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E-commerce: how to start selling on eBay?
eBay is one of the world's oldest and best-known marketplaces. Based in the US, it has operated globally since 1995 and connects millions of sellers and buyers around the world. If you are thinking of selling on eBay, the practical guide below will take you through the process step by step.
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Why sell on eBay?
eBay offers sellers several unique benefits:
Global reach
eBay operates in more than 190 countries, allowing you to reach a huge number of potential customers.
Flexibility
You can sell almost anything, from new products to used collectibles and even rare antiques.
Different ways to sell
eBay lets you sell through auctions as well as at fixed prices (Buy It Now).
Low barrier to entry
Creating an account and listing your first items is quick and easy, making eBay friendly to new sellers.
Step 1: Set up an eBay account
Before you start selling, you need an account:
- Registration: Visit eBay.com or eBay.pl, click “Register” and follow the instructions. Choose between a personal and a business account: if you plan to sell regularly or run a business, choose a business account.
- Account verification: eBay may request additional information such as a phone number or email address to verify the account.
Step 2: List an item for sale
Once your account is active, you can list your first items:
- Click “Sell”: Select “Sell” on the eBay homepage and enter basic information about the product.
- Photos and description: Add high-quality photos and write a detailed description. The more information you provide, the easier it is for buyers to decide.
- Category and tags: Choose the appropriate category and add relevant tags to help buyers find the item.
- Price: Set your price: an auction price (people bid on the item) or a fixed “Buy It Now” price.
- Shipping options: Choose shipping methods and provide details of shipping costs and the regions where you can send the item.
Step 3: Set prices and choose a sales strategy
eBay offers several ways to sell products:
- Auctions: Users bid on items. You can set a starting price and auction duration (one to ten days). Auctions are ideal for rare or collectible items.
- Buy It Now: Choose this option to sell at a set price. It works well for products with a predictable value.
Step 4: Manage sales and customer service
Once your products are listed, actively manage sales:
- Order fulfilment: After an item sells, fulfil the order and ship it to the buyer as quickly as possible. eBay lets you track shipments and add tracking numbers.
- Contact with buyers: Answer prospective buyers' questions and communicate well; positive eBay feedback is essential to your reputation.
- Feedback management: Buyers can rate transactions, so maintain high service standards to build a positive reputation on the platform.
Step 5: Keep accounts
Selling on eBay requires accounting, especially if you sell regularly or on a larger scale. The platform has tools for tracking sales and payments, but it is worth investing in accounting software or using an accounting firm experienced in e-commerce accounting to settle income and tax payments properly.
Step 6: eBay fees
eBay charges various fees that you should consider in your sales strategy:
- Listing fee: eBay offers a certain number of free listings each month; a fee applies after that limit.
- Sales fee: After a product sells, eBay charges a commission, usually about 10–15% of its value.
- PayPal fees: If you use PayPal to handle payments, it also charges a small commission.
Step 7: Scale your eBay business
After gaining experience, consider scaling your eBay business:
- eBay Stores programme: Joining “eBay Stores” brings benefits such as custom sales-page templates, better marketing tools and more free listings.
- eBay Promoted Listings: Promote your listings to reach more potential customers.
If this article interested you, explore our e-commerce accounting services and see how we can help:
Summary
Starting to sell on eBay is a simple process that can benefit anyone seeking global reach. Key steps include setting up an account, listing an item, choosing a sales strategy, looking after customers and managing accounting. The platform offers many tools to help sellers grow their businesses.
Selling on eBay can be lucrative whether you sell individual products or run a professional shop.
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