Key takeaways
- Write your own requirements first.
- Demand a written scope and sample report.
- Access should be via user permissions, never passwords.
- Treat promises about Amazon outcomes as a red flag.
Start with your own requirements
Before speaking to agencies, write down what you need: which tasks, which marketplaces, which fulfillment models and what level of reporting. Decide which decisions you want to keep.
This stops the sales conversation steering you toward services you do not need.
Scope and deliverables
Ask for a written description of exactly what is included each month. Good scopes list tasks and reporting rather than vague outcomes. Ask what is out of scope and how extra work is quoted.
Check for overlaps if you already use other providers, for example a separate creative studio or advertising specialist.
Access and security
A reputable agency works through Seller Central user permissions with the minimum access needed and never asks for your password. Ask how they store data, who on their team has access and what happens to access when the relationship ends.
Reporting and communication
Ask to see a sample report with data removed. Check that it distinguishes revenue from profit, explains changes and lists actions. Clarify the cadence, the contact person and response time expectations.
Pricing models
Common models include fixed monthly fees, percentage of revenue, performance components or project fees. Each has trade-offs. Percentage models can reward revenue growth that does not improve profit, so consider how incentives align with your goals.
Whatever the model, insist on clarity about minimum terms, notice periods and what triggers additional fees.
References and red flags
Speak to current clients where possible. Be cautious about promises of rankings, sales or reinstatement, requests for shared passwords, refusal to put terms in writing and pressure to sign quickly. Verify any claims of partnership or certification directly with the issuing organization.
A practical scorecard
Turn your evaluation into a simple scorecard so decisions are not driven by the best presentation. Score each agency from one to five on scope clarity, security practices, reporting quality, communication, pricing transparency and relevant experience with your product type. Weight the criteria by what matters most to you.
Compare scores with a colleague who sat in on the same calls, then discuss differences. This reduces the influence of a charismatic salesperson.
- Written scope with exclusions
- Named contact and response times
- Sample report reviewed
- Security and access approach confirmed
- Notice period and fees understood
Run a short paid pilot where possible
If the relationship will be long, consider a defined pilot on part of the catalog or one task area. Set success measures in advance and review honestly at the end. A pilot reveals communication habits and quality of work in a way proposals cannot.
Your next three steps
Before you sign anything, put the evaluation on paper.
- Write your requirements and the decisions you will keep in-house.
- Score each agency on the same six criteria and compare notes with a colleague.
- Ask for a sample report and a written scope, then run a short pilot.
Frequently asked questions
Should I hire the cheapest agency?
Price matters, but scope clarity, reporting and security matter more. Compare like for like.
How long should a trial last?
Long enough to see the full reporting cycle, commonly a few months, with clear review points.
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.