Selling on eBay vs Amazon: 2024 Profit Comparison

Understanding the Marketplace Landscape: The Great eBay vs Amazon Showdown of 2024

Remember when selling online meant choosing between a quirky auction site where people bid on Beanie Babies and… well, that was pretty much it? Those simple days are long gone. Now we’re living in a world where selling on eBay vs Amazon isn’t just about picking a platform – it’s about choosing your entire business destiny.

I’ve spent the last decade watching these platforms evolve from simple marketplaces into complex ecosystems that can make or break an ecommerce business. And let me tell you, it’s fascinating how they’ve grown apart while simultaneously becoming more similar in some really unexpected ways.

Looking at the current state of play, Amazon commands about 38% of all US ecommerce sales (yeah, that’s not a typo), while eBay holds steady at around 4.2%. But here’s where it gets interesting – these numbers don’t tell the whole story. Not even close. If you want to understand the full picture, it’s worth checking out our eBay summary.

The Platform Evolution That Changed Everything

Back in the day, eBay was the wild west of online selling. You could list anything from a half-eaten sandwich to a vintage Corvette, and someone somewhere would probably bid on it. The ebay auction system was revolutionary – it turned online shopping into entertainment.

Amazon, meanwhile, was busy building what I like to call the “everything store” empire. They weren’t interested in your used sneakers or collectible stamps. They wanted new, cataloged, standardized products that could be shipped Prime and delivered tomorrow.

But here’s where things get really interesting: Both platforms have been quietly stealing pages from each other’s playbooks. eBay now pushes fixed-price listings just as hard as auctions, while Amazon has opened up to used items and individual sellers. It’s like watching two longtime rivals start dressing alike without admitting they’re copying each other.

Seller Requirements and Getting Started: The Great Divide

If Amazon is like applying for a corporate job, eBay is more like setting up a booth at a flea market – but both have their own unique hurdles and opportunities. Let’s break down what it actually takes to get started on each platform.

Account Setup Process: Not All Marketplaces Are Created Equal

Starting with eBay is relatively straightforward – kind of like signing up for a social media account with extra steps. You’ll need:
– A business email address
– A verified PayPal account for ebay payment processing
– Basic business information
– A credit card on file

Amazon’s process? Well, that’s a different beast entirely. The Amazon seller account setup feels more like applying for a mortgage. You’ll need:
– Business registration documents
– Tax identification numbers
– Professional photos of your inventory
– Detailed product information
– Bank account verification
– And sometimes, additional approval for specific categories

The referral fee structure also differs significantly between platforms. Amazon’s fees can feel like death by a thousand cuts – there’s the basic referral fee (which varies by category), fulfillment fees if you’re using FBA, storage fees, and various other amazon fees that can eat into your margins faster than a hungry teenager at an all-you-can-eat buffet. For a detailed comparison, see this seller fees comparison.

Seller Standards and Performance Metrics: The Numbers Game

Both platforms keep sellers on their toes with performance metrics, but they approach it differently. eBay support tends to be more forgiving, focusing on:

• Transaction defect rate
• Cases closed without seller resolution
• Late shipping rate
• Tracking upload rate

Amazon’s performance metrics feel like they were designed by a particularly strict high school principal. They monitor:

• Order defect rate (must be below 1%)
• Pre-fulfillment cancel rate (below 2.5%)
• Late shipment rate (below 4%)
• Valid tracking rate (above 95%)

Product Listing Capabilities: Where the Rubber Meets the Road

This is where things get really interesting, especially if you’re selling items like pee pads (yes, that’s a real top-selling category) or other everyday essentials. The way you list products on each platform can make or break your success.

Listing Creation and Management: Two Very Different Beasts

eBay gives you more creative freedom with your listings. You can write novel-length descriptions, use HTML formatting, and really let your personality shine through. It’s perfect for used items or unique products where the story matters as much as the specifications.

Amazon’s listing process is more like filling out a standardized form. Everything has its place, and there’s little room for creativity. But here’s the thing – this standardization makes it incredibly efficient for buyers to compare products and make quick decisions.

The way these platforms handle photos also tells you a lot about their DNA. eBay lets you show your actual item from multiple angles – crucial for used items or collectibles. Amazon wants professional-grade photos against a white background, following their strict guidelines that feel like they were written by a perfectionist robot.

Inventory Management Systems: The Backend Battle

Here’s where we see the biggest evolution in both platforms. eBay’s inventory management has come a long way from the days of manual tracking in Excel spreadsheets. They now offer robust tools for:
– Bulk listing management
– Automated repricing
– Multi-quantity inventory tracking
– Cross-platform integration capabilities

Amazon’s inventory management system, especially with FBA, feels like it was built for scale from day one. It’s like having a whole warehouse team at your disposal, managing everything from storage to shipping. But this convenience comes at a cost – literally and figuratively. For more insights on how technology is shaping these platforms, check out our article on AI tools for ecommerce.

Marketing and Visibility Strategies: The Real Deal

Look, I’ve spent countless hours optimizing listings across both platforms, and here’s the truth about marketing on eBay vs Amazon that most guides won’t tell you: it’s not just about throwing money at ads. It’s about understanding the psychology of each platform’s buyers.

The Art of Platform-Specific Marketing

On eBay, success often comes from mastering the art of storytelling – especially when selling used items. I’ve seen sellers turn basic pee pads into bestsellers simply by crafting compelling listings that speak to pet owners’ specific pain points. Meanwhile, Amazon’s A9 algorithm rewards clinical precision – think bullet points, technical specs, and keyword optimization.

Here’s what actually works in 2024:

• eBay auctions still crush it for collectibles and rare items – but timing is everything
• Amazon’s referral fee structure favors high-margin items over commodity products
• Cross-platform selling requires different marketing approaches – what works on Amazon often flops on eBay

The Truth About Platform Support and Seller Protection

Let’s talk about ebay support vs Amazon’s seller support – because this might be the deciding factor for many sellers. Having dealt with both extensively, I can tell you it’s like choosing between two completely different customer service philosophies.

The Support Reality Check

Amazon’s seller support is like dealing with a well-oiled machine – efficient but sometimes frustratingly rigid. eBay payment issues? You’ll likely get a human who actually understands your problem. Amazon account issues? Prepare for a potentially kafka-esque journey through automated responses.

But here’s the kicker: eBay’s more personal approach comes with its own challenges. While you might get more empathetic support, resolution times can vary wildly. Amazon’s systematic approach, while sometimes frustrating, tends to be more consistent.

Financial Considerations: Beyond Basic Fee Structures

Want to know how much does eBay take from a $100 sale? It’s not just about the final value fees. Let’s break down the real costs:

• Basic eBay fees: 10-15% depending on category
• Payment processing: 2.35% + $0.30
• Potential listing fees: $0.35 for some categories
• Promotional fees: Variable based on your marketing choices

Compare this to Amazon’s fee structure:

• Referral fee: 8-15% (category dependent)
• FBA fees: Variable based on size/weight
• Monthly professional seller fee: $39.99
• Storage fees: Variable based on season and duration

The Hidden Cost Factors

But here’s what nobody tells you about selling on ebay vs amazon: the real costs aren’t just in the fees. They’re in the time investment, inventory management, and platform-specific requirements. I’ve seen sellers fixate on saving 2% in fees while losing 20% in efficiency costs. To understand the broader landscape, consider the number of active buyers on each platform.

Making the Final Decision: A Framework for Success

Is Amazon better than eBay? That’s like asking whether New York or LA is better – it depends entirely on what you’re trying to achieve. Here’s my framework for deciding:

Choose eBay If:

• You’re selling unique, used, or collectible items
• You want more control over your pricing strategy
• You prefer a more personal connection with buyers
• You’re testing new product ideas with lower upfront costs

Choose Amazon If:

• You’re selling new, branded products
• You want access to Prime customers
• You prefer a hands-off fulfillment approach
• You’re building a scalable brand

What sells best on eBay vs Amazon in 2024?

After analyzing thousands of transactions, here’s what I’ve found works best on each platform:

eBay Winners:

• Vintage and collectible items
• Used electronics
• Rare or discontinued products
• Parts and accessories
• Handmade or custom items

Amazon Winners:

• New, branded products
• Consumer electronics
• Home and kitchen items
• Beauty and personal care
• Books and media

Future Trends and Platform Evolution

Looking ahead, both platforms are evolving in fascinating ways. Amazon’s pushing hard into AI-driven optimization and automated inventory management, while eBay’s doubling down on authentication services and specialized marketplaces.

What’s Coming Next

Keep an eye on these emerging trends:

• Enhanced mobile selling tools
• AI-powered pricing optimization
• Improved cross-border trade capabilities
• Sustainable packaging initiatives
• Augmented reality product previews

Final Thoughts: The Hybrid Approach

Here’s what I tell every entrepreneur who asks about selling on ebay vs amazon: don’t think of it as an either/or decision. The most successful sellers I know use both platforms strategically, leveraging each for its strengths.

Start with one platform, master it, then expand. Use Amazon for your new, standardized products and eBay for unique items or clearance inventory. Think of them as different tools in your e-commerce toolbox rather than competing options.

Action Steps for Success

Ready to get started? Here’s your action plan:

1. Analyze your product mix against platform strengths
2. Calculate total costs including time investment
3. Start with a small test inventory on your chosen platform
4. Document everything – what works and what doesn’t
5. Scale what works, drop what doesn’t. For more tips, visit our FAQ page.

Remember, the most successful sellers aren’t the ones who pick the “perfect” platform – they’re the ones who learn to adapt and optimize their approach based on real data and experience. Whether you choose eBay, Amazon, or both, success comes from understanding your products, your customers, and your own operational capabilities.

The e-commerce landscape is constantly evolving, and what works today might need adjustment tomorrow. Stay flexible, keep testing, and most importantly, don’t be afraid to pivot when the data tells you to. Your success in online selling isn’t just about choosing the right platform – it’s about building the right strategy for your specific business needs. For more insights, check out our article on temu influencer program.

Related Articles:

• Dropshipping vs Amazon FBA: Which Model Wins in 2024
• eBay Reprint Shipping Label: Step-by-Step Guide 2024
• Understanding Your eBay Summary: A Complete Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is selling on ebay vs amazon?

Selling on eBay and Amazon each has its unique advantages and challenges. eBay is often favored for its auction-style listings and flexibility in selling both new and used items, while Amazon offers a more streamlined process and access to a larger global customer base. The choice between the two depends on the seller’s product type, preferred selling style, and business goals. Both platforms require understanding their respective fee structures and rules to maximize profits.

What is the downside of selling on eBay?

One downside of selling on eBay is the competitive fee structure, which can eat into profits, especially for smaller sales. Additionally, eBay’s auction format may not always guarantee the price a seller hopes for, potentially leading to lower final sale prices. Sellers also face challenges with increased buyer protection policies that can sometimes favor buyers in disputes. Moreover, eBay’s reliance on seller ratings and feedback can heavily impact a seller’s credibility and visibility on the platform.

How much does eBay take from a $100 sale?

For a typical $100 sale on eBay, the platform generally takes a final value fee of around 10% to 12%, depending on the category of the item sold. This means eBay would charge between $10 and $12. Additionally, if the payment is processed through PayPal or another payment service, there may be an additional payment processing fee, typically around 2.9% plus a small fixed fee.

Is Amazon better than eBay?

Whether Amazon is better than eBay largely depends on what and how you intend to sell. Amazon is generally better for new, mass-produced items, providing access to a vast customer base and streamlined fulfillment services through FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon). However, eBay might be preferable for selling unique, collectible, or used items, as it offers more listing flexibility and often lower competition in niche markets. Ultimately, the best platform depends on a seller’s specific needs and business strategy.

What sells best on eBay?

On eBay, collectible and vintage items, such as rare coins, antiques, and memorabilia, tend to sell well, as do electronics, fashion items, and refurbished goods. eBay’s platform is well-suited for niche markets and unique items that might not fit as well on Amazon. Additionally, eBay’s auction format can be advantageous for selling items that are in high demand or have fluctuating market values, allowing sellers to potentially achieve higher price points.

About the Author

Vijay Jacob is the founder and chief contributing writer for ProductScope AI focused on storytelling in AI and tech. You can follow him on X and LinkedIn, and ProductScope AI on X and on LinkedIn.

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