Amazon Custom | Simply explained

Amazon Custom

Amazon Custom Overview

Amazon Custom is a comprehensive feature that allows vendors to offer products that customers can customize before purchasing. The program is available to Direct Fulfillment vendors who are registered with the Amazon Custom program and based in the EU. Products must be offered in new condition, with unique listings required if similar items exist.

Customization Types and Features

Text Customization

Text customization allows customers to add personalized text to products using pre-defined fonts and colors. Vendors can specify comprehensive options including:

  • Font Options: Font size, style, and color selections
  • Text Placement: Static or free placement on product surfaces
  • Character Limits: Customizable character types and limits to control input
  • Line Management: Setting line counts and text area restrictions
  • Preview Functionality: Customers can preview their text customizations before purchase
  • Clipping Masks: Restrict customization areas to specific product zones

Image Customization

Image customization enables vendors to offer personalized products where customers can upload their own images. Key features include:

  • Surface Management: Up to 15 customizations per product surface
  • File Format Support: JPEG and PNG format compatibility
  • Preview Images: Vendors upload preview images to guide customer expectations
  • Clipping Masks: Guide customer uploads to specific areas
  • Instructions: Optional vendor-provided guidance for customer uploads
  • Placement Options: Static or free image placement capabilities

Product Configuration

Product configuration allows customers to customize products through drop-down selections in Vendor Central. This feature enables:

  • Drop-down Options: Customers build personalized products from predefined choices
  • Combined Customization: Multiple customization types can be combined (text, image, data)
  • Options Management: Addition of custom drop-down options, labels, and images
  • Surface Labels: Specific labeling for different customization areas
  • Enhanced Personalization: Highly personalized customer experiences through varied options

Data Input and Notes

Data input functionality enables customers to enter text customizations for products, such as personalized sizes or notes. This option:

  • Simple Customization: Suitable for basic customization needs without preview impact
  • Flexible Configuration: Up to 15 customizations per product surface
  • Character Control: Customizable character types and limits
  • Non-Visual Impact: Doesn’t affect the product’s preview image
  • Organization: Options can be configured but remain invisible to customers during browsing

Technical Implementation

Listing Creation Process

Vendors can set up customizable products by following these steps:

  1. Navigation: Access Direct Fulfillment inventory and select desired ASIN
  2. Surface Setup: Add surface labels and upload preview images
  3. Customization Configuration: Set up text, image, or data input options
  4. Instructions: Provide optional customer guidance and clipping masks
  5. Preview and Publish: Review customization setup before making live
  6. Processing Time: Changes may take up to 24 hours to appear online

EDI 850 Integration

For vendors requiring automated order processing, Amazon Custom offers EDI 850 integration:

  • Customization Data Delivery: Receive customer-supplied customization data via EDI messages
  • MSG^CUST Attribute: Direct Fulfillment EDI X12 850 purchase order messages include Base64-encoded URLs
  • Data Format: Downloadable zip files containing customization data in JSON and XML formats
  • UTF-8 Encoding: Standardized encoding for international character support
  • Complete Data Package: Customer images, text, and option data organized under customizationData object
  • Accurate Fulfillment: Enables precise custom product delivery based on customer specifications

Program Requirements and Limitations

Vendor Requirements

  • Must be registered Direct Fulfillment partners
  • Based in the EU
  • Adherence to Amazon’s product listing and return policies

Product Requirements

  • Products must be offered in new condition
  • Unique listings required if similar customizable items exist
  • Certain product categories are restricted from customization

Technical Specifications

  • Maximum 15 customizations per product surface
  • Support for JPEG and PNG image formats
  • UTF-8 encoding for international compatibility
  • Templates available to streamline setup of multiple customizable products

Amazon Custom enhances customer engagement by providing personalized shopping experiences while giving vendors the tools to differentiate their offerings through comprehensive customization capabilities. The integration of multiple customization types, technical data delivery systems, and flexible configuration options makes it a powerful platform for vendors seeking to offer personalized products at scale.

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