ebay vs. e-commerce?

Question

Hello All,

I have a viable product I am looking to sell online and I was wondering should I start an eBay store or an e-commerce website to sell my goods. I know that each has associated fees but I was wondering which would be more lucrative in the long term. I know eBay is easier to get going than an e-commerce site from a setup standpoint but can I charge more on an e-commerce retail site than eBay to ultimately make more money. Any help is appreciated.

Answer 1

eBay is a much easier route as no money would change hands with you other than the commission checks from eBay that you would cash every month. E-commerce is much more involved (although the rewards could be much greater.) For that I'd build a site around bundled services that could grow with you. It's cheaper in the long run. Read more at:



http://www.ebusiness.answers-not-ads.com

Answer 2

Is there a reason you can't do both - many entrepreneurs do both. Having an eBay store will expose your items to the 240 million members on eBay. Many sellers use eBay for lead generation and harvesting customers - sell to them on eBay and then you have their contact information and you can market to them and send them to your own website. Here is an article about this technique:



http://www.powersellerking.com/2007/12/how_businesses_can_capture_the.html



You can also set up your own website and sell your items there, too.



This website will help you learn to sell on eBay - they offer many free resources like videos and podcasts.



http://www.ebaysellingcoach.com/home.html



Very good eBooks too!

http://www.ebaysellingcoach.com/page/page/5783452.htm

Answer 3

Honestly, i would do ebay. I have done ebay for many years and i always make big profit. I have tried e- commerce and it fails to be at its best, like ebay. I HIGHLY suggest that you go with ebay, besides, you have all your facts. Though, again, i would go with ebay!

Answer 4

Do you have a website where you can showcase your products? If not try building one at freewebs.com. The builder is free and really eay to follow. Lots of templates to choose from. You just have to pay for a domain name, that is if you want one. I use to sell in ebay but kinda got discourage with the fees even when my item didn't sell. Try this new auction site www.gogreenauctions.com. You only pay a fee when you actually sold your item and offcourse for special features. you can also set up a store for free. Good Luck

Answer 5

well it will really help if you told us what the product is. But having no idea what youre selling i would go on ebay.