part of a gated category unless you’re prepared to meet Amazon’s additional requirements.
  • Review Amazon’s guidelines regularly to stay compliant and avoid penalties.

By conducting thorough research and following a clear strategy, you can select products that are both viable and competitive in the Amazon marketplace.

Also read: Best Selling Items On Amazon: A Guide for Sellers

Methods to Find Items to Sell

Discovering the right items to sell on Amazon requires a mix of research, strategy, and tools. Here are several methods to help you find profitable products:

• Explore Amazon’s Best Seller Lists: These lists showcase top-performing products across categories and provide insights into high-demand items.
• Check the Movers & Shakers Section: This section highlights trending products, helping you spot emerging opportunities.
• Use Product Research Tools: Tools like Jungle Scout, Helium 10, or AMZScout analyze sales volume, competition, and profit margins to identify winning products.
• Conduct Competitor Analysis: Observe successful sellers in your niche, analyze their offerings, and identify gaps or opportunities for improvement.
• Try Retail and Online Arbitrage: Hunt for discounted items at local stores or platforms like eBay, then resell them on Amazon for profit.
• Consider Private Labeling: Source products from manufacturers, customize them and sell them under your brand.
• Track Trends and Niche Markets: Use Google Trends and monitor social media to discover emerging product trends.

By combining these methods, you can find items that align with market demand and your business goals.

You might also be interested in: Top 4 best selling categories on Amazon South Africa

Sourcing Products Effectively

Sourcing products effectively is crucial for building a profitable Amazon business. Follow these steps to ensure you find reliable suppliers and maintain healthy profit margins:

1. Choose between domestic or international suppliers
   
   • Domestic suppliers offer faster shipping and better quality control.
   • International suppliers (e.g., Alibaba, AliExpress) often provide lower production costs but may involve longer shipping times and import fees.
2. Find reliable sourcing platforms
   
   • Use Alibaba, Faire, and Etsy Wholesale to connect with suppliers.
   • Explore trade shows or local wholesalers to discover unique products.
3. Build strong supplier relationships
   
   • Establish clear communication and trust to negotiate better deals.
   • A good relationship ensures consistent product quality and reliable delivery.
4. Negotiate pricing and shipping terms
   
   • Request bulk discounts, favourable shipping rates, and realistic delivery timelines.
   • Always clarify return policies and production lead times.
5. Test product quality before bulk orders
   
   • Order samples to evaluate quality, packaging, and durability.
   • Make sure the product meets your standards before placing a large order.
6. Calculate all costs for profitability
   
   • Factor in shipping, customs, and Amazon fees to determine your final profit margin.
   • Ensure your sourcing strategy supports long-term profitability and growth.

By following these steps, you can source high-quality products at competitive prices, setting a strong foundation for your Amazon business.

At fluid/sa, we help businesses streamline sourcing by connecting you with reliable suppliers and negotiating the best deals. Let us assist you in finding quality products and maximizing your profit margins.

Also read: Top 10 best selling categories on Amazon South Africa

Evaluating Product Profitability

Ensuring a product is profitable is key to long-term success on Amazon. Follow these steps to evaluate profitability effectively:

1. Calculate all costs
   
   • Factor in sourcing, shipping, packaging, and Amazon fees (e.g., referral and FBA fees).
   • Use tools like the Amazon FBA Revenue Calculator to get accurate cost estimates.
2. Analyse demand consistency
   
   • Focus on products with steady demand to maintain consistent sales and profits.
   • Avoid seasonal items unless they align with your business strategy.
3. Evaluate pricing competitiveness
   
   • Set a price that aligns with customer expectations and competitor pricing.
   • Offering value through better features, packaging, or bundles can improve conversions.
4. Monitor profitability regularly
   
   • Use tools like Jungle Scout or Helium 10 to track market trends, sales data, and product performance.
   • Adjust strategies based on data insights to maximise returns.

By regularly evaluating profitability, you can optimise your product selection and maintain a sustainable Amazon business.

At fluid/sa, we help businesses evaluate product profitability by analysing all costs and using the right tools to maximise your margins. Work with us in optimising your product selection for better sales and sustained profitability.

Also read: Best selling books on Amazon South Africa

Conclusion: How to Find Items to Sell on Amazon?

Mastering how to find items to sell on Amazon is the cornerstone of building a thriving online business. By researching trends, analyzing competition, and sourcing effectively, you can uncover profitable opportunities. Stay proactive, leverage tools, and refine your strategies to ensure long-term success in the dynamic Amazon marketplace.

Ready to start selling on Amazon? fluid/sa is here to guide you every step of the way with expert advice and tailored solutions for your e-commerce success. Contact us today and let’s help you grow your Amazon business!