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Top 20 Online Selling Platforms for SMEs & SMBs in India [2023]

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Nishant Shukla
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Thursday, Jun 1, 2023
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The swift progression of technology, coupled with the ubiquitous use of the internet, has transformed the way businesses function, especially small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in India. E-commerce has risen as an indispensable platform, morphing into one of the leading online selling platforms for businesses aiming to reach an expansive customer base, deepen market penetration, and spur growth. The Indian online selling platforms are not just booming; they form a vibrant ecosystem, providing a wide array of platforms tailored to the varying requirements of SMBs. With so many online selling platforms at their disposal, entrepreneurs might find it challenging to pick the most suitable one for launching their business online.

 

 

online selling guide india 2023. how to sell online

 

 

 

In this exhaustive guide, we will probe into the top 20 online selling platforms, particularly designed to cater to small and medium businesses in India. We will explore their distinctive features, advantages, and potential shortcomings of these online selling platforms. This way, we equip you with the essential information required to make well-informed decisions for your business's online triumph. From understanding the complexities of various online selling platforms to recognizing what suits your specific business needs, this guide aims to simplify the process of venturing into the realm of online selling platforms in India. And remember, the online success of your business is significantly dependent on choosing the right platform amongst the myriad of online selling platforms available.

 

 

Top 20 Online Selling Platforms for Small & Medium Businesses (SMB) and Small & Medium Enterprises (SME) in India. A Comprehensive Guide on How to Sell Online in India in 2023.

 

 

 

1) Amazon India

 

amazon india

 

Amazon has become synonymous with online shopping, thanks to its immense popularity among users worldwide. As a top-ranked online marketplace not only in India but also across the globe, Amazon is an American multinational corporation that launched its Indian operations under the brand name Amazon India in 2013 and has a presence in over 150 countries. Boasting a robust base of 100 million loyal Prime members, Amazon provides an excellent platform for product exposure to a vast audience. The company also verifies its sellers, thereby reducing the risk of fraud. The platform is home to over 600,000 small and large businesses and anticipates more than 300 million monthly visitors.The platform features an extensive range of product categories, including electronics, fashion, books, sports, fitness, consumer goods, and groceries.

 

As a vital platform for small businesses, Amazon India enables sellers to access a vast customer base. Through Amazon Seller Platform, small businesses can list products, manage inventory, and grow their operations. Amazon India offers valuable support services like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and Amazon Seller University to help small businesses succeed.

 

Registration Link – https://sell.amazon.in

 

 

 

2) Flipkart

 

flipkart

 

Flipkart, an indigenous Indian e-commerce giant, saw a partial acquisition by Walmart in 2018. Since its inception in 2007, the company has risen to become India's second-largest online retailer. Similar to its rivals, Flipkart offers a diverse array of products and delivers to all reachable postal codes within the country. Sellers on Flipkart are ranked according to their performance, earning Bronze, Silver, or Gold classifications. A superior ranking grants sellers an advantage over their competitors, as Flipkart provides added features for higher-ranked sellers. Moreover, selling on Flipkart is budget-friendly due to the competitive platform fees based on the product category.

 

Most notably, sellers can leverage Flipkart's widespread popularity among Indian consumers. The brand employs focused marketing campaigns to draw more customers to its platform. For example, Flipkart's Big Billion Days, an annual sale event, attracts thousands of new shoppers, leading to a surge in order volume for sellers during this time.

 

Registration Link - https://seller.flipkart.com/sell-online/

 

 

 

3) Myntra

 

myntra

 

Emerging as one of India's most iconic fashion startups, Myntra has established itself as the premier online hub for catering to the ever-changing fashion needs of the Indian market. With an extensive catalog of items for men, women, and children that spans from luxury wear to loungewear, becoming a seller on Myntra offers significant advantages in terms of market reach and accessibility. Myntra's in-house team of specialists and technicians continuously analyze the latest fashion trends to assist entrepreneurs.

 

Myntra also provides comprehensive sales support, including store management, cataloging, and end-to-end supply chain management. As an aspiring entrepreneur, you can concentrate on developing your brand and ensuring quality, while Myntra handles marketing and sales. To register as a seller on Myntra, one must possess a legal entity, a GST certificate, a GSTIN Number, a Pan Card, and a Myntra Seller Account. 

 

Registration Link - https://partners.myntrainfo.com 

 

 

 

4) Meesho

 

meesho

 

Meesho, an online marketplace rapidly gaining ground in India, was established by Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal in 2015. The platform's success can be attributed to its zero commission policy and seller support model, with a flat zero percent commission rate and no shipping fees for sellers. Numerous sellers who previously traded on other platforms have switched to Meesho and enjoyed a surge in order volume. Meesho has also recently rolled out additional shipping benefits for sellers, such as a penalty-free model. According to its founders, Meesho intends to introduce more advantageous features for sellers shortly. This will encourage more small enterprises and individual entrepreneurs to join Meesho and begin selling online.

 

Meesho is one of the finest e-commerce platforms in India, with end-to-end management of sellers' businesses requiring minimal effort. The application provides access to millions of customers, category management, pan-India logistics, payment services, customer support, and order-related functions. As a result, if you are an SMB, MSME, or even an individual entrepreneur seeking the top online selling platform, Meesho is the all-in-one solution.

 

Registration Link - https://supplier.meesho.com/

 

 

 

5) Indiamart

 

indiamart

 

Founded by Dinesh and Brijesh Agarwal in 1996, IndiaMart is a B2B marketplace that provides a valuable service by linking suitable sellers and buyers from all over India. The company simplifies sourcing for Indian businesses by locating reputable suppliers with competitive prices and delivery schedules.

 

IndiaMart is an excellent resource for manufacturers and wholesalers who have not yet moved online. The company also offers a membership program that connects you with potential buyers for your products. Additionally, IndiaMart provides numerous programs and perks for sellers, such as website design and hosting via IndiaMart InterMesh. The platform facilitates connections between manufacturers, suppliers, and exporters, covering a wide range of categories, from construction, industrial machinery, and apparel to electronics, chemicals, dyes, and solvents. The principal benefit of becoming a seller on IndiaMart is the guarantee of genuine products and services verified by their team. Read More on Sourcing Products for Online Business - https://anar.biz/blog/how-to-source-products-for-your-online-store

 

Registration Link - https://seller.indiamart.com/

 

 

 

6) Udaan

 

udaan

 

Udaan is a B2B e-commerce model that caters to small and medium-sized businesses in India. Its purpose is to provide support for traders and wholesalers of such businesses, allowing for the exchange of products across a variety of categories, including electronics, home goods, and fresh produce. Udaan initially began as a logistics platform for electronic products in 2016, with its headquarters located in Bengaluru. The registration process is simple and free, simplifying the onboarding process for traders. Udaan's logistics system is efficient, and it has a robust courier network that facilitates seamless business transactions. Additionally, the platform offers reasonable funding rates for traders. As of now, Udaan has a network of over 3 million registered users and 25,000-30,000 sellers across 900+ cities in the country covering more than 12,000 pin codes.

 

Udaan has categories including lifestyle, electronics, home & kitchen, staples, fruits and vegetables, FMCG, pharma, toys and general merchandise on its platform. 

 

Registration Link - https://udaan.com/sell-on-udaan

 

 

 

7) Anar

 

anar b2b business app

 

Anar App is India's largest B2B social networking platform that enables businesses to connect with each other online. Anar provides platform for manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, resellers and 70 million+ Small and Medium Businesses in India to help them grow. This app as a business networking platform has over 40 Lakh products listed, 90 Lakh+ connections, 10 lakh+ downloads and 5 lakh+ buyers and sellers network. Founded in 2019 by Nishank Jain & Sanjay Bhatt, Anar provides a platform to buyers and sellers for interaction & ease of doing business. Here,  retailers and resellers can add requirements to get manufacturers and wholesalers to fulfil their requirements. Alongside, any business can add their products to their catalogue and post products on feed. Retailers and resellers can find product catalogues of manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers and brands along with exploring different designs and latest trends.

 

Anar B2B App has covered many categories of products including clothing, fashion, lifestyle, electronics, home & kitchen, staples, fruits and vegetables, FMCG, jewellery, footwear etc. Find Wholesale Suppliers for Your Business. Read https://anar.biz/blog/how-to-find-wholesale-suppliers-for-your-business-in-india

 

Registration Link – https://anar.biz 

 

 

 

8) Nykaa

 

nykaa

 

Nykaa, a homegrown Indian beauty brand, has established itself as a leading ecommerce platform for startups in the beauty segment, with almost a monopoly on the market. The brand began as a humble online store offering beauty products in various categories.Over time, Nykaa has expanded its offerings, adding more luxury and exclusive international brands, as well as launching its own extensive line of cosmetics and skincare products.

 

Selling on Nykaa requires contacting their customer service, as the platform does not have an online vendor apparatus. Nykaa was founded in 2012 as an online beauty platform, and quickly grew to become one of the top platforms, offering products from over 2000 well-known brands worldwide. To expand its presence, the platform adopted an omnichannel fulfillment strategy, opening over 78 stores across India. Additionally, Nykaa was the first ecommerce brand to enter the men's grooming space.

 

Registration Link - https://www.nykaa.com/sellonnykaa

 

 

 

9) Paytm Mall

 

paytm

 

Paytm, which began as an e-wallet and e-recharge service provider in 2010, has evolved into a comprehensive platform with numerous services. In 2017, Paytm launched the Paytm Mall app, which was a huge success. The Paytm Mall app features a variety of product categories, including fashion, electronics, and home decor. The platform also offers coupons that can be used to receive significant discounts and offers on orders.

 

Paytm has enlisted over 14 lakh sellers and receives visits from over 30,000 consumers each month. There is no registration fee for Paytm, but sellers must have a business name, bank account, PAN card, and Paytm. It is a straightforward 5-step process to become a vendor on Paytm, providing access to one of the largest indigenous e-banking and e-commerce ventures to emerge from India. Paytm offers several attractive credit options, including its flagship Paytm Bank services, which can be immensely beneficial for startups and SMEs.

 

Registration Link - https://seller.paytm.com/login 

 

 

 

10) Snapdeal

 

snapdeal

 

Snapdeal, an online marketplace, initially began as a coupon and discount platform before evolving into a global entity with more than 400,000 vendors. The website receives more than 55 million monthly visitors and is especially popular for electronics. In addition to electronics, Snapdeal has expanded its offerings to include fashion, toys, cosmetics, and kitchen appliances. The platform is funded by international investors such as Alibaba. Getting started on Snapdeal is straightforward; sellers only need to register and obtain their GSTN. Catalog creation can follow the registration process. Snapdeal assists vendors with advertising, packaging, and shipping their products, and has a speedy delivery process. Registration on Snapdeal is free and requires only a PAN card, GST number, and bank account. It also offers low-interest, collateral-free loans to vendors to help them grow their business, making it an excellent online selling platform for SMEs in India.

 

Registration Link - https://sellers.snapdeal.com/ 

 

 

 

11) FirstCry

 

first cry

 

Firstcry is an Indian e-commerce platform specializing in the sale of baby products. It has its headquarters in Pune and boasts a presence of over 350 stores throughout India. Firstcry offers a comprehensive range of products for babies, kids, and expectant mothers, all carefully crafted by a dedicated team of experts. As part of its commitment to assisting parents, Firstcry has launched a new venture called "Firstcry Parenting," which provides guidance and advice on pregnancy and parenting through a variety of articles and a question-and-answer section. It operates in over 125 cities and has amassed a customer base of over four million. Its offerings include a wide range of products such as baby food, nursery decor items, feeding essentials, picture books, bed protectors, maternity care products, and more. The parent company of Firstcry is the Mahindra Group, and it was established in 2010. Read How to Use Social Media to Grow your Business https://anar.biz/blog/how-to-leverage-social-media-to-grow-your-small-retail-business

 

Registration Link - https://www.firstcry.com/m/register 

 

 

 

12) Shopclues

 

shopclues

 

ShopClues is a well-known e-commerce platform in India that offers a wide range of products, including home and kitchen goods, fashion, electronics, and daily essentials. With a presence across the country, the platform has attracted over 50 million registered users and receives 25 million monthly visitors. More than 6 lakh traders currently use ShopClues to sell over 28 million products. In 2019, the platform was acquired by a Singapore-based e-commerce platform, Giosis.

 

Registering on the platform requires providing personal information, such as address and ID proof, as well as business and bank details and GST information. While some sellers find the subscription fee to be high, ShopClues remains a thriving platform for online startups.

 

Registration Link - http://storemanager.shopclues.com/ 

 

 

 

13) Ajio

 

ajio

 

AJIO is an eCommerce platform that falls under Reliance Retail's eCommerce initiative, providing a one-stop destination for Fashion, Home & Lifestyle products. It has earned a loyal customer base over time and is similar to Myntra. The platform offers a broad range of apparel and accessories at affordable prices and supplies exclusive international labels as well as its private label, AJIO OWN. Additionally, it offers Home Decor, Kitchen Accessories, Gifts, Gardening Supplies, etc., from various brands, and has a vast selection of ethnic and Indie wear. 

 

Selling on Ajio is a great opportunity for sellers due to its popularity and user-friendly interface. It attracts a lot of traffic, offering a lot of potential for sellers to showcase their products. It also makes it easy for buyers to find and purchase items with its intuitive design and various payment options.

 

Registration Link - https://seller.ajio.com/ 

 

 

 

14) Dukaan

 

mydukaan

 

Dukaan is a significant contender in the eCommerce industry, comparable to Shopify in terms of the services it provides, but with added features. It allows small businesses and entrepreneurs to effortlessly establish their online stores and sell through various digital marketing channels, including social media. MyDukaan's platform simplifies critical tasks, such as setting up payment and shipping options, which could otherwise take hours or days using conventional methods. Additionally, the dashboard is visually appealing and user-friendly, allowing for the seamless processing of orders. This saves time and enables entrepreneurs to concentrate on other crucial areas of their business.

 

Dukaan allows local stores to become digital and utilize WhatsApp to sell their products. To register their business, all the store owner needs to do is download the app and complete the registration process in less than a minute. They can then list their products, and share the link to their store with customers via WhatsApp, enabling them to place orders directly.

 

Registration Link - https://web.mydukaan.io/login 

 

 

 

15) 1MG

 

tata 1 mg

 

1mg is an Indian online pharmacy that strives to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for its customers. It is not only one of the top eCommerce platforms in India for purchasing medicine and healthcare products, but it also serves as an information hub for verifying prescribed medications. TATA 1mg offers a variety of services, including online consultations and lab tests. Selling products on the platform requires strict background checks and approvals from government agencies, which is commendable given the nature of the products being sold. The product categories include nutrition supplements, healthcare devices, personal care items, and products from traditional medicine practices like Ayurveda and Homeopathy.

 

Acquired by the TATA Group, 1mg launched Partner portal for sellers onboarding. The platform also educates consumers through its portal and assists in verifying prescribed medications. If a seller meets the necessary requirements, their product can be launched on the portal and made visible to a vast market. 1mg has over two million monthly visitors and has more than five million application users.

 

Registration Link - https://partners.1mg.com/ 

 

 

 

16) PharmEasy

 

Pharmeasy

 

PharmEasy is a prominent healthcare aggregator in India, connecting patients with local pharmacy stores and diagnostic centers to meet their medical needs. Their services prioritize the accessibility of the best and most authentic health products, while ensuring high savings and prompt delivery times. PharmEasy delivers medicines to over 1000 cities across India, spanning more than 22000 pin codes. 

 

In a recent initiative, the company launched the Health Partner Program, which supports small businesses in growing their operations. Local entrepreneurs and sellers can earn commissions with every order, and over 800 partners are already helping millions of families access quality healthcare. Through this program, PharmEasy aims to empower local entrepreneurs to make healthcare more affordable and accessible in their communities.

 

Registration Link - https://pharmeasy.in/blog/pharmeasy-entrepreneur-network/ 

 

 

 

17) eBay

 

ebay

 

With a history dating back to 1995, eBay is a well-established player in the world of eCommerce. Originally an auction website, it has since evolved into an online marketplace, boasting over 1.5 billion listings and attracting more than 36 million users worldwide each month. The platform serves as a marketplace for essential goods, including apparel, shoes, accessories, books, business and industrial supplies, crafts, pet supplies, and more. To become a seller, registration on the platform is required, with a bank account being necessary for verification. Commission fees for selling on eBay typically fall within the range of 10% to 12%, depending on the product category. It is highly recommended for online sellers and offers a unique feature allowing users to search for products in their area by entering their postal code.

 

In addition to new products, eBay also supports the selling of second-hand goods, expanding the options available to both buyers and sellers. The platform supports both B2B and B2C transactions and operates internationally, spanning 180 countries. Read how to Overcome Challenges faced by Small Sellers https://anar.biz/blog/how-to-overcome-challenges-faced-by-small-sellers-in-the-indian-e-commerce-market

 

Registration Link - https://www.ebay.com/sellercenter 

 

 

 

18) BigBasket

 

big basket

 

Bigbasket is an online supermarket that offers customers access to a vast selection of groceries and food items. The platform was founded in 2011 by a group of young entrepreneurs and operates in major metropolitan cities such as Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. With over 20,000 products and 1000+ brands, Bigbasket is a leading player in the market. In 2021, the Tata Group acquired a significant stake in the company. Bigbasket's product categories include fruits and vegetables, groceries, dairy products, beverages, meat, and personal care items, all available through their website or mobile application.

 

Bigbasket has a customer base of over 10 million spread across 30 towns in India, primarily consisting of working individuals, senior citizens, and those with limited time or energy to visit physical stores. The platform also offers express delivery, ensuring that products reach their intended destination within 90 minutes of order placement.

 

Registration Link - https://www.bigbasket.com/partner/ 

 

 

 

19) Quikr

 

quikr

 

Founded in 2008 by Pranay Chulet and Jiby Thomas, Quikr is an Indian online marketplace and classified advertising company based in Bengaluru. The platform offers listings across a broad range of categories, including mobile phones, household goods, cars, real estate, jobs, services, and education. Quikr functions as an advertising platform where sellers can post detailed descriptions and pictures of items they wish to sell. Interested parties can then contact the seller directly to initiate the transaction.

 

One of the primary advantages of using Quikr is that it is a free platform, accommodating everything from small regular items to real estate listings. Real estate is a particularly popular product category on Quikr, with users able to buy, rent, or sell their apartments directly without intermediaries. Another significant benefit of using Quikr is that it allows sellers to maximize their profits, as there is no middleman involved. Overall, anyone can sell anything they want through the platform, making it an accessible and versatile option for online selling.

 

Registration Link - https://www.quikr.com/Register

 

 

 

20) OLX

 

olx

 

OLX is an online marketplace that facilitates buying and selling of various products including furniture, electronic gadgets, cars, accessories, bikes, and household items. With a monthly user base of over 300 million, the platform has become a popular destination for both buyers and sellers.

 

The OLX consumer brand, which was originally named OnLine eXchange, was launched in 2006. It is currently owned by Prosus, the international assets division of Naspers. The platform enables users to trade a wide range of goods and services, including electronics, fashion items, furniture, household goods, cars, and bikes. Overall, OLX has established itself as a trusted and reliable platform for online buying and selling.

 

Registration Link - https://www.olx.in/account 



 

 

 

The digital revolution has unlocked a plethora of opportunities, enabling small and medium businesses in India to extend their influence and penetrate novel markets through online selling platforms. The top 20 online selling platforms that we discussed in this guide offer a broad spectrum of features, services, and pricing models, specifically crafted to address the diverse needs of SMBs. By meticulously evaluating factors like user-friendliness, available payment options, customer service, and scalability of these online selling platforms, entrepreneurs can make an enlightened choice about the platform that most closely aligns with their business aspirations and goals. Choosing the right online selling platform from a wide range of available options is a crucial step towards success. The ideal online selling platform can substantially boost a business's growth. It does this by empowering SMBs to carve out a robust online presence, foster customer loyalty, and propel enduring success in an increasingly competitive digital terrain through these online selling platforms.

In essence, the strategic use of online selling platforms can transform the trajectory of a small or medium business. This guide aims to serve as a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the top online selling platforms in India. By breaking down each platform's unique attributes and potential fits for your business, we hope to simplify your journey towards finding the perfect online selling platform. Remember, in the digitally charged landscape of modern business, your success is closely tied to the effective utilization of online selling platforms. Choose wisely, and these platforms can become your strongest allies in the quest for long-term business success. Read the Rise of D2C Business in India https://anar.biz/blog/rise-of-d2-c-direct-to-customer-commerce-and-its-impact-on-the-indian-fashion-industry



 

 

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on How to Start Online Selling in India in 2023?



 

 

1. Q: How do I get started with online selling in India?

 

A: The first step in online selling in India involves selecting a product or a range of products you want to sell, sourcing the product, and identifying your target audience. Then, you'll need to select a selling platform such as Amazon, Flipkart, Anar or creating your own e-commerce website. Register your business, get a GST number, and open a business bank account. After that, list your products on your chosen platform, and start promoting your online store.

 

 

 

2. Q: Do I need to register my business for online selling?

 

A: Yes, you must register your business for online selling in India. Depending on the nature and scale of your business, you could register as a Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, or Private Limited Company. You will also need to obtain a GST number for tax purposes as GST is mandatory for selling online.

 


 

3. Q: Which online platform is best for selling my products in India?

 

A: The best platform for selling online depends on your specific business needs and the type of products you are selling. Major platforms include Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra, and Anar. If you want total control over the customer experience, you might want to consider starting your own e-commerce website.

 


 

4. Q: How do I price my products for online selling?

 

A: Pricing should be based on the cost of the product, your operational costs, competition pricing, and the perceived value of the product by customers. Remember to include costs such as packaging, shipping, taxes, and platform fees while deciding the price.

 

 

 

5. Q: How do I manage shipping for my online selling business in India?

 

A: Many online marketplaces offer fulfillment services. For example, Amazon's "Fulfilled by Amazon" service takes care of storage, packaging, and shipping. If you're managing your own website, you could partner with a logistics company. Also, consider offering tracking options for customers to check the status of their orders.

 

 

 

6. Q: What are the regulations for online selling in India?

 

A: Online sellers in India must adhere to various regulations such as the Consumer Protection Act 2019, Information Technology Act 2000, and the rules of the Indian Penal Code related to online selling. You must also follow tax regulations, including filing GST.

 

 

 

7. Q: How can I promote my products for online selling?

 

A: You can promote your products using social media advertising, content marketing, email marketing, SEO, and pay-per-click advertising. Having high-quality photos and detailed descriptions of your products also helps to attract customers. Read how to promote your Business Online - https://anar.biz/blog/cost-effective-ways-to-promote-products-and-services-nearby

 

 

 

8. Q: What are the customer service requirements for online selling in India?

 

A: It's important to have a return and refund policy in place and ensure it's clearly communicated to customers. You should also be available to answer customer inquiries quickly. You can provide customer service through email, phone, chat support, or social media. Excellent customer service is crucial for maintaining a good reputation and ensuring repeat business.


 

 

Related Article - https://anar.biz/blog/how-to-start-a-clothing-wholesale-business-in-india

 

 

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Anar Business App is India's largest B2B community platform that enables businesses to connect online. Anar App is a Linkedin for 70 million SMBs in India with an Alibaba like commerce layer on top of it making it one of the best Indian Marketplace. Anar app has over 65 Lakh products uploaded, 1.2 cr+ connections, 10 lakh+ buyers and sellers. Our vision is to help every small business in India grow by discovering more suppliers and buyers, products and requirements. Anar empowers millions of Small & Medium Businesses in India to source and sell best quality products at genuine prices and grow their business.
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