To access TikTok Shop, open the TikTok app and tap the Shop tab at the bottom of the screen. If you’re a buyer, you’ll see categories, deals, and product links in videos or livestreams. If you’re a seller, sign up at the TikTok Shop Seller Center, verify your identity, upload your products, and manage your store from the dashboard.
TikTok is not just for funny videos and dances anymore. It has become a place where people buy and sell real products. TikTok Shop makes this easy by letting users shop inside the app without going to another website.
If you want to buy something you saw in a video or if you’re planning to sell your own products, this guide will walk you through it. I’ve worked in this space for years, and I’ve helped both beginners and pros get started with TikTok Shop. So I’ll keep it clear and useful, no extra talk.
What Does TikTok Shop Mean?
TikTok Shop is a shopping feature inside the TikTok app. It lets people sell products directly through videos, livestreams, or a tab called Shop.
If you’re watching a skincare routine and like the product, you can buy it right there. If you are a seller, you can show your product in a video and let people buy it without leaving the app while increasing your engagement.
Who Can Use TikTok Shop?
TikTok Shop is not open to everyone. Some people can use it. Some cannot. Here’s what matters:
- Your country must be on TikTok’s approved list. This includes the United States, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines
- Your age must be 18 or older
- Your account type must be a Creator or Business account if you want to sell
If you’re in a country that is not on the list, or if your account is personal and not a Creator or Business, you will not be able to use all the TikTok Shop features.
How Can Buyers Use TikTok Shop?
If you are someone who just wants to buy things, it is pretty easy.
- Open the TikTok app
- Look for the Shop icon at the bottom of the screen
- Tap it and you will see products, categories, and deals
If you don’t see the Shop tab, update your app first. Still not there? It probably means TikTok Shop is not active in your country yet.
You can still buy from product links inside videos and livestreams. Look for pop-ups or small banners when creators mention a product.
How Sellers Can Get Started with TikTok Shop?
If you want to sell something on TikTok, you need to create a seller account. TikTok asks for a few details to make sure you are real and ready to sell.
Follow these steps:
- Go to the TikTok Shop Seller Center
- Sign in with your TikTok account
- Choose if you are an individual or a business
- Upload your ID or business documents
- Add your bank account for payments
TikTok will review your info and approve your seller account. This usually takes one to three days. After that, you can upload products and manage your store from the dashboard.
Take your time and follow all the steps. TikTok checks your details closely. Make sure your product photos are clear, your descriptions are true, and your delivery time is realistic.
Where to Find the Shop Tab in the App?
Once your account is ready, you’ll want to find the Shop tab. It is not hidden, but you need to know where to look.
- Open the TikTok app
- Look at the bottom of your screen
- You will see a tab named Shop between the Inbox and Profile
- Tap it to enter the shopping section
If you are a seller, you can also access business tools:
- Go to your Profile
- Tap the three dots in the corner
- Select Business Suite
- You can check sales, upload products, and run discounts
Sometimes the TikTok Shop tab does not show up right away. Try logging out and logging back in. Make sure your app is updated. If it still does not show, your account may not be eligible yet.
How to Use TikTok Shop on a Computer?
You can manage your store on a computer. It is better for uploading many products or checking reports.
Here is how:
- Visit the Seller Center
- Log in with your TikTok account
- Use the dashboard to add products, see orders, and view your sales data
Keep in mind that buyers cannot use TikTok Shop on a computer. They can only shop through the app on their phone.
Why You Might Not See TikTok Shop?
If you followed all the steps and still do not see the TikTok Shop feature, do not worry. Many users face the same problem. Here are the main reasons why:
- TikTok Shop is not yet available in your country
- Your app is not updated
- You are using a personal account, not a Creator or Business account
- Your age on your profile is set under 18
Here is what you can do:
- Switch your account to Creator or Business
- Check your profile age setting
- Update the TikTok app
- Log out and log back in
If none of these work, then your account does not qualify yet. You can contact TikTok support or wait until the feature becomes available in your region.
FAQs
Can I promote affiliate products on TikTok Shop without selling my own items?
Yes, TikTok offers an affiliate program where creators can earn commission by promoting other sellers’ products. You don’t need to hold inventory, just link featured products in your videos or lives.
Are there any fees or commissions for selling on TikTok Shop?
Yes, TikTok takes a small commission from each sale, and it varies by region and product category. It’s important to review the fee structure before listing anything.
Does TikTok Shop integrate with third-party logistics or dropshipping platforms?
Yes, some sellers connect TikTok Shop with dropshipping tools or fulfillment partners, but integration options may depend on your region and whether you’re using TikTok’s API or manual upload.
Can I run ads to boost my TikTok Shop listings?
Yes, TikTok Ads Manager lets you run paid campaigns that directly link to your Shop products. You can also boost organic posts that feature your listings.
What kind of products are banned from TikTok Shop?
TikTok has a restricted products list that includes items like alcohol, tobacco, adult content, weapons, and certain supplements. Selling these can lead to bans or account suspension.
