How to start selling on eBay from Thailand: What to know

eBay is one of the largest e-commerce platforms globally, connecting millions of buyers and sellers. For Thai sellers, it offers a valuable opportunity to reach international customers, especially for unique products like bonsai, handicrafts, and traditional goods. But what is eBay, and how does eBay work for sellers in Thailand? Here's a guide to help you start your selling journey.

What is eBay, and how does it work?

eBay is an online marketplace that allows individuals and businesses to sell products through two main purchasing options: auctions and fixed-price listings, also known as "Buy It Now."

• Auction-style listings: Buyers place bids, and the highest bidder wins.
• Buy It Now: Buyers can purchase items immediately at a set price.

Sellers can choose to offer both options, providing flexibility to their buyers. With over 133 million active buyers worldwide and a reach that spans more than 190 markets², eBay is a prime platform for Thai sellers to expand their reach globally. It's an excellent platform for unique, niche products, allowing you to tap into diverse international markets.

Setting up your eBay store in Thailand

Starting an eBay store in Thailand is a simple process that allows you to tap into a global marketplace. With eBay’s user-friendly platform, you can set up your store and begin selling your products to customers worldwide in just a few easy steps.

How to start selling on eBay

Setting up an eBay seller account is easy and straightforward. Here's how you can get started:

1. Create an eBay Seller Account: Visit eBay's homepage and sign up as a seller by providing your personal details, including your name, email address, and contact information.
2. Verify Your Account: To ensure secure transactions, link your bank account and verify your identity. This step helps build trust with buyers and ensures smooth payment processing.
3. Choose a Seller Plan: eBay offers two types of accounts: individual and business. Choose the one that best fits your selling needs. The individual account is ideal for small sellers, while the business account is suited for those who want to scale their operations.
4. Link Your Payment Method: Set up your preferred payment method, such as PayPal or eBay’s managed payment system, to receive payments from buyers worldwide. Ensure your payment information is accurate to avoid any delays in transaction processing.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to list your first product on eBay!

How to create listings on eBay

Creating effective listings is key to attracting buyers on eBay. Follow these steps to get started:

• Upload High-Quality Photos: Upload clear, high-resolution images that show your product from multiple angles.
• Write Detailed Descriptions: Provide a clear, informative description of your product. Include key details like size, color, material, and condition. 
• Set Your Price: Decide whether you want to list your product in an auction or at a fixed price (Buy It Now). If you choose an auction, set a starting bid that encourages interest, and if you opt for a fixed price, ensure it’s competitive with similar listings.
• Optimize for Visibility: Use descriptive titles with relevant keywords, include free or affordable shipping, and provide clear return policies.

Support and resources for Thai eBay sellers

While eBay does not have a local office in Thailand, it provides extensive support through its online resources and customer service. Sellers can contact eBay through their help pages, community forums, or by directly reaching out to their support team. Here are some key resources:

• eBay seller help center – Access guides on listing products, managing your account, and resolving disputes.
• eBay community forums – Engage with other sellers and share experiences or get answers to your questions.
• eBay seller protection – Learn about eBay’s policies to ensure you’re covered in case of buyer disputes.

Additionally, partnering with reliable logistics providers like DHL Express can help Thai sellers streamline their shipping processes. DHL Express offers fast, international shipping, ensuring that your products reach customers quickly and safely. 

Selling on eBay vs. Amazon: Which is right for Thai sellers?

When choosing between eBay and Amazon, here’s what Thai sellers should consider:

• Seller Fees: eBay charges listing and final value fees, while Amazon has higher fees, including a subscription fee for pro sellers.
• Customer Base: eBay attracts a global audience for niche products, while Amazon has a larger customer base, ideal for mass-produced items.
• Product Categories: eBay is perfect for unique or artisanal items like bonsai or handicrafts, while Amazon suits more general merchandise.
• Shipping Options: eBay offers flexibility with shipping, including partnering with logistics providers like DHL Express, while Amazon offers fulfillment services through FBA.

For Thai sellers offering niche products like bonsai or handicrafts, eBay provides a platform that caters to a targeted global audience actively seeking unique items. Unlike Amazon, which primarily focuses on mass-market goods, eBay thrives in markets where buyers are looking for specialized or culturally significant products. Additionally, eBay’s flexible shipping options allows you to choose your preferred reliable logistics partner like DHL Express, enabling sellers to reach international customers efficiently.

Popular products to sell on eBay from Thailand

Certain Thai products are in high demand globally. In 2021, some of the top-selling items included motorcycle parts, fine jewelry, and decorative plants.³ If you're selling niche items, such as bonsai or traditional crafts, eBay is an excellent marketplace to find buyers for these unique products. While live plants can be sold, sellers must adhere to eBay’s policies and international shipping regulations. For more details, check eBay's plants and seeds policy.

How to ship products sold on eBay

Shipping products sold on eBay requires careful planning to ensure they reach international buyers quickly and safely. Whether you're learning how to ship overseas or wondering how to ship a package internationally, choosing a reliable logistics partner is key to a smooth experience.

Handling shipping logistics

Once a sale is made, sellers must ensure their products reach international buyers quickly and securely. Choosing a reliable shipping partner is crucial for a smooth eBay selling experience. DHL Express offers fast, trackable shipping with global reach.

After a sale, eBay sellers must ensure prompt and secure delivery to their international buyers. This requires selecting a trustworthy shipping partner like DHL Express, known for fast, trackable shipping with a global reach. Here are the steps to ship overseas:

• Package securely: Use sturdy materials and proper cushioning to protect items during transit. A guide to packaging goods for shipping will help ensure your products are well-protected. Additionally, consider eco-friendly options to reduce your e-commerce carbon footprint while maintaining packaging integrity.
• Print shipping labels: Generate shipping labels directly from eBay or through your chosen courier’s platform.
• Select a trusted courier: Opt for an experienced provider like DHL Express for efficient, international shipping with real-time tracking.

By selecting the right logistics partner, eBay sellers can ensure smooth order fulfillment and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Export duties for eBay sellers in Thailand

Thai sellers are subject to export duties based on the product category and destination country. Export duties can impact the overall cost structure of your eBay listings and influence your profit margins. 

To help estimate shipping costs, customs duties, and taxes, sellers can use tools like the DHL Landed Cost Calculator. This tool provides a transparent breakdown of all relevant expenses, ensuring that sellers can accurately calculate costs before shipping their products internationally.

Managing expensive shipping costs on eBay

International shipping can be costly, but there are ways to keep expenses manageable while maintaining service quality:

• Use economical shipping options: DHL Express offers international shipping solutions that is cost-effective, reliable delivery.
• Offer combined shipping: Encourage buyers to purchase multiple items by offering discounted or bundled shipping rates.
• Factor shipping costs into product pricing: Consider including shipping in the item price to offer "free shipping", making your listings more attractive to buyers.

How DHL Express can support Thai sellers on eBay

DHL Express offers tailored solutions that simplify international shipping in Thailand for eBay sellers. Here’s how they can support your business:

• Fast international shipping: Deliver products to over 220 destinations worldwide, ensuring quick and secure shipments.
• End-to-end tracking: Provide full visibility of the shipment’s journey, giving both sellers and buyers confidence in the delivery process.
• Customs clearance support: Streamline the complexities of international trade, assisting with import/export regulations and duties for a smoother transaction.

Whether you're a small business or a larger seller, DHL Express’s comprehensive services ensure seamless cross-border selling. Calculate your shipping costs now with DHL Express’s pricing tool. Click here to get started.