Statistics show that the global eCommerce market is at an all-time high of $4.28 trillion. So if you’ve been planning to start selling online, whether it’s building your own global brand or running multiple dropshipping stores, now’s the best time to do so.
The rise of easy-to-use eCommerce platforms and builders allows even newbies with no coding experience to create a live website in a matter of hours. Gone are the days where you had to shell out thousands of dollars for web development. Users now have dozens of website builders to choose from, and some of the best options include:
Best Overall Option: WooCommerce
WooCommerce is the best eCommerce platform for large companies with multiple product listings. Since WooCommerce is a WordPress plugin, it also carries a wide range of plugins. You can automate processes such as sending prospect emails, payment processing, and social media marketing.
Plus, it works with existing WordPress sites. Considering how WordPress powers more than 40% of all live sites on the internet today, this feature is convenient.
Key Features:
- Extensive collection of plugins
- One-click checkout available
- WordPress compatible
- Multiple service providers available
Best for Fast Web Development: Shopify
Shopify is known in the industry for its simple builder. It features a simple drag-and-drop editor equipped with multiple preset page templates to choose from.
This platform is ideal for drop shippers or single-product store owners who are focused on operating multiple shops. A newbie can easily build at least three Shopify shops in a day. Plus, the sites are easy to manage, and you can update your listing at any time.
Key Features:
- Quick web development process
- Simple preset templates
- One-click checkout available
Best for Scaling Businesses: BigCommerce
BigCommerce’s flexible functions and features make it the perfect platform for rising businesses and companies.
Start with their low-tier plans. These accounts have limited functions, but if you’re still an upcoming business, you might not even need multi-feature plans that are too costly to use and maintain.
Once your business takes off, slowly upgrade your plan. The idea is to boost your BigCommerce account with different features and functions as you scale and grow your business. That way, you don’t end up wasting money on unused features.
Key Features:
- Flexible plans
- Excellent SEO marketing features
- Multi-channel selling available
Best For eCommerce Stores with Physical Locations: Wix
Entrepreneurs with brick-and-mortar stores who aren’t concerned with extensive SEO marketing can try Wix. The platform offers a simple, streamlined editor that’s easy to manage and maintain.
Wix lacks marketing functions. However, if your physical store is already generating a good amount of profits and you simply want to work towards improving your online presence, then Wix is ideal for you.
Key Features:
- Simple editor
- Easy site maintenance
- Multiple free themes
How to Choose Which eCommerce Platform to Sell On
Having a wide range of eCommerce platforms to choose from is exciting if you know what specific features and functions you’re after. However, first-timers might find too many options can be overwhelming.
You can make the selection process more manageable by creating a systematic strategy to identify the best option for your business. Here are the most crucial factors to consider:
Features
What separates different eCommerce platforms and builders apart from each other are the features they offer.
For example, options like Shopify are focused on providing comprehensive merchant services, while alternative builders are geared toward simplifying the web development and design process through preset templates. See which functions your business would benefit from the most.
Pricing
Most eCommerce platforms offer free trials on their services, but these often have limited functions. If you want to utilize your site builder, we suggest investing in a paid account. Just make sure to keep these fees in mind the next time you’re computing your business’ expenses, profits, and revenue.
Ease of Use
Platforms with multiple features and functions are generally a bit more challenging to utilize than simpler systems with drag-and-drop editors and preset templates. Pick a builder you can handle properly.
Customer Reviews
Don’t neglect customer reviews. Visit forums and discussion boards where users talk about their personal experiences with using different eCommerce platforms. Nothing’s better than real-life testimonials.
Although, you don’t necessarily have to join hardcore, exclusive tech communities. You’ll get a lot of information just by checking the Reddit threads or Facebook pages geared toward the use of website builders.
A common misconception about eCommerce is that profits will start rolling in once your site is live. Yes, website builders can help you build a shop fast, but don’t assume that you’ll immediately generate profits afterward. You need to put in the work. Expect to spend hours on end every day doing site maintenance, product research, and brand marketing.
Also, allocate your resources wisely. For example, you can use the money you saved on web development to market your brand, purchase more goods to sell, or streamline business operations. Overall, the worst you can do is blow all your money on useless expenses.
Do you lack the creative skills to create eye-catching website designs? Check out the rest of Page Kits to learn more about AI web builders that generate beautiful, stunning, and customized layouts.
