Starting a wholesale business on Walmart can open doors to a massive customer base and enhance your brand’s visibility. Walmart is one of the largest retail giants, and partnering with them can give your products significant exposure. Let’s walk through the steps to get you started on Walmart’s wholesale marketplace.
Step 1: Choose the Right Program for Your Business
Walmart offers two main programs for wholesale sellers:
- Walmart Marketplace – This option allows third-party sellers to list products directly on Walmart’s website. You manage your listings, set prices, and fulfill orders yourself, which gives you more control.
- Drop Ship Vendor (DSV) Program – In this program, Walmart lists your products, but you handle shipping. DSV sellers must meet Walmart’s shipping and quality standards and fulfill orders within the agreed timeline.
Step 2: Apply to Become a Walmart Supplier
Before selling on Walmart, you need to become an approved supplier. Here’s how to go about it:
- Prepare Your Documents – Gather essential business information, like your tax ID, DUNS number, and bank account details. Walmart might ask for a business plan or proof of financial stability as well.
- Submit Your Application – Head over to Walmart’s Supplier Application Page, fill in the details, and submit. Walmart’s application process can be detailed, as they want to ensure quality and reliability from their suppliers.
Walmart will review your application, and if approved, they’ll reach out with the next steps.
Step 3: Understand Product Requirements
To maintain Walmart’s quality standards, you’ll need to meet specific product requirements:
- UPC Codes – Each product should have a unique Universal Product Code (UPC).
- Product Labeling – Walmart has specific guidelines on labeling and packaging. Ensure your products are well-labeled and packaged securely.
- Compliance and Safety – Your products must comply with all relevant safety regulations. This is especially important for categories like electronics and toys, where Walmart expects thorough testing and certification.
Step 4: Create Your Product Listings
Product listings are crucial to attract customers, so spend time making them appealing:
- High-Quality Images – Use professional photos that clearly showcase your product. Good visuals can make a significant difference in convincing customers.
- Compelling Descriptions – Write detailed descriptions that highlight key features and benefits. Incorporate relevant keywords naturally to help your products appear in Walmart search results.
Step 5: Optimize Pricing and Inventory
Wholesale often means lower prices per unit, but your profits come from volume. Here’s what to consider:
- Competitive Pricing – Research your competition to ensure your prices are competitive while maintaining a healthy margin.
- Inventory Management – Efficiently manage your stock to avoid running out or overstocking. Using automated systems for inventory tracking can help you stay organized.
Step 6: Handle Shipping and Customer Service
Great customer service can set you apart. Ensure you have:
- Reliable Shipping – Walmart has high expectations for timely delivery. Consider partnering with a third-party logistics provider if needed.
- Responsive Customer Service – Address customer inquiries quickly and professionally. Walmart values high customer service ratings and timely issue resolution.
Step 7: Use Walmart’s Advertising Tools
To boost your visibility, leverage Walmart’s advertising options:
- Sponsored Products – Promote your products on Walmart’s site to increase their visibility.
- Performance Ads – These ads appear on external sites and drive traffic to your Walmart listings.
Conclusion
Starting a wholesale business on Walmart requires preparation and a commitment to quality, but the rewards are worth it. With the right approach, you can tap into Walmart’s vast customer base and grow your business. Follow these steps, and soon, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful Walmart wholesale seller!