Choosing the right platform to sell your products can make or break your profitability. While each platform offers unique advantages, understanding their fee structures is crucial for making informed decisions about where to invest your time and energy.
Platform fees can consume 10-25% of your revenue. Understanding these costs helps you price competitively while maintaining healthy profit margins.
Total fees: ~10-15% of revenue
Handmade, vintage, and craft supplies
Total fees: ~15-20% of revenue
Scalable handmade products
Total fees: ~5-8% of revenue + fixed costs
Established brands with marketing budget
Let's compare the actual costs for selling a $100 product across different platforms:
Key Insight: Your own website generates $7.55 more profit per $100 sale compared to Etsy, even after accounting for marketing costs.
Begin on established platforms like Etsy or Amazon to validate your products and build initial sales.
Don't rely on a single platform. Spread your risk across multiple channels.
Once you have steady sales and a customer base, consider your own website for higher margins.
| Your Situation | Recommended Platform | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Just starting out | Etsy | Low barriers, built-in audience |
| High-volume, scalable products | Amazon Handmade | Massive reach, logistics support |
| Established brand with marketing budget | Own Website | Higher margins, brand control |
| High-end, luxury products | Own Website + Select Marketplaces | Premium positioning, curated presence |
| Testing new products | Multiple Platforms | Diversified testing, risk mitigation |
PricePro's platform fee calculators help you compare real costs and optimize pricing across all your sales channels.