Key takeaways
- Compare plans by break-even volume.
- Check which features each plan includes.
- Review the plan as your volume changes.
- Confirm current fees for your marketplace.
The basic difference
Amazon generally offers two plan types. One charges a fee for each item sold with no monthly subscription, and the other charges a monthly subscription and no per-item fee, while also including additional features. The exact amounts and benefits differ by marketplace and can change, so check the current plan comparison in Seller Central.
Break-even volume
Find the monthly sales volume at which the subscription costs the same as the per-item fees. Below that volume the individual plan is cheaper on fees alone, and above it the professional plan is. Calculate it using the current fees for your marketplace and your expected volume.
Features beyond price
Some selling capabilities are available only on the professional plan, such as certain advertising tools, bulk listing tools, access to some categories and eligibility for particular promotions. If you need these, the cost comparison changes.
- Advertising and brand tools
- Bulk listing and reporting tools
- Access to restricted categories
- Eligibility for specific programs
Consider your growth
If you plan to scale, the professional plan will probably make sense soon. A seasonal seller might switch plans depending on the time of year, although switching has its own considerations. Review your plan when sales volumes change significantly.
Switching plans
You can usually change plans in account settings, but check how and when billing changes take effect, and whether any features or listings are affected. Do not assume instant, retroactive changes.
Hidden factors
Consider referral fees, which apply to both plans, and any categories with extra fees or requirements. The plan fee is one input in a larger profitability model.
Review regularly
Put a reminder in your calendar twice a year to compare your volume with the plan economics. A growing business can overpay or miss features by staying on the wrong plan out of habit.
A worked example
A new seller sells a small number of units in the first months and chooses the individual plan. As volumes grow and they want to run advertising and bulk upload tools, they calculate their break-even volume, find they have passed it and switch to the professional plan.
Common mistakes
Typical errors include choosing the lowest sticker price without calculating volume, ignoring features needed for growth and forgetting to review. Use a simple spreadsheet with your actual numbers.
Your next three steps
Make the plan decision with your own numbers.
- Calculate the monthly volume at which the plans cost the same.
- List the features you actually need for the next six months.
- Set a calendar reminder to review the plan twice a year.
Key terms
A few terms used above, in plain language.
- Subscription fee: a fixed monthly charge.
- Per-item fee: a charge each time an item sells.
- Break-even volume: the sales level where both plans cost the same.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch plans at any time?
Usually yes, but check how billing and features change.
Does the plan change referral fees?
Referral fees apply under both plans. The difference is typically the subscription versus per-item fee and the features available.
This guide is general information. Amazon's fees, policies and program rules change and vary by marketplace, so confirm current details in Seller Central and, for tax or legal questions, with a qualified adviser.