There are roughly 2.1 online sellers in the United States and close to 8 million around the world. Ecommerce sales spiked over the last couple of years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s created opportunities for millions to earn an income without a lot of overhead. You can sell your products by joining the online marketplace.
It’s a simple way to get started and put your products in front of a huge audience without spending a ton of money building a brand, a website, and marketing your products.
Does that seem like an easy business to start? Then keep reading to find how to sell on the online marketplace.
1. Pick Your Products
Choosing a product isn’t as simple as picking something and assuming you’ll make a ton of money. It takes a lot of research to choose the right products that will sell.
Research different online marketplaces and check Google Trends for clues as to what sells online.
You also want to make sure that you’ll make a profit. Run preliminary numbers based on what other sellers are selling the product for and subtract your costs (don’t forget to add the cost to sell on the online marketplace).
2. Choose an Online Marketplace
The easiest way to get started is to sell on an online marketplace. Which one should you go with? You can sell on Etsy, Amazon, Walmart, or eBay.
Make sure that your products are a good fit with the marketplace and your potential customers will look for them on the marketplace.
Compare the costs and terms for sellers. Be sure to analyze reporting tools and insights that will make your listings more effective.
3. Qualify as a Seller
Online marketplaces have a low barrier to entry, but it’s not guaranteed you’ll be able to sell products there.
You’ll need to upload documents for tax and identification purposes. You’ll also need to have a bank account and business email address.
Depending on what you’re selling, you may need to get additional certifications. For example, if you’re selling supplements, Amazon requires the products get tested for quality assurance by certified testing labs.
4. Perform Keyword Research
Online marketplaces are big search engines. Once you realize that, it’s easier to tailor your listings to search terms.
There are tools that help you do keyword research for your products. Do a search for “keyword research tool [online marketplace name]” and you’ll find the best tool for your needs.
5. List Products
Joining an online marketplace is just the first step in selling online. Your listings have to be so good, they close sales.
Be sure to use the keywords in the product description and headline. Include as much detail about the products, such as weight and size.
Create photographs that show the product package and the product in use.
Tips to Sell On the Online Marketplace
Are you ready to sell on an online marketplace? You have the tools you need to find the right products and sell them online.
Need more tips to start a business selling online? Head over to the home page of this site for more helpful advice.