#1 Overall
Etsy
6.1
Overall
Score
- Flat-rate Pricing Per Listing
- Hassle-free Shipping Provided
- Hidden Fees
Best eCommerce Software
58 Companies | 265 Real Customer Reviews
#2
Selz
6.1
Overall
Score
- Price Range:$0.00-$26.99
- Transaction Fees: 0-2%
- # Of Payment Gateway Options: 3
#3
Shopify
5.6
Overall
Score
- Manage Site From Mobile Device
- Easily Customizable Website Templates
- Provides Highly Secure Store Front
4.9
Overall
Score
- Ability To Completely Automate
- Design Options Are Limited
- Poor Customer Service
#5
3dcart
4.7
Overall
Score
- Design Options Are Limited
- Free Advertising Credits Available
- Limited # Of Visitors Allowed To Visit Website
- Min Price: Undisclosed
- Max Price: Undisclosed
- Time in Business: Undisclosed
- Price Range: $25-249
- Transaction Fees: $0
- # of Payment Gateway Options: 70
- Price Range: $0-249
- Transaction Fees: $0
- # of Payment Gateway Options: 23
- Price Range: Undisclosed
- Transaction Fees: 3.99% + $0.99 - 4.9% + $2.50 or 8%
- # of Payment Gateway Options: 46
What to Know Before Choosing an eCommerce Company
What you are selling, who you’re selling to, and how you plan on advertising will all influence your choice of an eCommerce company.
Here are some things to consider to help you feel comfortable about working with an eCommerce company.
Consider stock size
Make sure you’re considering the size of your stock, and you’re not paying for services you don’t need. For example, some companies have a higher price, yet they offer coverage for services or products you don’t provide. In these cases, you’re just paying for services you don’t need.
Digital vs. physical
Make sure you’re asking yourself this question: What is it you’re selling? Is it digital or physical goods? Some platforms specialize in shipping, and if you won’t be taking advantage of those things, don’t waste your money on things that won’t benefit you.
Payment method
Keep in mind that different eCommerce platforms have different third-party payment processors. The most common one is Paypal, but there might be different processors that your platform utilizes, and that is something you need to know.
Modifications
You want to pick an eCommerce platform that will allow you to make as many modifications as you need. The more customizable you can make it, the better, and the more flexibility they provide, the more freedom you’ll have to do so.
Monthly price
Make sure you find a platform that fits within your budget as well. Price should always be factored into your final decision, as you need to maximize the value you receive and not break the bank.
If you are able to check a few of these off, or even all of them, you’ll have a much more streamlined and seamless eCommerce experience on your website. Plus, you’ll want to make sure that you find something that will suit you in the long term, because switching could be difficult down the road once you start uploading inventory.
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eCommerce Software Frequently Asked Questions
How can I learn to sell online?
There are two main methods to learn how to sell online:
- Trial and error — teaching yourself without the guidance of an expert, coach, or mentor
- Training — acquiring relevant online skills through the teaching of an expert, coach, or mentor
Identifying your approach is essential and should be established before creating and opening a store.
What can I sell online?
You can sell goods and services online. If you provide any form of service to either consumers or companies, you are qualified to sell online. In other words, anyone who has anything of value, whether it’s a good or service, is qualified to sell online.
What is a merchant account?
A merchant account is a special agreement with a bank that allows you to accept credit card payments. If you’re wanting to sell online, you’ll need to provide shoppers with different payment options to make them feel comfortable about going through with the transaction. Credit card transactions are the most popular method, and the best way to process cards is with a merchant account.
What are the start-up costs for selling online?
The main costs consist of website design, internet access, and the cost of providing the service or product. It’s also worth noting, if you’re selling on your own site, there are costs associated with hosting and domain name as well.
