When people think of online stores they usually think of eBay first. Nothing wrong with that and you may want to learn more about eBay trading or go straight to eBay stores to set up an online store: eBay USA eBay UK (for other countries link one of these links an go to the bottom of the landing page to find your country).
But there are other sites offering hosting for your own online store, and unlike eBay they're free. Sites vary in the type of online store they offer and the range of goods you can sell, so find one that suits you. Like eBay, these sites have a community feel to them, plus loads of free advice on how to set up and make the most of your own online store. After all, their success depends on the successs of everybody's online store.
When you open an online store there are a number of basic things you will want it to do:
- Display your goods or services, and their prices
- Provide a customers shopping basket
- Collect payment
- Demonstrate that your customers money is secure
- Receive and fill orders
- Let customers contact you
- Manage sales and accounts
You'll find that most sites offer upgrades that will give you more features. You'll have to pay for them, but they're inexpensive, and may well be worth the small investment if they suit your business needs.
Here are a few examples of the sort of online stores you can set up and have hosted for free.
- Amazon - select and sell a range of Amazon products on commission
- Etsy - sell your own craft goods
- Cafepress - use your own artwork on a range of products
- More: check Muntjack.com for more information and links to more free online stores.
Not right for you? Want your own independant online store? You can set up and host an online store on your own website with any of the powerful and reasonably priced software packages that are now available. They are simple to set up and use. Many products offer a free trail period or free interactive demo. More information and links to online store software.
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