Why I'm Switching from Etsy to Ebay

Why I'm Switching from Etsy to Ebay

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. My Experience with Etsy
3. Reasons for Leaving Etsy 3.1 Change in Business Goals 3.2 Limitations on Listing 3.3 Off-site Ads
4. Transition to eBay 4.1 Comparison of Fees 4.2 Shipping Policy Differences 4.3 Benefits of Selling on eBay
5. Conclusion

Leaving Etsy for eBay: Why I Made the Switch

Introduction

In this article, I will share my personal experience of transitioning from selling on Etsy to eBay. Over the years, I have encountered various changes and challenges on Etsy that led me to explore other selling platforms. In this article, I will discuss the reasons for leaving Etsy and the advantages I found in eBay. If you're considering a switch or are simply interested in the differences between these platforms, keep reading to learn more.

My Experience with Etsy

I began selling on Etsy in 2016, and initially, I was thrilled about the opportunities it offered. As a seller, I appreciated the user-friendly interface, as well as the camaraderie among fellow Etsy sellers through team activities. However, as time passed, I noticed several changes in Etsy's business model that no longer aligned with my goals and preferences.

Reasons for Leaving Etsy

1. Change in Business Goals

Initially, my focus on Etsy was curating a unique look and maximizing the value of my items, even if it meant longer selling times. However, my business goals have evolved, and I now prioritize faster sales and turning inventory more quickly. eBay, with its larger customer base, provides a platform that allows for faster sales compared to Etsy's curated approach.

2. Limitations on Listing

Etsy introduced a restrictive 20-year rule for vintage items, making it challenging to list items from certain years. This limitation was inconvenient for me as a reseller, especially when I acquired items with uncertain or unspecified ages. I prefer the simplicity of listing everything on a single platform, like eBay, rather than juggling between multiple platforms.

3. Off-site Ads

Etsy recently launched a new service called off-site ads. While it may seem beneficial to have your items advertised on external platforms, sellers like me are charged a 12% fee whenever a customer purchases anything from their shop within a month of clicking on one of these ads. This program, while mandatory for high-selling sellers, has been a cause of concern for me due to the potential increase in fees. As I drive a significant amount of traffic to my Etsy shop through my online presence, it feels unfair to be charged for sales generated by my own efforts. This prompted me to explore alternative platforms, like eBay.

Transition to eBay

1. Comparison of Fees

One crucial factor in my decision to switch was the difference in selling fees. Etsy initially charged a 3% fee, which later increased to 5%. In contrast, eBay charges a higher fee of 9.2% for the same type of items. However, I believe that the potential for faster sales on eBay will offset this higher fee over time.

2. Shipping Policy Differences

Etsy has been vocal about encouraging sellers to offer free shipping, which I adhered to in order to increase my sales and maintain a favorable standing on the platform. However, the vintage category, which I specialize in, makes it challenging to include shipping costs due to variations in package sizes and weights. On eBay, I will have the freedom to use calculated shipping, allowing me to offer reasonable shipping rates tailored to each item's destination.

3. Benefits of Selling on eBay

Switching to eBay also offers several advantages. With a store subscription on eBay, I can receive credits to purchase shipping supplies, such as boxes. Additionally, eBay's auction feature provides another avenue for selling, which was not available on Etsy. Overall, I anticipate quicker sales and potentially lower costs on eBay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my decision to leave Etsy for eBay was driven by a shift in my business goals, limitations on Etsy's listing policies, and concerns about the off-site ads program. While eBay does come with its own set of fees, shipping policies, and challenges, I believe it offers a better fit for my current selling needs. If you're contemplating a switch or curious about the differences between these platforms, consider your own goals and preferences before making a decision.

Highlights:

• Transitioning from Etsy to eBay: My personal journey and reasons for switch
• Changing business goals: Prioritizing faster sales and increased inventory turnover
• Limitations on Etsy's listing policies: The restrictive 20-year rule for vintage items
• Concerns about Etsy's off-site ads program and its impact on fees
• Comparing fees and shipping policies between Etsy and eBay
• Advantages of selling on eBay, including store credits and auction feature

FAQ:

Q: What were the main reasons for leaving Etsy? A: The main reasons for leaving Etsy were a change in business goals, limitations on the listing of vintage items, and concerns about Etsy's off-site ads program.

Q: How do the fees compare between Etsy and eBay? A: Etsy initially charged a 3% fee, which later increased to 5%. eBay charges a higher fee of 9.2% for the same type of items.

Q: What benefits does selling on eBay offer? A: Selling on eBay provides benefits such as store credits for shipping supplies, the option for auctions, and potentially quicker sales.