Compare the operating assumptions
Compare referral fee factors
| Factor | Amazon | Walmart |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Percentage of the sale price by category. | Percentage of the sale price by category. |
| Category rates | Vary by category and may have tiers. | Vary by category and may have tiers. |
| Minimums | Some categories have minimum fees. | Some categories have minimum fees. |
| What it excludes | Fulfillment, storage, and ads are separate. | Fulfillment, storage, and ads are separate. |
| Where to verify | Amazon fee schedule. | Walmart commission rates page. |
Referral fee is only one line
A lower referral rate does not guarantee higher profit. Fulfillment, storage, returns, and advertising can outweigh it.
Verify current rates on each marketplace's official fee page and enter them as editable assumptions.
Total cost matters
Look up the verified referral rate for your exact category on each marketplace's official fee page, since category rates and any minimum fees differ.
Update the assumption whenever a schedule changes so your comparisons stay current.
Compare total cost, not one fee
Enter the verified referral rate for each marketplace, keep other inputs the same, and compare the total profit. Enter every figure per listing unit so the result stays comparable across products.
Update the assumption when marketplace schedules change. Treat the result as a planning estimate, and confirm current marketplace rules and fees before you place an order.
- Verify rates on official pages.
- Compare total cost per unit.
- Update assumptions when schedules change.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Are the rates the same on both?
Not necessarily. They vary by category and change over time. Check the current schedules.
Does Margin Seller use official rates?
It uses editable planning assumptions. Confirm current official rates before buying.
Which has lower referral fees?
Depends on category; check both schedules.
Ready to check a listing?
Put the assumptions to work.
Bring the visible listing facts and your own costs into a product audit before you commit to inventory.