“A Comprehensive Guide to the Online Marketplace"
Discover what eBay is and how it works. Learn about eBay's online marketplace, where buyers and sellers connect to buy and sell products through auctions or fixed-price listings. Explore its features, benefits, and how to start selling or shopping on eBay."
What is eBay?
How to set up a Seller account on eBay
Why Sell on eBay?
Selling on eBay versus Amazon?
What is eBay?
eBay is an online marketplace where people and businesses can buy and sell a wide variety of products, including new and used items. It was founded in 1995 and is one of the largest eCommerce platforms in the world.
How to set up a seller account on eBay?
Step 1: Sign Up for an eBay Account
⦁ Go to⦁ ⦁ eBay.com.
⦁ Click on "Register" (if you don’t have an account).
⦁ Choose between a Personal or Business account. If you plan to sell professionally, choose a Businesirf main heading thori bri honi chahiyess Account.
You also have an option to open a business account. If you have a legally registered business and plan to sell a large number of goods on eBay, you can choose the business account.
Why Sell on eBay?
Selling on eBay in 2025 still offers many advantages, especially for businesses and entrepreneurs looking to expand their e-commerce reach. Here are some key reasons why eBay is a great platform to sell on:
1. Large and Active Customer Base
⦁ eBay has over 133 million active buyers globally.
⦁ Millions of people search for products daily, giving sellers access to a massive audience.
2. Low Startup Costs & Easy to Use
⦁ No need for a website; you can start selling with a minimal setup.
⦁ eBay provides built-in tools for listing, payments, and shipping.
3. Multiple Selling Formats
⦁ Auction Listings – Great for rare or collectible items.
⦁ Fixed-Price Listings (Buy It Now) – Ideal for regular retail sales.
4. Global Reach & Cross-Border Selling
⦁ eBay allows international selling, helping you reach customers worldwide.
⦁ The eBay Global Shipping Program simplifies international shipping.
5. Lower Marketing Costs Compared to Amazon
⦁ eBay has built-in traffic, meaning you spend less on advertising.
⦁ eBay Promoted Listings helps boost visibility without high ad costs.
6. Opportunities for Dropshipping & Arbitrage
⦁ eBay supports dropshipping, allowing sellers to list products without holding inventory.
⦁ Retail arbitrage (buying low from other sources and selling higher on eBay) is a proven business model.
Selling on eBay versus Amazon?
Selling on eBay vs. Amazon depends on your business goals, budget, and product type. Both platforms offer unique advantages, so let's compare them across key factors:
1. Customer Base & Competition
Feature eBay Amazon
Active Buyers ~133 million ~300 million+
Competition Lower, especially for used/unique items Higher, especially for new products
Customer Intent Buyers look for deals, auctions, and second-hand items Buyers expect fast shipping and brand-new products
✅ eBay wins if you sell used, rare, or unique products.
✅ Amazon wins for high-demand retail products and private-label brands.
2. Selling Fees & Costs
Fee Type eBay Amazon
Referral Fee 12-15% (varies by category) 8-15% (varies by category)
Listing Fee The first 250 listings are free, then $0.30 per item No listing fees for individual sellers
Subscription Fee Optional store plans ($4.95–$299.95/month) $39.99/month (Professional Plan)
Fulfillment Costs Lower (seller handles shipping) Higher if using FBA (Amazon handles storage & shipping)
✅ eBay wins for lower upfront costs and lower fulfillment expenses.
✅ Amazon wins if you use FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) to scale quickly.
3. Product Types & Selling Methods
Feature eBay Amazon
Product Type New & used items, collectibles, auctions New items, branded products, private-label
Selling Model Auctions + Fixed Price Fixed Price Only
Private Label Selling Less common Best for brand-building
Dropshipping Allowed but with restrictions Allowed but more regulated
. Free returns.
eBay offers five different return policy options for you to choose from:
⦁ No returns accepted.
⦁ 30-day buyer-paid returns.
⦁ 30-day free returns.
⦁ 60-day buyer-paid returns.
⦁ 60-day free returns
Strong customer service
Providing excellent customer service is key to retaining customers and maintaining positive eBay reviews. Respond promptly to inquiries, ship orders on time, and ensure accurate product descriptions. Address issues professionally and offer hassle-free returns when necessary. A great buying experience encourages repeat customers, boosts seller ratings, and helps avoid negative feedback, strengthening your eBay business.
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