Platform Overview
Closed Marketplaces Overview
Closed marketplaces like Walmart and Amazon Handmade require application and approval. Higher quality but limited sellers.
Open Marketplaces Overview
Open marketplaces like eBay and Mercari allow anyone to sell. Higher competition but easy access.
Fee Comparison
| Aspect | Closed Marketplaces | Open Marketplaces | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seller Requirements | Application required | Anyone can sell | Decop more accessible |
| Competition | Lower | High | Decop more competitive |
| Buyer Trust | Higher (verified sellers) | Varies | Walmart buyers trust |
| Fee Structure | 6-15% | 10-17% | Decop lower |
| Product Restrictions | Strict | Varies | Closed more restrictive |
| Quality Control | Higher | Varies | Decop variable |
| Time to Start | Days to weeks | Immediate | Decop faster |
Our Recommendation
Open marketplaces for quick start and broad reach. Closed marketplaces for less competition and buyer trust.
Key Takeaways
What to Consider
- Platform fees are only part of the equation - factor in fulfillment, shipping, and your time.
- Consider your product type and target audience when choosing between Closed Marketplaces and Open Marketplaces.
- Use our Profit Calculator to estimate exact costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is cheapest for selling?
For most categories, Shopify (0% transaction fee with Shopify Payments) plus marketing costs works out cheaper than marketplace fees for sellers with their own traffic. For sellers relying on platform traffic, Etsy (6.5%) and TikTok Shop (3.8-9.8%) are generally cheaper than Amazon (15-17%) or eBay (13-15%) before accounting for fulfillment costs.
Do fee structures change by product category?
Yes. All major platforms have tiered category fees. Amazon ranges from 6% (books) to 17% (clothing/jewelry). eBay ranges from 12.9% (media) to 14.9% (clothing/jewelry). Always check your specific category's rate before listing.
Data Methodology & Disclaimer
Fee data and benchmarks in this article are sourced from official platform documentation and cross-referenced with publicly available rate schedules as of April 2026. Calculations use standard fee formulas; individual results vary based on product category and specific listing details.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Check the latest rates at each platform's official seller fees page. Fee structures reflect publicly available information as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Always verify current rates before making financial decisions.