Etsy and Goimagine are two popular online marketplaces for handmade goods. Both platforms offer a space for artists and crafters to showcase their unique creations and reach a wider audience. However, there are differences between the two platforms that sellers should consider before choosing which one to use.
One of the main differences between Etsy and Goimagine is their fee structure. Etsy charges a transaction fee of 6.5% and a listing fee of $0.20 per item, while Goimagine charges a flat monthly fee to sell on the platform and a sliding scale transaction fee based on the seller’s plan. Another difference is the age of the platforms. Etsy was launched in 2005, while Goimagine is a newer marketplace that launched in 2020.
Sellers who are looking for a straightforward and cost-effective fee structure may prefer Goimagine, while those who value the longevity and established reputation of a platform may prefer Etsy. Ultimately, the choice between Etsy and Goimagine depends on the individual seller’s needs and preferences.
Overview of Etsy and Goimagine
Etsy and Goimagine are both online marketplaces that allow artisans to sell handmade and vintage items, as well as craft supplies. While both platforms cater to a similar audience, there are some key differences between the two.
History of Etsy
Etsy was founded in 2005 by Rob Kalin, Chris Maguire, and Haim Schoppik. The platform started as a way for Kalin to sell his handmade wooden computers, but quickly grew into a global marketplace for artisans. In 2015, Etsy went public and became a publicly traded company. Today, Etsy has over 4 million active sellers and 90 million active buyers.
History of Goimagine
Goimagine was founded in 2019 by a group of artisans who wanted to create a platform that was more focused on the needs of sellers. The platform is unique in that it donates all of its profits to charity. Goimagine is still a relatively new platform, but it has already gained a following among artisans who are looking for an alternative to Etsy.
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Business Models
Etsy Business Model
Etsy is a global online marketplace that focuses on handmade, vintage, and craft supplies. The platform allows independent sellers to set up their own shops and sell their products to a worldwide audience. Etsy’s business model is based on charging fees to sellers for listing their products, selling them, and processing payments. The company also generates revenue through advertising and other services, such as Etsy Shipping Labels and Etsy Payments.
One of the unique features of Etsy’s business model is its emphasis on community and social responsibility. The company encourages sellers to support one another and to engage with buyers through its forums and other communication channels. Etsy also has a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, which is reflected in its policies and guidelines.
Goimagine Business Model
Goimagine is a newer platform that aims to provide a more seller-focused alternative to Etsy. The company’s business model is based on charging a flat fee for sellers to list their products, with no additional fees for transactions or payment processing. Goimagine also donates a portion of its profits to charity, which is a unique feature of its business model.
Goimagine’s platform is designed to be simple and user-friendly, with a focus on helping sellers to build their businesses and connect with customers. The company also offers a range of tools and resources to help sellers succeed, such as marketing and promotional support.
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Product Variety and Quality
When it comes to product variety and quality, both Etsy and Goimagine offer a wide range of handmade and vintage items. However, there are some differences between the two platforms.
Product Range on Etsy
Etsy is known for its vast selection of products, with millions of items available for purchase. The platform is a go-to for buyers looking for unique, handmade items, as well as vintage and antique goods. From handmade jewelry and clothing to home decor and art, Etsy has something for everyone.
One of the benefits of shopping on Etsy is the ability to find niche products that may not be available elsewhere. For example, if you’re looking for a specific type of handmade soap or a custom-made piece of furniture, Etsy is a great place to start your search.
Product Range on Goimagine
Goimagine is a newer platform, and as such, its product range is not as extensive as Etsy’s. However, the platform is growing and currently offers a range of handmade items, including jewelry, home decor, and clothing.
One of the unique features of Goimagine is that all of the profits from sales go to charity. This means that buyers can feel good about their purchases, knowing that they are supporting a good cause.
While Goimagine may not have the same level of product variety as Etsy, it does offer a curated selection of high-quality, handmade items. Sellers on the platform are vetted to ensure that their products meet certain standards, so buyers can trust that they are getting a quality product.
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User Experience
When it comes to user experience, both Etsy and Goimagine offer user-friendly interfaces that make it easy for buyers to browse and purchase products. However, there are some differences between the two platforms.
Shopping Experience on Etsy
Etsy has been around since 2005 and has a large user base, which means there are a lot of products to choose from. Buyers can search for products using keywords, categories, and filters, and can also browse curated collections. One of the unique features of Etsy is the ability to shop local, which allows buyers to support small businesses in their community.
Etsy also offers a range of payment options, including credit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay. Buyers can leave reviews of products they have purchased, which helps other buyers make informed decisions.
Shopping Experience on Goimagine
Goimagine is a newer platform, but it has a growing user base. It offers a similar shopping experience to Etsy, with the ability to search for products using keywords and categories. Goimagine also has a focus on giving back, with a portion of every sale going to support children in need.
One of the unique features of Goimagine is the simple and affordable fee structure. Sellers pay just $2.50 per month to list up to 20 items, and a 5% fee on each sale. This can be a more cost-effective option for sellers compared to Etsy’s fees, which can add up quickly.
Overall, both platforms offer a positive shopping experience for buyers, with unique features that set them apart. Buyers can choose the platform that best fits their needs and preferences.
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Seller and Buyer Protection
Etsy’s Protection Policies
Etsy offers a Purchase Protection Program for sellers that covers lost packages and damage claims. The program also protects sellers against certain customer claims related to delivery. In order to be eligible for coverage, the seller must meet the program’s guidelines. Etsy will refund buyers for qualifying orders up to $250, and the seller will keep their earnings if the buyer never received their package or if it was lost in transit.
Etsy also has a case system where buyers can open a case against a seller if they are unsatisfied with their purchase. Cases can be opened for issues such as items not being as described or not arriving. Etsy mediates the case and can issue refunds or take other actions depending on the situation.
Goimagine’s Protection Policies
Goimagine also offers a protection program for sellers. However, their program is not as extensive as Etsy’s. They do not have a case system for buyers to open disputes against sellers. Instead, they encourage buyers to contact the seller directly to resolve any issues. If a buyer is not satisfied with their purchase, Goimagine will refund the buyer and take the cost out of the seller’s earnings.
Goimagine also has a Seller Protection Policy that protects sellers against fraudulent buyers. If a seller can prove that a buyer has committed fraud, Goimagine will refund the seller and take the cost out of the buyer’s account.
Overall, while both platforms offer some level of protection for sellers and buyers, Etsy’s protection policies are more extensive and cover a wider range of situations. However, Goimagine’s Seller Protection Policy against fraudulent buyers is unique and could be beneficial for sellers.
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
Etsy’s Community Engagement
Etsy has a large community of sellers and buyers who engage with each other through forums, teams, and social media. Sellers can join teams based on their location, interests, or niche. Teams can participate in challenges, promotions, and events. Buyers can follow their favorite shops, leave reviews, and share their purchases on social media. Etsy also supports causes such as LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and environmental sustainability. Etsy has a program called Etsy Giving where sellers can donate a portion of their sales to a charity of their choice.
Goimagine’s Social Responsibility
Goimagine is a relatively new marketplace that aims to differentiate itself from Etsy by being more socially responsible. Goimagine donates all of its profits to charities that help children in need. Goimagine also has a program called Goimagine Cares where sellers can donate a portion of their sales to a charity of their choice. Goimagine encourages sellers to use eco-friendly materials and packaging. Goimagine also has a program called Goimagine Rewards where sellers can earn points for various actions such as referring a friend, leaving a review, or participating in a challenge. Points can be redeemed for discounts or donations to charity.
Conclusion
Both Etsy and Goimagine have community engagement and social responsibility programs that can appeal to different types of sellers and buyers. Etsy has a larger and more established community with more diverse causes and programs. Goimagine has a more focused and innovative approach with a clear mission and impact. Sellers and buyers can choose which platform aligns with their values and goals.
Customer Service
Customer Service at Etsy
Etsy is known for its excellent customer service. The company offers a variety of ways to contact them, including email, phone, and live chat. They also have a comprehensive help center with articles and FAQs that cover a wide range of topics. If a customer has an issue with an order, Etsy’s customer service team is available to help resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.
Etsy also has a robust system for managing disputes between buyers and sellers. If a customer is unhappy with their purchase, they can open a case with Etsy’s Resolution Center. The Resolution Center allows buyers and sellers to communicate and work towards a resolution. In most cases, Etsy’s customer service team will step in to help mediate the dispute and find a solution that works for both parties.
Customer Service at Goimagine
Goimagine also offers customer service support to its users. However, their support options are more limited compared to Etsy. Goimagine’s help center has a smaller selection of articles and FAQs, and they do not offer phone or live chat support. Instead, customers can contact Goimagine’s support team through email.
Despite these limitations, Goimagine’s customer service team is known for being responsive and helpful. They work to resolve issues quickly and efficiently, and they are committed to providing a positive experience for their users.
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Shipping Policies
Etsy’s Shipping Policies
Etsy provides sellers with the ability to set their own shipping policies, allowing them to choose the shipping methods, costs, and timeframes that work best for their business. Buyers can view the shipping information before making a purchase, and Etsy also provides sellers with the option to purchase and print shipping labels directly from their account. This allows for easy and efficient order fulfillment, as well as the ability to track shipments.
One thing to note is that Etsy does charge a transaction fee on shipping costs, which can impact the overall cost of the item for buyers. However, this fee can be avoided by including the cost of shipping in the item’s price.
Goimagine’s Shipping Policies
Goimagine also allows sellers to set their own shipping policies, but they do not charge a transaction fee on shipping costs. This can make it more cost-effective for buyers, as they are only paying for the actual cost of shipping.
Goimagine also offers the option to purchase and print shipping labels directly from the platform, similar to Etsy. However, they do not currently offer the ability to track shipments directly through the platform. Buyers will need to rely on the tracking information provided by the shipping carrier.
Overall, both Etsy and Goimagine offer flexible shipping policies that can be tailored to individual seller needs. However, the transaction fee on shipping costs from Etsy may make it more expensive for buyers, while the lack of shipment tracking on Goimagine may be a drawback for some.
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