The TikTok Shop compliance guide for content creators

This guest post by US-based law firm Cabilly & Co. examines the emerging TikTok Shop marketplace and how to comply with its seller rules.

Thinking about launching your store on TikTok Shop, or are you already selling?

With the ability to reach millions through short videos and live shopping, TikTok Shop is quickly becoming one of the most powerful e-commerce platforms for sellers. It’s changing the way products are discovered, promoted, and purchased in real time.

But while the opportunity is massive, the platform also enforces strict and regularly updated rules. Even minor, unintentional violations can lead to product takedowns, frozen payouts, or permanent account suspensions.

If you’re a TikTok Shop seller, compliance isn’t just another task, it’s the foundation of a stable and profitable business. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know to stay compliant, avoid penalties, and grow with confidence.

📲 Why TikTok Shop compliance matters

TikTok Shop operates under a strict violation points system designed to maintain quality and trust across the platform. Every time a seller breaks a rule, points are added to their account. Reach 12 points, and your ability to list products may be temporarily frozen. Reach 48 points, and you risk a permanent shutdown of your shop.

What counts as a violation?

The list is broader than many sellers realise. It includes issues like delayed order fulfilment, poor customer service, and inaccurate product listings.

But it also covers more serious infractions such as using misleading content, infringing on intellectual property, or selling prohibited or restricted items. Check the complete list of violations to understand precisely what TikTok Shop monitors and penalises.

What makes the system even more challenging is that points don’t disappear quickly. They can stay on your record for months, and even a few minor mistakes can quickly add up to serious consequences. That’s why understanding the rules and consistently meeting TikTok Shop standards is critical if you want to keep your business running smoothly.

What products are banned or restricted?

Many creators mistakenly believe that if a product is legal, it’s automatically allowed on TikTok Shop. But the platform’s product compliance policy is far more restrictive than most people realise, and it’s expected to become even stricter over time.

TikTok divides products into two key categories every seller should understand:

1. Prohibited products

These items are completely banned and cannot be sold under any circumstances. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Weapons
• Alcohol
• Counterfeit goods
• Adult products
• Untested cosmetics
  

2. Restricted products

These products may be listed, but only if the seller provides proper compliance documentation. Examples include:

• Children’s items
• Consumer electronics
• Skincare and beauty products
• Medical-related goods

If your product falls into a restricted category, TikTok may require documents such as a CE certificate, FCC approval, or CPSIA test reports, depending on the product type. Submitting the correct documentation is crucial; failure to do so can result in your listing being removed or your account being penalized.

We strongly recommend checking TikTok’s prohibited and restricted product guidelines regularly, as updates can happen without much notice.

TikTok Shop seller registration requirements

Before you can start selling on TikTok Shop, you’ll need to go through the official registration process. To be eligible, you must either be an individual or a legally registered business in your region. During registration, TikTok will request the following:

• Business details (legal name, address, and tax ID)
• A valid bank account that matches your business name
• A Primary Business Representative (PBR) in certain countries (like the US), who must:
  • Hold local identification
  • Complete video-based identity verification

Accurate documentation is essential. Common reasons for rejection include:

• Blurry or low-quality ID uploads
• Mismatched names or addresses
• Incomplete or inconsistent information

TikTok may also request additional documents such as utility bills or tax certificates. Once approved, you can complete your seller profile, shipping settings, and return policies in the Seller Center, setting your shop up for a smooth and compliant launch.

Fulfilment, listings and documentation: What sellers must get right

Success on TikTok Shop isn’t just about what you sell; it’s also about how you operate. TikTok expects sellers to meet high standards in multiple areas:

• Fulfilment: Ship within 3 business days, use a valid tracking method, and minimise cancellations. Failing to meet these benchmarks can limit your visibility and access to campaigns. Many sellers utilise 3PLs or Fulfilled by TikTok (FBT) services to manage their volume.
  
• Listings: Make sure product names, descriptions, and images are accurate and professional. Avoid exaggerated claims or content that targets underage users. Poor listings are a significant source of disputes and account penalties.
  
• Documentation: TikTok may audit your store at any time, so keep required compliance files (certificates, test reports, safety data, packaging images) organised and ready, especially for restricted product categories.
  

Getting these areas right isn’t optional—it’s the foundation for staying visible, competitive, and compliant on TikTok Shop.

❗Consequences of TikTok Shop non-compliance

The risks of ignoring TikTok’s rules go beyond just warnings:

• TikTok Shop account suspensions
• Frozen payouts or delayed disbursements
• Permanent seller bans
• Forced reverification during high-sales periods

There have even been cases of buyers harmed by unsafe or counterfeit products, particularly Cosmetics, which has led to TikTok enforcing stricter standards in 2025.

When to get help from a social media lawyer

If you’re unsure whether your product complies with TikTok’s requirements or if you’ve already received a policy violation, it might be time to consult a social media lawyer. These experts specialise in the legal aspects of content creation, e-commerce, and platform compliance.

Whether it’s reviewing your documentation, helping you set up your business correctly, or contesting a suspension, a lawyer who understands TikTok’s seller rules can make a significant difference.

✅TikTok Shop compliance best practices checklist

To protect your shop and scale confidently, follow this checklist:

1. Review your product catalogue: Remove banned items and verify any applicable restrictions.
2. Compile all required compliance documents before listing.
3. Ensure your business structure meets TikTok Shop requirements, particularly if you sell in the US
4. Use a reliable fulfilment solution, either in-house or TikTok’s programs.
5. Optimise your product listings for clarity, accuracy, and appeal.
6. Stay updated via the TikTok Seller Center and Seller University resources.

TikTok Shop success starts with compliance

If you want to build a sustainable brand on TikTok Shop, compliance isn’t optional; It’s your foundation. From accurate listings to safety documents and shipping performance, every piece plays a role in how your store is ranked, promoted, and trusted.

By staying ahead of the curve on TikTok Shop policy updates, you won’t just avoid penalties; you’ll build a stronger, more resilient e-commerce business.