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How much does it cost to start Amazon FBA Australia? A breakdown of fees

How much does it cost to start Amazon FBA Australia? A breakdown of fees

How much does it cost to start Amazon FBA Australia? A breakdown of fees

Amazon FBA Australia
Amazon FBA Australia
Amazon FBA Australia
TL;DR
  • Amazon seller fees start at $50/month, with referral fees ranging from 6%-15% per sale based on category.

  • Product sourcing costs vary by supplier, MOQ, and branding, with samples costing $20-$200 per product.

  • Shipping fees depend on air vs. sea freight, with added import duties (5%-10%) and 10% GST for orders over $1,000 AUD.

  • Amazon FBA fees start at $3-$10 per unit, plus $15-$40 per cubic meter for monthly storage and extra for long-term storage.

  • Amazon PPC ads cost $0.50-$2 per click, with sellers typically spending $300-$500 per month on marketing.

  • Total startup costs range from $3,000-$10,000 AUD, including sourcing, shipping, Amazon fees, and advertising.

Starting an Amazon FBA business in Australia can be a profitable venture, but understanding the costs involved is crucial before you dive in. While the exact amount depends on factors like your product selection, sourcing method, and marketing strategy, there are some standard fees every seller should consider. From Amazon's seller account fees to fulfillment and storage costs, along with product sourcing and shipping expenses, this guide will break down everything you need to know to budget for your FBA journey. Let’s take a closer look at the costs so you can plan and launch your business with confidence.

A breakdown of all costs of selling on Amazon

1. Amazon seller account fees

To sell on Amazon Australia, you need a seller account, which comes with two pricing options: Individual and Professional. The Individual plan is free but charges $0.99 per item sold, making it suitable for those testing the waters. The Professional plan, on the other hand, costs $49.95 AUD per month and is ideal for serious sellers who want access to advanced tools, bulk listing, and advertising options.

sell on Amazon Australia

Aside from the monthly subscription, Amazon also charges referral fees, which vary by category and typically range from 6% to 15% of the product's selling price.

Key costs to consider:

  • Professional seller plan: $49.95 AUD/month

  • Individual plan: $0.99 AUD per sale

  • Referral fees: 6%-15% depending on category

  • Additional costs: Potential fees for high-volume listings, refunds, and premium services

2. Product sourcing costs

Your product sourcing costs depend on your supplier, material quality, and order quantity. If you're sourcing from China via Alibaba or other manufacturers, expect costs to vary significantly based on product complexity, minimum order quantity (MOQ), and production quality.

For domestic suppliers in Australia, costs may be higher, but lead times are shorter, and you can avoid import duties. Wholesalers, private label manufacturers, and dropshipping are also sourcing options, each with different cost structures.

Key costs to consider:

  • Product cost per unit: Varies widely depending on supplier and quality

  • Minimum order quantity (MOQ): Higher MOQs lower unit costs but require more capital

  • Sampling fees: $20-$200 per product sample

  • Customization or branding: Private labeling adds extra costs but increases perceived value

3. Shipping and import fees

Once you've sourced your product, you need to ship it to Australia. The cost depends on shipping method (air vs. sea freight), weight, dimensions, and customs duties. Air freight is faster but expensive, while sea freight is more affordable for bulk shipments.

Australia has import duties and GST (Goods and Services Tax), which typically apply to orders over $1,000 AUD. Proper customs documentation is crucial to avoid delays and penalties.

Key costs to consider:

  • Shipping method: Air freight ($5-$15/kg) vs. sea freight ($500+ per cubic meter)

  • Import duties: Varies by product category (usually 5%-10%)

  • GST: 10% on orders above $1,000 AUD

  • Customs clearance fees: Can range from $50 to $200

4. Amazon FBA fulfillment fees

Amazon FBA takes care of storage, picking, packing, and shipping for your orders, but it comes at a cost. Fulfillment fees are based on product size and weight, starting from $3-$10 AUD per item.

Amazon FBA fulfillment fees

Additionally, monthly storage fees apply, ranging from $15-$40 per cubic meter, depending on the season. Long-term storage fees may also apply if inventory remains unsold for more than 365 days.

Key costs to consider:

  • Fulfillment fee per unit: $3-$10 AUD based on size and weight

  • Monthly storage fees: $15-$40 per cubic meter

  • Long-term storage fees: Extra charges for inventory stored over 12 months

  • Removal and disposal fees: If products don’t sell, removing them from FBA costs extra

5. Amazon storage fees

Amazon charges monthly storage fees based on the space your inventory takes up in their fulfillment centers. The cost varies depending on the time of year: standard rates apply from January to September, but peak season rates (October to December) are higher due to increased holiday demand.

If your products sit in storage for too long, long-term storage fees apply. Amazon charges extra for inventory that has been in their warehouse for more than 365 days, which can significantly eat into your profits.

Key costs to consider:

  • Monthly storage fees: ~$15-$40 per cubic meter

  • Peak season rates: Higher fees from October to December

  • Long-term storage fees: Extra charges for unsold stock over 12 months

  • Inventory removal fees: Costs to return or dispose of excess inventory

6. Packaging and labeling costs

Amazon has strict packaging and labeling requirements for FBA shipments. If your supplier doesn’t handle this, you’ll need to pay for custom packaging, barcode labeling, and protective materials.

Basic packaging includes boxes, poly bags, bubble wrap, and inserts. Branded packaging adds professionalism but increases costs. You can also use Amazon’s FBA Label Service if you don’t want to apply barcodes yourself.

Key costs to consider:

  • Standard packaging materials: ~$0.50-$2 per unit

  • Branded/custom packaging: Higher cost but improves customer experience

  • Amazon FBA Label Service: ~$0.30 per unit if Amazon handles labeling

  • Prep service fees: Extra costs if Amazon preps fragile items for you

7. Advertising and marketing expenses

Running ads on Amazon is almost a necessity to get visibility, especially for new sellers. The most common form of advertising is Amazon PPC (Pay-Per-Click), where you bid on keywords to appear in search results.

Advertising and marketing expenses

Marketing outside Amazon, such as social media ads, influencer collaborations, and email marketing, can also help drive traffic to your listings. However, ad costs vary based on competition and campaign effectiveness.

Key costs to consider:

  • Amazon PPC management: $0.50-$2 per click, depending on competition

  • Sponsored Products/Brands Ads: Budget varies, but many sellers start with ~$300-$500/month

  • External advertising: Google, Facebook, or Instagram ads can cost $5-$50 per day

  • Product giveaways & promotions: Costs for discounts, coupons, and influencer collaborations

8. Miscellaneous costs

Beyond the main costs, other expenses may come up when running an FBA business. These include business registration fees, software subscriptions, product photography, and legal compliance costs (such as insurance or certifications for certain products).

If you use inventory management tools, accounting software, or virtual assistants, these add to your operational costs. Also, unexpected issues like returns and refunds can lead to extra expenses.

Key costs to consider:

  • Business registration & legal fees: $50-$500 for setting up an ABN or Pty Ltd

  • Software tools: $30-$100 per month for product research, analytics, or automation

  • Amazon product photography: $100-$500 for professional images

  • Returns & refunds: Amazon may deduct shipping fees when processing refunds

Total estimated cost to start

The total cost to start an Amazon FBA business in Australia varies based on your product choice, supplier, and marketing strategy. However, a general estimate for beginners is $3,000 to $10,000 AUD.

This estimate includes Amazon fees, product sourcing, shipping, marketing, and miscellaneous expenses. If you start with a small inventory and minimal advertising, you can begin on the lower end. If you want a larger stock and aggressive marketing, expect higher initial costs.

Estimated cost breakdown:

  • Amazon seller fees: ~$50/month + 6%-15% referral fees

  • Product sourcing: ~$1,500-$5,000 (depending on MOQ and product type)

  • Shipping & import fees: ~$500-$2,000

  • FBA fulfillment & storage: ~$300-$1,000

  • Packaging & labeling: ~$200-$800

  • Advertising & marketing: ~$500-$2,000

  • Miscellaneous expenses: ~$300-$1,500

Final thoughts

Starting an Amazon FBA business in Australia isn’t cheap, but with the right strategy, it can be a profitable venture. Understanding your costs upfront helps you avoid surprises and maximize your ROI. If you’re unsure where to start or want to optimize your expenses, working with an Amazon consultant can save you time and money. A consultant can help you choose profitable products, manage logistics, and scale efficiently—so you can focus on growing your brand.

Ready to launch? Plan smart, spend wisely, and start selling!

TL;DR
  • Amazon seller fees start at $50/month, with referral fees ranging from 6%-15% per sale based on category.

  • Product sourcing costs vary by supplier, MOQ, and branding, with samples costing $20-$200 per product.

  • Shipping fees depend on air vs. sea freight, with added import duties (5%-10%) and 10% GST for orders over $1,000 AUD.

  • Amazon FBA fees start at $3-$10 per unit, plus $15-$40 per cubic meter for monthly storage and extra for long-term storage.

  • Amazon PPC ads cost $0.50-$2 per click, with sellers typically spending $300-$500 per month on marketing.

  • Total startup costs range from $3,000-$10,000 AUD, including sourcing, shipping, Amazon fees, and advertising.

Starting an Amazon FBA business in Australia can be a profitable venture, but understanding the costs involved is crucial before you dive in. While the exact amount depends on factors like your product selection, sourcing method, and marketing strategy, there are some standard fees every seller should consider. From Amazon's seller account fees to fulfillment and storage costs, along with product sourcing and shipping expenses, this guide will break down everything you need to know to budget for your FBA journey. Let’s take a closer look at the costs so you can plan and launch your business with confidence.

A breakdown of all costs of selling on Amazon

1. Amazon seller account fees

To sell on Amazon Australia, you need a seller account, which comes with two pricing options: Individual and Professional. The Individual plan is free but charges $0.99 per item sold, making it suitable for those testing the waters. The Professional plan, on the other hand, costs $49.95 AUD per month and is ideal for serious sellers who want access to advanced tools, bulk listing, and advertising options.

sell on Amazon Australia

Aside from the monthly subscription, Amazon also charges referral fees, which vary by category and typically range from 6% to 15% of the product's selling price.

Key costs to consider:

  • Professional seller plan: $49.95 AUD/month

  • Individual plan: $0.99 AUD per sale

  • Referral fees: 6%-15% depending on category

  • Additional costs: Potential fees for high-volume listings, refunds, and premium services

2. Product sourcing costs

Your product sourcing costs depend on your supplier, material quality, and order quantity. If you're sourcing from China via Alibaba or other manufacturers, expect costs to vary significantly based on product complexity, minimum order quantity (MOQ), and production quality.

For domestic suppliers in Australia, costs may be higher, but lead times are shorter, and you can avoid import duties. Wholesalers, private label manufacturers, and dropshipping are also sourcing options, each with different cost structures.

Key costs to consider:

  • Product cost per unit: Varies widely depending on supplier and quality

  • Minimum order quantity (MOQ): Higher MOQs lower unit costs but require more capital

  • Sampling fees: $20-$200 per product sample

  • Customization or branding: Private labeling adds extra costs but increases perceived value

3. Shipping and import fees

Once you've sourced your product, you need to ship it to Australia. The cost depends on shipping method (air vs. sea freight), weight, dimensions, and customs duties. Air freight is faster but expensive, while sea freight is more affordable for bulk shipments.

Australia has import duties and GST (Goods and Services Tax), which typically apply to orders over $1,000 AUD. Proper customs documentation is crucial to avoid delays and penalties.

Key costs to consider:

  • Shipping method: Air freight ($5-$15/kg) vs. sea freight ($500+ per cubic meter)

  • Import duties: Varies by product category (usually 5%-10%)

  • GST: 10% on orders above $1,000 AUD

  • Customs clearance fees: Can range from $50 to $200

4. Amazon FBA fulfillment fees

Amazon FBA takes care of storage, picking, packing, and shipping for your orders, but it comes at a cost. Fulfillment fees are based on product size and weight, starting from $3-$10 AUD per item.

Amazon FBA fulfillment fees

Additionally, monthly storage fees apply, ranging from $15-$40 per cubic meter, depending on the season. Long-term storage fees may also apply if inventory remains unsold for more than 365 days.

Key costs to consider:

  • Fulfillment fee per unit: $3-$10 AUD based on size and weight

  • Monthly storage fees: $15-$40 per cubic meter

  • Long-term storage fees: Extra charges for inventory stored over 12 months

  • Removal and disposal fees: If products don’t sell, removing them from FBA costs extra

5. Amazon storage fees

Amazon charges monthly storage fees based on the space your inventory takes up in their fulfillment centers. The cost varies depending on the time of year: standard rates apply from January to September, but peak season rates (October to December) are higher due to increased holiday demand.

If your products sit in storage for too long, long-term storage fees apply. Amazon charges extra for inventory that has been in their warehouse for more than 365 days, which can significantly eat into your profits.

Key costs to consider:

  • Monthly storage fees: ~$15-$40 per cubic meter

  • Peak season rates: Higher fees from October to December

  • Long-term storage fees: Extra charges for unsold stock over 12 months

  • Inventory removal fees: Costs to return or dispose of excess inventory

6. Packaging and labeling costs

Amazon has strict packaging and labeling requirements for FBA shipments. If your supplier doesn’t handle this, you’ll need to pay for custom packaging, barcode labeling, and protective materials.

Basic packaging includes boxes, poly bags, bubble wrap, and inserts. Branded packaging adds professionalism but increases costs. You can also use Amazon’s FBA Label Service if you don’t want to apply barcodes yourself.

Key costs to consider:

  • Standard packaging materials: ~$0.50-$2 per unit

  • Branded/custom packaging: Higher cost but improves customer experience

  • Amazon FBA Label Service: ~$0.30 per unit if Amazon handles labeling

  • Prep service fees: Extra costs if Amazon preps fragile items for you

7. Advertising and marketing expenses

Running ads on Amazon is almost a necessity to get visibility, especially for new sellers. The most common form of advertising is Amazon PPC (Pay-Per-Click), where you bid on keywords to appear in search results.

Advertising and marketing expenses

Marketing outside Amazon, such as social media ads, influencer collaborations, and email marketing, can also help drive traffic to your listings. However, ad costs vary based on competition and campaign effectiveness.

Key costs to consider:

  • Amazon PPC management: $0.50-$2 per click, depending on competition

  • Sponsored Products/Brands Ads: Budget varies, but many sellers start with ~$300-$500/month

  • External advertising: Google, Facebook, or Instagram ads can cost $5-$50 per day

  • Product giveaways & promotions: Costs for discounts, coupons, and influencer collaborations

8. Miscellaneous costs

Beyond the main costs, other expenses may come up when running an FBA business. These include business registration fees, software subscriptions, product photography, and legal compliance costs (such as insurance or certifications for certain products).

If you use inventory management tools, accounting software, or virtual assistants, these add to your operational costs. Also, unexpected issues like returns and refunds can lead to extra expenses.

Key costs to consider:

  • Business registration & legal fees: $50-$500 for setting up an ABN or Pty Ltd

  • Software tools: $30-$100 per month for product research, analytics, or automation

  • Amazon product photography: $100-$500 for professional images

  • Returns & refunds: Amazon may deduct shipping fees when processing refunds

Total estimated cost to start

The total cost to start an Amazon FBA business in Australia varies based on your product choice, supplier, and marketing strategy. However, a general estimate for beginners is $3,000 to $10,000 AUD.

This estimate includes Amazon fees, product sourcing, shipping, marketing, and miscellaneous expenses. If you start with a small inventory and minimal advertising, you can begin on the lower end. If you want a larger stock and aggressive marketing, expect higher initial costs.

Estimated cost breakdown:

  • Amazon seller fees: ~$50/month + 6%-15% referral fees

  • Product sourcing: ~$1,500-$5,000 (depending on MOQ and product type)

  • Shipping & import fees: ~$500-$2,000

  • FBA fulfillment & storage: ~$300-$1,000

  • Packaging & labeling: ~$200-$800

  • Advertising & marketing: ~$500-$2,000

  • Miscellaneous expenses: ~$300-$1,500

Final thoughts

Starting an Amazon FBA business in Australia isn’t cheap, but with the right strategy, it can be a profitable venture. Understanding your costs upfront helps you avoid surprises and maximize your ROI. If you’re unsure where to start or want to optimize your expenses, working with an Amazon consultant can save you time and money. A consultant can help you choose profitable products, manage logistics, and scale efficiently—so you can focus on growing your brand.

Ready to launch? Plan smart, spend wisely, and start selling!

TL;DR
  • Amazon seller fees start at $50/month, with referral fees ranging from 6%-15% per sale based on category.

  • Product sourcing costs vary by supplier, MOQ, and branding, with samples costing $20-$200 per product.

  • Shipping fees depend on air vs. sea freight, with added import duties (5%-10%) and 10% GST for orders over $1,000 AUD.

  • Amazon FBA fees start at $3-$10 per unit, plus $15-$40 per cubic meter for monthly storage and extra for long-term storage.

  • Amazon PPC ads cost $0.50-$2 per click, with sellers typically spending $300-$500 per month on marketing.

  • Total startup costs range from $3,000-$10,000 AUD, including sourcing, shipping, Amazon fees, and advertising.

Starting an Amazon FBA business in Australia can be a profitable venture, but understanding the costs involved is crucial before you dive in. While the exact amount depends on factors like your product selection, sourcing method, and marketing strategy, there are some standard fees every seller should consider. From Amazon's seller account fees to fulfillment and storage costs, along with product sourcing and shipping expenses, this guide will break down everything you need to know to budget for your FBA journey. Let’s take a closer look at the costs so you can plan and launch your business with confidence.

A breakdown of all costs of selling on Amazon

1. Amazon seller account fees

To sell on Amazon Australia, you need a seller account, which comes with two pricing options: Individual and Professional. The Individual plan is free but charges $0.99 per item sold, making it suitable for those testing the waters. The Professional plan, on the other hand, costs $49.95 AUD per month and is ideal for serious sellers who want access to advanced tools, bulk listing, and advertising options.

sell on Amazon Australia

Aside from the monthly subscription, Amazon also charges referral fees, which vary by category and typically range from 6% to 15% of the product's selling price.

Key costs to consider:

  • Professional seller plan: $49.95 AUD/month

  • Individual plan: $0.99 AUD per sale

  • Referral fees: 6%-15% depending on category

  • Additional costs: Potential fees for high-volume listings, refunds, and premium services

2. Product sourcing costs

Your product sourcing costs depend on your supplier, material quality, and order quantity. If you're sourcing from China via Alibaba or other manufacturers, expect costs to vary significantly based on product complexity, minimum order quantity (MOQ), and production quality.

For domestic suppliers in Australia, costs may be higher, but lead times are shorter, and you can avoid import duties. Wholesalers, private label manufacturers, and dropshipping are also sourcing options, each with different cost structures.

Key costs to consider:

  • Product cost per unit: Varies widely depending on supplier and quality

  • Minimum order quantity (MOQ): Higher MOQs lower unit costs but require more capital

  • Sampling fees: $20-$200 per product sample

  • Customization or branding: Private labeling adds extra costs but increases perceived value

3. Shipping and import fees

Once you've sourced your product, you need to ship it to Australia. The cost depends on shipping method (air vs. sea freight), weight, dimensions, and customs duties. Air freight is faster but expensive, while sea freight is more affordable for bulk shipments.

Australia has import duties and GST (Goods and Services Tax), which typically apply to orders over $1,000 AUD. Proper customs documentation is crucial to avoid delays and penalties.

Key costs to consider:

  • Shipping method: Air freight ($5-$15/kg) vs. sea freight ($500+ per cubic meter)

  • Import duties: Varies by product category (usually 5%-10%)

  • GST: 10% on orders above $1,000 AUD

  • Customs clearance fees: Can range from $50 to $200

4. Amazon FBA fulfillment fees

Amazon FBA takes care of storage, picking, packing, and shipping for your orders, but it comes at a cost. Fulfillment fees are based on product size and weight, starting from $3-$10 AUD per item.

Amazon FBA fulfillment fees

Additionally, monthly storage fees apply, ranging from $15-$40 per cubic meter, depending on the season. Long-term storage fees may also apply if inventory remains unsold for more than 365 days.

Key costs to consider:

  • Fulfillment fee per unit: $3-$10 AUD based on size and weight

  • Monthly storage fees: $15-$40 per cubic meter

  • Long-term storage fees: Extra charges for inventory stored over 12 months

  • Removal and disposal fees: If products don’t sell, removing them from FBA costs extra

5. Amazon storage fees

Amazon charges monthly storage fees based on the space your inventory takes up in their fulfillment centers. The cost varies depending on the time of year: standard rates apply from January to September, but peak season rates (October to December) are higher due to increased holiday demand.

If your products sit in storage for too long, long-term storage fees apply. Amazon charges extra for inventory that has been in their warehouse for more than 365 days, which can significantly eat into your profits.

Key costs to consider:

  • Monthly storage fees: ~$15-$40 per cubic meter

  • Peak season rates: Higher fees from October to December

  • Long-term storage fees: Extra charges for unsold stock over 12 months

  • Inventory removal fees: Costs to return or dispose of excess inventory

6. Packaging and labeling costs

Amazon has strict packaging and labeling requirements for FBA shipments. If your supplier doesn’t handle this, you’ll need to pay for custom packaging, barcode labeling, and protective materials.

Basic packaging includes boxes, poly bags, bubble wrap, and inserts. Branded packaging adds professionalism but increases costs. You can also use Amazon’s FBA Label Service if you don’t want to apply barcodes yourself.

Key costs to consider:

  • Standard packaging materials: ~$0.50-$2 per unit

  • Branded/custom packaging: Higher cost but improves customer experience

  • Amazon FBA Label Service: ~$0.30 per unit if Amazon handles labeling

  • Prep service fees: Extra costs if Amazon preps fragile items for you

7. Advertising and marketing expenses

Running ads on Amazon is almost a necessity to get visibility, especially for new sellers. The most common form of advertising is Amazon PPC (Pay-Per-Click), where you bid on keywords to appear in search results.

Advertising and marketing expenses

Marketing outside Amazon, such as social media ads, influencer collaborations, and email marketing, can also help drive traffic to your listings. However, ad costs vary based on competition and campaign effectiveness.

Key costs to consider:

  • Amazon PPC management: $0.50-$2 per click, depending on competition

  • Sponsored Products/Brands Ads: Budget varies, but many sellers start with ~$300-$500/month

  • External advertising: Google, Facebook, or Instagram ads can cost $5-$50 per day

  • Product giveaways & promotions: Costs for discounts, coupons, and influencer collaborations

8. Miscellaneous costs

Beyond the main costs, other expenses may come up when running an FBA business. These include business registration fees, software subscriptions, product photography, and legal compliance costs (such as insurance or certifications for certain products).

If you use inventory management tools, accounting software, or virtual assistants, these add to your operational costs. Also, unexpected issues like returns and refunds can lead to extra expenses.

Key costs to consider:

  • Business registration & legal fees: $50-$500 for setting up an ABN or Pty Ltd

  • Software tools: $30-$100 per month for product research, analytics, or automation

  • Amazon product photography: $100-$500 for professional images

  • Returns & refunds: Amazon may deduct shipping fees when processing refunds

Total estimated cost to start

The total cost to start an Amazon FBA business in Australia varies based on your product choice, supplier, and marketing strategy. However, a general estimate for beginners is $3,000 to $10,000 AUD.

This estimate includes Amazon fees, product sourcing, shipping, marketing, and miscellaneous expenses. If you start with a small inventory and minimal advertising, you can begin on the lower end. If you want a larger stock and aggressive marketing, expect higher initial costs.

Estimated cost breakdown:

  • Amazon seller fees: ~$50/month + 6%-15% referral fees

  • Product sourcing: ~$1,500-$5,000 (depending on MOQ and product type)

  • Shipping & import fees: ~$500-$2,000

  • FBA fulfillment & storage: ~$300-$1,000

  • Packaging & labeling: ~$200-$800

  • Advertising & marketing: ~$500-$2,000

  • Miscellaneous expenses: ~$300-$1,500

Final thoughts

Starting an Amazon FBA business in Australia isn’t cheap, but with the right strategy, it can be a profitable venture. Understanding your costs upfront helps you avoid surprises and maximize your ROI. If you’re unsure where to start or want to optimize your expenses, working with an Amazon consultant can save you time and money. A consultant can help you choose profitable products, manage logistics, and scale efficiently—so you can focus on growing your brand.

Ready to launch? Plan smart, spend wisely, and start selling!