How to Start Selling on Wix

Wix is a powerful and user-friendly platform that empowers entrepreneurs and businesses to build and manage an online presence without needing extensive technical knowledge. Whether you’re a small business owner, a creative professional, or someone looking to start an online store, Wix offers a wide array of customizable templates and intuitive tools to help you create a professional and functional website.

Selling on Wix involves more than just setting up a website. It includes creating a fully operational online store where you can list products, manage inventory, process payments, and handle shipping. Wix provides all the necessary tools to make this process seamless, from payment gateways and SEO tools to marketing integrations and customer management.

Types of Seller Accounts

When setting up an online store on Wix, you can choose between different types of seller accounts depending on your needs and the scale of your business.

1. Individual Seller Account

• Who It’s For: Ideal for hobbyists, freelancers, or individuals looking to sell a small number of products.
• Features: Basic features for listing products, managing orders, and processing payments. Limited customization options.

2. Business Seller Account

• Who It’s For: Best suited for small to medium-sized businesses or those with a larger inventory.
• Features: Access to advanced features like product variants, inventory tracking, marketing tools, and more. Greater flexibility and scalability.

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Create a Seller Account

Creating a seller account on Wix is straightforward. Follow these steps to set up your online store.

Step 1: Sign Up for a Wix Account

• Visit Wix.com and click on the “Get Started” button.
• You’ll be prompted to enter your email address and create a password. Alternatively, you can sign up using your Google or Facebook account for quicker access.

Step 2: Choose an eCommerce Template

• Wix offers a vast selection of templates specifically designed for online stores. Browse through the eCommerce section and select a template that best fits your brand and product offerings.
• Remember, all Wix templates are fully customizable, so you can modify them to suit your specific needs.

Step 3: Set Up Your Online Store

• After selecting your template, you’ll be directed to the Wix Editor. Here, you can start setting up your store by adding essential details such as your store name, currency, and other preferences.
• Use the drag-and-drop interface to arrange elements, add new sections, and personalize your store’s look and feel.

Step 4: Add Products to Your Store

• Navigate to the “Products” section in your Wix Dashboard and click “Add New Product.”
• Upload high-quality images of your products, write detailed descriptions, set prices, and categorize your products for easier navigation.
• For digital products, ensure you specify download links and any licensing terms.

Step 5: Configure Payment and Shipping Options

• Set up payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, or credit card processors to start accepting payments. Wix integrates with multiple payment options, making it easy to cater to a global audience.
• Define your shipping methods, including domestic and international shipping options, rates, and any free shipping thresholds.

Step 6: Publish Your Store

• Once everything is in place and you’re satisfied with your store setup, click the “Publish” button to make your store live on the internet.
• You can continue to make adjustments even after your store is published, ensuring it always reflects your business’s current state.

Information on Documents Needed and Time to Get Approved

Setting up a seller account on Wix is a relatively quick process, but it requires specific documentation depending on your business type and location. Here’s what you might need:

1. Business Registration Documents

• What: Business license or registration certificate.
• Why: Necessary for tax and legal purposes, especially if you’re setting up a Business Seller Account.

2. Tax Information

• What: Tax Identification Number (TIN), VAT number, or equivalent.
• Why: To ensure compliance with local tax laws and for payment processing.

3. Bank Account Details

• What: Bank account number and routing information.
• Why: To receive payments directly from your online store sales.

4. Payment Gateway Approval

• What: Additional documents as required by third-party payment processors.
• Why: Verification may be needed to prevent fraud and ensure secure transactions.

Approval Time

• The time it takes to get approved can vary depending on the complexity of your business setup and the payment gateways you choose. Generally, you can expect the approval process to take between 1 to 3 business days. However, setting up your Wix account itself is instantaneous, and you can begin designing your store immediately.

Tips on How to Research and Select Products That Are Profitable

Choosing the right products to sell is crucial for the success of your online store. Here’s how to research and select profitable products:

1. Identify Market Trends

• Use tools like Google Trends, Amazon Best Sellers, and social media platforms to discover trending products. Look for patterns in consumer behavior, seasonal trends, and emerging niches.
• Example: If you notice an increasing interest in eco-friendly products, consider sourcing sustainable goods.

2. Evaluate Demand and Competition

• Research potential products using keyword tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or Ubersuggest. Analyze search volumes and competition levels for your target keywords.
• Look at your competitors to see what they are offering. Evaluate their pricing, product quality, customer reviews, and market positioning.
• Example: If a product has high search volume but few competitors, it could be a profitable niche.

3. Consider Profit Margins

• Calculate the total cost of each product, including production, shipping, and marketing expenses. Ensure that the profit margin is sufficient to cover your costs and still leave room for discounts or promotions.
• Example: If a product costs $10 to produce and ship, and you can sell it for $30, you have a $20 profit margin, which is typically a good range.

4. Test Products Before Committing

• Start with a small batch of products to test the market’s response. Use analytics to track sales, customer feedback, and profitability before scaling up.
• Example: Launch a limited edition or a pre-order campaign to gauge interest without overcommitting resources.

Information on Where and How to Source Products

Once you’ve identified profitable products, the next step is sourcing them. There are several methods to consider:

1. Wholesale

• What: Purchase products in bulk from a wholesaler at a lower per-unit cost and sell them at a markup.
• Where: Websites like Alibaba, DHgate, and SaleHoo are popular for finding wholesalers. You can also attend trade shows or connect with local distributors.
• Benefits: Lower cost per unit and the ability to negotiate better pricing with higher volumes.
• Challenges: Requires upfront investment and storage space.

2. Dropshipping

• What: Partner with suppliers who ship products directly to your customers. You don’t hold inventory, making it a low-risk option.
• Where: Platforms like Oberlo, Spocket, and Modalyst integrate with Wix and offer access to various suppliers.
• Benefits: Low upfront costs, no need for inventory management, and the ability to offer a wide range of products.
• Challenges: Lower profit margins, reliance on supplier shipping times, and potential quality control issues.

3. Private Labeling

• What: Create your own brand by labeling generic products with your branding. This allows for higher margins and brand recognition.
• Where: Manufacturers on platforms like Alibaba or specialized private label companies.
• Benefits: Greater control over product quality, branding, and pricing. Potential for building a strong brand identity.
• Challenges: Higher initial investment, longer lead times, and the need for marketing to establish your brand.

How to Create Effective and SEO-Optimized Product Listings

Effective product listings are key to attracting customers and driving sales. Here’s how to optimize your listings:

1. Keyword Research

• Why: Identifying relevant keywords is crucial for SEO. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or Moz to find keywords that your target audience is searching for.
• How: Focus on long-tail keywords that are specific to your product and have lower competition. Include these keywords in your product titles, descriptions, and meta tags.

2. Optimized Titles

• Why: Product titles are one of the first things search engines and customers see. A well-optimized title can significantly improve your product’s visibility.
• How: Include primary keywords in your product titles. Make sure they are clear, concise, and accurately describe the product. Avoid keyword stuffing, which can hurt your SEO.
• Example: Instead of “Women’s Shoes,” use “Comfortable Women’s Running Shoes – Breathable, Lightweight, Size 6-10.”

3. Compelling Product Descriptions

• Why: A well-written description can persuade customers to make a purchase. It’s also an opportunity to use secondary keywords naturally.
• How: Highlight the benefits and features of your products. Use bullet points for easy readability, and incorporate storytelling elements to create an emotional connection with potential buyers.
• Example: Instead of just listing features, explain how the product solves a problem or improves the customer’s life.

4. Meta Descriptions

• Why: Meta descriptions appear in search engine results and can influence click-through rates.
• How: Write concise, engaging meta descriptions that include relevant keywords and encourage users to click on your link.
• Example: “Shop our collection of eco-friendly, organic cotton t-shirts. Soft, sustainable, and perfect for everyday wear. Free shipping on orders over $50!”

Best Practices for Images and Writing Compelling Descriptions

High-quality visuals and well-crafted descriptions are essential for converting visitors into customers. Here’s how to do it right:

1. High-Quality Images

• Why: Images are often the first impression customers have of your product. High-resolution images build trust and convey professionalism.
• How: Use professional photography if possible. Include multiple images showing different angles and details of the product. Allow customers to zoom in on images for a closer look.
• Example: Include images that show the product in use, such as a model wearing a piece of clothing or a gadget being operated.

2. Lifestyle Images

• Why: Lifestyle images help customers visualize how the product fits into their lives, which can increase perceived value and desire.
• How: Show your product in a real-life context. For example, if you’re selling home decor, include images of the item in a beautifully styled room.
• Example: A lifestyle shot of a coffee mug on a cozy breakfast table with a morning newspaper and a vase of fresh flowers.

3. Clear and Concise Descriptions

• Why: Descriptions should be easy to read and informative, giving customers all the details they need to make a purchase decision.
• How: Use bullet points to list key features and benefits. Keep sentences short and to the point. Avoid jargon unless your target audience is familiar with it.
• Example: “Made from 100% organic cotton. Available in sizes S-XL. Machine washable. Perfect for everyday wear.”

4. Storytelling

• Why: Storytelling can make your product stand out by creating an emotional connection with the customer.
• How: Share the story behind the product, whether it’s about the materials used, the inspiration for its creation, or the artisans who crafted it.
• Example: “Each of our handmade candles is crafted by local artisans in small batches, using all-natural soy wax and essential oils. Inspired by the tranquil forests of the Pacific Northwest.”

Fulfillment Options

Once you start selling, you’ll need to consider how you’ll fulfill orders. Here are the primary options:

1. Self-Fulfillment

• What: You handle everything from inventory management to packaging and shipping.
• Benefits: Complete control over the process, potentially lower costs.
• Challenges: Time-consuming and may become unmanageable as your business grows.

2. Third-Party Fulfillment

• What: Outsource your fulfillment to a third-party service like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), ShipBob, or a local fulfillment center.
• Benefits: Saves time, scalable, and can offer faster shipping times.
• Challenges: Additional costs, and less control over the packaging and shipping process.

3. Dropshipping

• What: As mentioned earlier, your supplier ships products directly to your customers.
• Benefits: No need to manage inventory or fulfillment.
• Challenges: Dependence on supplier shipping times and potential issues with quality control.

Pricing Strategy

Setting the right prices for your products is crucial for attracting customers and maintaining profitability. Here are some strategies:

1. Cost-Plus Pricing

• What: Calculate the total cost of producing and selling a product, then add a markup to determine the selling price.
• Benefits: Ensures all costs are covered and allows for consistent profit margins.
• Challenges: May not be competitive if your markup is too high.

2. Competitive Pricing

• What: Research your competitors’ pricing and set your prices slightly lower or similar to attract price-sensitive customers.
• Benefits: Helps you stay competitive in the market.
• Challenges: Lower profit margins and potential price wars.

3. Psychological Pricing

• What: Use pricing strategies that make products appear cheaper, such as $9.99 instead of $10.
• Benefits: Can increase perceived value and encourage impulse purchases.
• Challenges: Can be overused and lose effectiveness if not combined with other pricing strategies.

Wix Advertising

Marketing your products effectively is essential for driving traffic and increasing sales. Wix offers several advertising options:

1. Wix Ascend

• What: A comprehensive marketing suite integrated into the Wix platform, offering email marketing, social media posts, SEO tools, and more.
• Benefits: Seamlessly integrated with your Wix store, making it easy to manage all aspects of your marketing in one place.
• Challenges: Requires a paid subscription for access to all features.

2. Google Ads Integration

• What: Connect your Wix store with Google Ads to create targeted ad campaigns that appear in search engine results.
• Benefits: Reach a larger audience and drive more traffic to your store.
• Challenges: Requires ongoing management and a budget for ad spend.

3. Social Media Advertising

• What: Run ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest directly from your Wix dashboard.
• Benefits: Engage with potential customers on the platforms they use most.
• Challenges: Requires a well-thought-out strategy to avoid wasting ad spend.

Dealing with Competition

Competition is inevitable in the eCommerce world. Here’s how to stand out:

1. Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

• What: Clearly define what makes your products or brand unique compared to competitors.
• How: Focus on your strengths, whether it’s superior quality, innovative features, exceptional customer service, or eco-friendly practices.
• Example: “Our skincare products are made with 100% organic ingredients and are completely free from synthetic chemicals.”

2. Customer Service

• What: Offering outstanding customer service can differentiate you from competitors and build loyalty.
• How: Provide prompt responses to inquiries, easy returns, and personalized service. Consider offering live chat support.
• Example: “24/7 customer support with live chat, free returns within 30 days, and a dedicated team to assist you every step of the way.”

3. Brand Loyalty Programs

• What: Implement loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with discounts, points, or exclusive offers.
• How: Use Wix’s integrated tools to manage loyalty programs and track customer purchases.
• Example: “Earn points with every purchase and redeem them for discounts on future orders.”

Brand Registry and Intellectual Property

Protecting your brand and intellectual property is essential for long-term success:

1. Trademark Registration

• What: Register trademarks for your business name, logo, and unique product names to protect them from being used by competitors.
• How: Consult with a legal professional to ensure proper trademark registration and protection.
• Example: Register your brand name and logo with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or the relevant authority in your country.

2. Intellectual Property

• What: Ensure that your product designs, content, and branding are original to avoid legal disputes and infringement issues.
• How: Regularly monitor your intellectual property and take action if you discover unauthorized use.
• Example: Use copyright protection for original content and monitor marketplaces for counterfeit versions of your products.

Handling Account Suspensions

Account suspensions can be a significant setback. Here’s how to avoid them and what to do if it happens:

1. Follow Wix Guidelines

• What: Adhere to Wix’s terms of service and community guidelines to avoid violations that could lead to account suspension.
• How: Regularly review Wix’s policies and ensure your store complies with all rules regarding product listings, payment processing, and customer interactions.
• Example: Ensure all your product descriptions are accurate and truthful, and avoid selling prohibited items.

2. Appeal Process

• What: If your account is suspended, Wix offers an appeal process to resolve the issue.
• How: Contact Wix support, provide the necessary documentation, and explain any misunderstandings or corrective actions you’ve taken.
• Example: If your account was suspended due to a misunderstanding about your product listings, provide evidence to clarify the issue.

Inventory Management

Effective inventory management is crucial to running a successful online store. Here’s how to keep your inventory organized:

1. Automated Inventory Tracking

• What: Use Wix’s built-in inventory management tools or integrate third-party apps to track inventory levels in real-time.
• Benefits: Prevents overselling and helps you keep track of stock levels automatically.
• Challenges: Requires initial setup and regular monitoring to ensure accuracy.

2. Reorder Alerts

• What: Set up automated alerts that notify you when inventory levels are low, so you can reorder products before they run out.
• Benefits: Helps maintain consistent stock levels and avoid stockouts.
• Challenges: Must accurately predict lead times to ensure timely reordering.

3. Demand Forecasting

• What: Analyze past sales data to forecast future demand and adjust inventory levels accordingly.
• Benefits: Optimizes inventory levels, reduces holding costs, and improves cash flow.
• Challenges: Requires accurate data analysis and may be affected by seasonal variations or market trends.