How to Set Up a TikTok Shop Account

TikTok Shop officially launched in the United States in 2023 and has quickly grown into one of the most powerful commerce channels for product brands. Shoppable videos, creator collaborations, and in-app checkout keep the entire purchase journey inside TikTok—closing the gap between discovery and conversion.

If you’re ready to enter the channel, this guide walks through every step of TikTok Shop registration in the US, the documentation you need, and tips to launch faster.

Why TikTok Shop Matters for US Sellers

US shoppers increasingly make purchase decisions inside TikTok. TikTok Shop lets brands tag products in short-form videos, live streams, and the shop tab so viewers can buy without leaving the app. Early adopters see higher conversion rates, lower CAC compared to Meta ads, and a steady flow of user-generated content they can repurpose across channels.

Step 1: Prerequisites for TikTok Shop Registration in the US

Before you open the Seller Center, double-check you have the following requirements in place. TikTok considers them mandatory for US-based stores.

Stock must be in the US: Inventory needs to sit inside the United States for fast fulfillment and compliance.
US representative: Brands operating from overseas must appoint a US-based representative to manage the shop.
US IP login: Always access Seller Center from a US IP address. Logins from overseas often trigger security holds.
US LLC & bank account: TikTok requires a US business entity and bank account for payouts. International brands typically partner with a US entity or 3PL to meet this rule.

Without these fundamentals, your application will stall. Line them up first so the verification team can approve you quickly.

Step 2: Visit the TikTok Seller Center

Head to TikTok Seller Center.
Select United States as your region.
Sign up with an email address or phone number that you can dedicate to operations.

Once verified, you’ll land in the Seller Center dashboard where you can complete your shop profile.

Step 3: Choose Between Individual or Business Seller

TikTok offers two paths depending on how you operate:

Individual seller: Best for sole proprietors. Requires a US government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
Business seller: Designed for LLCs and corporations. You’ll submit company formation documents and EIN verification.

Choose the option that matches your entity structure. Most growth-focused brands opt for the business seller route.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Gather documentation in advance so you can complete the onboarding flow in one sitting.

Government ID: US driver’s license, passport, or state ID for the account owner.
Business paperwork: Articles of Incorporation or LLC certificate, plus EIN confirmation if you register as a business.
Bank account details: Routing and account numbers for a US bank (business account for LLCs).

TikTok typically reviews applications within one to three business days. Keep an eye on your email in case the verification team requests additional proof.

Step 5: Add Products to Your TikTok Shop

Open Product Management in Seller Center.
Upload crisp product photos or short video clips.
Write detailed descriptions, highlight key benefits, and add compliance notes when required.
Set pricing in USD and select the most accurate product category.
Submit for review—TikTok usually approves compliant listings within 24 hours.

Use this time to connect your fulfillment workflows so orders route to your 3PL or warehouse automatically.

Step 6: Optimize for Sales in the US Market

With your shop live, focus on the repeatable actions that drive revenue:

Link your TikTok Business account so you can tag products in organic videos immediately.
Activate the affiliate program and invite US creators to promote your catalog for commission.
Launch Spark Ads or live shopping events to amplify high-performing content.
Monitor fulfillment metrics—TikTok rewards fast shipping with more exposure in the shop tab.

FAQs About TikTok Shop Registration in the US

Can non-US companies register? Yes, but you must set up a US LLC, obtain an EIN, and use a US bank account. Many brands partner with a US representative or 3PL to satisfy these requirements.

How long does approval take? Most applications clear in one to three business days once documents are submitted.

Does TikTok charge to register? No. Registration is free—TikTok charges a commission on completed sales.

Do I need inventory in the US? Yes. TikTok expects inventory to ship domestically for US shoppers.

Can I use a personal bank account? Individuals can. Business sellers must use a US business bank account tied to their LLC or corporation.

Final Thoughts

Setting up TikTok Shop in the US takes preparation, but once prerequisites are handled the onboarding workflow is straightforward. Within a few days you can register, upload products, and begin selling directly to TikTok’s massive audience.