Which Is 2021's Best Selling Platform: eBay Or Amazon?

Virginia Miller
Virginia Miller
August 21, 2024
In this article

In recent times, as an eCommerce trader, you would have options for selling your inventories online. Alibaba, Walmart, Shopify provide an opportunity to the traders to showcase their products in front of the buyers. 

Although there are various platforms, two of them are ahead of the others. These are eBay and Amazon. Amazon is the first and eBay being the third top functioning eCommerce platform creates confusion among the sellers like you about choosing one among them.

But you have to choose one to begin your sales. For that, you have to consider the qualities of both platforms and their compatibility with your products. Both have advantages and drawbacks. Hence, we are presenting some differences between these two popular platforms to help in making your choice easier.

Key Differences Between eBay and Amazon

Amazon Prime Provides Faster Shipping

A key advantage Amazon has over eBay is Amazon Prime. For a monthly or annual fee, Prime members get free two-day shipping on eligible items. This convenience encourages loyal buyers to shop on Amazon instead of other sites. Over 150 million people globally are Amazon Prime members.

Amazon Handles Fulfillment

On eBay, sellers must handle all fulfillment tasks like shipping products themselves. With Amazon, sellers can choose Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and have Amazon store inventory, pack orders, ship them, and handle returns. This saves sellers significant time and effort.

Customers Trust Amazon's Brand

Surveys show over 70% of U.S. online shoppers trust Amazon above other ecommerce companies. Amazon's customer service, lenient returns policies, and brand reputation give it an edge over eBay in consumer confidence.

Amazon's Seller Fees Vary

eBay charges lower final value, insertion, and upgrade fees but sellers must handle fulfillment costs. Amazon offers Fulfillment by Merchant (sellers ship) or FBA. FBA fees include pick, pack, ship and storage but save time. Use Amazon's fee calculator to compare options.

Amazon Specializes in New Brand-Name Goods

eBay connects buyers and sellers of new and used goods via auctions. Amazon focuses exclusively on fixed-price new condition, brand-name products except for books. Amazon gives sellers more control over pricing and quality. Do research to source profitable new inventory.

Choose the Marketplace That Fits Your Products

Evaluate each platform's unique tools and fees to match your business's strengths. Both Amazon and eBay can aid ecommerce success.

Next article: 5 Best Products to Sell Online in 2020

FAQs

What is the main difference between Amazon and eBay?

The core difference is that Amazon focuses on fixed-price new condition brand name items while eBay facilitates auctions of new and used goods of all types.

Does Amazon or eBay have more seller fees?

eBay has lower final value, insertion, and listing upgrade fees. But sellers must handle all shipping and fulfillment. Amazon's FBA program costs more but handles fulfillment tasks.

Which site do customers trust more?

Over 70% of shoppers trust Amazon above other ecommerce brands. Amazon's customer service and lenient returns policy increase consumer confidence.

What sells better on Amazon vs eBay?

New condition, brand name products from major manufacturers sell best on Amazon. eBay's auctions better suit collectibles, handmade, vintage, and refurbished goods.

Does Amazon or eBay have faster shipping?

Amazon Prime provides free two-day shipping on eligible items for members. eBay sellers must handle fulfillment and shipping speed varies. So Amazon overall offers faster delivery.

Should I sell on just one marketplace?

Not necessarily - many sellers find success utilizing both Amazon and eBay. Evaluate each platform's tools and costs to best match your product line.

What about international selling?

Both eBay and Amazon facilitate international sales. Again, compare relevant fees, shipping speeds, and country-specific demand for your products.