The short answer? Sort of. While “free” Amazon listing tools exist, they rarely come without strings attached. This article breaks down your options, including a standout choice for beginners: Eselt.
Why Sellers Obsess Over Free Tools
Before we dive into specific software, let’s talk about why free tools are so appealing to new Amazon sellers.
For most, it’s about cash flow. Starting an Amazon business often requires upfront investment in inventory, shipping, and marketing. Software feels like a “nice-to-have”—not a “must-have”—when you’re bootstrapping. Free tools let you test the waters without draining your budget.
Then there’s the risk factor. Not all listing software is created equal. A tool that works for a veteran seller might be clunky or irrelevant for someone just starting out. Free trials or freemium plans let you try before you buy, ensuring you invest in software that actually fits your workflow.
The Harsh Truth About “Free” Listing Software
Here’s the reality check: Truly free, full-featured Amazon listing software is almost unheard of. Most “free” options are either limited, temporary, or both. Here’s what to expect:
1. Limited Features (The Most Common Catch)
Free tools often restrict access to advanced capabilities. For example:
- A free plan might let you create 10 listings but cap you at 100.
- Bulk upload (a lifesaver for sellers with 50+ products) or inventory sync (to avoid overselling) might require a paid upgrade.
2. Free Trials vs. Freemium Models
- Free Trials: These are time-limited (think 7–30 days) passes to all features. They’re great for testing whether a tool saves you time or improves your listings. But once the trial ends, you’ll need to subscribe to keep using it.
- Freemium Plans: A “free tier” that’s permanent but comes with hard limits. For example, you might get 10 free listings per month or basic keyword tools—no frills, no exceptions.
3. Paid Upgrades Are Often Worth It
As your business grows, free tools start to feel like training wheels. Paid software typically unlocks game-changing features:
- Bulk listing: Upload 100 products in minutes, not hours.
- Inventory sync: Automatically update stock levels across Amazon and other platforms.
- Analytics: Track which listings are driving sales (and which are flopping).
In short: Free tools are a starting point, not a forever solution.
Amazon’s Built-in “Free” Tools: The Basics
Amazon itself offers free tools to list products—no third-party software required. Here’s what they do (and where they fall short):
1. Seller Central Interface
Amazon’s web portal lets you manually create listings one by one. It’s free, but think of it as the “handwritten letter” of listing tools: functional, but slow. For a seller with 10 products, it works. For 100? You’ll spend hours clicking “Add Product” over and over.
2. Inventory File Templates
Amazon provides free CSV/Excel templates to bulk-upload listings. It’s faster than manual entry, but there’s a catch: You need to format the data exactly right (product categories, attributes, etc.). One typo, and your upload fails. It’s free, but it’s not user-friendly for beginners.
3. Amazon Seller App
Amazon’s mobile app lets you create listings on the go. It’s convenient, but it’s limited to single-listing creation. No bulk uploads, no keyword suggestions—just basic functionality.
The Verdict on Amazon’s Tools: They’re free, but they’re best for sellers with small inventories or those comfortable with manual work. For most, they’re a stepping stone to better tools.
Third-Party Tools: Free Trials, Freemium, and Hidden Costs
If Amazon’s tools feel limiting, third-party software might be your next stop. Here are the top options, including Eselt:
1. Helium 10: A Free Taste of All-in-One Power
Helium 10 is a popular suite for Amazon sellers, offering tools for keyword research, listing optimization, and more. Its free plan gives you limited access to Scribbles—a tool that helps craft keyword-rich titles and descriptions. It’s a good way to test the waters, but full features (like advanced analytics) require a paid plan.
2. Jungle Scout: A Paid Trial (With a Refund)
Jungle Scout is a top choice for product research and listing optimization, but it doesn’t offer a traditional free plan. Instead, it has a 7-day money-back guarantee. You’ll pay upfront, but you can cancel within a week for a full refund. It’s a “try before you buy” model, but it requires a credit card.
3. AccelerList: Bulk Listing for FBA (14-Day Trial)
If you’re an FBA seller (especially one selling books or high-volume items), AccelerList’s 14-day trial is worth a look. It specializes in bulk listing and FBA shipment creation—features that can save hours of work. After the trial, plans start at $34/month.
4. Eselt: The Best of Both Worlds (Free Trial + Permanent Free Tier)
Eselt stands out for one reason: It offers both a 30-day free trial and a permanent free plan. New users get 30 days to test all premium features of their Amazon listing software (like bulk listing and cross-platform management). After that, you can keep using Eselt for free as an eBay seller—forever—as long as you stay under 10 product listings (applies to eBay listings only).
For a new seller with a small inventory, Eselt’s free tier is a game-changer. It lets you experience dedicated listing software without any time pressure. And if your business grows? You can upgrade to a paid plan later.
Final Thoughts: Which Free Tool Should You Try?
- Total Beginners: Start with Amazon’s Seller Central to learn the basics.
- Test-Drive Advanced Features: Use free trials (like InventoryLab’s 30-day offer) to compare tools.
- Small Inventories: Eselt’s 30 day free trial is hard to beat
Why Eselt Wins for New Sellers: It’s one of the only tools that gives you both a free trial and a permanent free tier. For a seller with 10 or fewer products that would be listed on eBay as well, it’s a risk-free way to see if dedicated listing software makes a difference.
At the end of the day, “free” Amazon listing software is rarely 100% free forever. But with options like Eselt or Helium 10, you can get started without breaking the bank. The key is to use free tools to learn, test, and grow—then invest in paid upgrades only when your business demands it.
Now go list those products—without the fluff.