In today’s digital age, making money online has become more accessible than ever before.
With the advent of online marketplaces and platforms, anyone can step into the world of e-commerce and start selling products to a global audience.
Whether you’re dreaming of launching a full-fledged online business or just want to earn some extra cash on the side, the big question is: “What can I sell online to make money?”
In this blog, I’ll dive into various product categories, uncovering opportunities and sharing practical strategies to succeed in the vast realm of online selling.
Whether you’re an artist, a tech-savvy individual, or simply someone with a knack for finding quality items, the online world offers a playground for turning your aspirations into profitable ventures.
Key Takeaways
- To succeed in online selling, diversify your product offerings while having a clear focus on a specific niche. This approach helps attract various customer segments while establishing your expertise in a particular market.
- Choose products based on trends, market demand, and your personal expertise. Leverage tools like Google Trends, social media platforms, and market statistics to identify potential winning products. Analyze competition and aim for a balanced mix of low, moderate, and high-priced items.
- Align your product choice with the right business model. Whether it’s e-commerce, dropshipping, print-on-demand, or offering services, ensure your product selection aligns with the strengths and requirements of the chosen model.
- Choose the right online marketplace for your products and employ effective marketing strategies to reach your target audience. Whether it’s eBay, Amazon, Etsy, or your own online store, tailor your promotion efforts to maximize visibility and attract potential buyers.
How to identify products you can sell online
So, before we can delve into the products you could sell to make money online, let’s first unveil the art of identifying and handpicking these lucrative gems.
Here’s my go-to approach for finding those winning products:
- Generate ideas, beginning with areas of expertise.
- Examine ideas using Google Trends and social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
- Analyze market statistics to ascertain the growth of the industry’s sales.
- Identify lesser competitive segments within expanding industries.
- Gather relevant data, including sales on Amazon and eBay, search volume, keyword complexity, and more.
- Compare the concepts based on real data.
- Investigate competitors, suppliers, and manufacturers before making any financial commitments. Monitor their pricing and inventory levels regularly to assess their success.
When picking products, maintain a precise focus and search for the optimal point. However, ensure there’s a balanced mix of low, moderate, and high price ranges.
Depending on your niche and profit margins, it might be necessary to introduce a “loss leader” to attract customers and then offer higher-value items later on.
What can I sell online to make money
When you’re thinking about selling stuff online, you’ve got three main options to consider: physical products, digital goods, and services.
Each of these choices comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to go with the one that really aligns with your skills, interests, and what you’re aiming for.
Now, there’s no one-size-fits-all magic formula. Figuring out what to sell online boils down to your business game plan and what the numbers tell you.
What’s a hit for a dropshipping setup might not be the right play for a white-label product. The art of online product selling is all about supplying what consumers want, but doing it in a way that works best for you.
So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Here are some of the business models we’ll look at:
- E-commerce store
- Dropshipping
- Print on Demand
These are like the puzzle pieces that fit best with your business model. Let’s dive in and see what clicks for you.
Product Ideas for an Ecommerce Store
One of the oldest and most tried-and-true methods of making money selling online is creating your own virtual store, stocking it with products procured from suppliers, and then orchestrating the sales process.
Customers browse your store, select items they fancy, and upon purchase, you take charge of shipping.
When venturing into the world of e-commerce, there are key considerations to mull over before zeroing in on your product selection:
- Leverage Your Expertise: Take a moment to tap into your personal strengths and areas of deep knowledge. What are you skilled at? What do you understand inside out? This could be a fantastic starting point for your product selection.
- Ride the Wave of Trends: Keep an eye on what’s trending in the market. What’s capturing people’s attention right now? Staying attuned to the latest trends can give you a valuable edge.
- Embrace the Uniqueness: Consider offering products that stand out from the crowd. In a world of big-box stores, providing distinctive items can be a game-changer. Look for those hidden gems that aren’t easily found elsewhere.
Here are some of the popular E-commerce Store products:
Beauty and Skincare products
Whether you’re in the process of developing a range of clay masks, body scrubs, lotions, cleansers, or even a combination of these offerings, beauty and skincare products are currently in high demand.
Projections for the global skincare market indicate a growth from $100.13 billion to $145.82 billion by 2028, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.52%.
Water bottles
Water bottles have become a real hit lately, all thanks to the bottled water trend. People are getting more eco-conscious and want to play their part in reducing the pile-up of single-use bottles in our landfills.
Guess what? The reusable water bottle scene hit a whopping $8.38 billion during the pandemic, and the forecast says it’s going to keep growing at a comfy 4% per year until 2028.
Sure, you can grab water bottles at any store, but the online world still offers plenty of room to make a splash in this market.
It all boils down to what kind of products you offer and how you go about promoting them. If you kick things off with a high-quality bottle that can keep your drink chilly for hours on end and then offer a bunch of cool design choices, you’ve got a clear shot at targeting a crowd that’s all about this awesome and profitable product.
Fitness equipment
The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a surge in the demand for fitness equipment. Even as gyms and health clubs have resumed operations with social distancing measures, a substantial number of individuals are opting to pursue their workouts at home.
All sorts of fitness gear are witnessing high demand – ranging from stability balls and yoga straps to balance disks, kettlebells, and resistance bands.
Throughout the pandemic, the global fitness equipment market soared beyond the $10 billion mark. Looking ahead, there’s a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11% awaiting us up to the year 2027.
This dynamic shift has not only reshaped the way we approach fitness but has also paved the way for a sustained change in how we perceive and use fitness equipment.
Electronics
While the growth trajectory of electronics might not be the fastest, it undeniably stands as a steadfast and enduring product category.
You have a range of electronic products available to showcase on your platform. These include Bluetooth keyboards, immersive speakers, earbuds with enticing audio quality, smartwatches offering advanced features, and essential smartphone accessories. The options are wide-ranging and versatile.
But here’s the game-changer – instead of chasing the fleeting trends of the moment, aim to carve your niche.
Consider venturing into specialized corners of the market, such as video game accessories. This strategic move sets you apart from the crowd and opens doors to longevity.
The key here is not just quick gains, but building a sustainable presence that sparks both short-term enthusiasm and long-term profitability.
Clothing
When it comes to clothing, e-commerce stores are like a fashion playground with tons of choices. You’ve got a whole wardrobe waiting to be explored – from comfy shirts and pants to chic dresses and warm coats.
And hey, the accessories game is strong too – think hats, belts, and those oh-so-cool sunglasses. And guess what? If you’ve got a special group in mind, like plus-size women or petite men, you can totally cater to their style needs.
Now, hunting down suppliers for your clothing shop is easier than finding your favorite shoes. Check out online directories like AliExpress or Dhgate – they’re like treasure troves of options. Suppliers here have a truckload of stuff to offer, and you get to cherry-pick what fits your store vibe.
Home Decore and Furnishings
If you’re on the lookout for something unique, consider adding home decor and furnishings to your online store’s offerings.
There’s a wide array of items within this category that can generate income. This includes items like furniture, rugs, lighting fixtures, and artwork. Additionally, you can also showcase home decor essentials such as curtains, blinds, and picture frames.
To market these products effectively, you might want to consider building your own website using Shopify. This platform allows you to create a visually appealing online store with relative ease.
Moreover, paid advertisements on platforms like Google and Facebook can be utilized to attract traffic to your store.
This can help increase visibility and draw potential customers to explore your range of home decor and furnishings.
Kitchen Gadgets
Let’s talk kitchen gadgets – they’re a hit these days as more people are embracing home cooking. If you’re thinking of filling up your online store, consider these cool kitchen gadgets that people love:
- Air Fryers: These handy devices give you the joy of fried flavors without the greasy aftermath. Market Research suggests this market is set to grow at a CAGR of 7% from 2023 to 2028, reaching a value of USD 1431.08 million by 2028. That’s a win for your online store.
- Griddles: Imagine having a flat-top grill whenever you fancy it. Griddles offer that convenience with a dash of culinary versatility.
- Pizza Ovens: Craving a crispy pizza in record time? Pizza ovens crank up the heat and cut down the cooking time. With 76K monthly Google searches and 35K Amazon searches, you’ve got a hungry audience waiting.
- Portable Blenders: Need a quick smoothie fix while on the move? Portable blenders, usually powered by USB, are a hit among travelers and busy bees. While they might not be as hyped in search engines as before, they’re still a nifty addition to your kitchen gadget lineup.
- Electric Kettles: Fancy a cup of warm tea at your desk? Electric kettles keep that hot water handy, even when a stove isn’t an option.
What to Sell in a Dropshipping Online Store
Running a dropshipping store offers a convenient way to sell products without dealing with inventory hassles.
Here’s how it works: you list items for sale in your online store, then when a customer orders something, you pass that order to your supplier (often through automated systems), and they handle the rest.
Your supplier takes care of sending the product directly to your customer, without the customer even knowing there’s a middleman.
While you have flexibility in what you sell with dropshipping, it’s good to focus on products with low shipping costs since the profit margins can be tighter.
Smartphone and Computer Accessories
Smartphones and computers are handy, and there’s a bunch of accessories that make them even more awesome. Think phone armbands for workouts, wireless charging pads, or waterproof bags for aquatic adventures. There’s a whole world of possibilities.
Jewelry and Fashion Accessories
Fashion trends may come and go, but jewelry and accessories are always in demand. You can specialize in a specific type of jewelry or offer a wide range. The scope here is pretty wide, and there’s a lot of potential.
Art Supplies
Art is timeless, and selling art supplies is a creative avenue. You can choose to focus on a particular art medium, like painting, or cater to various artistic interests. Your range can include everything from paintbrushes and canvases to markers and ribbons.
Car Accessories
Vehicle accessories are a diverse category. You can explore everything from seat covers and steering wheel covers to high-tech additions like backup cameras and cool car stereos. Plus, who doesn’t like a refreshing car air freshener?
What to Sell in a Print-on-Demand Business Model?
Print-on-demand (POD) is a technology and business approach where items are printed only after they’re ordered. This means no big upfront printing costs or keeping inventory on hand. It’s getting quite popular among folks who want to kickstart their online stores.
But before you jump in, here are a few things you need to know about POD:
- Find a Reliable Printer: First things first, you need a good printer that can deliver top-notch quality products.
- Choose Your Products Wisely: You’ve got to select the right items to put up for sale.
- Market Like a Pro: Effective marketing materials are your secret sauce to get your products noticed.
This model works wonders if you’re the creative type and interested in selling physical goods like t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, notebooks, and more. To add your personal touch, you can craft designs using tools like Canva or Adobe Photoshop.
And here’s the kicker – once your designs are ready, just upload them to your POD platform. They’ll handle the rest, leaving you free to focus on your creative genius.
Here are some products to consider:
T-Shirts and Hoodies
Let’s chat about T-shirts and hoodies – they’ve become quite the fashion staples lately. But guess what? There’s still room for your unique touch in this bustling market.
If you’re skilled at crafting designs that catch people’s eye, you’re on your way to launching your very own clothing line.
Here’s the deal: Focus on offering your designs on high-quality apparel items instead of settling for something common or of lower quality.
Mugs and Drinkware
When it comes to print-on-demand, mugs, and drinkware take center stage. These items have a strong following and make for excellent products to offer.
Look for companies that specialize in printing your designs on mugs, water bottles, and various drinkware options.
Here’s the exciting part – creating and selling your mugs and drinkware is a breeze with print-on-demand services. All you need is a creative design and some impactful marketing materials to get started.
So, why wait? Let your designs shine and quench customers’ thirst for stylish drinkware.
Phone Cases
Expand your print-on-demand lineup with a crowd-pleaser: phone cases. This product holds immense potential for customization.
Seek out companies that specialize in imprinting your imaginative designs onto phone cases for both iPhones and Android models.
As you gear up to venture into phone case design, YouTube is your valuable resource. Numerous video tutorials are available, providing clear guidance on the process.
So, get ready to translate your creativity onto phone cases and offer customers a stylish way to protect their devices.
Art Prints
If you’re on the lookout for more print-on-demand options, consider art prints – they’re a hit. This avenue allows you to tap into the creativity of artists who can create custom prints for you.
Alternatively, you can select from a variety of stock images to curate your collection.
When it comes to selling art prints, Printify stands out due to its diverse range of products and services. It offers you the flexibility to craft an online store tailored to your art prints’ style.
On the other hand, if top-notch quality is your priority, Imprint is known for offering art prints of exceptional caliber compared to other similar print-on-demand services.
Feel free to explore different options and choose the one that resonates with your preferences the most.
Books or Ebooks
Harnessing your inner storyteller can lead to significant profits. Writing and selling books or ebooks online presents a fantastic opportunity to earn money while sharing knowledge, experiences, or imaginative tales.
This venture suits a wide range of genres, from self-help guides and cookbooks to fantasy novels and insightful biographies.
Selling ebooks takes this concept one step further by eliminating the need for physical printing costs. Potential buyers around the globe can purchase and download your digital book instantaneously through platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing.
Some successful authors have even turned their ebooks into an ongoing passive income source!
Other Products you can sell to make money online
Photos
Selling photos online is a great way to make money and showcase your photography skills. You can upload your high-quality photos to stock photo websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, or Getty Images and earn royalties every time someone purchases or licenses your images.
Whether you specialize in landscapes, portraits, food photography, or abstract shots, there’s a market for all types of photos. So grab your camera and start monetizing your passion for photography today!
Services or Consulting
Offering services or consulting online is another excellent way to make money. Whether you have expertise in a specific field or possess valuable skills, there are people willing to pay for your assistance.
You can provide services such as graphic design, writing and editing, social media management, virtual assistance, language tutoring, or business consulting.
By leveraging your knowledge and experience, you can attract clients from all over the world and work on projects that suit your strengths.
With platforms like Fiverr or Upwork available, it’s easy to showcase your skills and start earning money by offering services online.
Pet Accessories
Pet owners are always on the lookout for new accessories for their furry friends. This could include anything from collars to toys to clothing. If you’re passionate about pets, selling pet accessories online could be a great option.
According to a report by Grand View Research, the global pet accessories market size was valued at $3.9 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.3% from 2021 to 2028.
Board Games
Board games have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, and this trend has continued during the pandemic. If you’re a fan of board games, you can sell them online to other enthusiasts.
You can source board games from wholesale suppliers or even create your own. Kickstarter is a popular platform for crowdfunding new board games.
Collectibles
Ever considered diving into the world of collectibles? These are items that gain more value over time than what they were originally sold for. Some sought-after collectible categories include coins, trading cards, comic books, stamps, and even ad-world memorabilia.
Remember, the rarer the item, the higher its price tag. For instance, take a Disney Hidden Mickey pin from 1971 – one of only five left – it fetched a whopping $12,000 in 2018.
Now, if you’ve got a valuable item but aren’t sure about its price point, consider a professional appraisal from local collectors’ clubs and dealers. They’ll help you gauge its worth accurately.
Got a vintage collectible that’s older than 20 years? Ruby Lane is your go-to for selling. And if you’re dealing with high-end collectibles, The Internet Antique Shop is your online showcase.
For those unique collectibles with average value, eBay’s auction listings could be your ticket. Let interested buyers bid and see where the excitement takes your precious finds.
Stickers
Looking for a side hustle you can easily manage from home? Consider diving into the world of selling stickers.
Stickers are all the rage, spanning various interests, and they can bring in hefty margins – sometimes up to 80%.
Here’s the kicker: Starting a sticker business won’t break the bank. Stickers are lightweight and shipping-friendly, plus they can be crafted from budget-friendly materials.
The sticker market is diverse, catering to different crowds. Picture this: sticker sheets for teachers, animal enthusiasts, globetrotters – the options are limitless.
To kick things off, consider partnering with print-on-demand companies like Printify or Camaloon to outsource production.
Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can dive into wholesale purchases from sites like StickerMule for that next-level sticker-selling venture.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are a popular product in the wellness industry. They’re used for aromatherapy, massage, and other purposes. If you’re knowledgeable about essential oils, you can sell them online.
You can source essential oils from wholesale suppliers or create your own blends. Platforms like Etsy and Amazon allow you to sell essential oils directly to customers.
These are just a few examples of popular product categories to consider when selling online. By focusing on a specific niche and providing high-quality products, you can build a successful online business.
Online Courses
Ever thought about offering online courses? An online course is a virtual learning experience that takes place entirely on the web.
And guess what? It’s not just about sharing knowledge – it can also be a fantastic way to earn passive income.
Now, before you dive in, here’s the deal: creating online courses requires a substantial upfront time commitment. You’ll be busy with research, filming, and getting your course ready on platforms like Kajabi, Teachable, Udemy, or Ruzuku. But here’s the catch – once that initial work is done, it’s all about promoting your course.
You need to be genuinely excited about what you’re teaching and have enough expertise to genuinely help your students.
So, if you’ve got the enthusiasm and the know-how, diving into the world of online courses could be your ticket to sharing insights and earning income on the side.
Best Online Marketplaces
When it comes to making some extra bucks online, the go-to platforms are eBay, Facebook, Etsy, Amazon, and your very own online store.
Picking the perfect marketplace hinges on what you’re selling, who you’re aiming to reach, and your personal aspirations. It’s all about finding that sweet spot for your item, your audience, and your ambitions.
eBay
eBay is one of the most popular online marketplaces where you can sell a wide variety of items to make extra money. Whether you have old clothes, collectibles, or even handmade goods, eBay provides a platform for you to reach potential buyers from all over the world.
With millions of active users and an easy-to-use interface, it’s simple to set up your own seller account and start listing your items for sale. Plus, with features like auctions and “Buy It Now” options, you have flexibility in how you want to sell your products.
So if you’re looking for a way to make money online by selling things that are just sitting around your house, eBay is definitely worth considering.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a popular online marketplace where you can buy and sell a wide variety of items. It allows you to reach a large audience of potential buyers in your local area.
Whether you have old furniture, electronics, or clothes that you no longer need or want to start your own small business selling handmade crafts or vintage items, Facebook Marketplace provides an easy-to-use platform for connecting with interested buyers.
With the ability to post photos, provide detailed descriptions, and negotiate prices directly with buyers, it’s a convenient way to make extra money from the comfort of your own home.
Etsy
Etsy is a popular online marketplace where you can sell handmade items, vintage products, and craft supplies. It’s a great platform for creative individuals who want to start their own online business.
With Etsy, you can showcase your unique creations and reach potential buyers from around the world. Whether it’s handmade jewelry, customized clothing, or personalized home decor, Etsy provides a platform for artists and artisans to turn their passion into profit.
By setting up your own shop on Etsy, you can tap into a large community of shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind items that they can’t find elsewhere. Take advantage of this opportunity to showcase your talent and make money doing what you love on Etsy.
Amazon
Amazon is one of the top online marketplaces where you can sell a wide range of products and make extra money from home. With millions of potential buyers, Amazon offers a vast customer base to reach.
You can sell physical products like clothing, electronics, and household items through Amazon’s FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) program, where they handle storage, packing, and shipping for you.
Another option is to create and sell digital products such as ebooks or online courses using Kindle Direct Publishing or Amazon KDP. Selling on Amazon allows you to tap into its global audience and take advantage of its reputation as a trusted e-commerce platform.
If you have handmade crafts or unique goods to offer, consider becoming an artisan seller on Amazon Handmade. This category specializes in selling one-of-a-kind products crafted by independent sellers.
Online Store
Creating your own online store is a great way to sell products and make money from the comfort of your home. With platforms like Etsy, eBay, Amazon, and even Facebook Marketplace, you can easily set up an online storefront to showcase your products and reach potential buyers.
Whether you’re selling handmade crafts, books or ebooks, digital products, or even services and consulting, having your own online store allows you to establish your brand and connect directly with customers.
By utilizing effective marketing strategies and targeting specific niche markets, you can maximize profits and build a successful online business. So why wait? Start selling through your own online store today!
How to Sell Things Online
Let’s look at some effective ways to sell things online:
Provide Detailed Information
When you’re listing your products online, be sure to include a wealth of details. This includes information like size, color options, materials used, features, and any specific product specifications.
The more comprehensive your description, the better equipped your customers will be to make informed purchasing decisions.
Use High-Quality Images
Utilize high-resolution images that effectively showcase your products from various angles.
Clear visuals provide potential buyers with a solid understanding of what they’re considering buying, thereby reducing uncertainties.
Transparent Pricing
Make sure that your product’s price is displayed prominently. Also, be upfront about any additional costs, such as shipping fees or taxes.
Hidden charges can frustrate customers and deter them from proceeding with their purchases.
Offer Discounts and Promotions
Special deals, discounts, or package offers can motivate customers to finalize their purchases.
Limited-time promotions introduce a sense of urgency, encouraging immediate action.
Provide Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Highlight positive feedback from satisfied customers. Authentic reviews not only establish trust but also serve as social proof of the quality and value of your products.
User-Friendly Navigation and Checkout
Craft an online shopping experience that is easy to navigate. Simplify the process for customers to locate products, add them to their cart, and complete the checkout.
A smooth checkout experience reduces cart abandonment.
Provide clear Return and Refund Policies
Articulate your return and refund policies clearly. A straightforward return process enhances customer confidence, leading to increased sales.
Best Products to sell on Amazon
When delving into the world of Amazon business, it’s important to consider your product choices carefully. Since Amazon itself offers a vast array of products, it’s wise to choose items that complement their offerings rather than compete directly.
However, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula for success. It’s a good practice to diversify your product range and experiment with various items to find what resonates best with your target audience. Relying solely on popular items can be risky in the long term.
Your choice of products should also align with your fulfillment strategy. If you’re considering Amazon’s Fulfillment program (Amazon FBA), remember that there are specific requirements and considerations to bear in mind.
Here are a few product ideas you could consider:
Haircare Products
Haircare products are sought after, offering expansion potential for salon owners or cosmetologists.
Start with basics like shampoo, conditioner, and detanglers, and broaden your range to include brushes and hair ties. Targeting specific hair types, like curly hair, can boost your appeal.
Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets have gained popularity for their potential anxiety-reducing and sleep-promoting properties.
Available in various sizes, weights, and materials, some can be machine-washed while others require duvet covers. Shipping costs are a consideration due to weight.
With a significant monthly Google search volume of 307K and 457K monthly Amazon searches, it’s evident that shoppers head straight to Amazon for their weighted blanket needs.
Outdoor Gear
Outdoor enthusiasts often turn to Amazon for camping gear, hiking equipment, and outdoor accessories. Selling items like tents, backpacks, portable stoves, and survival kits can cater to this audience.
Remember that each product’s success relies on factors like quality, market demand, and your strategic approach to marketing and fulfillment.
Balancing these aspects will help you make the most of your Amazon business venture.
CBD Gummies
CBD gummies are sought after for their potential therapeutic benefits and have gained popularity.
Despite a competitive landscape with 210K monthly Google searches and 75K monthly Amazon searches, a focus on quality and distinct branding can help you stand out.
Expanding your CBD offerings beyond gummies to include products like tinctures and capsules can also attract a wider customer base.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the online marketplace offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking to make money by selling products.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative artist, or someone with a knack for sourcing unique items, there’s a niche for you. The key is to align your chosen products with your passions, expertise, and the needs of your target audience.
From physical goods to digital downloads and services, the options are diverse and exciting. Physical products like clothing, electronics, beauty items, and home decor continue to resonate with online shoppers.
Meanwhile, digital products such as online courses, e-books, and print-on-demand merchandise provide avenues for sharing knowledge and creativity.
While finding the right product is essential, success also hinges on effective marketing, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to quality.
Researching your target market, staying informed about trends, and leveraging the right platforms are vital steps to ensuring your online venture’s prosperity.
Overall, selling online can be a great way to make some extra cash or start your own business. With the right research and strategy, you can turn your passion into profit.