Start from an example:
Samples
samples
$
$
Results (estimates)
%
Estimate. Track your own rate in the affiliate dashboard.sales
Average over the post’s life.$
After product, shipping, fees and creator commission.Posting rate and sales per post are estimates; they vary widely by creator and niche.
How free sample ROI is calculated
Spend and return
spend = samples × (product cost + shipping) return = samples × post rate × sales per post × margin per saleCount only margin, not revenue, so the result shows real profit.
ROI
ROI = (return − spend) ÷ spend × 1000% means samples paid for themselves. Above 0% they made money.
Break-even
break-even sales = spend ÷ margin per saleDivide by the number of posts to see how many sales each post must drive.
Frequently asked questions
Are free samples worth it on TikTok Shop?
They are when enough creators post and each post drives a few sales. Use this calculator with your real posting rate to check.
What share of creators post after getting a sample?
It varies a lot by niche and how well you vet creators. Track it in your affiliate dashboard and enter your own rate.
Should margin per sale include creator commission?
Yes. Subtract product cost, shipping, referral fee and commission so ROI reflects profit.