Have you always wanted to set up your own shop on Etsy in Australia? Etsy is a marketplace ideal for people selling handmade goods, craft supplies, vintage items and original designs. Though don’t get the same amount of control as you would if you were to start your own website, the setup process is easier. Plus, you get exposed to the millions of active Etsy users.
In today’s article, we’ll be going through what you need to know to start selling products on Etsy. In particular, we’ll go through the setup, optimisation, and shipping processes for Etsy. Additionally, we’ll run through some legal stuff that’s important for those living in Australia such as legal structure and tax. Use the navigation below to click through to a certain section.
- Legal structures for Etsy in Australia
- Set up your online Etsy shop
- Use great photos and graphics
- Optimise titles and descriptions
- Shipping products
- Tax obligations for selling on Etsy in Australia
- Finding a physical space
Legal structures for Etsy in Australia
Though the phrase ‘legal structure’ sounds a bit scary, it’s relatively easy to understand after breaking it down. In Australia, you’ll typically operate your Etsy shop as a sole trader if you’re the only owner or as a partnership if there are multiple owners. This means that you’re responsible for all debts and obligations involved with the business.
Though operating as a sole trader or partnership is definitely the easiest method, you may consider registering your business as a company, especially if your Etsy shop is larger. The main difference is limited liability, meaning you won’t personally be responsible for debts and obligations. In this scenario, you will have to register your business with ASIC.
Set up your online Etsy shop
Now, we get into the fun stuff! The setup process for Etsy is quite simple and intuitive. After you set your password, you’ll have to fill in a few key details. First, make sure the right language, country and currency are selected in your shop preferences. Second, select a shop name that reflects your business and stands out from competitors. It’s absolutely vital that you Google the name first.
To start selling, you need to stock your shop. Create a variety of different listings to help improve your chances of being found. Finally, make sure all your payment settings are in order so that money can start coming in. Enter your bank details, card details and an address. If you don’t want to use your home address, consider subscribing to a virtual office to use ours.
Use great photos and graphics
Photos and graphics are incredibly important to the success of your Etsy shop. It’s usually the thing that will grab a buyer’s attention and will help to showcase your listing’s features. If you’re selling a physical item, make sure you take incredible photos. Get help if you need, or at least a second opinion. Experiment with different lighting and backgrounds to see what works best.
You’ll need to consider graphics as well, such as logos, or images for digital products. Though these may not seem important, they play a major role in your brand image. Small considerations such as fonts, colours and consistency make a massive difference. Make sure your graphics portray your brand’s tone. Again, get professional help or ask for a second opinion.
Optimise titles and descriptions
Unless you want to pay for advertising, one of the best ways to get your products out there is by optimising your listing for search. The words from your shop’s name, product names and product descriptions are all important. Put yourself in the shoes of a buyer and plug different search terms into the search box. You’ll see the more frequently searched terms at the top.
When optimising your shop and listings, consider these search terms. Most likely, the more popular search terms will be more competitive. Though less popular search terms are used less, if they’re more specific to your product, it could be the better option. It’s worth taking the time to play around with different keywords to see what works best for your shop.
Shipping products for Etsy in Australia
If you’re selling physical products, you’ll need to consider how you’ll be getting them to your customers. There are a range of different options for those selling on Etsy in Australia. Etsy has actually partnered with Sendle, a carbon neutral delivery service, to offer you a free Premium account. You might also consider Officeworks’ Mailman service and Australia Post.
Then, you’ll need to buy shipping supplies. This includes bags, satchels, boxes etc. Additionally, it’s not essential from the start, but a label printer is a great investment. Otherwise, you’ll have to print and tape labels manually. Make sure to consider the cost of shipping and supplies to determine how much you want to charge your customer.
Tax obligations for selling on Etsy in Australia
Unfortunately, tax considerations will be an important part of running your Etsy business. If you run an Etsy shop as a hobby, you won’t have to worry about tax, but at the same time, you don’t get to claim tax deductions on expenses. On the flip side, if you intend to make a profit, you’ll be considered a business and will have to meet tax obligations.
If you decide you’re running a business, you’ll have to stay on top of record-keeping, and tax and reporting obligations. You’ll have to pay income tax and may have to register your business for GST. Furthermore, you’ll want to consider obtaining an ABN if you’re selling to other businesses.
Finding a physical space
If your Etsy business needs a large showroom or storage space to run, or you’re growing out of your home, Workit’s eCommerce showrooms and storage spaces are perfect for you. Starting at only $150 per week, you can store your items as well as use the space as an office. You get access to our shipping station where packages get picked up daily, plus, you get up to 30% off shipping.
