If you want to start or grow your own eCommerce store, there are many platforms to choose from. This post will help you decide which platform might be right for you. Some of the most common platforms like Shopify and BigCommerce are great examples of how they work. but these top 15 websites should give you some insight into popular choices. Who knows? Maybe one has what’s right for your business!
1) BigCommerce
Offers a variety of eCommerce tools that can support any online business structure. BigCommerce is the largest and most comprehensive eCommerce solution in the world. BigCommerce’s open architecture allows customers to integrate with hundreds of apps for SEO, loyalty programs: analytics. social media marketing. and advertising. This platform has so many features including a professional storefront, multiple payment options (credit cards or PayPal). a real-time shipping calculator. a free mobile shopping app, and much more! If you’re looking for an all-inclusive solution. BigCommerce might be your best bet.
2) Shopify
Backed by investors like Accel Partners and Andreessen Horowitz. Shopify started in 2006 as a drop-shipping company. Today. it is one of the largest eCommerce platforms with over 175.000 stores using its service. Unlike BigCommerce. Shopify only works with drop-shipping. This means that Shopify will fill the order for you as soon as it comes in, rather than stocking inventory. For some. this is a deal-breaker because they can’t get their hands on the product. But for others, it’s a boon because they end up saving money and not having to worry about their capital being tied up in inventory.
3) Magento
One of the most powerful eCommerce platforms out there with over 180.000 customers worldwide. This platform gives you full control over all aspects of your online store. including design and functionality. while offering advanced features like SEC optimization and performance monitoring tools. This platform supports a wide range of payment systems including PayPal. Stripe. Authorize.net. and Braintree. Not to mention. they offer multiple fulfillment and shipping options like LISPS. FedEx. UPS. and DHL. Magento is a great choice for eCommerce businesses with large product requirements.
4) WooCommerce
WooCommerce is the most affordable self-hosted platform out there with over 1 million downloads. This platform has over 15 different payment gateways available, supporting both credit cards and PayPal. WooCommerce supports multiple shipping options such as USPS. FedEx. and DHL. Make no mistake that this is not an all-inclusive eCommerce system for your store. There are plenty of additional features you can invest in. but they aren’t needed at this time. If you’re looking for a more advanced eCommerce platform. WooCommerce may be the right choice.
5) Squarespace
This popular website builder is best known as a website designer but also works with many eCommerce platforms like BigCommerce. Shopify. and WooCommerce. Their drag-and-drop editor gives you the ability to customize your store exactly how you want it. Squarespace offers hosting. analytics, and a marketplace to help you grow your business. They can also provide support for a good deal of online marketing. funneling. and sales automation services. For those looking for a complete e-commerce package with website design. Squarespace might be the way to go.
6) Weebly
Another website creation service that works with many eCommerce platforms like Shopify. WooCommerce. and BigCommerce! Similar to Squarespace. you can use the drag-and-drop builder to customize your store as you see fit. But what might attract some store owners are their beginner-friendly tools. These tools include built-in video tutorials. 1-click upsells, and coupon codes. The social commerce tools allow you to run customizable marketing campaigns on multiple social media platforms.
7) Magento Go
Magento Go is the hosted version of Magento and is known for its scalability and flexibility. It is a good choice for business owners with high-demand products who need an eCommerce platform that can grow as the business grows. This platform offers open-source technology that can be customized to meet your needs. It also offers a variety of industry-specific apps that can support your online business.
8) Big Cartel
A simple shopping cart that works instantly with multiple eCommerce platforms. Customer service is highly rated by customers, with the phone, email. and live chat support. Some features offered are product listings. multiple order statuses. integrated social media feeds. and discounts. They offer hosting services for your store. including SSL certificate security protection and website backups. If you’re new to eCommerce or just looking for a simple shopping cart to get started. Big Cartel might be the platform for you!
9) Ecwid
Ecwid is free. mobile-friendly eCommerce website builder that provides tools to increase your online sales. Users can upload, design, and build their websites in minutes. The platform makes it easy to manage your products and inventory, as well as take advantage of custom shipping methods. With no surprise fees for credit cards or other payment gateways, this is an eCommerce platform you can use right away without paying monthly fees.
10) Big Cartel
Big Cartel is a simple shopping cart that works instantly with multiple eCommerce platforms. Their customer service is highly rated by customers. with the phone, email. and live chat support. Some features offered are product listings. multiple order statuses, integrated social media feeds, and discounts. They offer hosting services for your store. including SSL certificate security protection and website backups. If you’re new to e-commerce or just looking for a simple shopping cart to get started. Big Cartel might be the platform for you!
11) eBay
This is another forum-based marketplace with a long history. This marketplace allows users to sell their products online and take advantage of an extensive user base with millions of active users. eBay has a reputation for providing excellent customer service. and its efficient and simple navigation makes it easy to navigate the site.
12) Amazon
It has become an essential part of many eCommerce businesses. Amazon has quickly gained popularity among business owners. but some have been hesitant to take full advantage of this platform due to the high fees associated with being on it. The fees include listings, payments. shipping, customer service, and returns. You can also take advantage of Amazon Prime membership, which allows you to enjoy free two-day shipping for a flat monthly fee of $99.
13) OpenCart
If you’re considering a self-hosted platform. OpenCart is an option that many business owners consider but may not work for them due to its complexity and associated costs. It is a powerful e-commerce platform designed specifically for small to medium-sized businesses. It is compatible with all major eCommerce platforms. including BigCommerce. Shopify. and WooCommerce. They offer professional support. a mobile device-friendly design interface. and tons of tools to help you grow your business.
14) E-Junkie
E-Junkie Is a custom eCommerce platform that you can start using immediately without paying monthly fees. Their simple drag-and-drop builder allows you to easily create your storefront. You can create up to ten products (products are automatically grouped.). products are automatically listed in categories according to their category or alphabetically by name. If you are new to e-commerce, This is an ideal platform for you.
15) Snapcart
Snapcart is a shopping cart that comes with an intuitive design and extensive features. Their checkout process is also quick and easy, and you can get started on this platform right away with no fees.
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