Building an Amazon affiliate store with WordPress offers a practical way for users to earn income by promoting products. Setting up a site involves choosing website hosting, selecting a domain name, and configuring WordPress to serve as the foundation for an online store. Using WooCommerce, a widely used e-commerce plugin, makes adding and managing affiliate products efficient for beginners and experienced users alike.
After setting up the website infrastructure, users can apply for an Amazon Associates account to start generating affiliate links via tools like Amazon SiteStripe. Adding these affiliate products to WooCommerce requires unique descriptions and compliance with Amazon’s guidelines. Maintaining adherence to Amazon’s policies is crucial for keeping an account in good standing.
Key Takeaways
- WordPress and WooCommerce form the basis for an Amazon affiliate store.
- Affiliate links and products must follow Amazon’s content guidelines.
- Ongoing compliance is essential to maintain Amazon Associates eligibility.
Getting Your WordPress Site Ready
Selecting a Web Host
When launching a WordPress site, picking the right web host is an essential first step. Web hosts like Bluehost offer different plans, such as “Basic” for a single website or “Plus” for multiple sites. Key features to look for:
- Free domain for the first year
- Complimentary SSL certificate
- Options for 12, 24, or 36-month plans, where longer terms often mean bigger savings
Tip: Extra features in the plan selection are usually optional. Uncheck what you don’t need to keep costs down.
Setting Up Your Website Address
Your website needs a unique address, known as a domain name. During the signup, users can search for available domains and receive suggestions if their first choice is unavailable. Once a domain is selected, the provider will confirm its availability.
Process overview:
- Enter your preferred domain name
- Check for availability
- Review alternative suggestions if your choice is taken
Registration is simple and typically handled during signup. Be sure to review the auto-renewal terms, as the domain will renew at regular pricing after the first year.
Enabling Secure Browsing
Ensuring site security is vital. An SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate encrypts data exchanged between the website and its visitors. Most reputable hosts provide Let’s Encrypt SSL at no extra cost.
| Security Feature | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| SSL Certificate | Encrypts site traffic | Included |
| Domain Registration | Provides a unique web address | Included (first year) |
With SSL enabled, visitors can safely browse and interact with your site. Look for a padlock icon in the browser to confirm SSL is active.
Setting Up WordPress and Adding Plugins
Getting WordPress Started with Bluehost
To begin, a hosting account and domain name are needed. Users can choose between different Bluehost plans, like Basic for one website or Plus for hosting multiple sites. After selecting a plan and entering domain and payment details, Bluehost provides a free domain and SSL certificate for the first year.
Upon completion, Bluehost automatically installs WordPress. Access to the WordPress dashboard is provided once the setup is finished.
Comparison Table: Bluehost Plans
| Feature | Basic Plan | Plus Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Websites | 1 | Unlimited |
| Free Domain | 1 year | 1 year |
| SSL | Free | Free |
Adding WooCommerce to the Site
In the WordPress dashboard, users navigate to the Plugins area and select “Add New.” Searching for “WooCommerce” will bring up the appropriate plugin. It should be installed and then activated.
The WooCommerce setup wizard will appear, but since this store is focused on affiliate products, payment and shipping details can be skipped. This keeps the process simple and prepares the website for adding affiliate content.
- Go to Plugins > Add New
- Search for “WooCommerce”
- Click “Install Now” and then “Activate”
- Skip unnecessary setup steps
Enabling Key Plugins
Essential plugins can improve site functionality and management. The focus here is on tools that support affiliate marketing.
Some recommended steps include:
- Installing plugins for analytics and insights
- Avoiding unnecessary extras to keep the site efficient
- Making sure activated plugins complement WooCommerce for affiliate product listings
Tip: Keep plugins updated and review plugin settings after activation to optimize site performance.
Note: Only required subsections are included, as requested.
Setting Up WooCommerce for Affiliate Retailers
Walking Through the Initial Configuration
After installing WooCommerce, users should launch the setup assistant provided by the plugin. Since affiliate shops do not process payments or handle shipping, they can bypass entering store details. By scrolling to the bottom of the setup screens and selecting the option to skip the store specifics, the website will be ready for adding affiliate products without unnecessary steps.
Note: Skipping payment and shipping configurations keeps the setup streamlined for affiliate purposes.
Tweaking Site Preferences for Affiliates
Adjusting WooCommerce settings helps optimize the website for affiliate sales. Some recommended steps include:
- Under Products:
- Choose “External/Affiliate” as the product type when adding new items.
- Paste Amazon affiliate links directly into the product URL field.
- Leave the price fields empty, as manual entry of Amazon prices is not permitted.
- Product Descriptions:
- Write unique, original product text. Do not copy descriptions or images directly from Amazon; obtaining images from the official manufacturer is recommended if needed.
A clear, simple product listing table can help track affiliate items:
| Product Name | Affiliate Link | Custom Description | Price (Leave Blank) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example Item 1 | [Amazon Link] | Unique Description | |
| Example Item 2 | [Amazon Link] | Unique Description |
Consistently using these settings will help maintain compliance with Amazon’s guidelines and provide an efficient workflow for an affiliate-focused WooCommerce setup.
Registering for an Amazon Affiliate Account
Steps to Join the Amazon Affiliate Program
To join the Amazon affiliate program, visit affiliate-program.amazon.com or search for “Amazon affiliate program.” Create an account if you do not already have one with Amazon, or log in using your existing credentials.
After signing in, users will enter their account details as prompted. Each step must be completed before continuing to the next part of the registration process.
Key Steps:
- Visit the Amazon Associates portal
- Sign in or create a new Amazon account
- Complete all required account details
Linking Your Website to Your Affiliate Account
Once the basic account has been set up, users are asked to specify which website will be used for affiliate marketing. This step is essential to verify where traffic and sales are coming from.
Instructions:
- Enter the website name or domain when prompted.
- Select “Add” after entering the site to continue.
- Indicate whether the site is for children under 13 by answering the Children’s Online Privacy Protection compliance question.
Tip: Double-check that the website address is correct before finalizing this step.
Important Affiliate Account Guidelines
There are specific requirements and policies to keep the Amazon Associates account in good standing.
- Sales Requirement: The account must make at least three qualifying sales within 180 days (6 months) of creation. If this is not met, Amazon will close or disapprove the account.
- Source of Sales: Purchases generated by the account holder, family members, or friends do not count toward the required sales.
- Content Guidelines: Product descriptions and details should not be directly copied from Amazon. Use your own words and product information.
- Images: Do not copy images from Amazon manually. If images are needed, obtain them directly from the manufacturer or use the Amazon API.
| Requirement | Action Needed |
|---|---|
| 3 Sales in 180 days | Generate 3 legitimate sales to keep account active |
| Product Images | Do not copy manually from Amazon |
| Product Content | Write your own descriptions |
| Purchase Source Limitation | Exclude yourself, friends, and family |
Enabling the SiteStripe tool in the affiliate dashboard will make it easier to collect product links directly while browsing Amazon. This option should be active by default, but it can be enabled in the Tools section if needed.
Setting Up Amazon Affiliate Toolbar
Turning On the Affiliate Toolbar
To use the affiliate toolbar on Amazon, users should first ensure it’s activated in their Amazon Associates dashboard. By default, this toolbar—often called the “SiteStripe”—is enabled, but it can be manually turned on if needed. Simply go to the “Tools” section, locate the toolbar settings, and select “Enable” if it’s currently turned off. It’s also best to keep both options checked for the full range of features.
Creating Affiliate Links for Products
Once the toolbar is active, users can visit any product page on Amazon and see a toolbar at the top of the site. To generate an affiliate link, click the Text button in the toolbar. There are usually two format choices: a short link and a full link. For easier management, the short link is recommended. Clicking the option provides a copyable link, ready to be inserted as a product affiliate link on the user’s website.
Tip:
When adding items to the website, remember to use original descriptions and avoid copying text or images directly from Amazon.
Placing Third-Party Items in WooCommerce
Setting Up an External Item for Affiliates
To add an affiliate product, start in the WordPress dashboard and select Products > Add New. Enter the product name, then scroll to the product data section. In the product type dropdown, choose External/Affiliate product.
Paste your affiliate link, such as an Amazon short link, into the dedicated URL field. You can customize the button label (for example, “Buy on Amazon”). Leave price fields blank, as displaying prices pulled directly from Amazon is not allowed.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Add Product | Products > Add New |
| Product Type | Select External/Affiliate product |
| Affiliate Link | Paste in product URL from Amazon Stripe |
| Button | Customize the purchase button text |
| Price | Leave blank |
Crafting Original Details for Your Listings
When describing affiliate items, avoid copying any text, specifications, or images from Amazon. All product descriptions must be written in your own words to follow the rules.
Focus on your personal summary, features, or benefits. Use bullet points or short sentences to provide key details:
- Summarize main features in original wording
- Explain who the product is for
- List any personal insights or recommendations
Do not upload product images unless you obtain them from the manufacturer or use an official API.
Placing Affiliate URLs in Product Pages
To make sure visitors go to the correct offer, insert your generated affiliate URL from the Amazon SiteStripe or equivalent tool in the product data section. Use the “External URL” field under the affiliate product settings.
Keep both SiteStripe toggles enabled for fast access to your links. Only use links generated through the proper affiliate tools, never direct Amazon URLs, to ensure commissions are tracked.
Tip: Avoid adding prices or copying images, which are not permitted under the affiliate agreement. Use affiliate links only as instructed.
Practical Steps for Staying Compliant with Amazon Affiliate Rules
Preventing Copyright Problems
-
Write Original Product Descriptions: Do not copy any text or product details directly from Amazon. All product descriptions and specifications must be written in your own words.
-
Source Images Properly: Do not download or upload product images from Amazon manually. Only use images obtained directly from the product manufacturer or through approved Amazon APIs.
-
Respect Content Restrictions: Avoid using any Amazon-provided text or media unless explicitly allowed by Amazon’s affiliate tools.
-
Quick Reference Table:
Allowed Not Allowed Your own written descriptions Copying Amazon’s text Manufacturer images Downloading Amazon images Images from Amazon APIs Uploading Amazon images directly
Satisfying Amazon’s Initial Sales Conditions
- Make Three Valid Sales: Amazon requires your account to generate at least three genuine sales within 180 days (about six months) of signup.
- Sales Must Be Organic: Orders from your own household, friends, or family members do not count and may lead to account disapproval.
- Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your affiliate dashboard to verify that you are progressing toward the three required sales.
- Action Steps:
- Check sales regularly in your Amazon Associates account.
- If you do not reach the threshold in six months, be ready to reapply for the program.
Use these guidelines to keep your Amazon affiliate store in line with program rules and avoid unnecessary setbacks.