Online marketplaces have made it easier to sell used items, but selecting from so many options will be confusing.
Amazon and eBay are top e-commerce players, but in relation to selling used items, it’s unclear which is the higher option.
Selling used items on Amazon and eBay – some comparisons
A study by Marketplace Pulse found that Amazon has gained more market share in comparison with its competitors around the globe. A bigger market share confirms that Amazon has a greater reach and can enable you advertise your products higher.
Income
Given the difference in market share between the 2 platforms, it seems a bit unfair to match revenues. In 2022, Amazon generated a staggering $514 billion in revenue, while eBay raised $10.41 billion, putting its competitor in a special league.
Fees
When considering selling used items on Amazon or eBay, it is vital to think about fees. Each platforms charge sellers fees for every item sold on their marketplace.
eBay
If we speak about eBay, it permits you to list 250 items per thirty days without spending a dime. Nevertheless, in case you one way or the other exceed the 250 limit, the platform will charge a fee of $0.35 per entry. eBay also charges a commission of as much as 12.9% on sales over $7,500. USD.
It’s price noting that eBay fees vary depending on the variety of product you are selling. For instance, in case you sell a guitar, you’ll only be charged 3.5% of the ultimate sale value.
Don’t miss: Find out how to sell on eBay using my battle-tested methods
Amazon
Amazon charges much higher fees than Amazon. To be an expert seller on Amazon, you could purchase a monthly subscription for $39.99. While there isn’t any listing fee, the platform does charge a referral fee for every sale you make.
Most often, the referral fee is a flat 15%, however the referral fee may additionally vary depending on the variety of product. For instance, in case you sell items reminiscent of books or video games, Amazon charges a closing fee of $1.80 for every item.
When you select to make use of Amazon FBA services, you will even incur additional fees! Additional FBA fees include handling, storage, shipping and packaging of your products.
Try: Find out how to Sell on Amazon for Beginners (Amazon Beginner’s Guide)
Returns policy
While each platforms have a fame for being reliable, their return policies are more user-friendly. Amazon’s shipping policy allows customers to get a full refund of their purchase provided they usually are not satisfied with the delivery time or quality of their purchase.
eBay, then again, has a way more complicated user policy. eBay often leaves the “no returns” box checked for buyers, figuring they haven’t any selection but to maintain the product they’re unhappy with.
While it’s possible you’ll imagine that a “No Returns” policy helps increase sales, that is contradictory. By establishing a no-return policy, you send the message to customers that your products usually are not trustworthy. Besides, in case you do not have great rankings, it is going to be very difficult so that you can get any orders.
Model sales
The most important difference you may notice between each platforms is the sales models. Although Amazon often offers huge discounts, it normally sticks to a set price system no matter product condition.
eBay, then again, gives sellers the selection between a set price model and an auction method. This unique approach allows buyers to put offers on items for a selected time period. After the bidding time expires, the person offering the best bid to your product receives the bid.
Provided that you might be selling used items, it’s best to make use of an auction pricing system. This pricing method permits you to get the perfect value to your products, especially in case you are unsure of the worth of your product.
Product types
Amazon
While each platforms offer a big selection of product types, Amazon’s size allows it to capitalize and offer a more diverse marketplace. Whether it’s electronics, books, or home goods, it’s highly unlikely you will not find something on Amazon.
In comparison with eBay, Amazon boasts a way more formal product catalog. Its perfect design makes it easy for users to seek out products that suit their interests. To further improve the user experience, Amazon also showcases popular products, giving sellers more exposure to sell their products.
eBay
Since its inception, eBay has been considered a perfect platform, especially for getting and selling used products. While eBay offers items reminiscent of collectibles, historical items, and other specialty purchases, it has a way more relaxed atmosphere in comparison with Amazon.
eBay can also be very competitively priced, so increasingly more individuals are buying used goods there. Considering the costs, used items listed on eBay are sometimes deal.
Moreover, eBay encourages sellers to create separate auctions for every product, while Amazon allows different sellers to sell the identical product in common auctions. Having separate listing accounts gives you more exposure to your eBay account and permits you to gain greater customer reach.
Selling used items on Amazon vs eBay – benefits and downsides
Amazon professionals
- High conversion rates
- Higher customer support and trust
- Higher customer reach
Amazon disadvantages
- Strong competition between competitors
- Patron’s lack of loyalty
- Limited brand ownership
eBay professionals
- Relatively lower fees
- A greater associates program
- Access to numerous seller tools
- Less competition than Amazon
Disadvantages of Ebay
- Relatively less market exposure
- It’s possible you’ll have to offer free purchases
- No delivery
Selling Jewelry on eBay Vs. Etsy – which is healthier?
10 places to sell used tools for money (online and native)
12 Apps Like Amazon Flex That Will Help You Earn Extra Money