Starting an online store used to require hundreds of dollars in setup costs and technical knowledge. Today that is no longer true. If you want to sell handmade products, crafts, or small business items online, you can launch your own store for under 20 dollars per month.
In this guide we will explain exactly how to start an online store affordably without paying high monthly fees or losing profits to marketplace commissions.
Many popular ecommerce platforms charge high monthly fees. For example:
For new sellers, especially handmade creators or side hustlers, these costs can quickly reduce profits. If you are just getting started, keeping expenses low is very important.
Before choosing a platform, define your product niche. Common beginner friendly categories include:
Starting with a focused niche helps you market better and attract the right audience.
You do not need to pay 39 to 50 dollars per month to run a professional store. There are affordable alternatives designed specifically for small businesses and independent sellers.
Look for a platform that offers:
One example is Wild Orange Pie Marketplace, which offers a complete online store for 19.95 dollars per month with a simple and easy to use setup process.
Once you choose your platform, follow these basic steps:
Most modern platforms make this process simple and beginner friendly with no coding required.
When you rely only on marketplaces like Etsy, you pay fees on every transaction. Over time those fees add up.
By owning your own online store you:
This is especially important for handmade sellers who operate on tight margins.
| Platform | Monthly Cost | Transaction Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Shopify | About 39 dollars per month | Yes plus payment fees |
| Etsy | Listing fees plus transaction fees | Yes |
| Wild Orange Pie Marketplace | 19.95 dollars per month | No marketplace commission |
Starting an online store does not have to be expensive. With the right platform you can launch your business for under 20 dollars per month and keep more of what you earn.
If you are looking for a simple affordable and user friendly solution visit:
Start building your online store today and take control of your business.
Want more tips on starting and growing your online store? Check back regularly for new guides and tutorials.