Never underestimate what a piece of paper can do. A simple piece of paper placed within a package can become a powerhouse of opportunity, connecting brands with customers. A product insert acts as a direct line of communication between a seller and their customer. It’s a chance to tell a story, ask for a review and build a memorable brand identity.
From offering exclusive discounts to encourage repeat purchases to sharing tips and tricks on how to best utilize the product, inserts provide shoppers with something tangible that goes beyond the item itself. It’s a gesture that says, “We care about your satisfaction and want to ensure you get the most out of your purchase.”
In this comprehensive guide, we will go through everything you need to know about product inserts.
What are Amazon product inserts?
Amazon product inserts are additional pieces of printed material that are included inside the packaging of a product sold on Amazon.
These inserts serve various purposes and are designed to enhance the overall customer experience, provide valuable information, and promote brand engagement. Product inserts can include a range of content, such as instructions, tips, promotions, thank-you notes, warranty details, and more.
These little pieces of paper offer a physical touchpoint that allows brands to connect and communicate with customers directly. When used effectively, product inserts can have a positive impact on customer satisfaction, brand loyalty, and even sales growth.
Benefits of Amazon product inserts
#1: Inform and educate customers about your product
Product inserts allow you to provide additional information about your product, such as usage instructions, care guidelines, and tips. This enhances the overall customer experience, ensuring that shoppers fully understand how to use and maintain the product effectively.
Complex or innovative products may benefit from detailed explanations and usage guides. Inserts provide the space to educate customers about the features, benefits, and unique selling points of your product.
#2: Brand awareness
By weaving cohesive branding elements into your inserts, you’re not just sending a product – you’re sending an experience that resonates. When customers see your branding consistently, they’re more likely to remember your brand and consider it for future purchases.
#3: Customer engagement
Engage customers by sharing your brand story, values, and mission through product inserts. This emotional connection can lead to a stronger bond between your brand and customers, fostering loyalty and repeat business.
#4: Upselling and cross-selling opportunities
Use inserts to promote other products in your catalog. By suggesting complementary or related items, you encourage customers to explore more of your offerings, potentially increasing the average order value.
#5: Review generation
Politely request customer feedback without explicitly offering incentives. A well-crafted insert can encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews, boosting your product’s credibility and increasing its chances of being discovered by new customers.
#6: Promotes repeat purchases
Offer exclusive discounts or promotions to encourage repeat purchases. Inserts with promo codes can entice customers to return to your Amazon store and make additional orders.
#7: Social media engagement
With inserts, sellers can encourage customers to follow their brand on social media platforms, where they can continue engaging with them and build a loyal community. This extends your brand’s reach beyond the Amazon platform.
#8: Warranty information
Provide warranty details on your insert to instill confidence in customers about the quality and durability of your product. Clear warranty information can reduce customer concerns and increase trust.
You can also address return policy details on your insert to ensure customers understand the process in case they need to return or exchange the product. Clear communication can minimize misunderstandings and disputes.
#9: Brand differentiation
In a competitive marketplace, inserts help your product stand out by offering additional value that competitors might not provide. This differentiation can sway customer decisions in your favor.
#10: Enhanced unboxing experience
A well-designed insert contributes to the unboxing experience, creating a moment of delight for customers when they open their package and discover the extra value you’ve provided.
Are product inserts allowed on Amazon?
Yes, product inserts are allowed on Amazon. However, there are strict guidelines and policies that sellers must follow to ensure compliance with Amazon’s rules. According to Amazon, “any advertisements, marketing messages, or calls to action that lead, prompt, or encourage Amazon users to leave the Amazon website are prohibited.”
These guidelines are in place to ensure a positive customer experience and to prevent sellers from engaging in practices that could be perceived as manipulative or against Amazon’s terms.
Amazon product insert policy
- Product inserts must provide useful and relevant information to the customer about the product they purchased or related products. This can include usage instructions, care tips, warranty details, and contact information for customer service.
- Amazon prohibits any attempts to direct customers away from their platform. This means sellers cannot include inserts that encourage customers to visit the seller’s website, leave a review in exchange for compensation, or participate in any off-platform activities.
- Inserts cannot offer incentives or discounts in exchange for positive reviews or any other type of favorable action. This includes not offering gifts, coupons, or refunds in return for reviews.
- Avoid including personal contact information such as email addresses or phone numbers. If customers need assistance, they should be directed to Amazon’s customer service.
Dos and don’ts of product insert listed by our Amazon experts
Dos
- Do provide value: Ensure that your product inserts provide genuine value to the customer. Whether it’s additional usage instructions, care tips, or relevant information, make sure the insert enhances the customer’s experience with the product.
- Do keep it informative: Use the insert to educate customers about the benefits and features of the product. Provide clear and concise information that helps customers understand how to use the product effectively.
- Do ask for reviews: Politely request reviews from customers without offering any incentives or discounts in exchange. A simple request like “We value your feedback!” with a link to where they can leave a review is acceptable.
- Do offer support: Provide contact details or a website where customers can reach out for support, questions, or warranty information related to the product.
- Do cross-sell: If you want to promote other products, do it subtly and strategically. Offer relevant recommendations based on the customer’s purchase, but avoid pushing unrelated items.
Don’ts:
- Don’t ask for “positive” reviews: Never offer discounts, freebies, or incentives in exchange for reviews. Amazon strictly prohibits this practice.
- Don’t add any external links: Do not direct customers to external websites or sales channels. All interactions and transactions should remain within the Amazon platform.
- Don’t add any misleading information: Don’t include false claims, exaggerated promises, or misleading information about the product’s benefits or features.
- Don’t manipulate: Do not offer discounts or promotions that are not applicable to Amazon. All pricing and promotions should align with Amazon’s guidelines.
- Don’t interfere with packaging: Do not include inserts that interfere with the packaging or presentation of the product. Inserts should be non-intrusive.
Frequently asked questions
Our Amazon seller consultants have answered most common questions sellers have regarding product insrts.
Can I ask customers to leave reviews for my product?
Yes, you can ask customers to leave reviews, but you must do so in a non-coercive and non-incentivized manner. Avoid any language that implies a reward in exchange for a review.
Can I include my business website URL on a product insert?
Yes, you can include your business website URL on a product insert. However, the URL should not be used to direct customers away from Amazon or encourage them to leave reviews in exchange for discounts or incentives.
Can I provide a QR code for customers to scan on the insert?
Yes, you can provide a QR code on the insert for customers to scan. This can lead them to a website or video with additional information about the product. However, ensure that the content complies with Amazon’s policies.
Can I offer discounts or promotions on product inserts?
Yes, you can offer discounts or promotions on product inserts, but they should not be tied to leaving a review. Incentivizing reviews through discounts is against Amazon’s policies.
Can I include my contact information in the insert?
Yes, you can include your contact information such as email address or phone number for customer support inquiries. However, avoid using contact information to solicit reviews or drive customers away from Amazon.
What should be the size of an Amazon product insert?
A standard size for Amazon product inserts is around 3.5 x 2 inches, similar to a business card. Your product insert should fit comfortably within the packaging of the product without causing any damage or bulging. It should not take up too much space or make the packaging look overcrowded.
Wrapping it up
Amazon product inserts are a powerful tool that can enhance your brand’s presence, connect with customers, and drive various business goals. By leveraging these creative pieces of communication, you have the opportunity to build loyalty, encourage positive reviews, and promote additional products. Remember to adhere to Amazon’s guidelines and policies when designing your inserts to ensure a seamless experience for both you and your customers.
Our team of Amazon seller account management can help you craft compelling and compliant inserts that resonate with your audience and drive results. From educational content to promotional offers, we’re here to assist you in creating inserts that make a lasting impact. Get in touch with us today to discover how we can elevate your Amazon business with well-designed product inserts.