Selling ON Amazon VS Ebay 2016

In a world where e-commerce reigns supreme, two giants emerge as the titans of online selling: Amazon and eBay. These platforms offer sellers an opportunity to reach a vast customer base, but what sets them apart? In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into the differences between selling on Amazon and eBay in the year 2016. Prepare to be amazed as we explore the unique features, benefits, and drawbacks of each platform.

Let's start with Amazon, the unrivaled king of online retail. With its vast product catalog and global reach, Amazon offers sellers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their wares to millions of potential customers. The sheer volume of traffic that flows through Amazon's virtual aisles is mind-boggling. Sellers can tap into this immense customer base by listing their products directly on Amazon's marketplace.

One of the standout features of selling on Amazon is its Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA) program. This revolutionary service allows sellers to store their inventory in Amazon's fulfillment centers, where it is then picked, packed, and shipped by Amazon itself. This means sellers can focus solely on sourcing products and leave the logistics to the experts. FBA also offers Prime eligibility, meaning sellers' products are eligible for Prime's lightning-fast shipping, giving them a competitive edge in the marketplace.

But wait, there's more. Amazon boasts an array of powerful tools and analytics that empower sellers to optimize their listings for maximum visibility and sales. With access to detailed data on customer behavior and preferences, sellers can fine-tune their strategies and make informed decisions. Additionally, Amazon's advertising platform allows sellers to promote their products through sponsored ads, further boosting their visibility in search results.

Now let's turn our attention to eBay, the original online auction house turned global marketplace. While not as massive as Amazon in terms of overall sales volume, eBay has its own unique strengths that make it a force to be reckoned with in the e-commerce world. Unlike Amazon's fixed-price model, eBay thrives on the excitement of auctions and bidding wars.

eBay is often seen as a platform for sellers offering one-of-a-kind or rare items, as well as used goods. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals looking to clear out their attics or sell collectibles. The auction format allows sellers to potentially fetch higher prices for their items, as buyers compete against each other in real-time. This dynamic nature of eBay auctions can be thrilling for both buyers and sellers alike.

But that's not all. eBay also offers a variety of selling formats, including fixed-price listings and its own fulfillment service called eBay Global Shipping Program (GSP). GSP enables sellers to ship their products internationally without worrying about customs forms or complex shipping arrangements. This feature opens up a whole new world of potential customers for sellers.

Despite their differences, both Amazon and eBay share some common ground when it comes to customer trust and support. Both platforms have robust feedback systems that allow buyers to rate and review sellers based on their experiences. Positive feedback can build credibility and encourage future sales, while negative feedback can be a red flag for potential buyers.

In terms of fees, Amazon and eBay have distinct structures. Amazon charges a referral fee based on the item's category and a variable closing fee for media products like books or DVDs. On the other hand, eBay charges insertion fees for listing items and final value fees based on the sale price. It's important for sellers to carefully consider these fees when choosing between the two platforms.

However, if you have unique or rare items, or enjoy the thrill of auctions, eBay might be the perfect fit. Its auction format and international shipping options provide sellers with a distinct advantage in certain niches. eBay's feedback system also fosters trust and transparency, which can be invaluable for sellers building their reputation.