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How to sell on Facebook Marketplace for beginners

Sep 11
16 min read

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how to sell on Facebook Marketplace

To sell on Facebook Marketplace, open the Marketplace tab, create a listing with photos, a price and your location, then arrange pickup or shipping with the buyer who messages you. In the U.S., more than one in three Facebook users browse Marketplace every month, which makes it a low-friction way for entrepreneurs and small business owners to add another eCommerce channel without building anything new.


Wix helps you create a business-ready online store in minutes.


Wix users can take their selling further with the Facebook Shops by GoDataFeed app, available from the Wix App Market. Connect your Wix store to display products on Facebook and Instagram. Run paid promotions directly from your site dashboard with Facebook and Instagram Ads with Wix.


Wix supports global and omnichannel eCommerce with multilingual storefronts, multi-currency payments, marketplace and social selling, mobile apps and integrated point-of-sale systems for online and offline sales.


To help you succeed, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about how to sell on Facebook Marketplace for beginners. From choosing what to sell to creating listings and offering tips for successful selling, we've got you covered.



TL;DR: how to sell on Facebook Marketplace


Facebook Marketplace costs nothing to list on, and a local pickup sale carries no platform fee at all. Shipped orders paid through Facebook checkout are charged 10% of the buyer-paid total, with a $0.80 minimum. Bulky secondhand goods do best because buyers can collect them in person instead of paying to ship.


Quick facts

  • A personal Facebook account is all you need to start listing

  • Local pickup is fee free, shipped checkout orders cost 10% with a $0.80 minimum

  • Furniture, baby gear, electronics and tools move fastest

  • At least 5 photos per listing, priced below comparable local items

  • Messenger handles negotiation, pickup and delivery details



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Looking to get started with selling on Facebook fast?


If your aim is to get yourself setup and selling as fast as possible you can go straight to these steps:


  1. Login to your Facebook account

  2. Choose the Marketplace button, you'll find it in the left side menu

  3. Click Create New Listing 

  4. Select Item for Sale 

  5. Fill out all of the required listing information: 

  6. A high-quality photo

  7. A description 

  8. Price 

  9. Condition

  10. Additional details, such as SKU numbers or product tags (if any)

  11. Click Next 

  12. Preview the listing and join groups you think might be relevant

  13. Click Publish to post the listing




How does Facebook Marketplace work?


Facebook Marketplace is quite easy to use, even for those who are brand new to starting a business. Just like posting a status or photo, you can post an item that you want to sell on the marketplace as either a private Facebook user or business account. You just need to provide details like what the item is, its price and your location. When you're done, Facebook will show your listing to consumers in your area.


People can browse your items and send you a direct message for more information. Once you agree on terms, you can arrange for pick-up or delivery.



desktop view of Facebook Marketplace listings


Is Facebook Marketplace right for you?


For many beginner entrepreneurs, selling on Facebook Marketplace is an attractive, simple way to start multichannel selling. Before you invest time and resources into the platform, consider these factors to see if, as an online selling site, it’s also a good fit for your eCommerce business growth strategy:


  • Audience: If you're looking to target local customers, Facebook Marketplace is an excellent choice. However, you'll want to make sure your target audience is actually active on Facebook. Facebook use peaks among adults aged 30 to 49, where 80% report using the platform, and a majority of every age group uses it. If your buyers are mostly under 30, check how they actually shop before committing much time to the channel.


  • Product category: Facebook Marketplace caters to a wide range of physical items, including clothing, electronics, furniture and more. Some categories may perform better than others. If you're selling unique or vintage items, or niche products that don't fit into other online marketplaces, then Facebook Marketplace might be a good choice.


  • Seller requirements: To sell on Facebook Marketplace, you just need a personal Facebook account, though U.S.-based business accounts with a Facebook Shop can also manage Marketplace listings through their Commerce Manager dashboard. To avoid having your account suspended while selling on Facebook Marketplace, it's essential to adhere to Facebook’s commerce policies to maintain a positive selling experience.


  • Costs: Local pickup sales on Facebook Marketplace are free of any selling or listing fees. Shipped orders are subject to a 10% selling fee (minimum $0.80 per order), which Meta applies to the total sale including shipping and tax, then deducts from your payout. This fee structure has been in place since Meta’s April 2024 update.


If Facebook Marketplace sounds like the right fit for you, let’s dive into how to list and sell items on the platform.



How to sell items on Facebook Marketplace




01. Set up a Facebook Marketplace account


To set up your Facebook Marketplace account, simply log into your personal Facebook account and click on the Marketplace icon. If you don't see it immediately, try clicking on the “See More” option from the menu bar to find it. From there, you’re ready to create a listing.


Alternatively, if you feel you need a more comprehensive eCommerce experience, create a Facebook Shop. You’ll need a business Facebook page to create a Shop account, which provides a dedicated online storefront that you can customize to your liking. Facebook Shops can also utilize Facebook Marketplace as a sales channel through the platform’s Commerce Manager tool. This gives your customers the option to purchase from your business in three different ways: through Facebook Marketplace, your Facebook Shop or your online store.


If you’re a Wix user, you can create a Facebook Shop through the Facebook Shops by GoDataFeed app from the Wix App Market. The app lets you display your Wix store products on Facebook and Instagram while keeping orders in one place. It’s an easy way to run multiple sales channels without doubling your workload.



Facebook Shop page selling baby clothes


02. Create a compelling listing


When you sell on Facebook Marketplace, it’s crucial that you capture the attention of your potential buyers with a compelling listing. To get started, first click on “Marketplace” from the left-hand sidebar. Then, click “Create new listing.”


You’ll need to select from one of three types of listings:


  • Item for Sale

  • Vehicle for Sale

  • Property for Sale or Rent


From here, you’ll be prompted to fill in the details of your Marketplace listing. Your listing should include a clear, concise title and description. You should also use relevant keywords in your copy to improve your chances of getting seen. To gather intel here, put yourself in the buyer’s shoes and mimic their search behaviors. Take note of the listings that appear first in relevant search results, including the keywords used in the titles and descriptions.


In addition, post high-quality photos and/or videos of the item for sale. Potential buyers are more likely to click on listings with clear, detailed images.


A few small choices in your photos make a big difference. Use natural daylight near a window, photograph against a plain neutral background and shoot from multiple angles including any flaws. Aim for at least 5 photos per listing. More angles means fewer questions in your inbox and fewer buyers who back out after seeing the item in person. For pricing, look up 3 to 5 comparable items in your local area and price 10 to 20 percent below the average. Leave room for negotiation since most Marketplace buyers will message with a counteroffer before committing.



03. Set your delivery method


Before you can publish your listing, you’ll need to choose from one of several delivery methods:


  • Shipping only: You, the seller, will be responsible for shipping items directly to your buyers within 10 business days of receiving the order. Note that many purchases that are completed with checkout on Facebook are covered by Purchase Protection.


  • Local pick-up only: You will need to arrange an in-person pick-up with your buyer, though you can use an existing store location as a drop-off/pick-up location.


  • Shipping and local pick-up: Buyers can choose between pick-up or shipping; whichever is most convenient for them.



04. Promote your listings


Posting something on Facebook Marketplace does not guarantee that it will be seen by potential customers. Therefore, you’ll want to invest some energy (and potentially some money) into promoting your listings. There are several ways to reach more potential buyers on Facebook Marketplace.


  • Tap the locals: Join local buying and selling groups by using the groups feature on Facebook. You’ll find many customers looking for a good deal or other sellers wanting to make money through arbitrage, so it’s worth joining a few groups related to your niche.


  • Cross-promote your listings: Post your listings on your other social media channels, like Instagram. Learn how to sell on Instagram to explore further.


  • Leverage Facebook Ads: Create ads that put your listings front and center when people are scrolling through Marketplace or other Meta-owned channels (like Instagram, Messenger and the Meta Audience network). Wix users can take advantage of fully integrated Facebook and Instagram ads directly from their site dashboard.



purple high heels for sale on Facebook Marketplace


05. Communicate with buyers and finalize the sale


Effective communication with potential buyers is key to ensuring a smooth transaction and finalizing the sale. The Facebook Messenger tool is an easy way to do this right from the Facebook app; use it to answer any questions customers may have about your listing, negotiate prices and arrange pick-up or delivery details.


Payment methods vary on Facebook Marketplace. You can arrange for local transactions for in-person deliveries, or enable online checkout to accept credit cards, debit cards, PayPal or Meta Pay.



What sells well on Facebook Marketplace


Some categories move faster than others on Facebook Marketplace. If you have flexibility about what to sell, leaning into a category buyers are actively searching for can speed up your listings and lift your average price.


Furniture and home goods. Sofas, dining tables, bookshelves and other large items move quickly because shipping them across distance is expensive. Local pickup makes Facebook Marketplace the obvious fit. Pricing 10 to 20 percent below comparable retail listings usually attracts serious buyers within the first 48 hours.


Baby and kids gear. Cribs, strollers, high chairs, toys and clothing have constant turnover demand. Families know this stuff gets outgrown fast, so secondhand from a nearby seller is the default move.


Electronics and small appliances. Phones, tablets, laptops, kitchen appliances and gaming gear all have strong resale demand. Be ready to share original receipts or serial numbers if you have them, since buyers are alert to scams in this category.


Tools and outdoor equipment. Power tools, lawn equipment, bikes and camping gear see steady demand from local buyers who’d rather not pay full retail. Seasonal timing helps, with bikes in spring and leaf blowers in fall.


Vintage and unique finds. One-of-a-kind items, vintage clothing, mid-century furniture and collectibles often attract higher prices on Marketplace than on Craigslist because Facebook’s search and recommendation engine matches niche items with niche buyers.


Items that struggle on Marketplace include extremely common low-value items (think used kitchen utensils, basic clothing) and anything that requires complex shipping logistics. If your item is bulky and only worth $5, listing it as part of a bundle usually beats listing it alone.



Tips for selling on Facebook Marketplace


For any eCommerce endeavor, building your online presence and consumer trust is crucial, whether you sell through Marketplace alone or create a website to sell from as well. There are a few key things you can do to ensure a successful experience selling on Facebook Marketplace.



Build consumer trust


To gain the trust of potential buyers on Facebook Marketplace, it's important to treat your listings like a storefront. Here are three things you can do to build consumer trust:


  • Complete your profile: Fill out the details in your personal profile, like having a bio, profile picture and cover photo. A fleshed out profile will help you seem like an actual human user on the platform. If you’re selling in a more professional capacity, you’ll want to make sure your profile, business page or Shop looks the part and is in good standing.


  • Be responsive and communicative: Respond promptly to questions from potential buyers, be honest about any flaws or issues with your items and keep buyers updated throughout the sales process. If you can’t answer questions immediately, let buyers know what the expected turnaround time is with automated messaging or in your bio.


  • Be honest in the item’s description: It’s important to accurately describe your products’ features and attributes. This prevents disputes and an overall negative customer experience.


As you continue to sell products on Facebook Marketplace, remember that building consumer trust is an ongoing process. Treat every transaction with the same level of care and dedication to excellent customer support. This will help you build a strong reputation on the platform.



sample of Facebook user's Facebook Marketplace listings


Choose the right time to post your listing


Timing is key if you want to increase your chances of selling your items on Facebook Marketplace. Sprout Social's analysis of nearly 2 billion engagements found that the best time to post on Facebook is Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to 8 p.m. local time. Studies disagree on the exact window, so treat it as a starting point and check your own results.



Encourage positive reviews and ratings


Research has shown that potential customers spend more time reading negative reviews compared to positive reviews. That’s why you should spend time managing your reputation as a seller.


One way to do that is by reaching out to previous customers and asking them to leave a review. BrightLocal's consumer research found that 78% of consumers were asked for a review in the past year, and 65% of those asked went on to write one.


You can increase your chances of earning positive ratings by providing excellent customer service and responding quickly to inquiries. Bonus points if you manage to turn negative experiences into positive ones.



Research your competitors


Researching your competitors when selling on Facebook Marketplace is helpful for a few reasons.


  • Gain insider insight: Researching your competition’s pricing and product offerings helps you identify gaps in the market and differentiate your own offerings.


  • Gauge customer preferences: Taking note of customer experiences and expectations will help you to tailor your products and services accordingly.


  • Inspire your marketing efforts: Looking at competitor marketing tactics and promotional campaigns can provide ideas for improving your own sales approach.



pair of boxing gloves listed on Facebook Marketplace


Understand Facebook Marketplace algorithms


To increase your visibility and reach potential buyers on Facebook Marketplace, you'll need to understand how the platform's algorithms work.


The algorithm considers various factors when determining which listings to display, including relevance, engagement and seller reputation.


  • Relevance: This is determined by the information included in the listing, such as product details and keywords.


  • Engagement: This refers to how many users interact with the listing through likes, comments and shares.


  • Seller reputation: This takes into account feedback from previous transactions and overall activity on Marketplace.



Boost your listings with Facebook Ads


Finally, one of the most effective ways to increase your online visibility is to use Facebook Ads to drive website traffic, or traffic to your Marketplace listing.


If you know who your target audience is, you can target those potential customers with ads based on their interest. You’ll need to set specific ad parameters to increase the chances of your listings appearing in front of the right people, such as location, interests and demographics.


Facebook Ads remain one of the strongest performers for marketing return, with around 43% of marketers naming Facebook among their highest-ROI social platforms. They're also easily managed with online commerce platforms, such as those offered within Facebook & Instagram Ads with Wix. That being said, poorly optimized ads could lead to a lower conversion rate and fewer sales. Understanding the best practices of Facebook Ads could turn Facebook Marketplace into a significant sales channel.


Here are some effective ways to increase the chances of customers clicking on your ads:


  • Include a call-to-action (CTA): Let customers know what you want them to do after seeing the ad. CTAs create a sense of urgency and direct customers where to go to learn more about your product.


  • Share what you’re selling: The description must provide enough information on what you’re selling and why it’s better than similar products on the marketplace.


  • Ensure it’s error-free: To encourage potential customers to engage with your ads, the copy should have no typos and proper grammar. Run your copy through a grammar checker before launching the ad.



The benefits of selling on Facebook Marketplace


Facebook Marketplace offers numerous benefits for sellers, making it a popular platform for decluttering, earning extra income and reaching a wide audience. Here are some key advantages of selling on Facebook Marketplace:


  • Vast audience: Facebook reaches billions of people worldwide, and Meta reports more than 3.5 billion people using at least one of its apps every day, giving your listings an enormous potential customer base.


  • Local reach: Marketplace prioritizes listings based on proximity, allowing you to target buyers within your local community.


  • Free listings: Posting items is free and local pickup sales carry no platform fee, so you keep the full amount on in-person deals.


  • Direct communication: Connect directly with potential buyers through Facebook Messenger, facilitating negotiations and arrangements.


  • Simplified transactions: Marketplace streamlines the selling process, allowing you to arrange meetups and handle payments directly with buyers.


  • Variety of products: Sell a wide range of items, from furniture and electronics to clothing and vehicles, catering to diverse interests. Explore the vast possibilities, from selling a video game console, desktop computer or camera to vintage clothing flipping, to build a thriving customer base.


  • Brand recognition: Facebook's brand recognition and reputation add a layer of trust and familiarity for buyers.


  • Mobile accessibility: Manage your listings and communicate with buyers on the go using the Facebook mobile app.


  • Community engagement: Connect with buyers in your local community, fostering a sense of connection and trust.


  • Sustainable practices: Contribute to a circular economy by giving new life to pre-owned items and reducing waste.



Rules for selling on Facebook marketplace


Facebook Marketplace has established guidelines to ensure a safe and compliant experience for both buyers and sellers. Here are some key rules to follow when selling on Facebook Marketplace:


  • Prohibited items: Avoid listing items that are illegal, dangerous or violate Facebook's Community Standards. This includes items like drugs, weapons, counterfeit goods and regulated products.


  • Accurate representation: Provide accurate and truthful descriptions of your items, including their condition, features and any flaws. Use clear and high-quality photos that accurately represent the items.


  • Responsible pricing: Set fair and competitive prices for your items. Avoid misleading pricing tactics or price gouging.


  • Respectful communication: Communicate politely and professionally with potential buyers. Avoid discriminatory or offensive language.


  • Safe transactions: Arrange meetups in public places with good lighting and visibility. Consider bringing a friend or family member along for added safety.


  • Payment methods: Decide on acceptable payment methods, such as cash or electronic transfers. While conducting transactions, be cautious of payment methods like cashier's checks or money orders to maintain a secure and transparent process.


  • Protect personal information: Avoid sharing personal information like your home address or phone number with strangers. Use Facebook Messenger for communication.


  • Report suspicious activity: If you encounter suspicious behavior or potential scams, report them to Facebook and avoid engaging with those individuals.


  • Stay vigilant: Be aware of potential scams and avoid unrealistic offers or requests for personal information. Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to walk away from a deal if it feels unsafe.


  • Community guidelines: Adhere to Facebook's Community Guidelines and avoid engaging in prohibited activities, such as harassment, bullying or hate speech.


  • Privacy policies: Facebook Marketplace operates within a framework that demands adherence to privacy policies, ensuring transparency in user profiles and behavior. Be attentive to compliance requirements, especially in areas related to surveillance, online advertising and internet privacy.


It's crucial to understand the importance of regulatory compliance and compliance requirements. By following these rules, you can minimize risks and ensure a positive selling experience on Facebook Marketplace.


Learn more:



How to sell on Facebook Marketplace FAQ


Is it worth selling on Facebook marketplace?

Whether or not it's worth selling on Facebook Marketplace depends on various factors, including the type of products you are selling, your target audience and your overall business goals. Selling on Facebook can be a good choice if your target audience is active on Facebook as using Facebook Marketplace can be a valuable way to reach potential customers directly. It is also particularly beneficial for selling to a local audience, as it prioritizes nearby buyers. Unlike some other online marketplaces, Facebook Marketplace generally does not charge listing fees, making it cost-effective for sellers. At the same time listing products on Facebook Marketplace is relatively straightforward, making it accessible for sellers without extensive e-commerce experience.

Facebook Marketplace offers several benefits for sellers, but there are also some disadvantages to consider. Unlike dedicated e-Commerce platforms, Facebook Marketplace has limited targeting capabilities. Sellers may find it challenging to reach specific or niche audiences. At the same time due to the vast number of users and sellers on Facebook Marketplace, competition can be high, making it challenging to stand out and gain visibility for your products. Facebook Marketplace does not provide structured buyer protection or dispute resolution processes. This can lead to potential issues with fraudulent buyers or disputes over transactions. The user experience on Facebook Marketplace can vary significantly based on individual users' preferences and interactions. Some buyers may be less comfortable purchasing through this platform, affecting conversion rates and brand trust.

Selling on Facebook is generally free. The platform allows users to create personal profiles, business pages, and groups where they can list and sell items without incurring listing fees. However, if you choose to boost your posts or create targeted ads to reach a broader audience, Facebook offers paid advertising options. The cost of advertising on Facebook varies based on factors such as audience targeting, ad format, and ad duration.

Payment for items sold on Facebook is typically arranged directly between the buyer and the seller. Facebook itself does not handle financial transactions for most person-to-person sales. Sellers often specify accepted payment methods in their listings, such as cash, bank transfers, or popular payment apps.

For businesses using Facebook Shops, there may be integrated payment options where customers can make secure payments through credit cards or other payment methods. Facebook may facilitate transactions, and businesses may receive payments directly through their chosen payment gateway.

For those aiming to sell items quickly on Facebook Marketplace, several effective strategies can be employed. First, setting a competitive and reasonable price is essential, with research into similar listings aiding in determining market value. High-quality and detailed photos, showcasing items from various angles, enhance the appeal to potential buyers. Urgency can be promoted through language indicating limited availability or time-sensitive offers. Being responsive to messages and inquiries, regularly updating listings, and offering flexible meeting options, such as contactless pickup or convenient public locations, contribute to a faster selling process. Utilizing social proof, such as positive customer reviews from satisfied buyers, can also build trust and attract a broader customer base.

Selling on Facebook Marketplace locally is a user-friendly process that begins by accessing the "Marketplace" tab on your Facebook account. To create a listing, click on "Create New Listing" and provide essential details about the item, including a title, description, price, and category. Indicate your preference for local transactions and set your location and delivery preferences. Once the listing is complete, review it for accuracy and post it to make it visible to potential buyers.

Prioritize high-quality images and videos that catch attention first of. Craft concise and engaging descriptions that highlight key benefits. Use strong calls to action that encourage engagement. Target your audience with relevant keywords and demographics and schedule your posts strategically for optimal reach - at the weekends when more people are on social media, for example.

You should research comparable items already listed on Facebook Marketplace to understand market value. Consider your item's condition, age, and brand before setting a price. Be realistic with your pricing and offer competitive pricing while factoring in your desired profit margin.

Respond politely and professionally, acknowledging the offer but explaining your reasoning for the current price. Highlight the item's condition, unique features or market value. If the offer is significantly low, decline gracefully and offer a counteroffer if you're willing to negotiate. If you're not willing to budge, politely decline and move on.


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