11 Top Websites for Buying and Selling in Canada 2023

According to a report from the International Trade Administration, there were over 27 million eCommerce users in Canada, which accounts for about 75% of the country’s population. This number is projected to rise to 77.6% by 2025.

With the increasing number of eCommerce users in Canada, now is the perfect time for individuals and businesses to tap into the online selling market. If you’re looking to sell items online in Canada but are unsure about the best platforms to use, we’ve got you covered.

Table of Contents

Best Websites to Buy and Sell Items Online

1. Kijiji: Canada’s Premier Buy-and-Sell Platform

Kijiji Canada stands as the largest classifieds platform in the country. It provides a platform to connect with potential buyers through phone or email and facilitates the sale of a wide range of products and services. The process is straightforward: create an account, photograph your items, set prices, craft an eye-catching headline, add relevant tags, and you’re ready to start selling.

Pros:

• Offers a broad audience for sellers
• A popular choice for buying both new and used items
• Allows selling of services beyond products

Cons:

• Interactions can be anonymous, potentially affecting safety
• Selling fees vary based on the category, with the first two ads per month being free.

2. eBay: Long-standing and Reliable

eBay is renowned for its longevity and user-friendliness. Upon account creation, you can easily list your items for sale, accompanied by detailed information about each product. However, ensure you review the list of prohibited items before posting.

Pros:

• Access to a vast user base
• Opportunity to reach new customers
• Versatility in terms of products you can sell

Cons:

• Intense competition in certain niches
• Selling fees are category-dependent, with a base rate of 13.25% plus $0.30 per order.

3. Used.ca: Environmentally Conscious Marketplace

Used.ca is a Canadian-owned platform aiming to reduce waste and promote secondhand items. It’s an ideal place to sell various used products, from clothing to electronics and more.

Pros:

• Option to link your Facebook profile to your used.ca profile
• Wide range of products and services for sale
• High monthly page views

Cons:

• Lack of direct communication between buyers and sellers
• Posting ads for sale is free of charge

4. Facebook Marketplace: Where Communities Connect

Introduced in 2016, Facebook Marketplace brings local communities together for buying and selling. While listing items is free, adhering to merchant guidelines is essential.

Pros:

• Simplifies the buying and selling process
• Sellers can determine shipping charges
• User-friendly interface

Cons:

• Limited vetting of sellers and buyers
• No selling fees

5. Amazon.ca Marketplace: Trustworthy and Expansive

Amazon has gained significant popularity in Canada for its legitimacy and timely delivery. Sellers undergo verification, ensuring a safer environment. However, there are selling fees associated.

Pros:

• Minimal marketing costs
• Opportunity for international expansion
• User-friendly for new sellers

Cons:

• Selling fees apply based on the chosen selling plan

6. Craigslist: A Classic Option

Craigslist remains a popular free platform for buying and selling. The process involves creating a posting with detailed information about your items, along with photos.

Pros:

• No upfront costs
• Listings automatically remain active for 30 days
• Versatility in items you can sell

Cons:

• Notorious for potential scams
• No selling fees

7. Karrot: Community-Centric Marketplace

Karrot facilitates local selling and buying within communities. It’s a free platform that emphasizes direct communication between buyers and sellers.

Pros:

• Quick listing process
• Scoring system to identify trustworthy users
• Customizable newsfeed

Cons:

• Still gaining popularity compared to other platforms
• No selling fees

8. Buyselltrade.ca: Canadian-Focused Marketplace

Buyselltrade.ca connects buyers and sellers within Canada. While most items are allowed, there are restrictions on certain categories.

Pros:

• Easy account creation and ad posting
• Direct communication between buyers and sellers
• Some items offer free delivery and a 7-day exchange guarantee

Cons:

• Site doesn’t ensure safety, quality, or legality of items
• Selling fees are generally free, except for specific categories

9. Oodle: Expanding Your Options

Oodle is unique in that it displays listings from other sites as well. This feature broadens your choices by showing items from various platforms.

Pros:

• Connects to Facebook profiles for credibility
• User-friendly interface
• Provides geographically relevant results

Cons:

• Less popular compared to other sites
• No selling fees

10. VarageSale: Virtual Garage Sales

VarageSale is a platform dedicated to virtual garage sales. It’s easy to list items for sale, and the interface is user-friendly.

Pros:

• Friendly interface
• Buyer praises add credibility
• Listings are location-based

Cons:

• App occasionally crashes
• No selling fees

Free Clothing Buy and Sell Sites

11. Poshmark: Fashion and Home Décor

Poshmark specializes in selling used fashion and home décor items. Creating listings is simple, and you can even share them on social media for wider visibility.

Pros:

• Convenient shipping process
• Active user base
• Price negotiation and bundle options

Cons:

• Additional shipping fees for items over 5 lbs

In conclusion, the surge in eCommerce users in Canada presents a golden opportunity for both individuals and businesses to sell items online. With various platforms catering to different needs, preferences, and product categories, you’re bound to find the perfect online marketplace to kickstart your online selling journey.

FAQs

1. Can I list services on these platforms? Yes, several platforms, such as Kijiji and Used.ca, allow you to sell services alongside physical products.

2. Are there any safety measures in place for transactions? While platforms like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace offer convenience, be cautious of anonymous interactions. Try to meet in safe, public spaces and trust your instincts.

3. Do these platforms charge fees for listing items? Many platforms offer free ad posting, but some, like Amazon.ca Marketplace, have selling fees based on your chosen plan.

4. How can I ensure the quality of items I buy? While platforms may have guidelines, it’s essential to do your research, ask questions, and, if possible, inspect items in person before making a purchase.

5. What’s the future of eCommerce in Canada? With the increasing number of eCommerce users, the online marketplace is set to grow further, presenting more opportunities for both buyers and sellers.