The Amazon Associates program isn't based on a pay-per-click (PPC) model. Instead, affiliates earn commissions through the sales they generate, with commission rates varying depending on the type of product purchased.
Do Clicks Earn Commissions in Amazon's Affiliate Program?
Amazon doesn't directly pay for clicks, but you can still benefit from the cookie tracking system. The standard cookie duration is 24 hours, meaning you earn a commission if a purchase is made within this period. To extend this timeframe:
- Use Cart Plugins: Implement plugins that turn clicks into "add to cart" actions, extending the cookie duration to 90 days.
- Consider User Experience: Be mindful that forcing users to add items to their cart might deter them from returning to your site.
- Cookie Scope: The 90-day cookie extension applies only to the specific product added to the cart, not to all items purchased within that period.
Understanding Amazon Affiliate Commission Rates
Amazon reduced its commission rates in April 2020. For example, categories like Lawn & Garden and Baby Products, which once offered an 8% commission, now provide only 3%.
Moreover, Amazon has strict guidelines for API usage. If your site uses other affiliate programs, you cannot pull images via Amazon's API. Instead, manually copy images and use "buy buttons" to direct visitors to Amazon or other affiliate sites.
Tips for Navigating Commission Changes:
- Adjust Strategies: Plan for lower commissions by diversifying your affiliate income sources.
- Follow Rules: Ensure compliance with Amazon's guidelines or consider alternative affiliate programs.
Payment Methods for Amazon Affiliates
Amazon offers various payment methods, including checks, gift cards, and direct deposits. The minimum payout thresholds are $10 for direct deposits and gift cards, and $100 for checks.
- Direct Deposit Convenience: Utilize services like Payoneer to set up virtual US bank accounts for easier direct deposits.
- Global Accessibility: Affiliates worldwide can receive payments, as Amazon accepts international cards and bank accounts.
By understanding these aspects of the Amazon Associates program, affiliates can optimize their strategies and maximize their earnings.
Dealing with Geo-Restrictions on Amazon Affiliate Links
Amazon affiliate links are geo-restrictive, meaning they direct users to their country-specific Amazon store. To ensure you don't miss out on potential commissions from international traffic:
- Use Geo-Targeting Solutions: Implement tools like speedly.link or One Link Amazon to redirect users to the appropriate Amazon store based on their location.