Amazon is the world’s largest online marketplace, but not every product can be listed freely. Some categories and brands require special approval before you can sell them. These are called restricted products on Amazon.
The restrictions exist to protect customers, prevent counterfeits, and ensure compliance with laws and safety standards. Sellers must understand how restricted products work, the approval process, and the risks of ignoring these rules. Knowing the difference between restricted categories and gated brands will help you plan your Amazon business the right way.
What Are Restricted Products on Amazon?
Restricted products are items that need Amazon’s approval before you can sell them. These can be entire categories, like grocery or jewelry, or specific brands, like LEGO or Adidas.
Amazon restricts certain products for several reasons:
- Safety: Items like medical devices or supplements must meet strict health regulations.
- Legal compliance: Some products, such as alcohol or pesticides, require government approval.
- Counterfeit risk: Popular brands are protected to prevent fake products from entering the marketplace.
- Liability: High-risk products, like automotive parts, carry legal and safety responsibilities.
It’s important to note the difference between restricted products vs gated categories. A restricted product is a specific item requiring approval. A gated category means the entire category is closed unless you meet approval requirements.
Amazon Restricted Categories
Amazon has several categories that are gated and need approval. Some examples include:
- Beauty and skincare products
- Grocery and gourmet foods
- Jewelry and watches
- Automotive and powersports
- Medical devices and equipment
- Fine art and collectibles
- Baby products (feeding, strollers, carriers)
- OTC medication and supplements
- Pet food and pet care products
- Sports collectibles and trading cards
Each category is gated for a reason. For example, grocery requires approval to ensure food safety. Jewelry needs authentication to prevent counterfeits. Medical devices must comply with health regulations.
Sub-categories also exist. For instance, the beauty category may allow general skincare but require approval for topical treatments.
Restricted Brands on Amazon
Amazon also restricts certain brands. These are usually global companies with high market value. The restrictions protect brand reputation and stop counterfeit goods.
Examples of Amazon gated brands include:
- Adidas
- LEGO
- Disney
- Samsung
- Chanel
- Hasbro
- RayBan
- Marvel
- Under Armour
- Victoria’s Secret
If you try to list one of these brands without approval, you’ll see a restriction notice. The brand approval process requires invoices, proof of authenticity, or letters from the manufacturer.
How to Check if a Product is Restricted on Amazon
Before buying inventory, always check whether the product is restricted.
Steps in Seller Central:
- Go to Inventory.
- Click Add a Product.
- Enter the product’s details.
- Look for Listing limitations apply.
- Click Request Approval if needed.
You can also use Amazon tools and third-party research platforms to check restrictions. Verifying before purchase helps avoid getting stuck with unsellable stock.
Amazon Restricted Products List (2026 Update)
Amazon updates its policies regularly. The latest restricted product categories for 2026 include:
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Pesticides and chemical products
- Dietary supplements
- Medical devices
- Hazardous materials (batteries, explosives)
- Currency and coins
- Offensive or controversial content
- Laser devices
- Surveillance equipment
Seasonal rules also apply. For example, selling toys in Q4 often requires extra approval to meet holiday selling requirements.
In 2026, Amazon is expected to tighten restrictions on supplements, electronics, and health-related products. Sellers should be ready with compliance documents.
Amazon Approval Requirements for Restricted Products
To sell restricted products, you must meet both seller and product requirements.
Seller requirements include:
- Professional Seller Account ($39.99/month)
- Order defect rate (ODR) below 1%
- Pre-fulfillment cancellation rate below 2.5%
- Late shipment rate below 4%
Product requirements include:
- Authentic invoices from suppliers
- Manufacturer letters or authenticity certificates
- Safety and compliance documents depending on the category
Amazon may also ask for certificates (FDA, CE, ISO) depending on the product type.
Amazon Ungating Process Explained
The process of getting approval to sell restricted products is called ungating.
Steps for ungating:
- Go to Inventory → Add a Product.
- Select the item and click Request Approval.
- Submit required documents (invoices, compliance certificates, supplier details).
- Wait for review.
If rejected, review the requirements and reapply. Common reasons for rejection include unclear invoices, mismatched supplier information, or fake documentation.
Restricted Product Approval Process
The approval process may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Best practices for faster approval:
- Submit clean, recent invoices (dated within 90 days).
- Use authorized suppliers and manufacturers.
- Keep your seller metrics strong.
Some sellers use Amazon ungating services. These services guide sellers through the approval process. While they can be helpful, they do not guarantee approval. Always check the credibility of the service provider.
How to Meet Requirements for Restricted Categories
To increase your chances of approval:
- Maintain strong seller performance metrics.
- Provide professional invoices from legitimate suppliers.
- Use authorized distributors instead of middlemen.
- Avoid counterfeit risks by sourcing directly from manufacturers.
Ungated vs Gated Categories: Which Is Better for Sellers?
Selling in ungated categories is easier, but competition is higher. Gated categories have stricter entry, meaning fewer sellers.
Pros of gated categories:
- Less competition
- Higher profit margins
- Stronger customer trust
Cons:
- More paperwork
- Higher upfront costs
- Longer approval time
New sellers often start with ungated categories and move to gated ones once they gain experience.
How to Avoid Restricted Products on Amazon
To avoid listing problems:
- Research categories before buying stock.
- Use tools like Helium10 or AMZScout to filter out restricted products.
- Start with ungated items if you’re new.
This approach reduces risk and prevents account suspensions.
How to Find Non-Restricted Products to Sell
Look for items that are ungated, profitable, and in demand.
Use product research tools to:
- Analyze sales demand
- Compare competition
- Check category approval status
Consider whether to use FBA or FBM. FBA can be easier for new sellers, but FBM may give you more control.
Compliance Documents Needed for Approval
Amazon often asks for documents such as:
- Invoices: Must be typed, dated within 90 days, and include supplier details.
- Certificates of authenticity: Issued by the brand or manufacturer.
- Safety certificates: Such as FDA, CE, or ISO depending on category.
Incomplete or fake documents will lead to rejection.
Amazon Seller Account Requirements
To sell restricted products, you must:
- Have a Professional Seller Account ($39.99/month)
- Maintain strong seller performance metrics
- Show a history of successful selling with low ODR and late shipment rates
Amazon requires these measures to ensure only reliable sellers access gated categories.
Common Mistakes Sellers Make with Restricted Products
- Trying to bypass the approval process
- Using fake or altered invoices
- Selling counterfeit or unauthorized items
- Not updating compliance documents when policies change
These mistakes can lead to account suspension.
Is It Worth Selling Restricted Products?
Yes, in many cases. Restricted products often have lower competition and higher profit margins. The barriers to entry keep many sellers away.
If you can meet the requirements, selling in gated categories can be very profitable. However, beginners should start with ungated products to gain experience.
Future of Restricted Products on Amazon (2026 Trends)
Amazon will continue tightening compliance rules. Categories like supplements, electronics, and medical devices are expected to face more restrictions.
Opportunities remain for sellers who prepare early with proper documentation. The key is to stay updated on Amazon’s policies.
FAQs on Restricted Products on Amazon
Items that need approval before being listed.
Use Seller Central → Add a Product → Check approval status.
Popular ones like LEGO, Adidas, Samsung, Disney, Chanel, and RayBan.
Submit invoices, certificates, and request approval through Seller Central.
Invoices must be typed, dated within 90 days, and from authorized suppliers.
Yes, only Professional accounts can apply.
Anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Yes, by fixing errors and reapplying.
Some beauty, pet, and grocery items.
Gated require approval, ungated are open.
Yes, but choose carefully as results aren’t guaranteed.
Yes, supplements and electronics are facing more rules.
Always check Amazon’s Seller Central first.
No, only from trusted suppliers.
Yes, but it’s better to start with ungated products first.
Conclusion
Restricted products on Amazon require extra effort, but the rewards can be significant. Sellers must understand gated categories, restricted brands, and the ungating process to succeed.
By maintaining strong performance metrics, submitting proper invoices, and staying compliant, you can unlock profitable opportunities with less competition. Prepare documentation early and always verify restrictions before purchasing inventory. Doing so will help you grow a safe, scalable, and profitable Amazon business.
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