How to Sell on Temu: A Seller's Guide

Temu, a rapidly growing e-commerce platform, offers sellers the opportunity to connect directly with consumers and tap into its large user base. In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step process on how to sell on Temu, highlighting the platform's unique features and requirements. Whether you are a manufacturer or an individual seller, this guide will help you navigate the process and maximize your success on Temu.

Understand Temu Before Looking to Sell There

1. Learn about Temu's background, its parent company Pinduoduo, and its unique consumer-to-manufacturer model.
2. Explore the distinctions between Temu and Amazon, including the absence of third-party sellers on Temu.

What are the Requirements to Start Selling on Temu?

Here's a breakdown of the requirements to start selling on Temu:

1. Business Registration:

• Registered Business: Temu currently requires sellers to have a registered business in either mainland China or Hong Kong. This means you'll need a business license, certificate of incorporation, or other official documentation proving your business is legitimate.
• Tax Documents: Be prepared to submit your tax ID number or other relevant tax documentation during the application process.

2. Temu Seller Account:

• Existing Pinduoduo Account (Optional): If you're already established as a seller on Pinduoduo, you can leverage your existing account to open a Temu store for cross-border sales. This simplifies the process as some information might carry over.
• Temu Seller Invitation (Alternative): If you're new to the Pinduoduo ecosystem, you'll need to apply directly to Temu for a seller code. This can be done by contacting them via email at [email protected] .

Additional Requirements:

• Product Certifications/Licenses: For certain product categories (especially electronics), you might need to provide copies of specific certifications or licenses to comply with safety regulations.
• Inventory and Logistics: Have a plan for managing your inventory and fulfilling orders efficiently. Temu offers fulfillment services, but you can also choose to handle fulfillment yourself.
• High-Quality Products: Temu prioritizes quality, so ensure the products you sell meet their standards and customer expectations.

How to Start Selling on Temu

To set up a seller account and start selling on Temu, follow these steps:

Step 1: Secure Business Registration

This is a crucial first step. Temu currently requires sellers to have a registered business in either mainland China or Hong Kong. Gather your business license, certificate of incorporation or other official documents that prove your business is legitimate.

Don’t forget to have your tax ID number or relevant tax documentation ready as well.

Step 2: Obtain a Temu Seller Account

Another crucial step is obtaining a Temu seller account. There are two ways to get a Temu seller account, which include:

1. Using your Existing Pinduoduo Account (if applicable): If you’re already a seller on Pinduoduo, you can simplify things by using your existing account for cross-border sales on Temu. This might save time as some information might transfer.
2. Applying for a Temu Seller Code (if new to Pinduoduo): If you’re new to the Pinduoduo ecosystem, contact Temu directly by emailing [email protected] or [email protected] to request a seller code. This code allows you to create a seller account on Temu.

Step 3: Wait for Approval

Once you submit your application and required documents, Temu will review your information. Be patient during this process, as approval times can vary.

Step 4: Set Up Your Temu Seller Account

Upon approval, you’ll gain access to the Temu seller portal. This is your central hub for managing your store:

• Store Profile: Set your store name, contact information, return policies, and branding elements.
• Inventory Management: Track your product stock levels and ensure you have enough inventory to fulfill orders.
• Order Management: View incoming orders, manage fulfillment, and track shipment progress.
• Sales Performance: Monitor your sales data and identify areas for improvement.

Step 5: Optimize Your Product Listings

This is where you attract customers! Here’s how to create high-performing listings:

• Compelling Descriptions: Write detailed and informative descriptions that accurately represent your products. Highlight key features, benefits, and specifications.
• High-Resolution Images: Invest in professional-looking product photos from multiple angles. Ensure they’re clear, well-lit, and showcase your products effectively.
• Competitive Pricing: Temu is known for its budget-conscious audience. Conduct market research to set competitive prices that factor in production costs, shipping fees, and Temu’s commission structure.

Step 6: Prioritize Customer Service

Providing a positive customer experience is key to building trust and loyalty on Temu. Here’s how to ensure happy customers:

• Prompt Order Fulfillment: Establish efficient processes to ensure orders are shipped quickly and accurately.
• Excellent Response Time: Be prepared to address customer inquiries and concerns promptly and professionally.

Tips for Selling Successfully on Temu

Getting approved for a Temu selling account is a process, and being successful with your sales on Temu is another one.

Here are some tips for selling successfully on Temu:

1. Conduct Market Research

Thoroughly research the marketplace and your competitors to develop a well-considered pricing strategy and identify marketing opportunities.

2. Respond to Customers Promptly

Prioritize fast shipping and quick responses to customer inquiries and complaints to maintain a positive rating and enhance customer satisfaction.

3. Optimize Your Listings

Use keyword optimization, image selection, and headline selection to stand out among the thousands of sellers on Temu.

4. Use High-Resolution Images

Invest in professional-looking product photos that showcase your items from various angles. Customers rely on visuals to make buying decisions, so ensure your images are clear, well-lit, and attractive.

5. Offer Competitive Pricing

Temu is known for its budget-friendly offerings. Conduct thorough market research to set competitive prices that factor in production costs, shipping fees, and Temu's commission structure.

How Much Does it Cost to Sell on Temu?

There are a few fees to consider when selling on Temu:

• Commission Fee: Temu charges a commission fee on each sale, which varies depending on the product category and price range. This fee typically falls between 2% and 5% of the item's selling price.
• Service Fee: In October 2023, Temu implemented a 0.5% service fee for merchants.
• Fulfillment Fees (Optional): If you choose to use Temu's fulfillment services, there will be additional fees based on the size and weight of your items.
• Payment Processing Fees: You may also incur fees for processing payments through Temu's platform. These fees are typically similar to those charged by other payment processors.

Conclusion

Selling on Temu can be a lucrative opportunity for manufacturers and individual sellers looking to tap into a large consumer base. By understanding Temu's unique model, meeting the platform's requirements, and implementing effective selling strategies, sellers can maximize their success on Temu. Remember to conduct thorough market research, provide excellent customer service, and optimize your listings to stand out in this competitive marketplace.