E-Commerce Options

While I can't tell you the one platform that will work best for everyone, I can give you some things to consider when deciding where you want to host your merch shop.

• Interface: Do you like the like the look of the platform and how the process works? Do they make it easy for you to create listings?

• Integration: Does it integrate with the POD printer you are considering? Or do they do their own product printing?

• Cost: Do they charge extra for using the platform? Are their any limitations on number of listings you can have? What are the shipping costs? Do they help with taxes?

The one recommendation I will make is to use the e-commerce platform through your whatever platform your website is on (Squarespace, Wix, WordPress, etc). This keeps your readers on your website rather than sending them to a third party site. And depending on the website package you have, the e-commerce could already be included so it wouldn't be an extra charge.

If you are needing a separate e-commerce platform, there are a few great options to look into:

• BigCartel: This is great e-commerce platform that I have used in the past. It is less expensive because you choose a package based on number of listings, but when you are just starting out, you don't necessarily need unlimited listings anyway. It integrates with most major POD printer platforms. And it remits US sales taxes for you automatically.

• Bonfire OR Spring: These platforms are both combo e-commerce and printer platforms. You set up your store and choose the products to offer all in one place.

• Etsy: If you already have an Etsy shop for your books or other swag, Etsy does integrate with some of the major POD platforms, so you can add merch to your already existing store.

Choosing an e-commerce platform for your book merch store is really based on what fits best with you and your work style.

If you are interested in starting a merch shop, but would like some help with designs and even getting your shop set up, check out my post about my offerings, my Work With Me page, or just contact me.