TikTok Shop turns TikTok into a store. Sellers list products that viewers can buy straight from videos, lives and the Shop tab, and creators can earn commission by featuring other sellers’ products through the affiliate programme. It runs in more than 16 countries, with the full feature set in the US and the UK. There’s no monthly or listing fee; TikTok takes a referral fee on each sale.
At a glance
| What it is | In-app shopping on TikTok |
| Two ways to earn | Sell products, or promote them as an affiliate |
| Monthly fee | None |
| US referral fee | 6% on most categories (see notes) |
| New seller rate | 3% for 30 days, if eligible |
| Affiliate commission | Set by the seller, often 10% to 20% |
Selling
You register in TikTok Shop Seller Center, verify your business and list products. TikTok’s referral fee applies to each order; it covers its platform fees except shipping and tax. New US sellers who finish onboarding and make a first sale within 60 days get a 3% rate for 30 days. A refund administration fee applies when buyers return items.
Shipping rules in 2026
From March 2026, US sellers must ship through Fulfilled by TikTok, upgraded TikTok Shipping or the cross-border programme, rather than their own carrier setup. Factor those costs in before you price products.
Earning as an affiliate
Creators who meet TikTok’s eligibility rules can add products to their videos and lives and earn the commission each seller offers. Commission rates vary by category; one 2026 benchmark put the US average near 13%. You don’t hold stock or handle shipping.
Getting started
For selling, register on Seller Center with your business documents. For affiliate work, check the creator requirements in your TikTok app and apply to TikTok Shop’s affiliate programme.
Working with creators
Most successful TikTok Shop sellers recruit affiliates. Offer a commission that leaves you a margin, send free samples to creators who fit your product, and give them clear talking points. Track which creators actually drive sales and focus on them.
Content that sells
Short demonstrations, honest before-and-after videos and live sessions answering questions convert best. Show the product in use within the first seconds, and keep prices and offers clear on screen.
Owen’s take
TikTok Shop is one of the fastest-growing sales channels around, and the affiliate side is one of the easiest ways for creators to earn without their own products. Sellers should budget for creator commissions, which often cost more than TikTok’s own fee.
Who it suits
It suits product sellers with video-friendly items and creators who can make engaging product content. It suits less well sellers who can’t make or pay for video.
Similar options
- Shopify lets you run your own store and connect TikTok.
- Amazon Associates pays commission on Amazon purchases.
- Collabstr connects creators with brands for paid content.
- Insense pays UGC creators for brand content.
More options are in Ecommerce.
Pros and cons
Pros
- No monthly or listing fees
- Built-in audience and viral reach
- Affiliate earnings without stock
Cons
- Creator commissions add up
- Mandatory TikTok shipping options in the US
- Policies change often
FAQ
How much does TikTok Shop charge sellers?
A referral fee per order, 6% on most US categories per TikTok’s table.
Is there a monthly fee?
No.
Can I earn on TikTok Shop without selling?
Yes, through the affiliate programme.
Is there a new seller discount?
Yes, 3% for 30 days if you sell within 60 days of onboarding.
Can I use my own shipping in the US?
Not since March 2026; you must use TikTok’s shipping options.
