Getting started in eCommerce – How to Spend Just $100 for Max Impact!

Welcome to another episode! Today, we're diving into the complexities of Amazon FBA and US sales tax compliance with Jared Smithson of RJM Tax Exemption. Jared's team specializes in helping American, UK, and other international businesses navigate the ever-changing landscape of US sales tax. With over 5,000 businesses under their belt, they're the perfect guide to ensure your e-commerce brand scales smoothly without unnecessary tax burdens. [00:00:00] - "Need to File Sales Tax Returns"[00:04:55] - "Necessity of Paying Sales Tax"[00:06:04] - "Penalties for Not Paying Sales Tax"[00:13:10] - "Nexus for Non-Marketplace Platforms"[00:15:16] - "Using Resale Certificates with Wholesalers"[00:16:55] - "Corporate Structures and Sales Tax"[00:18:49] - "Mistakes by Established Sellers"[00:22:12] - "Acquiring a Business with Tax Liabilities"[00:23:33] - "Sales Tax for Non-Marketplace Platforms"[00:27:13] - "Managing Sales Tax for New Platforms"[00:30:08] - "Need to File Sales Tax Returns"[00:31:45] - "Special Offer for Listeners"[00:33:33] - "Closing Thoughts" What is Sales Tax and Why Does it Matter for Amazon Sellers? Let's break it down. Sales tax, essentially the US version of VAT, is a tax levied on the sale of specific goods and services. The rate varies significantly by state, county, and even city, with over 11,000 jurisdictions to keep track of! But here's the catch: even if you're based outside the US, you can still be liable for sales tax under a concept called "sales tax nexus." Simply put, nexus signifies a substantial connection with a state, which can be established through physical presence or exceeding economic thresholds. Failing to register for sales tax when required can lead to hefty penalties and back taxes. The Common Misconception and How to Avoid It Many sellers mistakenly assume Amazon collecting and remitting sales tax in certain states absolves them of all responsibility. While this may simplify things in some cases, it's crucial to remember that individual state regulations vary. Some states might exempt sellers solely on Amazon, while others consider economic thresholds or physical presence (like using an Amazon fulfillment center) as triggers for registration. Additionally, some states, like Washington and Texas, have unique legislation requiring registration even if you only sell on Amazon. Taking Action: How to Register for Sales Tax The good news: registering for sales tax is generally a straightforward process. Most states allow you to register online through their Department of Revenue website and obtain a sales tax certificate. This process typically takes 1-2 hours and requires your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Remember, many sellers overlook obtaining an EIN because Amazon allows them to operate without it. However, an EIN is crucial for tax compliance. Reseller Certificates and US Business Structures While this episode focuses on private label and custom product sellers, it's important to note that if you purchase inventory from US wholesalers, you can likely obtain a reseller certificate to avoid paying sales tax upfront. This certificate, based on your shipping address, allows wholesalers to recognize you're not the end consumer. Here's some good news for international sellers: you don't necessarily need a US LLC or Corporation to sell on Amazon USA. Your existing UK Ltd company can suffice, provided you obtain an EIN. Beyond the Basics: Considerations for Established Businesses For established businesses with significant sales volume, incorporating a US entity offers advantages. A US corporation allows you to open a US bank account, potentially securing better exchange rates and facilitating relationships with US suppliers. Common Mistakes Established Sellers Make (and How to Avoid Them) Established sellers often fall into the trap of expanding to multiple platforms like Shopify without considering the sales tax implications acros...

In the fast-paced world of Amazon-centric e-commerce, mastering the art of juggling time and finances is non-negotiable. This guide aims to assist small business owners in navigating the relentless demands of running an Amazon-based enterprise, emphasizing the critical role effective time and financial management plays in achieving scalable success. [00:00] - Time Management [05:40] - Cashflow Management [12:30] - Practical Tips for Success [17:30] - Utilizing Analytics and Data [20:50] - Psychological strength Time Management: Your Most Precious Asset Time, once lost, can never be regained. In the e-commerce realm, where every minute counts, efficient time management is a game-changer. Start by setting a schedule, understanding the pitfalls of multitasking, and embracing the power of focus. Learn the art of delegation and outsourcing to free up crucial hours, and don’t underestimate the importance of balance and rest to stave off burnout. Mastering SMART Goals and Prioritization Techniques To optimize time management, set SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Implement prioritization techniques like the 50/1 rule (identifying the 1% of tasks yielding 50% results) and the Eisenhower matrix for efficient task categorization. Explore time-blocking methods, reserving the first and last hours of your day for mission-critical activities. Embrace automation wisely, but avoid expecting last-minute rescues from tools. Cashflow Management: Navigating the Ebb and Flow Understanding and managing cash flow is the financial lifeline of any e-commerce venture. Dive into the strategies for effective cash flow management, including forecasting and inventory control. Maximize cash inflow by adjusting prices strategically—up for fast-selling items and down for slow movers. Implement proactive credit control to ensure timely payments from owed invoices. Minimize cash outflow through negotiation with suppliers and judicious use of credit. Surviving Lean Periods and Inventory Jedi Tricks Maintaining a cash reserve is paramount, especially for weathering slow sales periods. Uncover practical tips for managing inventory to boost profitability, steering clear of common pitfalls like trying to gain market share during Q4. Resist overspending on ads; instead, focus on maximizing profits. Learn the delicate dance of negotiating terms with suppliers and utilizing credit wisely. Practical Tips for Success: Analytics, Psychology, and Support Harnessing the Power of Data Dive into the world of analytics and data-driven decision-making. Leverage Amazon analytics and other tools to make informed choices and optimize business strategies. Discard reliance on intuition; instead, let data guide your actions. Avoid the temptation to average out exceptional weeks or months for sales projections—it's a common pitfall that can lead to costly mistakes. Strengthening Psychological Resilience Master stress management techniques to navigate the inevitable pressures of entrepreneurship. Discover the benefits of regular workouts, taking intentional breaks, prioritizing sleep, and injecting fun and connection into your routine. Recognize that a healthy mindset is a powerful asset in the world of e-commerce. Building a Robust Support Network Forge connections with fellow entrepreneurs and seek mentorship. Networking is not only about professional connections but also about building a personal support system. Lean on family and friends, as their encouragement and understanding can be invaluable during challenging times. Embrace the strength derived from building a community that understands the unique challenges of the e-commerce landscape. In conclusion, as an Amazon seller, mastering the delicate dance between time and financial pressures is a continuous learning process. By implementing the strategies outlined in this guide,

When it comes to social media traffic there are two types –  organic (or unpaid) traffic. Which takes time and energy – and then there is paid traffic, which you get by spending ad budget. In this episode we’ll explain how to optimize organic social media traffic. Why organic (unpaid) social media is a good place to start your traffic generating efforts. How to use Facebook most effectively for organic social engagement How Reddit and Quora can be used to generate organic social traffic The most effective way to use Instagram for organic social engagement Why Pinterest is frequently the powerhouse that gets very little time and attention – and how to correct that and profit. Tools you can use to make your social media efforts simpler. The Vayner Media (Gary Vee) content strategy that Jason learned from his interview with them for the Instagram Power book. Resources Mentioned: www.9mountains.com https://hootsuite.com Planoly Promo Republic Instagram Power Pinterest Power Youtube Marketing Power

Getting started as an e-commerce seller can feel intimidating in quite a few ways. One of the ways is the feeling that you have to spend a large budget just to get started. In today’s show our panel explores how you can use just $100 to get started in eCommerce. We explore physical product options, how to work with Kindle and physical books. We touch on marketing on and off Amazon. We also discuss how to approach influencers in an original way. We touch on how to approach a potential business mentor, and how you might put together your own peer group for peer-to-peer learning as well. What you’ll learn How to use Kindle books as cheap marketing tools How to approach an experienced potential e-commerce mentor Ways to influence multiple influencers for $100! The easiest way to get started in eCommerce for $100 Why checking product-market fit might be the best use of your budget! The hack for getting free marketing books to learn from When should you quit the day job and go full time with your own ecommerce business?

In our initial episode about Paid Social” we outlined 3 big goals. In today’s conversation we’re continuing the discussion about how to engage warm traffic with effective social media advertising. What you’ll learn A 2 Step Process for getting cold traffic very inexpensively, then retargeting them via (Facebook). Engagement goals and other non-sales goals for warm traffic. remarketing via (Google Adwords). How Live-Commerce Techniques and goals are transforming e-commerce businesses Forming direct sales strategies with social ads Resources Mentioned www.streamyard.com www.commentsold.com

In our initial episode about Paid Social” we outlined 3 big goals. In today’s conversation we’re going to give you “The Secret” and really unpack the 3 big ideas with tons of actionable tips and insights for each. What you’ll learn Who Paid Social Media Ads are ideal for The ideal sequence of when paid social media ads should be used A budget rule-of-thumb for paid social media advertising How long it takes to get results with paid social media ads A terrific Facebook Video Strategy that works really well in support of paid social ads. How Pinterest Promoted Pins factor into paid social media ads Ad Instagram Ad strategy that you can start with just a few dollars.

Entrepreneurship is not just about pursuing upside potential; it's also about managing risks effectively. When it comes to scaling e-commerce brands with minimal capital, having a robust supply chain strategy is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore the insights and expertise shared by Dayu Yang, founder of EcommOps, on how to master ecommerce supply chain strategy. With a focus on the target audience of e-commerce brand owners, we'll delve into the strategies and best practices that can help businesses thrive in a competitive market. Time Stamps 0:00:00 | Exploring Fast Fashion Strategies and Supply Chain Flexibility with Daiyu Yang of Ecom Ops 0:02:39 | Discussion on Risk Management and Maximizing Risk-Adjusted Upside in Entrepreneurship 0:04:40 | "Exploring the Benefits of a Profit Share Model for Risk Management and Agility in eCommerce" 0:07:04 | "The Benefits of Fast Fashion and the Risks of Private Label Manufacturing" 0:10:29 | Discussion on the Business Model of Shein and Its Impact on Traditional Retailers 0:11:49 | Exploring the Benefits of Fulfilling from China for E-Commerce Businesses 0:15:46 | "The Importance of Choosing the Right Shipping Lines for Ecommerce Fulfillment" 0:18:48 | "The Importance of Consistent Standards in the DTC World: A Discussion on Freight Shipping Mechanics" 0:20:35 | "The Benefits of Working with a Local Fulfillment Center in China" 0:24:19 | Heading: Bridging the Gap Between Western and Chinese Businesses Through Ecommerce Fulfillment 0:26:41 | "The Complexity of Efficient and Cost-Effective Fulfillment at Scale" 0:28:31 | Exploring the Benefits of Outsourcing Fulfillment and Supply Chain Management 0:29:59 | Exploring the Benefits of a Strategic Supply Chain Strategy 0:32:41 | Exploring Strategies for Sustainable Competitive Advantage in Business 0:34:07 | Conversation with Diode, Founder of Ecomm Ops: Exploring the Benefits of Building a Profitable Business 0:35:54 | Heading: Conversation with Fulfillment Expert on Minimum Order Requirements and Leveraging Chinese Strengths 0:38:28 | Interview with Daiyu Young of Ecom Ops: Exploring Strategies for Building a Successful Ecommerce Business Fast Fashion and the Power of Iteration One of the most successful case studies in the realm of supply chain strategy is the rise of fast fashion brands. Zara, for example, revolutionized the fashion industry by adopting a strategy that emphasized fast turnaround times and smaller batch sizes. By closely following trends, minimizing stockholding, and iterating their product offerings frequently, they became a force to be reckoned with. Today, brands like Shein have taken this model even further, achieving massive success by shipping directly from China and scaling rapidly based on demand. We'll explore how embracing smaller batch sizes and faster iteration can be advantageous for e-commerce brands seeking to stay ahead of the competition. Ensuring Consistency and Reliability in Shipping Reliable shipping is a vital aspect of any successful supply chain strategy. For e-commerce businesses, it's essential to choose shipping lines that offer consistent delivery times. We'll delve into some recommended shipping lines, such as Yunexpress, 4px, CNE, and UBI, which have proven to be reliable and recognized by Amazon. These partners, along with expert intermediaries like EcommOps, help manage customs clearance and ensure smooth operations throughout the shipping process. Efficiency and Communication in Fulfillment Efficient fulfillment is a critical component of a well-executed supply chain strategy. By optimizing communication and collaboration between Chinese factories and fulfillment centers, e-commerce brands can streamline operations and reduce turnaround times. We'll explore how ongoing communication plays a crucial role in overcoming capacity constraints, avoiding mistakes, and ensuring timely order fulfillment.

Spending money on advertising on the social media websites can be incredibly valuable. Or you can waste a ton of time and money. In this episode we’ll help you dial up the former, and avoid the latter. Let’s start with a short-list of the sites we’re talking about. What you’ll learn The 3 “Big Goals” of paid social media advertising. Techniques for achieving each of the 3 big goals. The 6 Stages of the Loyalty Ladder How to work with influencers to accelerate your goals.

In this blog post, we will explore the concept of Fulfilment FBM China and its benefits for e-commerce brand owners looking to scale their businesses with minimal capital. We'll delve into the insights shared by Dayu Yang, founder of EcommOps, and gain valuable knowledge on how to leverage Fulfilment FBM China effectively. Time Stamps 0:00:00 | Exploring Fulfillment Solutions for Amazon Sellers with Daiu Yang of Ecom Ops 0:02:26 | Conversation with [Name], Former Product Manager and Boston Consulting Group Consultant, on Repositioning Business Using the Boston Consulting Group Matrix 0:04:27 | Exploring the Benefits of Direct Fulfillment from China: A Conversation with [Name] 0:05:58 | Exploring the Benefits of China Fulfillment for Businesses 0:08:10 | Exploring the Benefits of Utilizing China Shipping for Amazon FBM Listings 0:10:17 | Exploring the Benefits of International Shipping for Western Amazon Sellers 0:12:13 | Exploring the Benefits of Long-Term Shipping for Western Brands 0:17:24 | The Benefits of Establishing a Strong Brand: Lower Risk and Working Capital 0:18:47 | Benefits of a Hybrid Supply Chain Model for FBA Sellers 0:21:00 | Discussion on Logistics Chain and Inventory Management 0:24:18 | Benefits of Fulfilling from China for US and EU Markets 0:25:53 | The Benefits of Shipping Parcels from China to the US and EU 0:29:56 | Conversation on Solving VAT Problems for Amazon Sellers in the EU 0:31:18 | Balance Sheet Management: A Simple Tool for Risk Reduction and Capital Allocation 0:33:05 | Exploring Cash Flow Strategies for Ecommerce Business Growth with Dia from EcomOps Dayu's Background and the Rise of Fulfilment FBM China Dayu Yang's journey began in the video game industry, where he learned the importance of acquiring users at a loss initially to maximize profits later. After obtaining an MBA and consulting in the retail and e-commerce sector, he started his own company, which was featured on Shark Tank. Dayu gained valuable experience in the end-to-end supply chain of e-commerce, specifically in dropshipping from China. Fulfilment FBM China emerged as a new approach, allowing businesses to ship products directly from China and retain control over the supply chain. Advantages of Fulfilment FBM China Why do brands choose Fulfilment FBM China? One primary reason is the significant time reduction in shipping products. While traditional freight can take months, Fulfilment FBM China allows for shipment in as little as three days. Additionally, the cost aspect is favorable, with end-to-end shipping costs, including CF air freight, customs, and last-mile postage, typically being comparable or even cheaper than alternative options. Competing with Chinese Sellers As an e-commerce brand owner, it's crucial to understand the competitive landscape when selling alongside Chinese sellers. While there may be challenges, Fulfilment FBM China provides an opportunity to compete effectively. By reducing inventory risk and planning for shorter lead times, businesses can maintain a healthy balance sheet. The ability to test additional markets without holding inventory in those regions offers a cost-effective way to expand internationally. Fulfilment FBM China for DTC Brands For brands with a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) focus, Fulfilment FBM China can serve as a backup when facing out-of-stock situations. While selling through FBM may result in a slight decrease in performance compared to FBA, it allows brands to continue generating sales and maintain visibility. Moreover, for Amazon sellers looking to venture into DTC, Fulfilment FBM China offers a smoother transition and ensures fulfillment continuity. Successful Case Studies and Unique Product Considerations Shein, a fast-fashion online player, stands as a prime example of a successful brand leveraging Fulfilment FBM China. With their direct shipping from China, they have achieved remarkable growth and surpassed competitors like Zara and H&M.

Paid search traffic is a terrific place to start your advertising efforts online. It flows logically out of your organic search efforts and can help you create a short-cut to success. People are looking for solutions and you have the opportunity to present your product as the solution. In this episode we dig into the value proposition of Google Adwords. In the 2nd episode in this conversation, we’ll focus on Amazon Advertising. You’ll learn Why search based marketing beats interruption based marketing, aka why Google Ads are better than social media ads. How Jason got a $40,000 a month Google Ad Grant Why use Google Text Ads Why use Google Retail / Shopping Ads The pros and cons of taking the DIY approach versus hiring someone to run your ads for you Why Google Shopping Actions create a powerful set of options. How Google is stepping into the E-commerce space Resources mentioned Google Shopping Actions