How to Make a Web Page to Sell Merchandise

Cusotmers can purchase virtually any product online that they can purchase in a store.

Competition for selling items online can be high. If you plan to sell merchandise online, you need to create an attractively designed e-commerce website that customers will want to visit. Using Web templates and shopping-cart software, you can have your online store functional in less than 48 hours.

Instructions

1. Purchase and select a domain name for your website. A domain name is the part of the Web address following the "www." Domain registrars charge from $1.99 to more than $14 per year to register a domain name. Choose a name that is easy to spell and memorable.

2. Buy Web hosting for your website. For a monthly fee, Web hosts handle the traffic to your website as well as maintain your images and content. Web hosts can charge anywhere from $3 to $100 per month. Some hosts include the domain name for free when you order Web-hosting services.

3. Collect images of your merchandise for displaying on your site, and make sure the backgrounds for the images are all the same, for a professional look. Take your pictures in a well-lit environment so customers can clearly see the product you're selling. For best results, use a design program, such as Photoshop, or hire a graphic designer.

4. Choose a website template. Whether you pay for one or find a template for free, a website template is a shell of an already-designed site into which you add your own pictures and content. Select an e-commerce website template that simulates an online store and includes shopping-cart software, which customers will need to select their products and pay by credit card.

5. Open an account with PayPal to accept payments online. Many website templates have PayPal capability integrated. If you don't want to use PayPal, apply for a merchant account with your local bank. The funds will go directly into your checking account within 48 hours, whereas payments through PayPal may take longer.

References

• Hooverwebdesign: How to Create an E-Commerce Web Site Empire

Resources

• Thesitewizard: How to choose a web host
• Templatemonster: Website templates