Understanding the New Etsy Fee and Updates

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Etsy Fees
3. The Regulatory Operating Fee
4. Countries Charged with the Regulatory Operating Fee
5. Calculating the Regulatory Operating Fee
6. Impact on Different Value Items
7. Reasons Behind the Regulatory Operating Fee
8. Updates and Changes on Etsy
   • 8.1 Updates to Listing Categories and Attributes
   • 8.2 Streamlined Delivery Experience
   • 8.3 Introduction of Star Seller
   • 8.4 Klarna - Pay in Installments
9. The Importance of Following Etsy Updates
10. Conclusion

Article:

Introduction

Welcome to the latest video! Today, we'll be discussing some exciting updates that Etsy has introduced for 2021. In particular, we'll focus on the new feed feature and shed some light on the regulatory operating fee. These updates have caused quite a stir, as many sellers were unaware of their implications. So, let's dive right in and explore what these changes mean for you as an Etsy seller.

Understanding Etsy Fees

When it comes to selling on Etsy, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of the fees involved. However, the fee breakdown on the Etsy website can be confusing and often leaves sellers with unanswered questions. In this video, we'll not only tackle the three key fees typically discussed but also provide comprehensive information on a lesser-known fee that Etsy has recently introduced.

The Regulatory Operating Fee

One of the significant updates for 2021 is the introduction of the regulatory operating fee. This additional fee aims to cover the extra costs associated with selling online, considering the recent surge in online shopping. As high street retailers face declining sales, governments are keen to capture a portion of the online market. The regulatory operating fee is a small charge intended to address this shift in shopping habits.

Countries Charged with the Regulatory Operating Fee

It's essential to know which countries will incur the regulatory operating fee. Not all sellers will be affected, so it's vital to understand if this fee applies to your region. As an Etsy seller, if you reside in the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, or Turkey, the regulatory operating fee will be applicable to you. However, if you're outside these countries, you can breathe a sigh of relief as this fee won't impact you.

Calculating the Regulatory Operating Fee

The regulatory operating fee is relatively minimal, and sellers need not worry too much about its impact on their profits. In the UK, the fee stands at 0.25%, which is insignificant for most sellers. Considering the low percentage, the fee only becomes noticeable when selling low-ticket items or extremely high-value products. Nevertheless, it's essential to calculate the fee accurately based on your item's price and take it into account when setting your prices.

Impact on Different Value Items

For those selling low-ticket items, such as a two-dollar sticker, every cent counts. In such cases, sellers must factor in the regulatory operating fee to ensure their pricing remains competitive. On the other hand, sellers with high-value products should assess whether the fee has a substantial effect on their profits. While the fee itself might seem insignificant, it is crucial to consider its cumulative impact on multiple high-value transactions.

Reasons Behind the Regulatory Operating Fee

The introduction of the regulatory operating fee stems from governments aiming to level the playing field between online retailers and traditional brick-and-mortar stores. With the increase in digital services tax, online marketplaces like Etsy need to find a way to offset these additional costs. By implementing this fee, Etsy can contribute its share to help cover compliance expenses.

Updates and Changes on Etsy

Etsy constantly evolves to adapt to market demands and improve the seller and buyer experience. Let's take a closer look at some recent updates and changes on Etsy that you need to be aware of:

8.1 Updates to Listing Categories and Attributes

Etsy has made updates to listing categories and attributes, enabling sellers to better showcase their products. If you specialize in niche categories like gemstones, video games, or jewelry, these updates are worth noting. For example, in July 2021, Etsy added 82 new options for gemstone types, new categories for video games, and even introduced new attributes like "Bollywood" for clothing. Staying up to date with these changes will ensure your listings remain relevant and attract the right customers.

8.2 Streamlined Delivery Experience

Etsy is now offering a more streamlined delivery experience, aiming to manage customers' expectations and enhance their overall buying experience. Sellers are now required to provide specific details related to shipping, such as estimated delivery dates, delivery company, mail class, and processing time. These details will help customers understand when they can expect to receive their orders and enable you to provide better service.

8.3 Introduction of Star Seller

In a bid to recognize and reward sellers who consistently offer excellent customer service, Etsy has introduced the Star Seller program. This program is based on specific criteria, including response rate, dispatch time, and five-star ratings. By meeting these criteria, sellers can earn the Star Seller label, signifying their commitment to exceptional service. While some sellers appreciate this recognition, opinions on the program are divided.

8.4 Klarna - Pay in Installments

To attract more buyers and make purchasing easier, Etsy has partnered with Klarna to offer the option to pay in installments. This is particularly useful for higher-priced items that customers may prefer to pay off over time. By offering Klarna as a payment option, you can tap into a larger customer base and increase the chances of closing sales.

The Importance of Following Etsy Updates

To stay on top of the ever-changing landscape of Etsy, it is crucial for sellers to regularly check for updates and changes. Etsy provides a page dedicated to listing all important updates, ensuring you don't miss any vital information. Following this page will keep you informed about any new fees, policies, or features that may impact your business. Make it a habit to review these updates regularly to make the most of your Etsy selling experience.

Conclusion

In this video, we discussed the latest updates on Etsy for 2021, specifically focusing on the regulatory operating fee and the new feed feature. We explored the countries affected by the fee, how to calculate its impact, and the reasons behind its implementation. Additionally, we highlighted recent changes on Etsy, including updates to listing categories, the streamlined delivery experience, the introduction of the Star Seller program, and the partnership with Klarna. By staying informed and keeping up with these developments, you can navigate the Etsy platform effectively and optimize your selling experience.

Pros:

• Clear explanation of the new regulatory operating fee and its impact on sellers.
• Thorough coverage of updates and changes on Etsy, ensuring sellers stay up to date.
• Informative sections on understanding Etsy fees and calculating the regulatory operating fee.
• Detailed headings and subheadings provide easy navigation.

Cons:

• None identified.

Highlights:

• Etsy has introduced a regulatory operating fee to cover additional online selling costs.
• The fee is only applicable to sellers in the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and Turkey.
• The regulatory operating fee is relatively minimal, with a percentage ranging from 0.25% to 1.1%.
• Updates on Etsy include changes to listing categories and attributes, streamlined delivery experience, the introduction of the Star Seller program, and a partnership with Klarna for installment payments.
• It is vital for sellers to follow Etsy updates regularly to stay informed and adapt to evolving selling requirements.

FAQ:

Q: How can sellers calculate the regulatory operating fee for their items?

A: To calculate the regulatory operating fee, sellers need to determine the price of their item and apply the corresponding fee percentage based on their country. For example, in the UK, the fee is 0.25%, while in Turkey, it is 1.1%. By multiplying the item's price by the fee percentage, sellers can calculate the regulatory operating fee for their product.

Q: Will the regulatory operating fee significantly impact the profits of Etsy sellers?

A: The regulatory operating fee is generally minimal and is unlikely to have a significant impact on sellers' overall profits. However, for sellers dealing with low-priced or high-value items, it is crucial to consider how the fee affects their pricing strategy. By carefully calculating the fee's impact on profit margins, sellers can ensure their prices remain competitive while factoring in any additional costs.

Q: What are the benefits of being recognized as a Star Seller?

A: The Star Seller program on Etsy recognizes sellers who consistently offer excellent customer service. The benefits of being a Star Seller include improved visibility on the platform, as the label appears on all of a seller's products. This recognition can help attract more buyers and increase the trust and confidence customers have in a seller's shop. It is important to note that opinions on the program may vary among sellers.

Q: How often should sellers check for updates on Etsy?

A: It is recommended for sellers to regularly check for updates on Etsy to stay informed and adapt to any changes or new features. By visiting the Etsy site updates page or following relevant Etsy social media accounts, sellers can ensure they are aware of any policy changes, fee adjustments, or important developments that may impact their business. Staying up to date with these updates will help sellers maximize their selling potential on Etsy.