As a seasoned TikTok Shop operations expert with 5 years of global expansion experience, I have successfully managed multiple Best Seller products across various categories. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the US TikTok Shop registration process, covering key steps, policy updates, and practical insights based on real-world experiences.
Problem Scenario
Many Chinese sellers face challenges when registering for the US TikTok Shop due to unclear requirements, lack of local business knowledge, and misunderstanding of platform policies. For example, a seller from Hangzhou attempted to register without a US-based company or bank account, resulting in repeated application rejections and wasted time and resources.
Underlying Logic
The US TikTok Shop requires strict compliance with local regulations, including legal entity setup, tax registration, and payment integration. Sellers must understand the difference between a domestic and international business structure and ensure all documentation aligns with TikTok’s guidelines. According to the TikTok Shop US Business Registration Policy, businesses must provide proof of a valid business license and a US bank account.
- Legal entity: Must be registered in the US
- Tax ID: EIN or SSN required
- Bank account: Must be linked to the business
- Product compliance: Must meet US safety standards
Solution Steps
To register for the US TikTok Shop, follow these steps:
- Create a US-based business (LLC or Corporation)
For example, a seller from Shenzhen successfully registered by forming an LLC in Delaware and using a local accountant to handle the EIN and bank account setup. They completed the TikTok Shop application within 2 weeks and were approved on the first attempt.
Policy Update
In April 2024, TikTok updated its US Business Verification Policy, requiring additional documentation for sellers from non-English speaking countries. These include:
- Translated business license
- Notarized power of attorney
- Proof of product compliance (e.g., UL certification)
These changes have increased the processing time for some applications, especially for sellers who are not familiar with the local legal system.
Case Study: Successful Registration of a Home Goods Seller
A home goods seller from Guangdong followed these steps to register for the US TikTok Shop:
- Registered an LLC in California
This seller now has a thriving presence on TikTok Shop and has achieved over $50,000 in sales within the first 6 months.
Table: Comparison of Registration Methods
Method | Cost | Time Required | Complexity |
---|---|---|---|
Self-registration | $0 - $500 | 2-4 weeks | High |
Using a local agent | $500 - $2000 | 1-2 weeks | Low |
Using a third-party service | $1000 - $5000 | 1 week | Very low |