Do you make cool crafts like embroidered items, woven baskets, or other handmade goods? Have you ever thought about selling your items online?
Selling on e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada is easier than you think! In this post, Ecomax will explain step-by-step how makers and artisans can get their handicrafts up for sale online.
Step 1: Choose an e-commerce platform
The first step is deciding where you want to sell your items online. Here are some top options to consider:
1. Shopee
As Vietnam's largest e-commerce site, Shopee is a great choice for reaching tons of local buyers. With over 2 million daily visits, you'll get maximum visibility here!
Pros:
- Huge user base in Vietnam
- Low fees
- Good seller support
- Built-in payment and shipping
Cons:
- Mostly focuses on low-priced goods
2. Lazada
Part of the Alibaba group, Lazada operates across Southeast Asia. List here to access buyers in Vietnam and beyond!
Pros:
- Popular in Vietnam and SEA region
- Good for branding/higher-end items
- More premium customers
Cons:
- Fees are higher than Shopee
3. Etsy
While not Vietnam-based, Etsy is popular worldwide for handmade and vintage items. Great to reach international buyers.
Pros:
- Known for unique handmade goods
- Large global audience
Cons:
- Less familiar in Vietnam
- Substantial fees
4. Facebook Shops
Sell directly on Facebook! Use your existing business page or create a Facebook Shop.
Pros:
- Use existing page and followers
- Easy setup
- Low fees
Cons:
- Limited e-commerce features
- Less structured than other platforms
Step 2: Set up your store
Once you've selected a platform, it's time to set up your shop. Here's the process on most sites:
Sign up for a seller account. You'll need to provide info like your email, phone number, and bank details.
Choose a memorable store name and design your logo if you have one. This builds your brand identity!
Complete your seller profile. Add details about you, your policies, etc.
List payment methods you'll accept, like bank transfer or online payment.
Review the fees. Platforms change commission fees but are often under 5%.
It only takes a few minutes to get a basic store live. You can always add more details later!
Step 3: Take appealing product photos
Great photos are crucial for selling online. Follow these tips:
Use a clean, simple background. A solid wall or fabric works well.
Ensure you have ample natural lighting. Light from windows is best.
Take photos from multiple angles. Show the entire product plus interesting details.
Edit photos to optimize brightness, color, etc. Apps like Snapseed make this easy.
Use props if helpful, like a plant with pottery or a person using a handbag.
With quality photos, buyers can really see the details of your high-quality handmade goods!
Step 4: Write catchy listing titles and descriptions
The words you use promote your items. Aim for titles and descriptions that are:
Clear: State exactly what the item is.
Detailed: Include materials, size, colors, etc. Share what makes the item special.
Punchy: Use power words like "vibrant" "luxurious" or "one-of-a-kind."
Scannable: Break text into short paragraphs for quick mobile reading. Use bullet points too.
Optimized: Research keywords buyers search and incorporate them naturally.
Consistent: Use same tone across listings to reinforce your brand.
Well-written copy helps buyers connect with your products and makes sales more likely!
Step 5: Set competitive pricing
Picking the right price is important when selling online. You’ll want to:
Consider your costs so you make a profit after fees. Don't underprice!
Check competitor pricing for similar items. Match the market average.
Factor in site promotions like free shipping thresholds.
Run sales and deals to attract buyers. Offer limited-time discounts.
Updating prices frequently helps maximize profits. Apps can automate pricing changes too.
Step 6: Promote your store
To drive traffic to your store:
Share your store link on social accounts, emails, and anywhere else you connect with potential buyers.
Run search ads on platforms like Google and Facebook to get more visibility.
Ask happy customers to leave positive reviews. This builds trust.
Create promo posts, videos, and photos to showcase new products.
Join e-commerce selling groups to network and share advice.
Promotion takes persistence, but gets easier as you build your online presence and loyal following!
Step 7: Provide excellent customer service
Going above and beyond for buyers helps your store stand out. Make sure to:
Respond to questions and messages quickly and politely.
Update buyers on order status. Send tracking numbers if available.
Resolve any issues promptly with refunds or replacements.
Follow up after delivery to ensure satisfaction. Ask for feedback.
Offer perks like discounts for return customers.
When shoppers feel valued, they will come back again and again!
Step 8: Grow your e-commerce business over time
As your store progresses, there are many ways to expand:
Add new product types and designs to attract more buyers.
Update branding like your logo, banners, and packaging.
Invest in professional product photography for stellar visuals.
Automate processes like inventory management to save time.
Analyze data like bestsellers and conversion rates to optimize.
Expand to additional sales channels like your own website.
By continually improving and adapting, you can build your online shop into a thriving business!
You can do it!
Selling your homemade crafts and art online is totally achievable with some preparation and effort. I hope this overview gave you ideas and confidence to get started!
At Ecomax, we're experts in helping Vietnamese sellers successfully launch and grow their e-commerce stores. Our team would be happy to advise you on selecting platforms, setting up your shop, writing listings, promotion tactics, and more.
Contact us today to discuss your specific business and how we can support you every step of the way.