Question 1

How much does it cost? Are there upfront/listing fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes — there are two kinds of cost. Upfront: a one-time listing fee of $5–$10 per product page (the first 5 listings are free) to create and optimize each listing — it varies by SKU count and data quality. Ongoing: a selling commission per sale (typically 15% on Amazon & eBay, 12% on Etsy, iShip 9% — lower for repeat orders). Other costs depend on your setup: packing from $4 per item, optional insurance, FBA storage, and marketing if you advertise.

Question 2

What happens in case of returns?

Accepted Answer

Returned items can either come back to Lebanon or stay in the USA for future resale to new clients. Returning an item to Lebanon costs $12 per kg plus 30% for taxes and paperwork.

Question 3

What about packaging and packing?

Accepted Answer

Packaging fees depend on the order size and weight, starting at $4 per box. The cost also varies based on whether normal boxes are enough or if extra bubble wrapping is needed.

Question 4

Can paintings and frames be shipped internationally?

Accepted Answer

Shipping paintings internationally is complex due to fragility and size. They typically need super-protective packing, and the only viable method is rolling them into a tube — so it's important the painting can be rolled without damage.

Question 5

What are the compliance requirements for exporting cosmetics or foodstuff?

Accepted Answer

Several considerations apply. Packing: liquids need secure packing to prevent leakage. US regulations: research whether the product can be sold in the US market and ensure compliance. Labeling: understand US labeling rules, including FDA approvals and safety instructions.

Question 6

Do I need to pay for marketing?

Accepted Answer

Amazon recommends paid marketing to boost product visibility. Without it, products may appear at the bottom of search results and get less attention. Budgets can start as low as $100 per month.

Question 7

What information is required to create a product listing?

Accepted Answer

We need: item name, brand, reference number or barcode, description, condition (used / new / refurbished), price, weight, dimensions, and clean pictures from different angles.

Question 8

What are the benefits of selling through iShip?

Accepted Answer

Access to worldwide markets with millions of potential customers on Amazon, eBay and Etsy. We handle fulfillment, marketing and hassle-free shipping so you can focus on growing your business.

Question 9

How do I know if my products are suitable?

Accepted Answer

Almost any product can be sold as long as it's attractive, competitively priced and legal. We recommend browsing platforms like eBay to see what sells well in your niche.

Question 10

Can I sell branded or luxury items?

Accepted Answer

Yes — branded and luxury items are in demand. They must be genuine and accurately described to avoid issues with buyers.

Question 11

How are my products promoted and marketed?

Accepted Answer

We promote through sponsored campaigns on Amazon and eBay, targeting specific audiences and keywords to maximize visibility and sales.

Question 12

How is the safety of my products ensured during shipping?

Accepted Answer

We take great care to pack products safely and prevent transit damage, and we offer insurance options to cover the value of items in case of loss or damage.

Question 13

Can I track my sales and shipments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide regular updates and reporting — order status, shipping updates and sales performance.

Question 14

What are the payment terms for sellers?

Accepted Answer

Flexible options, including bi-monthly payments in USD. For larger amounts we can wire money directly to your bank account, with wire fees applicable.

Question 15

Can I sell digital products through iShip?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With our Merchant Gateway we collect your buyers' card payments (Visa, Mastercard) for your own website or shop and pay you out in USD — for digital products, services and packages as well as physical ones. The process is the same as for a physical product; the only difference is that there's no shipping. The fees are the same too: $75 one-time setup and 10% per sale.

Question 16

Do I need a registered company?

Accepted Answer

No. Individuals and freelancers can sell through us. What matters is the eligibility review: we check your trust, credibility, performance and history.

Question 17

What documents do you need to start?

Accepted Answer

Everyone goes through an eligibility review first. We ask for your name, email, phone and physical address; brand name, domain name and web page; social media links; a description of what you sell; a copy of your ID; how many years you've been active; your terms and conditions and refund policy; a sale contract (or a draft, or a previous contract or sale); and customer reviews. Your website must also clearly show who you are, your contact and support details, what each product or package includes, and your terms, refund policy, cancellations and returns.

Question 18

What are the fees to collect card payments?

Accepted Answer

$75 one-time setup, paid once your account is created. Then 10% per sale, all-in: the card company's fee is paid out of our 10%, nothing is added on top. Minimum fee: $5 per payout. Payouts in USD: cash, Whish or OMT, weekly or twice a month (a bank transfer for payouts above $2,000 when necessary). Example: on a $596 sale our 10% is $59.60 and you receive $536.40. These are the card-payment fees; selling on Amazon, eBay and Etsy has its own fees (above).

Selling & exporting, answered.

Card payments for your own website

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