Ayesha KhanIf you are an entrepreneur or planning to start an online business, TikTok Shops are one of the best opportunities to step into an online venture in 2025. Stats show around 63% of users on TikTok are making in-app purchases. TikTok Shop provides sellers with direct access to an engaged audience that actively discovers and buys products through entertaining content, there’s never been a better time to launch your store.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to start a TikTok Shop. From eligibility criteria and seller account creation to advanced growth strategies, we have got you covered.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
TikTok Shop Eligibility – Who Can Sell?
Before we get into details of how to start a TikTok Shop, let’s first understand the requirements to sell on TikTok Shop. The platform has strict guidelines to maintain a trustworthy marketplace.
1. Geographic Availability
TikTok Shop is currently available in select regions, including:
- United States & United Kingdom
- Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam)
- Select European markets (check TikTok’s official updates for new expansions)
If your country isn’t supported, you won’t be able to create your seller account. Therefore, always verify availability before proceeding for registering for TikTok Shop.
2. Age & Account Requirements
TikTok requires you to fulfill these age and account requirements:
- Must be 18+ years old to register as a seller.
- Need a TikTok account in good standing (no prior bans or policy violations).
Best Practice:
If you plan to sell seriously, create a dedicated business account rather than using a personal profile. This helps with branding and compliance.
3. Business Structure Options
TikTok allows different seller types:
| Seller Type | Requirements | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Seller | Personal ID, SSN/Tax ID | Beginners testing the platform |
| Registered Business | Company documents, EIN | Established brands scaling sales |
Key Consideration: It is important to note that individual sellers can start quickly. However, business accounts tend to gain more trust and often receive better visibility.
4. Product Restrictions
Moreover, TikTok prohibits certain items that could be harmful for users, including:
- Alcohol, tobacco, and vaping products
- Weapons, ammunition, and hazardous materials
- Counterfeit or replica goods
- Adult content and illegal substances
Why Compliance Matters:
Selling restricted products can lead to immediate shop suspension. Always review TikTok’s latest policies before listing items.
How to Start a TikTok Shop: Step-by-Step Process
Before you start a TikTok Shop seller account, you need to complete a few important documents and information including:
- Verification of your business
- Provide Tax details
- Set up warehouse logistics
- Add product lists
- Link your official TikTok account
Once you complete all of the above mentioned documents, now it’s time to create your TikTok Shop seller account.
Step 1: Signing Up
Signing up consists of two parts
Create a Seller Account
-
- Visit the official TikTok Seller Center
- Use your phone number or email id to get registered.
- Ensure you select the correct region to proceed with the region specific guidelines and it also determines your primary market and currency
- After you sign up, TikTok verifies your account according to the selected region.
Source: TikTok Seller Center
- Understand and Agree terms & Conditions
- A pop-up message will show up stating terms and conditions. Read carefully and understand the terms.
- If applicable, enter the verification code. It links to your business identity and allows you to officially start setting up your TikTok shop.
Pro Tip: Consider using a business email address that you can easily access and monitor for important notifications.
Step 2: Verification of Business
The next step is to get your business verified to start operating on TikTok Shop. It is necessary to provide accurate and complete information as it will help streamline the whole process.
- Submit Business Information
- Select your business type (Corporation or Individually owned business)
- Choose your business name and reference. It is the representation of your brand.
Source: TikTok Seller Center
- Verify your Documents
Additional details of your company will be required if you are registering as a business corporation
-
- Company Name
- Business Registration Number (BRN)
- Registered Business Address
You will need to submit identification documents for personal verification, such as:
-
- Passport
- Driver License
- Social Security
- State ID
- Link Your Shop to a Bank Account
After your business documents are verified, you’ll need to link a bank account to your shop to receive payments and handle returns:
-
- Go to the TikTok Seller Center homepage.
- Click on Link Bank Account.
- Select Link Account.
- Fill in the required details: Account Name, Bank Name, Bank Account Number, Email, Address, and Building Number.
Important Note:
- For individual sellers, the account name must match the registered name.
- For businesses, it should match the official company name.
Once all fields are completed, click Submit.
Tips:
-
- Include all necessary information in your documents that can be easily recognised
- Make sure you add exact information that matches your documents and the details you entered in the Seller Center such as addresses on utility bills should be the same as the submitted details.
- For further submission requirement visit the following links
What to do if your registration gets rejected?
- Check carefully and correct any misinformation or discrepancies in the details
- Upload a clear copy of documents if you find your documents were blurry or not clear. Always upload images as per the set standards of the platform such as JPG, JPEG, PNG, or PDF format
Important Note: The verification process typically takes 48 hours, but during peak periods, it may extend slightly longer. You can use this time to prepare your product catalog and marketing strategy.
Step 3: Including Tax Information
Once your business gets verified, the next step is to add tax information. This information is necessary to receive information from TikTok Shop.
- Fill Up the Required Forms
- If you are a US based seller, you will need to fill up the W9 form
- And if you are a non-US based seller then fill up the W8 form.
TikTok Shop Account Setup Tax Documents
Source: TikTok Seller Center
Ensure the following points are accurate while filling up the tax information.
-
- Social Security Number (SSN) for individual sellers
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) for businesses
- International sellers will need equivalent tax IDs
However, if you still face a rejection, consider reviewing the whole information carefully and resubmit.
Step 4: Start Uploading Your Products
Once you complete all of the above mentioned steps, it’s time to add products to your TikTok Shop.
Populate Your Shop with Products
Go to the “Upload Now” button and start uploading your products
Upload in bulk to speed up setup
Link your TikTok Shop with an existing online store
Source: TikTok Seller Center
For product categories, consider the following
-
- Select the most relevant primary category
- Don’t worry – this doesn’t limit what you can sell
- Can be updated as your product mix evolves
Important Note: But remember, product listing will not show up unless your verification is complete. Ensure you have completed all steps correctly.
Step 5: Connect Your Official TikTok Account – Grow Your Brand
After uploading your products, connect your TikTok Shop to your Official TikTok Account to get more views and sales.
How to Link Your Account
- Your Official TikTok Account represents your brand on TikTok.
- Once connected, your products will automatically show up on your TikTok profile, making shopping easy for viewers.
- Remember, each TikTok Shop can only be linked to one Official Account. You can switch accounts up to three times, but choose carefully as changing accounts can affect how people see your brand.
Linking Your TikTok Account – Best Practices
Choosing the Right Account
- Use a separate business account for your shop
- Decide if you want to grow a new account or use one with followers
- Keep your account name consistent with your brand
How to Link with QR Code
- Scan the QR code using your TikTok app
- Follow the steps shown on the screen
- If there’s an error, double-check your internet and try again
- Make sure your shop and account are successfully connected
Optimizing Your Profile
- Write a short, clear bio that encourages visitors to buy
- Use the link in your bio wisely (link to your shop or product page)
- Keep your profile picture and content style in line with your brand
You’re Ready – Start Selling!
Now that your shop is set up, products are added, and your TikTok account is connected, you’re all set to begin!
This is the start of your journey as a TikTok Shop Seller. Keep improving your shop, connect with your audience, and grow your brand on TikTok.
Advanced Tools Worth Exploring
Here are a few advanced tools that will help you sell more on TikTok Shop while maximizing your outreach.
- TikTok Ads Integration: Seamless campaign creation
- Live Shopping Features: Tools for hosting live sales
- Affiliate Program: Expand your reach through TikTok Shop for creators
- API Access: For advanced users and large operations
Along with other mechanisms, TikTok Shop for creators is a great way to attract more buyers. These influencers engage and connect with an audience that helps build trust and boost sales.
Once you know how to start a TikTok Shop exactly, let’s discuss some common mistakes that you should avoid.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: TikTok Shop Violations
TikTok requires sellers to follow strict rules otherwise they may have to lose their accounts. Here are a few top reasons for account restrictions
- Shipping Violations:
- Late shipments
- Unrealistic processing times
- Tracking number issues
- Customer Service Issues:
- Slow response times
- Poor communication
- Unresolved disputes
- Product Listing Problems:
- Prohibited items
- Misleading descriptions
- Copyright infringement
Proactive Compliance Strategies
These strategies will help you sell more on TikTok Shop after knowing how to start a TikTok Shop.
- Automated Systems: Use tools to monitor performance metrics
- Hire VAs: Virtual Assistants can manage listings, customer service, orders, inventory updates, and store performance tracking.
- Staff Training: Ensure all team members understand policies
- Regular Audits: Periodic checks of listings and processes
- Documentation: Keep records of all transactions and communications
Advanced Growth Strategies
Leveraging TikTok’s unique features can help you drive organic reach and sales.
- Live Shopping Events:
- Best times to go live
- Equipment recommendations
- Engagement techniques
- Hashtag Challenges:
- Creating viral moments
- Incentivizing user participation
- Measuring campaign success
- Influencer Collaborations:
- Finding the right creators
- Structuring fair partnerships
- Tracking ROI from collaborations
Cross-Platform Integration
Apart from TikTok , you can also collaborate with other platforms to increase your ROI.
- Shopify and Other Ecommerce Platforms
- Email Marketing Synergies
- Social Media Cross-Promotion
However, if you are still unsure how to start a TikTok by yourself, you can take help from experts like Tiksly. We handle everything from setting up your shop to helping you grow quickly. Our team ensures your account is verified, properly set up, and optimized to perform well. We create product listings that are designed to work with TikTok’s algorithm and drive more sales.
Conclusion
Setting up your TikTok Shop is just the beginning. The real opportunity lies in consistently optimizing your store, creating engaging content, and building relationships with your customers. Remember:
- Start simple but think long-term
- Test and learn from your analytics
- Stay adaptable as the platform evolves
- Scale strategically as you find what works
With this comprehensive TikTok shop guide, you’re now equipped with everything you need to know how to start a TikTok Shop, grow, and succeed. The platform’s explosive growth presents an unprecedented opportunity – the time to act is now.
Ready to get started? Head to TikTok Shop Seller Center to begin your TikTok Shop journey today. Have questions? Just leave a comment below, our team will contact you asap!
FAQs
How to Become a TikTok Shop Seller
To start selling on TikTok Shop, register through the TikTok Seller Center. You’ll need to:
- Choose between an individual or business account
- Submit ID verification (government-issued ID + tax info)
- Provide product details and comply with TikTok’s policies
- Set up payment and shipping methods
Once approved, you can tag products in videos, go live, and sell through the Shop tab.
Do You Need 1,000 Followers for a TikTok Shop?
No! Unlike TikTok’s Creator Marketplace (which requires 1K+ followers), TikTok Shop has no minimum follower requirement. Even new accounts with zero followers can sell. However, growing your audience helps drive more sales.
How to Get Approved for TikTok Shop
Approval takes 1-3 business days if you:
- Have valid ID (driver’s license/passport + SSN or EIN)
- Sell allowed products (no prohibited items)
- Provide accurate business info
- Maintain good standing (no policy violations)
- Rejections usually happen due to incomplete docs or restricted products.
Is TikTok Shop Free for Sellers?
It’s free to open a shop, but TikTok charges:
- 5% commission per sale
- Payment processing fees may vary according to regions
- Optional ads/spending to boost visibility
No monthly fees – you only pay when you make sales.
