If you’re looking to start selling online, the best platform depends on what you’re selling and how much control you want over your business.
1. eBay
Best for: Used items, collectibles, electronics, auto parts, and almost anything else.
Pros
- Huge customer base
- Easy to start with little upfront cost
- Auction or fixed-price listings
- Good for testing products
Cons
- Seller fees
- Strong competition
- Strict seller performance standards
2. Etsy
Best for: Handmade goods, crafts, art, vintage items (20+ years old), and digital downloads.
Pros
- Customers actively looking for unique products
- Easy setup
- Strong niche audience
Cons
- Listing and transaction fees
- Limited to qualifying products
3. Amazon
Best for: Brand-new products and private-label brands.
Pros
- Massive customer traffic
- Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) handles shipping
- High sales potential
Cons
- Higher fees
- Very competitive
- Strict policies
4. Facebook Marketplace
Best for: Local sales, furniture, appliances, and used goods.
Pros
- No listing fees for local sales
- Quick communication with buyers
- Great for bulky items
Cons
- Potential for scams
- Mostly local unless shipping is enabled
5. Shopify
Best for: Building your own brand and long-term online business.
Pros
- Complete control over your store
- Thousands of apps and themes
- No marketplace competition on your site
Cons
- Monthly subscription
- You must drive your own traffic
6. Mercari
Best for: Clothing, electronics, toys, collectibles, and household goods.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Shipping labels included
- Good mobile app
Cons
- Smaller audience than eBay or Amazon
Best platforms by product type
| Product | Best Platform |
|---|---|
| Used electronics | eBay |
| Handmade crafts | Etsy |
| Clothing & shoes | eBay, Mercari |
| Vintage items | Etsy, eBay |
| New retail products | Amazon |
| Furniture | Facebook Marketplace |
| Print-on-demand | Shopify, Etsy |
| Digital downloads | Etsy |
| Collectibles | eBay |
If you’re just starting
A simple strategy is:
- Start with eBay to learn how online selling works.
- Add Facebook Marketplace for local sales.
- If you create your own products, open an Etsy shop.
- Once you have consistent sales, build a Shopify store to grow your own brand.
- Amazon has strict polices with strong enforcement. Join only after doing your due diligence.
This approach lets you start with little upfront investment while gaining experience before expanding into your own online storefront.
