The Ultimate Showdown: Amazon Handmade vs Etsy 2020
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Customer Service Comparison
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Listing Fees
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Product Backgrounds for Photos
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Customer Returns
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Sign-Up Process
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Competition
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Customer Base
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Payments
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Categories
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Shipping
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Tracking
- Amazon Handmade
- Etsy
- Similarities and Conclusion
Amazon Handmade vs Etsy: Which Platform is Better for Selling Handmade Products?
Introduction
Are you a handmade artist looking to sell your products online? If so, you've likely considered platforms like Etsy and Amazon Handmade. Both of these online marketplaces offer opportunities for artists to showcase and sell their creations. However, choosing the right platform for your business can be a daunting task. In this article, we will compare Amazon Handmade and Etsy across various aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Customer Service Comparison
When it comes to customer service, there are notable differences between Amazon Handmade and Etsy. On Amazon, sellers are required to respond to customer messages within 24 hours, irrespective of the nature of the inquiry. Failure to respond may result in penalties. In contrast, Etsy doesn't enforce mandatory response guidelines, allowing sellers more flexibility in managing customer queries.
Listing Fees
Another crucial factor to consider is the cost of listing your products on each platform. Currently, Amazon Handmade does not charge any listing fees or monthly subscription fees. However, there have been discussions about implementing a subscription fee in the future. On the other hand, Etsy charges a nominal fee of 20 cents USD for each listing.
Product Backgrounds for Photos
The manner in which product photos are presented can significantly impact sales. On Amazon Handmade, sellers are required to have a mandatory white background for their photos, particularly the thumbnail image. This ensures a consistent and professional look across all products. In contrast, Etsy allows sellers more creative freedom, enabling a choice between curated Instagram-style photos or a basic white background.
Customer Returns
Dealing with customer returns can be a hassle for any business. On Amazon Handmade, sellers are obligated to honor customer returns, except for customized items. However, Etsy provides sellers the option to set their own returns policy, allowing for a more personalized approach.
Sign-Up Process
The sign-up process for each platform varies as well. To join Amazon Handmade, artists must submit an application and undergo a review process. Similar to applying for a juried craft show, acceptance is contingent upon meeting specific criteria. Conversely, signing up for Etsy is more straightforward, akin to registering for a trade show. Sellers are required to pay a fee and adhere to the site's guidelines for listing handmade, vintage, or craft supplies.
Competition and Customer Base
Consider the competition and customer base associated with each platform. On Amazon Handmade, sellers compete with both mass-produced items and other handmade products. The sheer number of active users, over 300 million worldwide, offers a wide reach. In contrast, Etsy's marketplace is predominantly focused on handmade and vintage items. While the customer base is smaller, approximately 46 million users, they actively seek handmade products.
Payments and Categories
Payment procedures and available categories vary between Amazon Handmade and Etsy. Amazon Handmade's payment system only releases funds after the item has shipped, which may not be suitable for sellers who require immediate access to funds for supplies. Etsy allows sellers to determine their own payment schedules, with funds typically available shortly after a sale. Additionally, Amazon Handmade features fewer defined categories compared to Etsy's extensive list of over 150 categories.
Shipping and Tracking
The intricacies of shipping and tracking also differ between the two platforms. Amazon Handmade encourages sellers to offer free shipping, but the exact shipping costs charged by Amazon are not explicitly disclosed. This lack of transparency can make it challenging to accurately price items. In comparison, Etsy has been following a similar approach to free shipping. However, this strategy may affect product visibility when searching within a specific price range. It is essential to consider these implications when deciding on a shipping strategy.
Similarities and Conclusion
While there are differences between Amazon Handmade and Etsy, it is worth noting that both platforms allow sellers to copy listing information from one marketplace to the other. Ultimately, the choice depends on factors such as personal preferences, available time, and the specific needs of your business. By carefully considering the pros and cons outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals as a handmade artist.
Highlights:
- Comparison between Amazon Handmade and Etsy for selling handmade products.
- Differences in customer service, listing fees, product backgrounds for photos, customer returns, and sign-up processes.
- Analysis of competition, customer bases, payment systems, categories, and shipping procedures.
- Consideration of similarities and the need to make an informed decision based on individual preferences and business requirements.
FAQ:
Q: Can I sell the same products on Amazon Handmade and Etsy?
A: Yes, you can sell the same products on both platforms. However, it is essential to manage your listings and inventory diligently to avoid any conflicts.
Q: Which platform offers a larger customer base?
A: Amazon Handmade has over 300 million active users worldwide, while Etsy has approximately 46 million users. However, Etsy users are specifically looking for handmade items, which may result in more targeted sales.
Q: Do I need to respond to customer messages on Etsy?
A: While it is not mandatory to respond to customer messages on Etsy, it is highly recommended to provide excellent customer service and build a positive reputation for your shop.
Q: Can I offer free shipping on Amazon Handmade and Etsy?
A: Both platforms encourage sellers to provide free shipping options. However, it is essential to consider the implications of pricing and visibility when adopting a free shipping strategy.
