eCRATER Review: Is It Worth to Sell On It in 2023?

James | Posted on September 27, 2023 |

If you’re an aspiring online seller or a seasoned e-commerce expert looking for alternative platforms to expand your business, you’ve likely come across eCRATER. But is it worth your time and effort? In this detailed eCRATER review, we’ll explore the platform’s features, fees, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision about whether or not to sell on eCRATER.

What is eCRATER?

eCRATER is an online marketplace that was founded in 2004. It’s often described as a hybrid of an e-commerce platform and an online marketplace. It allows individuals and businesses to create their own online stores and list products for sale. eCRATER is a free platform, which is a notable feature for those who want to minimize their initial investment in an online selling venture.

Getting Started with eCRATER

Store Creation

One of the first steps in using eCRATER is setting up your online store. The process is straightforward and free, and you can customize your store’s design to some extent. eCRATER provides various templates to help you get started, and you can further personalize your store using HTML and CSS coding if you have the skills.

Product Listings

Listing products on eCRATER is also uncomplicated. You can add products individually or in bulk using a CSV file. Each product listing allows you to include detailed information such as title, description, price, shipping cost, and images. The platform offers flexibility in terms of the types of products you can sell, from physical goods to digital downloads.

Pros of Selling on eCRATER

1. No Listing Fees

eCRATER stands out among many e-commerce platforms for its unique fee structure. It doesn’t charge any listing fees, making it a cost-effective option for sellers who want to minimize initial expenses.

2. Customization

eCRATER allows you to customize your store design, which can help you create a unique and branded shopping experience for your customers. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for small businesses and artisans looking to stand out in a competitive market.

3. Direct Checkout

eCRATER offers a direct checkout feature, allowing customers to purchase products directly from your store without being redirected to external websites. This streamlines the buying process and can lead to higher conversion rates.

4. Google Shopping Integration

eCRATER has a built-in integration with Google Shopping, which can enhance the visibility of your products on the world’s most popular search engine. This can be a valuable tool for driving traffic to your eCRATER store.

5. Global Reach

eCRATER is accessible to sellers from around the world, which can help you tap into a global market. If you’re interested in international sales, eCRATER provides a platform for reaching a diverse customer base.

Cons of Selling on eCRATER

1. Limited Traffic

While eCRATER’s integration with Google Shopping is a valuable feature, the platform itself doesn’t have the same level of traffic and recognition as giants like Amazon or eBay. This means you’ll likely need to invest more effort into marketing and driving traffic to your store.

2. Competition

Despite being a lesser-known platform, eCRATER still has a significant number of sellers. This can lead to intense competition, particularly in popular product categories. You’ll need to find ways to differentiate yourself and your products to succeed on the platform.

3. Payment Processing

eCRATER primarily relies on PayPal for payment processing, which may not be suitable for sellers or buyers who prefer alternative payment methods. While this may not be a significant issue for many, it’s something to consider.

4. Limited Features

Compared to e-commerce giants like Shopify or WooCommerce, eCRATER may seem limited in terms of features and functionality. While it offers essential tools for setting up an online store, it lacks some advanced features that larger platforms provide.

5. Customer Support

eCRATER’s customer support has received mixed reviews. Some users have reported slow response times and difficulty in resolving issues. It’s important to keep this in mind if you encounter any problems while using the platform.

Fees and Pricing

eCRATER’s fee structure is relatively straightforward. Here are the key financial aspects you should be aware of:

No Listing Fees: eCRATER does not charge any fees for listing your products.
Final Value Fee: This fee is assessed when your item sells. It is currently 2.9% of the final sale price.
Promotions: eCRATER offers paid promotional opportunities to boost your product’s visibility within the platform. These promotions come with their own costs, so it’s essential to factor them into your budget.
Payment Processing: As mentioned earlier, eCRATER primarily uses PayPal for payment processing. PayPal has its transaction fees, so be sure to account for those in your pricing.

It’s worth noting that eCRATER’s fee structure is notably simpler than some other platforms, and the absence of listing fees can be an advantage for budget-conscious sellers.

Is eCRATER Worth It for You?

Whether or not eCRATER is worth selling on depends on your unique circumstances and business goals. Here are a few scenarios in which eCRATER might be a suitable choice:

1. You’re Just Starting Out

If you’re a new seller looking to test the waters of e-commerce without a significant financial investment, eCRATER’s lack of listing fees makes it an attractive option. You can learn the ropes of online selling without the pressure of high upfront costs.

2. You Want a Customizable Store

For sellers who value the ability to create a unique and branded store design, eCRATER’s customization options can be a significant draw. This can help you establish a strong online presence and stand out in a competitive market.

3. You’re Focused on Google Shopping

If you plan to leverage Google Shopping for your product marketing strategy, eCRATER’s integration with this platform can be an advantage. It can help you reach a broader audience and potentially boost your sales.

4. You Have a Niche Market

If your products cater to a specific niche market and you don’t require advanced e-commerce features, eCRATER can serve your needs. Its simplicity and cost-effective structure make it a viable platform for niche businesses.

On the other hand, eCRATER may not be the right choice if:

1. You Require Advanced Features

If your business needs advanced features, such as robust inventory management, integrated shipping options, and more, eCRATER’s limited feature set might not meet your requirements.

2. You Prefer High Traffic Platforms

Sellers who rely on high-traffic platforms like Amazon or eBay for a significant portion of their income may find eCRATER’s lower visibility less appealing.

3. You’re Uncomfortable with PayPal

If you or your target customers have reservations about using PayPal, eCRATER’s reliance on this payment processor could be a hindrance.

4. You Need Top-tier Customer Support

If you anticipate needing substantial support and assistance with your online store, eCRATER’s inconsistent customer support may be a drawback.

Final Words

eCRATER is a unique online selling platform that can be a valuable option for certain types of sellers. Its lack of listing fees, customization options, and integration with Google Shopping are notable advantages. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking advanced features, high visibility, or top-tier customer support.

Ultimately, whether eCRATER is worth it for you depends on your specific goals and the nature of your business. As with any online selling platform, it’s essential to conduct thorough research, evaluate your options, and consider how eCRATER aligns with your long-term business strategy.