Etsy is a leading global e-commerce platform for handmade, vintage, and unique products, making it an excellent marketplace for artisans, designers, and entrepreneurs. Whether you're selling handcrafted jewelry, traditional Thai crafts, or eco-friendly goods, Etsy provides access to millions of buyers worldwide. This guide covers how to start an Etsy shop from Thailand, what to sell on Etsy, shipping and payment options, and strategies to grow your business.
What is Etsy, and why sell on it?
Etsy is a specialized e-commerce platform catering to sellers of handmade goods, vintage items (20+ years old), and craft supplies. Unlike general marketplaces, Etsy attracts buyers specifically looking for unique, artistic, and customized products. Let’s take a look at why Etsy is a great platform for Thai sellers:
- Massive global audience: In 2023, Etsy had over 90 million active buyers worldwide1.
- Focused on creative businesses: Etsy is designed to support artisans, crafters, and small-scale entrepreneurs, offering a supportive community and resources tailored to their needs.2
- Etsy Payments: Etsy offers a secure and reliable payment processing system, Etsy Payments, which supports multiple payment methods and currencies, simplifying transactions for both sellers and buyers.3
- Easy international shipping: Etsy seamlessly integrates with trusted shipping partners like DHL Express, facilitating smooth and efficient international deliveries.
Products to sell on Etsy from Thailand
Etsy offers a great platform for Thai sellers to showcase unique products. Popular product categories on Etsy include:
- Handicrafts: Items like wooden sculptures and handwoven textiles.
- Jewelry: Silver and gemstone jewelry with Thai-inspired designs.
- Artwork: Thai paintings, prints, and handmade crafts.
- Vintage Items: Thai vintage textiles, furniture, and collectibles.
To stand out, research competition and identify niches with fewer offerings. Emphasize Thailand's distinctive culture, incorporating traditional craftsmanship and locally sourced materials. Continuously test your products and adjust based on customer feedback to refine your offerings and increase appeal.
How Etsy works for sellers
Etsy offers an easy platform to list products, manage orders, and process payments globally. With customizable shipping profiles, direct communication with buyers, and integrated marketing tools, Etsy helps sellers grow their businesses internationally.
Shipping through Etsy
Etsy offers a simple shipping integration to help sellers manage their orders efficiently. Here’s how it works:
- Shipping Profiles: Sellers can create custom shipping profiles for both domestic and international orders. These profiles let you set shipping rates based on location, delivery speed, and product size/weight. You can also define processing times and specify delivery options for different regions.
- International Shipping: For global orders, it's essential to choose a reliable courier like DHL Express. This ensures fast, secure, and tracked delivery, which helps build trust with international buyers. Additionally, offering international shipping expands your reach, allowing you to tap into Etsy’s global customer base.
- Shipping Labels: Etsy simplifies the shipping process by allowing sellers to purchase and print shipping labels directly from the platform. This feature saves time and ensures that sellers comply with shipping regulations, offering a seamless experience for both sellers and customers.
How Etsy pays sellers
To receive payments on Etsy, link your bank account to your shop. You’ll also need to add a debit or credit card for fees.
How to connect your bank account:
- Fill out your personal info on the "How You’ll Get Paid" page.
- Select your bank’s country.
Payment steps vary by location. Etsy payments are typically deposited within 3-5 business days after order completion.
How to set up an Etsy shop
Setting up an Etsy shop is a straightforward process that allows you to reach a global audience. With just a few simple steps, you can start selling your handmade or vintage items, as well as craft supplies.
Opening your Etsy account
- Sign Up on Etsy: Visit Etsy.com and create an account. Select “Sell on Etsy” and follow the prompts.
- Choose a Shop Name: Pick a unique name that reflects your brand. It should be memorable, easy to spell, and aligned with your products.
- Complete Your Profile: Upload a profile picture, write a compelling shop description, and add store policies (shipping, returns, etc.).
- Set Up Payment Methods: Etsy supports Etsy Payments (the preferred method) and Payoneer for international sellers. Ensure your banking details are correct to receive payments seamlessly.
Listing products on Etsy
Creating high-quality product listings is crucial for attracting buyers. Here’s how to optimize your listings:
- Upload High-Quality Images: Use clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles. Etsy recommends a minimum of 2000px wide images.
- Write a Compelling Title: Craft titles that include relevant keywords buyers are likely to search for, such as “handmade Thai silver necklace” or “eco-friendly coconut bowls.”
- Create a Detailed Description: Provide a clear and concise description of your product, including materials, dimensions, and usage. Use bullet points for easy readability.
- Set a Competitive Price: Research similar products on Etsy to set a price that’s both competitive and profitable.
- Use Keywords for SEO: Optimize your tags and descriptions with relevant keywords for better visibility in promoting a listing on Etsy.
Making money on Etsy: Tips for success
To succeed on Etsy, it's crucial to focus on strategies that drive traffic and build customer loyalty. By offering value, maintaining high product standards, and actively promoting your shop, you can increase sales and grow your business.
- Offer discounts and promotions: Run seasonal or limited-time deals to attract buyers.
- Leverage reviews: Positive feedback builds trust, so focus on delivering great customer service to encourage reviews.
- Use social media: Promote your products on social media platforms to drive traffic to your Etsy shop.
- Maintain consistent quality: Ensure your products meet high standards to build a strong reputation.
- Provide excellent customer service: Respond quickly to inquiries, address concerns, and resolve issues professionally to foster loyalty.
- Encourage Repeat Purchases: Great service and quality products lead to loyal customers.
- Fast Delivery: Partner with trusted logistics providers to ensure reliable, fast shipping.
Work with a trusted logistics partner like DHL Express
Reliable shipping is essential for Etsy sellers in Thailand looking to expand globally. Fast delivery, secure handling, and seamless customs clearance can make all the difference in providing a great customer experience. That’s where DHL Express comes in—offering international shipping solutions designed to help Etsy sellers reach buyers worldwide with ease.
- 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 with real-time tracking updates, giving both sellers and buyers confidence in the delivery process.
- Customs clearance support: Navigate international shipping regulations smoothly with expert customs support.
DHL Express also provides valuable resources and advice on optimizing your online store for mobile, as well as insights into e-commerce trends for B2B businesses. Whether you're just starting or scaling your Etsy shop, DHL Express ensures your products reach customers quickly and reliably. Calculate your shipping costs now with DHL Express’s pricing tool. Click here to get started.
