Four options to help you sell your products online
Over the last few years, selling online has become easier and more accessible. Every business, store, or artisan can now create an online store or use a platform to sell their creations.
Every presented option has advantages and disadvantages. It is also possible to use many platforms simultaneously; however, the prices and success may vary.
Your online store
The first place where it is possible to sell your products online is your online store. Indeed, it is now possible to create a transactional website yourself with the help of several builders. It is also a website you can customize since it is entirely yours; therefore, it will not directly compete with other products or services.
Of course, it requires time and work to make an online store. You must use elements of your brand image, work on the SEO, and answer all questions your clientele might ask themselves. Nevertheless, you will not have to pay a commission on your revenues most of the time.
We found three known website builders that can help you create online stores. You can take a look and test them to see which ones meet your needs best.
WebSelf
Starting at $24,45 per month with the E-commerce plan
WebSelf is a Canadian website builder that allows you to easily create websites, blogs, and online stores. The process is quite simple, and the builder has several features. It is also a platform great for beginners. They have many beautiful website templates, whatever type of online store you want to build.
Shopify
Starting at $51 per month with the Basic plan
Shopify is one of the most popular platforms for online stores and transactional websites. Indeed, it is its specialty. They provide a lot of advances, like automatization campaigns and tools to help abandoned cart recovery. Nonetheless, it is essential to mention that in addition to the plan, Shopify takes a commission when there is a credit card payment.
Wix
Starting at $25 per month for the Essential plan
Wix is another known builder of websites and online stores. They provide many interesting features, and unlike Shopify, they do not ask for a commission on sales. Wix also has many website templates to help you and allow you to add up to 50,000 to your online store.
Other options to sell your products online
Other solutions can allow you to sell your products online if we exclude customized online stores. Although you can access more potential customers, you compete with other businesses.
It is also important to mention that there are often user fees and commissions to consider with these options; however, it can help you sell internationally or provide you with a place to sell your products without creating a website. It can be a way to test the market and get your first orders.
Etsy
Etsy is one of the most popular websites for artisans. We can find several gift ideas and accessories, whether jewelry, customized illustrations or templates, and objects to give to your friends and family. Since millions of people visit Etsy, it is a relevant platform if you want to sell handmade products. Please note that there are some fees before you decide to start anything.
Indeed, there is a fee for every product sheet, transaction, and ad campaign if you decide to have better results.
Amazon
Did you know it is possible to sell your products directly on Amazon, too? Remember that it is one of the most visited websites right now. Please note that Amazon provides many plans to those who want to sell on its platform. Depending on your chosen plan, you might also need to pay a commission on sales.
Are you a writer and want to sell your books online? It is possible to do it on Amazon with its Kindle Direct Publishing program. The process is relatively simple, and in exchange for a percentage of the sales, Amazon takes charge of printing and delivering your books. It could be a relevant option if you are not working with a publishing company.
Facebook and Instagram
You might have seen that Facebook offers the possibility of having an online store directly on its social network. Please note that it is not the marketplace where people can post their ads. To access this, you will need a professional Facebook page. If you want to use Instagram, you will also need a professional account.
To start selling on Facebook, you will need to go to the commercial manager page. It is where you can manage your catalog and have an overview of your sales. If this interests you, we recommend you take the time to read Digitad’s guide on this topic.
In conclusion, you have access to several options if you want to sell your products online. Nothing prevents you from getting your online store and selling your products on Etsy or Amazon as well. You should see which options are the most suitable for your business. Whatever the tool you choose, it will be essential to calculate the delivery fees to ensure selling your products remains profitable.