Etsy vs Facebook Marketplace - Which Is Better?
The frequent dilemma that numerous online sellers face is - Etsy vs Facebook Marketplace. Etsy is renowned for its focus on vintage, handmade supplies catering to a niche market, while Facebook Marketplace is a local community-based online marketplace platform ideal for selling miscellaneous products. The choice between the two will hinge on different factors, and we are here to unravel all the pros and cons that come into play, so let's begin.
What is better when considering selling on Facebook Marketplace vs Etsy? It's up to you to decide what products you want to sell. In case your new shop features handmade jewelry, trinkets, stickers, and craft supplies, Etsy would be the right choice. In case you are aiming at reselling anything from furniture, electronic devices, home decor, and cars, creating listings on Facebook Marketplace is recommended.
Pros of Etsy - Is It a True Heaven for Artisans?
Did you know that, according to Statista, in May 2023, a seller known as CaitlynMinimalist achieved the highest number of sales on Etsy? This is an online store offering minimalist handmade jewelry. This fact confirms that, in fact, Etsy is a true heaven for artisans and that top-selling products are handmade goods.
The advantage of this marketplace is that it connects creators of vintage items and craft items and supplies with a global audience. It has a user-friendly interface and a large pool of users. It has 82 million active buyers. On top of this, the multi-vendor marketplace platform provides e-commerce business owners with good analytics that can boost traffic to the shop.
Drawbacks of Etsy Regarding Seller Fees
One of the main drawbacks of offering products on this app is the assortment of fees that can take a chunk of your profits. While the app offers a broad customer base, it comes at the cost of a 3.5% transaction fee and a standard listing fee of $0.20 per item. There are additional Etsy fees for payment processing methods like PayPal or credit card.
Furthermore, the platform's control over store layout limits branding opportunities, offering only basic customization options like product images and a shop banner. It becomes a bit hard to stand out when everything is highly controlled.
Fortunately, here are a few more tips to help you create a successful shop.
Pros of Facebook Marketplace - Sell Anything and Everything
Facebook Marketplace is a versatile platform where sellers can list a wide array of items, catering to a diverse local audience. Sellers can use the platform to sell versatile items ranging from furniture, toys, and books to electronics and collectibles without the constraints of a niche audience.
Everyone on Facebook is your potential buyer, and it is estimated that about 1.1 billion visitors browse through listings on Marketplace. Additionally, the platform's fees are not an obstacle for individuals selling in their community. The app serves as an intermediary but doesn't ask for a cut of the profit. This is an attractive option since it offers more freedom to customers and business owners.
Cons of Facebook Marketplace Associated With Scams
A significant downside is the high possibility of scams, with both buyers and sellers being susceptible to fraudulent activities. The idea is to communicate with the customer and make payment arrangements on your own. This means that sometimes you can stumble upon dishonest customers.
Another drawback is that there are charges associated with using Facebook's payment system. Sales up to $8 are subject to a minimum fee of $0.40, and for sales over $8, the charge is 5%.
After Considering All Pros and Cons - Which One is Better?
What online marketplace platform should you choose for creating an online shop? When considering Facebook Marketplace and Etsy, the answer is easy. If you are interested in being more in control of your listings and collecting payment on your own, the best option is Facebook. However, if you want to reach a global audience to promote a business for handmade products, selling on Etsy is a more reasonable choice.
Should You Make a Decision Based on The Categories You Want to Sell Under?
Absolutely! The decision on which platform to use should be influenced by the categories under which you want to sell. Sellers need to ask themselves:
- Does my inventory fit with Etsy's niche market?
- Do my local listings are more diverse and appropriate for Facebook's users?
By matching the platform's strengths with the nature of the goods offered, sellers can expect a quicker turnover that would ensure the business flourishes.
End the Etsy vs Facebook Marketplace Dilemma With Crossposting Software
There is a way for a seller to choose both platforms. A crossposting app can easily solve the dilemma since it can provide a seller with an opportunity to showcase listings on each app. Crosslisting software is a nifty tool used by numerous online sellers to reach potential buyers. If a listing is not gaining traction on one app, it can find the perfect customer on another app. A software for selling online manages listings 24/7 and offers a single inventory for listings appearing on multiple marketplaces.
Why is Zipsale Perfect for Your Online Shop?
Finding the best crossposting tool is important. We recommend trying out Zipsale, one of the most reliable online selling tools. It has the power to increase sales in a short period of time. All the seller needs to do is connect marketplaces, upload items, and list them everywhere you like. There should be no fear of overselling since Zipsale has an auto-delisting feature. Check all necessary information on our website and register today!
