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Boost Sales Now: 7 High Traffic Marketplaces to Sell Your Products Online (2024)
In today’s digital world, many online sellers and entrepreneurs are looking for ways to expand their sales beyond their own websites.
The internet is full of places where you can sell your products, but some are better than others. In this blog post, we’ll look at 7 high traffic marketplaces to sell your products online.
No matter what you’re selling, from handcrafted items to things you don’t personally use, there’s always a demand for it.
Our discussion will cover big names like Amazon and eBay, as well as some that you might not have heard of before.
We’ll explain each one in simple terms, so by the end, you’ll have a good idea of where you might want to start selling.
Ready to learn about these online selling hotspots?
Let’s dive in!
Amazon: The King of Online Marketplaces
Amazon is one of the biggest online marketplaces in the world. If you want to reach millions of customers, it’s the place to be. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a small business owner, selling on Amazon can open doors to massive growth.
In this section, we’ll explore 7 high-traffic marketplaces to sell your products online, starting with how you can set up your store on Amazon and begin your journey in the online selling world.
How to Set Up an Amazon Store (Step-by-Step)
Setting up your Amazon store might sound a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry. It’s easier than you think. I’m going to walk you through it step by step so you can get your products in front of Amazon’s huge customer base in no time.
Ready?
Let’s get started!
1. Create an Amazon Seller Account
Start by visiting amazon.co.uk and signing up for a seller account. You can choose between an individual plan (for casual sellers) or a professional plan (for those with larger inventories). The professional plan costs $39.99 per month, while the individual plan charges per item sold.
2. Set Up Product Listings
Once your account is set, you’ll need to add product listings. It means adding product titles, descriptions, and images and setting prices. Be sure to choose the right category for your products to make it easy for buyers to find them.
3. Understand Listing Fees
Amazon charges listing fees, which vary depending on the category. Familiarise yourself with these fees so you can price your items accordingly. I have also created separate heading for pricing.
4. Get Your Store Live
After adding your products, check everything in Amazon Seller Central and hit “publish.” Your products will now be live for millions of potential buyers!
This step-by-step guide will help you get started quickly on Amazon’s vast ecommerce platform.
Optimising Product Listings for Amazon’s Search Algorithm
To improve your product rankings on Amazon, understanding the A9 algorithm is essential. Here are key tips to enhance your listings:
- Product Title Optimisation: Use relevant keywords in your title to increase search visibility.
- Keyword Usage: Incorporate important keywords throughout your product description and use some bullet points to improve search ranking.
- High-Quality Images: Use clear, professional images to attract buyers and enhance visibility.
- Leverage Customer Reviews: Encourage positive reviews, as higher ratings can boost your product’s credibility and ranking.
Implementing these strategies can help improve your product’s visibility and drive more sales on Amazon.
Shipping and Fulfilment Options
After optimising your product listings, the next challenge is choosing the right fulfilment method. For many sellers, Shipping can be a major pain point. Amazon offers two solutions: Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) and Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM).
- Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA): Amazon handles storage, Shipping, and customer service, which saves you time but comes with fees. This option is convenient and scalable for growing businesses.
- Fulfilment by Merchant (FBM): You manage logistics and Shipping, which gives you control over costs and inventory but requires more effort.
The best choice depends on your business’s capacity and goals. If you’re struggling with time management, FBA might ease the burden, but FBM offers more flexibility for tighter budgets.
Marketing and Promotion Tools on Amazon
After addressing fulfilment, many sellers face the challenge of gaining visibility on Amazon’s crowded platform. To solve this, Amazon offers marketing tools like Sponsored Products and Lightning Deals that can help your product stand out.
If you’re finding it tough to get eyes on your listings, Sponsored ads target relevant shoppers searching for similar items, boosting visibility and driving sales increases.
For an extra push, Lightning Deals create urgency with limited-time offers, perfect for grabbing attention quickly. These product promotion tools can make a big difference in a highly competitive space.
Here are some key promotional tools Amazon offers:
- Sponsored Products: Paid ads that target relevant searches.
- Lightning Deals: Time-limited discounts to attract customers.
- Coupons: Visible discounts on listings to drive conversions.
- Amazon Stores: Custom brand pages to showcase products.
Pros and Cons of selling on Amazon
When selling on Amazon, it’s essential to weigh both the main advantages and disadvantages to determine if it’s the right fit for your business. Below is a comparison of the pros and cons of selling on Amazon.
| Pros | Cons |
| Global reach in the world and access to millions of customers | High selling fees and referral fees |
| Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) handles logistics | Increased competition from other sellers |
| Access to Prime members for faster Shipping | Strict seller policies and regulations |
| Strong customer trust in the Amazon platform | Additional costs for advertising and promotions |
This table provides a balanced look at the selling experience on Amazon, helping you understand both the benefits and challenges involved.
eBay: The Versatile Marketplace
eBay has been a go-to platform for sellers of all kinds. Whether you’re looking to sell vintage items, electronics, or even handmade goods, eBay offers flexibility for all types of products. If you’re ready to reach a global audience, setting up an eBay store is a great way to start.
How to Set Up an eBay Store (Step-by-Step)
Starting an eBay store is simple, and you don’t need to be a tech expert. Follow these steps, and you’ll be selling in no time!
1. Create an eBay Seller Account.
First, head over to ebay.co.uk and register for a seller account. You’ll need some basic details like your name, email, and payment information. Once you’ve done that, you can choose whether to sell casually or open a dedicated store.
2. Set Up Product Listings
After registering, it’s time to list your items. This involves adding product titles, descriptions, and photos. Choose the right category so potential buyers can easily find your products.
3. Understand Listing Fees
Just like Amazon, eBay charges listing fees. These depend on the type of product you’re selling. Be sure to review the fees so you can set your prices appropriately.
4. Launch Your Store
Once your listings are ready, review everything and make your store live. Congratulations, your products are now available to a worldwide audience on one of the most trusted online marketplaces!
With these steps, you’re ready to tap into eBay’s huge customer base and start growing your business.
Shipping and Fulfilment Options on eBay
Now that your eBay store is live, it’s important to think about how you’ll handle Shipping. eBay gives you two main options: self-shipping or using eBay’s integrated shipping solutions.
- Self-Shipping: You handle the packaging and shipping yourself, giving you control over the process.
- eBay Shipping Solutions: eBay offers discounted shipping rates with major carriers, simplifying logistics.
- Global Shipping: eBay also has a Global Shipping Program, which handles international deliveries and customer service for you.
Choosing the right shipping procedure depends on your business size and shipping needs. Both options have their advantages!
Marketing and Promotions for eBay Sellers
Once your store is up and running with Shipping sorted, it’s time to think about increasing visibility and boosting sales. As part of 7 high-traffic marketplaces to sell your products online, eBay offers several tools to help with this. If you’re struggling to get noticed, these promotional tools can help:
- Promoted Listings: Boost the visibility of your listings in search engines by paying.
- eBay Promotions Manager: Offer deals and discounts to attract more customers.
- Markdown Manager: Offer price reductions to encourage quicker sales.
Using these tools will help grow your sales and improve product visibility, getting your items in front of the right audience.
Pros and Cons of Selling on eBay
When selling on eBay, it’s important to look at both the advantages and disadvantages of challenges. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons to help you decide if it’s the right platform for your business:
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexibility to sell various products | High competition among sellers |
| Global reach with millions of buyers | eBay charges listing and selling fees |
| Low entry barriers for new sellers | Handling returns and customer disputes can be challenging |
Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of eBay will inform your selling strategy.
Etsy: Best for Handmade and Unique Products
Etsy is the go-to marketplace for anyone looking to sell handmade, vintage, or unique items. If you’re a creator or collector wanting to reach an audience that appreciates craftsmanship, Etsy is the perfect platform.
Let’s explore how to set up your Etsy shop and get your products in front of eager buyers.
How to Set Up an Etsy Shop (Step-by-Step)
Getting started on Etsy is simple, and you’ll be surprised how fast your hobby can become a successful online store.
If you’ve been creating one-of-a-kind pieces or gathering antique finds, Etsy is the ideal platform to showcase your work.
Let’s break it down so you can start selling in no time.
1. Create a Seller Account
Head over to etsy.com/uk and sign up for a seller account. Provide basic details like your name, email, and payment info. This will allow your business to start listing your handmade or vintage items.
2. Set Up Your Shop
Select a shop name that aligns with your brand or products. Once you have a name, you can start adding product listings.
3. Create Product Listings
For each product, include a detailed description, high-quality images, and accurate pricing. Choose the right category so buyers can easily find your items.
4. Launch Your Shop
Review everything in your shop, including shipping details, and hit “open.” Your shop is now live, ready to showcase your handmade or vintage products to the world!
This simple guide will help you get started on Etsy and begin attracting customers who love unique, handcrafted items.
Shipping and Fulfilment for Etsy Sellers
Now that your Etsy shop is live, it’s time to handle Shipping. Etsy makes this process easier with its built-in tools and features.
- Etsy Shipping Labels: Print shipping labels directly from Etsy at discounted rates.
- Packaging Tips: Use protective packaging for fragile or handmade items to ensure they arrive safely.
- Managing Returns: Clearly state your return policy to manage customer expectations and ensure smooth transactions.
These tools help you provide excellent customer service while keeping fulfilment simple and efficient for your handmade products.
Marketing and Promoting Your Etsy Store
Now that you’ve got your Shipping in place, it’s time to focus on attracting buyers to your Etsy store.
Promotion is crucial to getting your handmade products noticed, and Etsy offers several ways to boost visibility:
- Etsy Ads: Promote your products within Etsy to boost visibility.
- Social Media Marketing: Share your products on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to reach a wider audience.
- SEO: Use primary keywords in your product titles and descriptions to improve search ranking.
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These techniques will draw more people to your Etsy store and expand its audience.
Pros and Cons of Selling on Etsy
Now that you’ve set up your shop, organised Shipping, and learned how to market your products, Now’s the time to think about the upsides and downsides of selling on Etsy.
This will help you see if Etsy aligns with your business goals and target audience:
| Pros | Cons |
| Niche Audience: Etsy attracts buyers who love handmade, vintage, and unique items perfect for creators like you. | Limited Product Types: Etsy focuses mainly on handmade and vintage products, which might limit the types of items you can sell. |
| Low Listing Fees: Etsy’s affordable fees allow you to list your products without breaking the bank. | Smaller Audience Compared to Amazon: Etsy has fewer buyers compared to larger platforms like Amazon, meaning less visibility for some products. |
| Supportive Seller Community: Etsy’s seller community is a great resource for sharing tips and advice. | High Competition in Some Categories: Popular categories can be crowded, making it harder to stand out. |
By understanding these pros and cons, you’ll be better equipped to make the most out of your Etsy experience and reach the right audience for your unique products.
Shopify: Best for Creating Your Own Online Store
- Discounted Shipping Rates: Access competitive rates with major carriers directly through Shopify.
- Shipping Label Printing: Print shipping labels from your Shopify dashboard for easy order fulfilment.
- Third-Party Integrations: Connect with services like ShipStation or Easyship for additional shipping options and enhanced tracking.
By utilising these shipping tools, you can efficiently manage logistics and provide excellent service to your customers, helping to ensure repeat business.
Marketing Your Shopify Store
Now that your Shipping is in place, it’s time to attract customers to your Shopify store. Effective marketing campaigns can significantly boost sales and customer engagement. Here are some strategies to consider:
- SEO: Optimise your product titles and descriptions with relevant keywords to improve search visibility.
- Social Media Marketing: Use social media to attract more people to your brand by sharing captivating content and deals on platforms like Instagram and Facebook
- Email Campaigns: Build an email list of your targeted customers and send newsletters to keep customers informed about new products and special offers.
Implementing these tactics will help you address the challenge of gaining visibility and increase customer acquisition.
Pros and Cons of Using Shopify
When considering using Shopify for your online store, it’s helpful to weigh the main advantages and disadvantages.
Here’s a clear overview to assist you in making an informed decision:
| Pros | Cons |
| Complete Control: You have full control over your store’s design and functionality. | Higher Costs for Apps/Plugins: Additional costs can add up when using third-party apps and plugins. |
| Customisation: Shopify offers extensive customisation options to tailor your store to your brand. | Reliance on External Traffic Sources: Success often depends on driving traffic from outside sources like social media and SEO. |
| Scalability: Easily scale your Baby business as it grows, accommodating more products and higher traffic. | Transaction Fees: Depending on your payment gateway, transaction fees may apply. |
Understanding these important pros and cons will help you navigate Shopify effectively and make the most of your ecommerce journey.
Alibaba: The Global Wholesale Marketplace
Alibaba is a leading platform for businesses looking to source products at wholesale prices. Whether you’re a small business owner or an entrepreneur, setting up a store on Alibaba can connect you with suppliers worldwide.
Let’s explore how to get started!
How to Set Up an Alibaba Store (Step-by-Step)
Getting started on Alibaba is simple and can open doors to a vast network of suppliers. Here’s how to set up your seller account:
1. Create a Seller Account
Visit alibaba.co.uk and click on the “Join Free” button. Fill in your business details along with your email and create a password to register.
2. Set Up Your Profile
Once registered, complete your profile by providing your business information. This includes your company name, location, and a brief description of your business.
3. Add Product Listings
Start adding product listings by including detailed descriptions, high-quality images, and competitive pricing. Make sure to highlight unique features to attract buyers.
4. Verify Your Account
Consider completing the verification process to enhance your credibility and attract more customers.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to establishing your presence on Alibaba’s global wholesale marketplace.
This platform can help you grow your business by connecting with suppliers and expanding your product offerings.
Shipping and Fulfilment Options on Alibaba
Now that your Alibaba store is set up, it’s crucial to manage your logistics and Shipping effectively. Here are the key shipping options available for sellers:
- Air Freight: Fast delivery for urgent shipments, ideal for smaller, high-value orders.
- Sea Freight: Cost-effective for bulk orders but takes longer than air freight.
- Express Shipping: Services like DHL or FedEx for quick, reliable delivery.
When working with suppliers, don’t hesitate to negotiate shipping terms to find the best rates. Understanding these options will help you streamline your fulfilment process and meet customer expectations effectively.
Pros and Cons of Selling on Alibaba
As you consider selling on Alibaba, it’s essential to understand both the benefits and challenges. This overview will help you navigate the wholesale marketplace effectively:
| Pros | Cons |
| Access to Global Buyers: Reach a vast network of customers around the world, expanding your market. | High Competition: Stand out among numerous sellers offering similar products. |
| Bulk Order Capabilities: Easily manage large orders, making it suitable for wholesalers and businesses. | Quality Control Issues: Inconsistencies in product quality can arise from various suppliers. |
| Competitive Pricing: Benefit from lower prices by sourcing directly from manufacturers. | Varying Buyer Reliability: Buyer trust levels can differ, which may affect your sales experience. |
By understanding these in-depth pros and cons, you can ensure a successful experience on Alibaba by making informed decisions that support your business objectives.
OnBuy: The Emerging UK Marketplace
OnBuy is a growing online marketplace that’s perfect for sellers looking to reach UK customers. With its user-friendly interface and low fees, it’s an attractive option for small and large businesses of all sizes.
Let’s explore how you can get started with your OnBuy store!
How to Set Up an OnBuy Store (Step-by-Step)
Getting started on OnBuy is easy and can help you to enter into a new customer base. Follow these steps to set up your seller account:
1. Create a Seller Account
Visitonbuy.com/gb and click on “Sell on OnBuy.” Fill out the registration form with your details, including your email address and business name.
2. Set Up Your Profile
After registration, complete your profile by providing business information. This includes your company description and contact details to build trust with potential buyers.
3. Add Product Listings
Start adding your products by entering clear descriptions, high-quality images, and competitive pricing. Make sure to select the right categories to help customers find your items easily.
4. Review and Launch Your Store
Once everything is in place, review your listings and settings. When you’re ready, go ahead and launch your store!
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to selling on OnBuy and connecting with eager customers in the UK market.
Shipping and Fulfilment Options on OnBuy
Now that your OnBuy store is set up, managing shipping logistics is crucial for success. Here’s an overview of your shipping options:
- Domestic Shipping: Utilise local courier services for quick and reliable delivery within the UK.
- International Shipping: Consider international couriers to reach customers outside the UK, but be aware of customs regulations.
To optimise shipping costs, follow these best practices:
- Negotiate with Couriers: Build relationships with shipping providers to secure better rates.
- Compare Shipping Options: Use different couriers for various destinations to find the most cost-effective solutions.
By effectively managing your shipping logistics, you can enhance customer satisfaction and streamline your fulfilment process.
Pros and Cons of Selling on OnBuy
When you think about selling on OnBuy, it’s important to look at both the good and the bad aspects. Knowing these points can help you make smart choices for your business.
Here’s a simple overview:
| Pros | Cons |
| Lower Fees: OnBuy has lower selling fees compared to bigger marketplaces, which can help you keep more profit. | Limited Brand Recognition: OnBuy isn’t as well-known as Amazon, which might affect your sales at first. |
| Growing Customer Base: The platform is getting more customers, giving you new chances to sell. | Fewer Marketing Tools: There are not as many built-in marketing features, so you may need to work harder to promote your products. |
| Easy Listing Process: Adding your products is straightforward, making it easy to start selling. | Competition: You may face competition from other sellers, which can make it very hard for your products to stand out. |
By thinking about these pros and cons, you can plan your selling strategy on OnBuy and make the most of your experience.
Fees and Commission Structures for Different Marketplaces
Understanding the fees and commission structures for various marketplaces is crucial for planning your selling strategy. Here’s a comparison of the fee structures for some popular platforms:
| Marketplace | Listing Fees | Commission Fees | Additional Fees |
| Amazon | No listing fees (for professional accounts) | 6% to 45%, depending on the category | FBA fees for storage and Shipping |
| eBay | Free for up to 50 listings; fees apply after that | 10% to 12% on total sales | Optional fees for promoted listings |
| Etsy | $0.20 per listing | 5% on the sale price | Payment processing fees (varies by country) |
| OnBuy | No listing fees | 5% to 10% on sales | Payment processing fees (varies) |
| Shopify | No listing fees | None (monthly subscription) | Transaction fees (if not using Shopify Payments) |
| Alibaba | No listing fees | Varies based on negotiation with suppliers | Possible transaction fees for payment processing |
By understanding these fees, you can make informed decisions about where to sell your products.
Each marketplace has its own structure, so consider your business model and product types when choosing the right platform for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selling online is easier than ever, thanks to these popular marketplaces.
Let’s recap:7 high-traffic marketplaces to sell your products online
- Amazon: Amazon is the biggest platform, and it is great for reaching lots of customers worldwide.
- eBay: Good for selling all kinds of products, from new to used items.
- Etsy: Perfect if you make handmade stuff or sell unique, vintage things.
- Shopify: Lets you build your personal-owned online store from scratch.
- Alibaba: Alibaba is best for buying or selling products in bulk.
- OnBuy: A growing option, especially good for selling to UK customers.
Each marketplace has its own good points and costs. Some are better for certain types of products than others. To get started, pick one or two that seem right for what you’re selling. Try them out and see how it goes.
Remember to:
- Write clear product descriptions for your business.
- Use attractive and good photos.
- Give great customer service
- Learn about each marketplace’s rules
Don’t worry if it feels overwhelming at first. Everyone starts somewhere! The most important thing is to take that first step.
Choose a marketplace today, set up your account, and start selling. You might be surprised at how many people want to buy what you’re offering!
We at Zmartly offer ecommerce accounting services, and if you’re looking to build your business on marketplaces, we invite you to check out what we have to offer.
FAQ’s
To choose the right marketplace, think about where your customers shop, what products you sell, and the fees involved. For example, Etsy is great for handmade items, while Amazon is best for a wider range of products. Always consider the platform's audience and costs to maximise your profits.
Selling on high-traffic marketplaces means more exposure for your products and built-in trust from customers. You’ll also find helpful marketing tools and simplified shipping options, making it easier to reach buyers.
Costs can include listing fees, commission fees on sales, shipping expenses, and payment processing fees. Don't forget to consider advertising costs if you plan to promote your products. Understanding these main fees is key to managing your profits.
