The internet has transformed the way we earn a living, opening up countless opportunities for anyone with a laptop, an idea, and a bit of hustle. Selling online to make money is no longer just a side gig—it’s a full-blown business model for millions. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income or build a thriving e-commerce empire, the digital marketplace offers endless possibilities. As someone who’s spent years navigating the online selling world, I’m here to share practical, expert insights on the best things to sell online to make money. This isn’t just a list—it’s a guide to help you find profitable niches, avoid common pitfalls, and build a sustainable income stream.
Why Selling Online Is a Game-Changer
Before diving into the specifics, let’s talk about why selling online is such a powerful way to generate income. The internet breaks down geographical barriers, letting you reach customers across the globe. Platforms like Etsy, eBay, Amazon, and Shopify make it easier than ever to set up shop with minimal upfront costs. Plus, the rise of social media marketplaces like Instagram and TikTok has turned even casual creators into entrepreneurs. The key is finding the right products that align with your skills, interests, and market demand.
From my experience, success in online selling comes down to three things: understanding your audience, choosing products with strong profit margins, and leveraging the right platforms. Let’s explore the top things to sell online to make money, with actionable tips to get started.
1. Handmade Crafts and Artisan Goods
Handmade products have a special place in the online marketplace. Shoppers love the authenticity and uniqueness of items like custom jewelry, pottery, or knitted goods. Platforms like Etsy are built for artisans, but you can also sell directly through your own website or social media.
Why It Works
Handmade goods appeal to buyers looking for one-of-a-kind items. If you’re skilled at crafting, you can turn your hobby into a profitable business. For example, custom candles or personalized leather goods often fetch high margins because they’re perceived as premium products.
How to Succeed
- Niche Down: Instead of generic “handmade jewelry,” focus on something specific, like minimalist brass earrings or engraved wooden pendants.
- Storytelling: Share the story behind your creations. Customers connect with the passion and process, which builds trust and loyalty.
- Photography: Invest in high-quality product photos. A well-lit image can make the difference between a sale and a scroll-by.
Profit Potential
Depending on the product, profit margins for handmade goods can range from 50% to 200%. For example, a custom candle costing $5 to make can sell for $20-$30.
Read more: How to Make a Money Lei for Graduation: A Personal Guide to Crafting a Memorable Gift
2. Print-on-Demand Products
Print-on-demand (POD) is one of the easiest ways to start selling online with minimal risk. With POD, you design graphics or slogans, and a third-party company handles production and shipping when an order comes in. Think t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, and tote bags.
Why It Works
POD eliminates the need for inventory, making it ideal for beginners. Platforms like Printful, Teespring, and Redbubble integrate seamlessly with online stores, and you can test designs without upfront costs.
How to Succeed
- Trendy Designs: Stay on top of pop culture trends. For example, witty slogans tied to current events or niche fandoms sell well.
- Multiple Platforms: Don’t rely on one marketplace. Sell on Etsy, Amazon, and your own Shopify store to diversify income streams.
- Marketing: Use Instagram Reels or TikTok to showcase your designs in action. Short, engaging videos can drive traffic to your store.
Profit Potential
Profit margins for POD products typically range from 20% to 50%. A t-shirt costing $10 to produce might sell for $25, netting you $15 per sale.
3. Digital Products
Digital products are a goldmine for online sellers because they require no physical inventory and can be sold repeatedly. Examples include eBooks, printable planners, digital art, and online courses.
Why It Works
Once created, digital products have virtually no overhead costs. They’re also scalable—you can sell the same product to thousands of customers without restocking. For instance, a well-designed printable budget planner can be sold indefinitely.
How to Succeed
- Solve a Problem: Create products that address specific needs, like a meal prep guide for busy professionals or a resume template for job seekers.
- Optimize Listings: Use keyword-rich titles and descriptions to boost visibility on platforms like Etsy or Gumroad. For example, “Minimalist Weekly Planner Printable for Busy Moms” is better than “Weekly Planner.”
- Bundle Products: Offer bundles, like a set of digital planners and habit trackers, to increase perceived value and sales.
Profit Potential
Digital products can yield 80%-90% profit margins. A $20 eBook that takes 10 hours to create can generate thousands in revenue over time.
Read more: Free Earn Money Without Investment – Proven Strategies Unveiled
4. Vintage and Secondhand Goods
The resale market is booming, with platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Depop catering to buyers hunting for unique finds. Vintage clothing, retro electronics, and collectibles like vinyl records are in high demand.
Why It Works
Thrifting and reselling tap into the growing demand for sustainable shopping. Buyers love the nostalgia of vintage items and the thrill of finding a deal. Plus, sourcing inventory can be as simple as visiting local thrift stores or garage sales.
How to Succeed
- Know Your Market: Research trending items, like 90s band tees or vintage Pyrex dishes, to focus on high-demand products.
- Authenticity: Be transparent about the condition of your items. Clear descriptions and photos build trust.
- Pricing Strategy: Price competitively but leave room for haggling, especially on platforms like eBay.
Profit Potential
Profit margins vary widely but can be substantial. For example, a vintage jacket bought for $10 at a thrift store might sell for $50-$100 online.
5. Dropshipping Products
Dropshipping lets you sell physical products without handling inventory. You set up an online store, market the products, and a supplier handles fulfillment when orders come in.
Why It Works
Dropshipping is low-risk because you only pay for products after they’re sold. It’s also versatile—you can sell anything from fitness gear to pet accessories.
How to Succeed
- Niche Selection: Focus on a specific niche, like eco-friendly kitchen gadgets or pet supplies for small dogs, to stand out.
- Reliable Suppliers: Use platforms like Oberlo or Spocket to find reputable suppliers with fast shipping times.
- Customer Service: Since you don’t control fulfillment, prioritize clear communication to manage buyer expectations.
Profit Potential
Margins typically range from 10% to 30%. A product costing $15 might sell for $25, netting you $10 per sale after fees.
Read more: Real Ways to Make Money from Home for Free – Proven Methods for Success
6. Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes are a growing trend, offering curated products delivered monthly. From beauty products to gourmet snacks, there’s a subscription box for every interest.
Why It Works
Subscriptions create recurring revenue, providing stability compared to one-off sales. Customers love the convenience and surprise of curated boxes.
How to Succeed
- Unique Themes: Create a niche box, like vegan skincare or artisanal coffee, to attract a loyal audience.
- Sourcing: Partner with small brands or wholesalers to keep costs low while offering unique products.
- Marketing: Use social media influencers to promote your box and build buzz.
Profit Potential
Profit margins vary but can range from 20% to 50%. A $40 box costing $20 to curate generates $20 profit per subscriber.
7. Online Courses and Coaching
If you’re an expert in a field, selling online courses or coaching services can be highly lucrative. Topics range from fitness and photography to business skills and personal finance.
Why It Works
People are willing to pay for knowledge that solves their problems or helps them achieve goals. Platforms like Teachable and Kajabi make it easy to host courses.
How to Succeed
- Establish Credibility: Share your expertise through blog posts or free webinars to build trust.
- Engaging Content: Use video, quizzes, and downloadable resources to make your course interactive.
- Upsell Opportunities: Offer one-on-one coaching or premium content to increase revenue.
Profit Potential
Courses priced at $100-$500 can yield near-100% margins after platform fees, especially if you create evergreen content.
8. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Products
Sustainability is a hot trend, and eco-conscious consumers are eager to buy products like reusable straws, bamboo toothbrushes, or organic clothing.
Why It Works
The demand for environmentally friendly products is growing as consumers prioritize sustainability. These products often command premium prices.
How to Succeed
- Certifications: Highlight eco-friendly certifications, like Fair Trade or organic, to build trust.
- Branding: Emphasize your commitment to sustainability in your marketing and packaging.
- Transparency: Share details about your supply chain to appeal to conscious consumers.
Profit Potential
Margins for eco-friendly products can range from 30% to 60%. A reusable tote costing $5 to produce might sell for $15-$20.
Tips for Success in Online Selling
No matter what you choose to sell, these strategies will help you maximize profits and build a sustainable business:
- Research Demand: Use tools like Google Trends or Jungle Scout to identify trending products and keywords.
- Optimize Listings: Incorporate keywords like “things to sell online to make money” naturally into your product titles and descriptions.
- Customer Experience: Offer excellent customer service to encourage repeat purchases and positive reviews.
- Diversify Income: Sell on multiple platforms to reduce risk and reach more customers.
- Stay Consistent: Success takes time. Commit to regular marketing, product updates, and customer engagement.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Overstocking Inventory: For physical products, start small to test demand before investing heavily.
- Ignoring Fees: Account for platform fees (e.g., Etsy’s 6.5% transaction fee or Amazon’s referral fees) when setting prices.
- Poor Marketing: Don’t rely solely on organic traffic. Invest in paid ads or social media promotion to drive sales.
- Neglecting Trends: Stay updated on market trends to keep your products relevant.
Final Thoughts
Selling online to make money is an exciting and accessible way to build wealth, but it requires strategy, persistence, and a willingness to adapt. Whether you’re crafting handmade goods, designing print-on-demand products, or teaching online courses, the key is to focus on value, quality, and customer needs. Start small, experiment with different products, and use the insights from this guide to find your niche. With the right approach, your online store could become a reliable source of income and a stepping stone to financial independence.
What are you waiting for? Pick a product, set up your shop, and start selling. The digital marketplace is ready for you.
