Choosing the right dropshipping platform is one of the most important steps to building a functional, profitable business. From managing products and orders to setting prices and scaling up, it all happens here.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best dropshipping platforms, compare their features, and highlight what really matters when choosing the right one for your business.
Different platforms suit different goals. Marketplaces offer visibility, while customizable stores give you control and branding power.
Automation tools like AutoDS can simplify sourcing, order fulfillment, and inventory management across multiple platforms.
Costs vary by platform, from monthly subscriptions to transaction or listing fees. Understanding the fee structure is key to protecting your margins.
Your ideal platform depends on your product and audience. Impulse buys thrive on marketplaces, while niche or premium items do better in branded stores.
What Is Dropshipping?
Dropshipping is a low-risk way to sell products online without ever holding inventory. You team up with a supplier who handles stock and shipping, while you focus on running the store, marketing products, and supporting customers. The best part? There’s a low initial investment, no need to buy bulk inventory, and you can run the business from anywhere.
Here’s how it works in three simple steps:
- A customer places an order on your store for $150.
- You forward your order to your supplier, who charges you $100 for the product.
- The supplier ships it directly to your customer, and you keep a profit margin of $50 (the difference between what your customer paid and what you paid to the supplier).
The real question is: can you actually make money in the long term with dropshipping? Absolutely. But it depends on several factors, from finding the best dropshipping platform to sourcing the right products, partnering with a reliable supplier, building a solid store, using automation tools, and more.
There are two main types of channels:
- Marketplaces. For example, Amazon or Facebook Shops. These give you access to built-in traffic, but offer less control and flexibility.
- Customizable e-commerce sites. For example, Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce. These let you build a branded experience, but you’ll need to bring in your own audience.
In the following sections, we’ll cover everything you need to know to choose the right one.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Dropshipping Platform
I get it: there’s too much information out there, and choosing the best dropshipping platform can be overwhelming. Especially because there’s no magic answer. It all depends on the type of business model you have in mind, the products you want to sell, the niche audience you are targeting, and so on.
But there are certain things that are universal. And good news: we put them all together to make it easier for you.
Ease Of Use & Customization
This is one of the main aspects we must focus on, but it all depends on our preferences. Suppose we want to decide on every aesthetic and functional detail of our store, having more decision-making power over its form. In that case, opting for a customizable eCommerce platform is best. These are the main benefits of a customizable eCommerce platform:
- Control: Full control over your branding, design, and customer experience.
- Customization: Ability to customize your store’s features, layout, and functionality to meet your specific needs.
- Customer Data: Customer data ownership can be valuable for marketing and building customer relationships.
- Scalability: Easier to scale and add new features as your business grows.
However, if we are in a hurry and need to get our store up and running quickly and with minimal effort, a marketplace will be much more convenient than a customizable store. Let’s see some of its main advantages:
- Traffic and Exposure: Marketplaces have established customer bases, providing instant access to millions of potential buyers.
- Trust and Credibility: Buyers often trust established marketplaces, which can help with conversion rates.
- Ease of Setup: Setting up a store on a marketplace is generally straightforward and requires less technical knowledge.
- SEO and Marketing: Marketplaces often have robust SEO and marketing tools to help your products get noticed.
Cost & Profits
When choosing a dropshipping platform, you’ve got to think about two things: how much it will cost you, and how much you can actually make.
Let’s analyze it based on the type of selling channel:
- Marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy charge commissions and transaction fees that can lower your profits. The upside? These platforms bring built-in traffic, so you don’t need to spend much on marketing.
- Customizable sites like Shopify or WooCommerce give you more control and potentially better profit margins. That said, they come with upfront costs. Shopify has a monthly plan, and WooCommerce is free but requires hosting and a domain.
TL;DR: Choose a marketplace if you want more visibility and lower upfront risk. Or choose a custom site if you want more branding control and higher margins over time.
Compatibility With Automation Tools
Now, let’s talk about something that can completely change your experience in dropshipping: automation. Automating processes means saving time and money. How? Think of it this way: building an online store from scratch involves managing orders, marketing, page details, dealing with suppliers, and more. The list of tasks in any business becomes almost endless.
However, suppose we integrate our store with an automation tool. In that case, we can access technology that handles routine and tedious tasks, freeing time to focus on the priority aspects of our business.
Beginner’s Tip: For example, by leveraging all the features provided by AutoDS, you can significantly ease the development of your business and get it running smoothly in much less time than you might think. Take advantage of our 14-day trial for $1 to experience all the benefits that automation can offer to lend you a hand!
Product Type And Target Audience
When choosing the best dropshipping platform, ask yourself: What am I selling and who’s buying it? That has a direct impact on the platform. Let’s see a few practical examples:
- Selling high-ticket items? 👉These require detailed information for shoppers to make informed decisions. In that case, a customizable eCommerce site might be a good fit. It allows you to create a tailored and informative shopping experience with detailed descriptions, high-quality images, and customer reviews.
- Selling impulse-buy products? 👉Fashion accessories, pet stuff, trendy gadgets, all fall into this category. In this case, a marketplace like Etsy or Amazon might be more effective, since they attract a large volume of traffic (a.k.a. people who didn’t plan to shop… but suddenly need that cat-shaped wine opener).
- Targeting niche-specific audiences? 👉Think parents, sports enthusiasts, travel lovers, eco-conscious shoppers, you name it. In this case, social media platforms like Facebook Shops or TikTok Shop can go the extra mile in targeting your audience with specific marketing strategies.
- Targeting broader, less defined audiences? 👉Typical marketplaces like Amazon or eBay are the best option here. Large base of potential customers = more chances to catch someone’s eye.
Marketing And Promotion
Marketplaces and customizable e-commerce sites offer unique advantages when it comes to marketing (and what works best depends on what you’re selling). Let’s see.
Marketplaces
Marketplaces like Amazon and eBay come with built-in traffic, meaning you don’t need to spend much on promotion to get seen. They offer:
- Strong SEO features within the platform.
- Specific algorithms to help products rank.
- Built-in advertising tools to create sponsored content within the platform.
Customizable E-Commerce Sites
E-Commerce sites offer complete control over your branding and marketing strategies. They typically include:
- Full branding features. This allows you to create a unique brand identity.
- Integrations with marketing channels, such as social media, email marketing, content marketing, SEO, and paid ads, to drive traffic to your site.
- Full access to customer data. This helps you craft personalized marketing campaigns to build long-term customer relationships.
- SEO marketing. This requires some time and resources, but it lets you optimize your site for specific keywords to build domain authority. More traffic = more potential customers.
Best Dropshipping Platforms
Finally, the reason you’re here. We’ll explain everything you need to know about the best dropshipping platforms, from suppliers and integrations to features, support, and pricing.
AutoDS
Platform Overview
Think of AutoDS as your all-in-one dropshipping command center. Whether you’re selling on marketplaces like eBay and Facebook, or running your own store on Shopify or WooCommerce, AutoDS connects it all in one place. It’s perfect for sellers juggling multiple stores or experimenting with different niches. But the real star of AutoDS? Full automation.
Product Sourcing Options
With AutoDS, you get access to a full product research hub. Unlike platforms like Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce, AutoDS offers a marketplace curated with winning items from trusted private suppliers, as well as trusted global sellers.
And want expert picks? AutoDS offers a hand-picked products section that highlights items vetted based on demand, audience, profit potential, and real campaign data, something most platforms don’t offer at all. The goal? To spare you the endless scrolling, so you have time to focus on selling.
Integration with suppliers
AutoDS connects with a wide range of suppliers, including both retail giants and private sellers. This lets you dropship items from multiple suppliers, bringing in the best items from each. Think Amazon, AliExpress, Etsy, Costco, Walmart, Target, and more.
And that’s not all: AutoDS allows you to bulk import items from multiple suppliers at once by copying and pasting each URL. The system automatically pulls in all the product information, and voilà: your store is ready to start selling.
All in all, AutoDS provides broader supplier access than Shopify, WooCommerce, or big marketplaces—no extra apps or tools, everything is centralized in one single place.
Pricing & Fees
AutoDS offers some of the strongest value for your money among dropshipping platforms. The base plan starts at $19.90/mo (billed annually) or $26.90/mo (billed monthly). It includes key features like a fully built store, access to 800M+ bestselling products, order management, business analytics, and more.
And if you want to get advanced dropshipping tools like bulk product importer, title and description optimization, and automatic tracking updates, you can consider the Starter plan at just $29.90/mo (billed monthly) or $39.90/mo (billed annually), as well as specific add-ons.
Shipping & Delivery Times
Shipping and delivery depend on the supplier you’re using, but AutoDS helps you filter and choose products based on delivery speed. Many items in the marketplace come with fast shipping options, especially from private suppliers. Moreover, AutoDS connects sellers to suppliers all around the US, China, Europe, and even Australia, allowing them to choose local alternatives.
As a result, AutoDS helps sellers offer faster global delivery times than platforms that rely solely on local or limited supplier networks, like Facebook Shops, TikTok Shop, or Shopify stores using only U.S.-based suppliers.
Customer Support
AutoDS offers support via live chat and help center resources, with tutorials, step-by-step guides, and free courses on both basic and advanced dropshipping strategies, so you’re never left wondering what to do next.
Unique Features
- Your entire dropshipping strategy in one place. Unlike Shopify, WooCommerce, or marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, which focus on individual store setups, AutoDS lets you manage multiple stores across marketplaces and custom sites from a single dashboard.
- Automated importing, pricing, and order management. AutoDS automates product listings, price updates, and order fulfillment to save time and avoid repetitive work, unlike platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or Facebook Shops that require manual uploads and edits.
- Smart pricing monitoring to stay competitive. AutoDS automatically adjusts your prices based on real-time market data, while other platforms like Shopify, Amazon, or eBay don’t include automated pricing.
- Inventory tracking and automatic updates. Unlike Shopify or WooCommerce, AutoDS keeps your inventory synced and updated automatically, so you don’t oversell across all your stores.
- AI optimization tools for titles, descriptions, and pricing. AutoDS uses AI to generate optimized product titles and descriptions, and it even includes an AI-built Shopify store, unlike other platforms where these tasks are manual.
AutoDS integrates seamlessly with all the dropshipping platforms that we’ll cover below. So, whatever platform or selling channel you choose, AutoDS can help you automate every step of your dropshipping workflow.
Ready to give it a try? Start your AutoDS’s 14-day free trial for $1 and see how easy dropshipping can be with full automation on your side.
TikTok Shop
Platform Overview
Did you know that TikTok lets users buy stuff without even leaving the app? With TikTok Shop, you can sell products directly through videos, live streams, and viral content, blending entertainment with e-commerce.
When is it useful? Mostly, when your product has viral potential. And when you, the dropshipper, actually want to become a content creator. If you do, this is a good choice to turn views into real sales.
Product Sourcing Options
TikTok Shop doesn’t have its own built-in product sourcing tools, so sellers usually rely on manual sourcing or third-party platforms like AutoDS to find and import products. Without a sourcing tool, this translates into more setup and lots of manual work finding suppliers and potential winning products.
Another thing you should know is that TikTok Shop has strict policies around product sourcing. Some product categories require pre-approval, which may involve submitting documents like certifications, test reports, or product and packaging images to meet the platform’s standards.
Integration with suppliers
When it comes to integrations, not many automation platforms integrate with TikTok Shop. AutoDS is one of a few, allowing shoppers to access its marketplace, sync their store with inventory, manage prices, and more.
Pricing & Fees
We have two good news. First, TikTok Shop is completely free to use—no monthly subscription needed. Second, it has one of the lowest commission fees, typically around 2-5% depending on the region and promotions.
That said, there are some hidden costs associated with TikTok Shop, as content creation isn’t free. From editing tools to paid ads and influencer collabs, you may need to invest to keep up on a platform that moves fast and thrives on viral visuals.
But, overall, TikTok Shop is more affordable than platforms like Shopify or Wix, which require a monthly subscription, or Amazon and Etsy, which have higher fees.
Shipping & Delivery Times
This is where it gets a bit tricky. TikTok Shop requires sellers to ship their products within two business days, and for products to be delivered within 11 business days, making you rule out suppliers that don’t meet these requirements.
Moreover, TikTok Shop only allows for US-based dropshipping—no international shipping allowed, so that narrows down the list as well.
Customer Support
All in all, it offers basic seller support through their help center and ticket system. However, TikTok Shop’s support is not as comprehensive or fast as what you might find on platforms dedicated to e-commerce like Amazon or Shopify—so it’s best to partner with third-party dropshipping tools like AutoDS for better assistance.
Unique Features
- In-app shopping experience. Unlike Amazon, Shopify, Wix, eBay, or Etsy, TikTok Shop lets users browse, buy, and check out without ever leaving the app. The result? A perfect combo of content and commerce (it really has never been so easy to shop).
- Built-in audience + viral potential. Because of its nature, it’s easier to reach potential customers in TikTok Shop than Shopify, WooCommerce, or Wix, which require you to drive your own traffic.
- Creator-driven selling. TikTok Shop supports affiliate marketing, meaning creators can promote your products through shoppable videos, turning social proof into instant sales.
Amazon
Platform Overview
I mean, it’s Amazon! This is where the internet shops, so you’ve probably already thought about creating your store here. And if so, you’re right: Amazon is one of the most trusted platforms with a massive built-in audience. But that visibility comes with some things to watch out for: strict rules, intense competition, and tighter margins.
If you know how to handle it, you’ll be fine. But there are things you definitely shouldn’t ignore. Let’s break it down.
Product Sourcing Options
Sourcing for Amazon requires a bit more care and strategy than other platforms like eBay, Shopify, or Facebook Shops due to strict policies around dropshipping.
Basically, to stay compliant, dropshippers must be listed as the official seller, with branding and invoices showing only their name (no mention of the actual supplier), plus full responsibility for customer service and returns.
📦Supplier’s Tip: Want to avoid complications with Amazon? With Fulfilled by AutoDS, you don’t have to worry about invoices, packaging, or unreliable suppliers. AutoDS’s buyer accounts handle the entire process while keeping your business 100% compliant.
Integration with suppliers
Supplier integration isn’t built into Amazon, so you’ll need external tools like AutoDS or Amazon Business to connect your store with inventory and order systems. The right integration will depend on your goals. AutoDS is the way to go if you want to sell on multiple platforms at once while automating your dropshipping workflows.
Pricing & Fees
Let’s talk numbers. First things first: there’s no monthly subscription needed to get started on Amazon (the individual plan costs $0). However, there is a small fee of $0.99 per item sold. Plus, there’s the referral fee, which is usually between 8% and 15%, depending on the product category. And, if you use Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), there are extra fees for storage, packing, and shipping.
So, in short, Amazon can be pricier than TikTok Shop, Facebook Shops, eBay, or Shopify, especially once you factor in all the fees and commissions.
Shipping & Delivery Times
In general, Amazon has faster shipping and delivery times than eBay or Etsy, especially if you use FBA or AutoDS’s fulfillment features. With FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon), you access items that get Prime shipping speed, including same-day delivery options. However, if you fulfill orders yourself (or through a supplier), shipping speed will depend on your logistics setup.
Customer Support
Amazon has a pretty solid seller support through its help center and Seller Central dashboard, especially when compared to eBay, TikTok Shop, or Facebook Shops. That said, don’t expect fast, one-on-one help every time. It’s more self-serve than hands-on.
Unique Features
- Massive built-in traffic. Unlike WooCommerce or Shopify, where you have to drive your own traffic, Amazon already has millions of shoppers browsing the platform, making it easier to increase reach.
- FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon). Amazon handles storage, packing, shipping, and even returns, unlike platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce, where you’re fully responsible for logistics or need to pay for a third-party service.
- Great trust and reputation. Selling on Amazon gives you instant credibility thanks to its global reputation, something you’ll need to build from scratch on platforms like Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce.
Shopify
Platform Overview
Shopify is the go-to platform if you want to build your own branded online store from scratch. You’re in control of everything: how it looks, how it runs, and how your customers shop.
Product Sourcing Options
Shopify doesn’t offer built-in product sourcing, as it works mainly as a selling channel instead of a sourcing platform. As a dropshipper, you have to source products externally (manually or through dropshipping tools). The good news is that Shopify doesn’t impose strict requirements, so you can choose and connect with almost any supplier you want.
In general, when integrated with apps like AutoDS, Shopify gives you more flexibility and sourcing freedom than platforms like Amazon or TikTok Shops.
Integration with suppliers
Shopify integrates smoothly with a wide range of supplier tools like AutoDS. These integrations allow you to sync inventory, automate order fulfillment, and manage pricing efficiently. While supplier connections aren’t actually built into Shopify by default, the available apps make the process simple and easy to manage.
Pricing & Fees
Here’s the thing about custom sites serving as selling channels: most of them come with a monthly subscription plan. Shopify’s pricing starts at $39/month for the base plan, with additional costs for apps, dropshipping tools, themes, and transaction fees if you’re not using Shopify Payments.
But, while it’s not the cheapest, it’s scalable, and you’re not paying per-sale commissions like you would on marketplaces. However, keep in mind that if you’re not using Shopify Payments, Shopify charges per transaction.
Shipping & Delivery Times
When it comes to delivery times, Shopify doesn’t guarantee fast local shipping like big marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. This is because Shopify doesn’t handle fulfillment on its own. You’ll need to use third-party tools or dropshipping partners like AutoDS.
Customer Support
Shopify’s customer service is much more accessible and supportive than that of marketplaces like eBay, TikTok Shop, or even Amazon. It offers 24/7 support via live chat, email, and phone. Plus, it has a massive help center, community forums, and tons of video tutorials. If you’re new to e-commerce, it’s a helpful safety net.
Unique Features
- Fully customizable storefront. Unlike eBay or Etsy, Shopify lets you build a store that looks and feels exactly how you want, with no marketplace branding getting in the way.
- Huge app ecosystem. From upsells to email marketing, Shopify offers extra tools to complement your dropshipping strategy, far more than platforms like TikTok Shop, Facebook Shops, Amazon, or eBay.
- Omnichannel selling. Shopify makes multichannel selling smooth and centralized, unlike TikTok Shop and Facebook Shops, which keep you locked into their own ecosystems.
🆕Beginner’s Tip: Want to get started on Shopify in just a couple of clicks? Try AutoDS’s AI-built Shopify Store and launch a fully branded, product-loaded store without the hassle.
Facebook Shops
Platform Overview
Facebook might seem like your uncle’s favorite social media platform, but it’s also a surprisingly powerful tool for dropshipping and e-commerce. With Facebook Shops, you can create a storefront right on Facebook and Instagram, turning casual scrolling into real shopping.
Facebook Shops is mobile-first, easy to set up, and puts your products in front of people where they already spend time. It’s great for discovery, but if you’re looking for customization, this isn’t the place.
Product Sourcing Options
Facebook Shops doesn’t offer any built-in product sourcing tools, unlike Shopify and WooCommerce, which offer easy app integrations. It leaves product sourcing entirely up to you, so using third-party tools like AutoDS becomes essential for finding products.
What you should also know about Facebook Shops is that it restricts specific categories. You’re not allowed to sell or promote alcohol, medicine, adult products, gambling, financial instruments, jobs, hateful content, body fluids, and more. Make sure to check out their guidelines to make sure your catalog complies with them.
Integration with suppliers
Unlike Shopify’s rich app ecosystem or Amazon’s FBA option, Facebook Shops lacks robust supplier connections and requires more hands-on setup. You’ll likely need external tools to sync inventory and manage orders. Luckily, platforms like AutoDS help fill that gap.
Pricing & Fees
Good news: Facebook Shops is totally free to use. No monthly subscription, no listing fees. And while Meta does charge a selling commission, it’s relatively low compared to most marketplaces: around 5% per transaction or a flat $0.40 for orders under $8. This can absolutely power up your margins.
This makes Facebook Shops way more affordable than Shopify, Wix, or even Amazon, Etsy, and eBay—perfect for new dropshippers just starting.
Shipping & Delivery Times
Shipping is entirely your responsibility. Facebook Shops doesn’t offer fulfillment or logistics support, so you’ll need to coordinate everything through your supplier. Overall, compared to Amazon’s fast FBA delivery, Facebook Shops gives you flexibility but requires more hands-on work. The solution? Using automated fulfillment tools like AutoDS.
Customer Support
When it comes to customer service, Facebook provides basic seller support, mostly through help docs and ticket-based contact. Unlike Shopify’s 24/7 support or Amazon’s structured Seller Central, Facebook Shops’ help is slower, more limited, and less e-commerce-specific. It works, but don’t expect fast or personalized assistance when issues pop up.
Unique Features
- Seamless social commerce. Facebook Shops blends directly into Facebook and Instagram, making it easy to show your products where people already spend time, something you don’t get with standalone stores like Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce.
- Built-in traffic with paid ads. You can run Meta Ads to drive traffic to your shop with precise targeting. While platforms like eBay and Amazon rely on marketplace visibility and Shopify requires external marketing, Facebook Shops lets you advertise and sell on the same platform.
- Easy setup for small sellers. No need for a full website or complex technical know-how. Facebook Shops is way more beginner-friendly than Amazon (which is compliance-heavy) or Shopify (which requires a full setup).
Etsy
Platform Overview
If your products belong in a cute little boutique, or your customers actually read product descriptions, Etsy might be your spot. This is the go-to marketplace for handmade, vintage, and custom products. If your niche is artsy, creative, or one-of-a-kind, Etsy gives you access to a highly engaged audience that’s already looking for unique finds. It’s less about fast trends, more about story, craft, and personal touches.
Product Sourcing Options
Etsy isn’t your typical dropshipping platform. It’s built for creators, not mass resellers. In fact, Etsy has a “handmade policy” that requires all items to be either made or designed by the seller. So, how to actually dropship products on Etsy to comply with this? Many dropshippers use print-on-demand services to offer personalized or custom-designed products.
But here’s another thing you can do: instead of using Etsy as a selling channel, you can use it as a supplier, dropshipping products from Etsy—meaning you import them into your store, whether it is Shopify, Wix, WooCommerce, or another marketplace. This is a great idea to sell handmade, unique products from small businesses without actually making them yourself.
So, all in all, Etsy is more selective (but also more authentic) when it comes to dropshipping, especially compared to Amazon, Shopify, eBay, Facebook Shops, or TikTok Shop, where you can dropship almost everything.
Integration with suppliers
Etsy doesn’t natively support dropshipping supplier integrations, so you’ll need to rely on third-party tools like AutoDS to connect products and automate fulfillment. Still, not every supplier is Etsy-approved.
Pricing & Fees
Well, this is where things can get even trickier with Etsy, as fees can sneak up on you and add faster than you’d expect, cutting down your profit margins. Let’s see:
- $0.20 listing fee per product (even before you make the sale).
- 6.5% transaction fee.
- Payment processing fees depend on the region.
- Etsy may charge a one-time store setup fee of around $15 – $30.
- There’s no monthly subscription unless you choose Etsy Plus, which offers a few extra features for $10/mo.
So, compared to Facebook Shops and TikTok Shop (which have no listing fees) or Amazon (which charges per sale, not per listing), Etsy’s pricing is more complicated and expensive, especially for beginners or those listing lots of products.
Shipping & Delivery Times
Like most dropshipping platforms, with Etsy, shipping is entirely up to the seller or supplier. If you use a print-on-demand partner, make sure they have reliable shipping options.
Customer Support
Etsy’s customer support is mostly email and community-based. So, compared to Shopify’s 24/7 live chat or Amazon’s structured Seller Central, Etsy’s support feels more limited—something you can tackle by using third-party tools like AutoDS, with more personalized, comprehensive support.
Unique Features
- Built-in niche audience. Etsy shoppers aren’t browsing randomly; they’re actively looking for custom, creative, or handmade items, unlike marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, which have a less specific target market, or Facebook Shops’ casual scrollers.
- Strong brand storytelling. Etsy lets you build a narrative around your products, unlike TikTok Shop, where visuals are more important, or Amazon and eBay, where product descriptions are more generic.
- Ideal for print-on-demand creatives. Thanks to integrations with platforms like AutoDS, which offer print-on-demand services, Etsy works better for designers selling custom items than generic marketplaces like Amazon or eBay.
WooCommerce
Platform Overview
WooCommerce is a powerful, open-source e-commerce plugin for WordPress that turns any site into a fully customizable online store. It’s flexible, scalable, and gives you full control over everything—from design to checkout flow. But here’s the trade-off: you’ll need a bit of technical know-how or a developer to really unlock its potential. So, compared to most dropshipping platforms like Shopify, Amazon, Facebook Shops, and more, WooCommerce definitely comes with a steeper learning curve.
Product Sourcing Options
WooCommerce doesn’t include built-in product sourcing, so it leaves it completely up to you (you can do it manually or automatically with tools like AutoDS). But, unlike Etsy, which limits what you can sell, or Amazon, which requires strict sourcing standards, WooCommerce lets you source from nearly anywhere.
Integration with suppliers
WooCommerce’s supplier integrations depend on the tools and plugins you install. For example, solutions like AutoDS and other dropshipping plugins make it possible to sync inventory, automate orders, and manage pricing on WooCommerce.
Pricing & Fees
WooCommerce itself is free. But there’s a trick: running the store isn’t. You’ll need to pay for hosting, a domain, and premium plugins (these are relatively low). And there are payment fees which start at 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction (also low compared to other platforms). The most significant cost would be a potential developer, if necessary.
All in all, unlike Shopify’s fixed monthly fees or Amazon’s per-sale commissions, WooCommerce’s costs are lower if you’re tech savvy, but higher if you need help.
Shipping & Delivery Times
With WooCommerce, shipping is handled entirely by you or your fulfillment partner. The good news? Just like most platforms like Shopify, Wix, TikTok Shop, and Facebook Shop, WooCommerce can rely on AutoDS’s fulfillment services to get it done automatically and hands-free.
Customer Support
Unlike Shopify’s 24/7 live support or Amazon’s comprehensive help center, WooCommerce doesn’t offer direct support.
It’s open-source software, after all. There’s a help page that can point you in the right direction, but that’s pretty much it. Support typically comes from plugin developers, your hosting provider, community forums, or from third-party tools you’re using (such as AutoDS, for example).
Unique Features
- Total design freedom. WooCommerce gives you full control over your site’s layout and features, unlike TikTok Shop, Facebook Shops, Amazon, or eBay, where your storefront is confined within the app.
- Highly customizable checkout experience. Want upsells, bundles, or custom fields? With the right plugins, WooCommerce lets you tweak every part of the buying journey, something platforms like Facebook Shops, TikTok Shop, Etsy, Amazon, or eBay simply don’t allow.
- Built for WordPress lovers. If you’re already running a WordPress site or blog, WooCommerce plugs right in, unlike Shopify or Wix, which require you to build from scratch in their ecosystem.
eBay
Platform Overview
eBay is one of the original players in the e-commerce space, known for auctions, used items, and now a wide range of new products. It’s a massive marketplace with global reach and a diverse buyer base. Whatever you want to dropship, eBay makes it easy to get products in front of people fast.
But that comes with a price: competition is fierce and there are certain seller performance rules that you must comply with to avoid being flagged or penalized.
Product Sourcing Options
Unlike Amazon’s strict policies or Etsy’s handmade requirements, eBay gives you more freedom in what you sell and is super dropshipping-friendly. In fact, the more products you have, the more likely you are to succeed on eBay.
That said, eBay is strict when it comes to copyright. Their Verified Rights Owner Program (VeRO) allows intellectual property owners to report listings that infringe on their rights, which can lead to item removal or account suspension for sellers. So, just be careful when sourcing branded products or using copyrighted images, and make sure you have the proper rights to sell and promote them.
Integration with suppliers
There’s no native supplier integration on eBay, but tools like AutoDS can automate the product import process, sync stock levels, and fulfill orders on your behalf. Without these tools, things can get manual and time-consuming fast.
Pricing & Fees
eBay charges an insertion fee per listing, although the first 250 are free, plus a transaction fee usually around 3-15% of the sale (depending on the product category). There are optional upgrades, like promoted listings, that can add to your costs.
Either way, eBay is one of the most affordable dropshipping platforms with low commissions and no monthly plan required, unlike Amazon (which charges per sale), Etsy (which has listing fees), Shopify (which has a monthly plan), or WooCommerce (which relies on extra costs like hosting and domain).
Shipping & Delivery Times
Unlike Amazon’s FBA model, eBay sellers need to manage delivery closely to stay competitive, unless they use AutoDS’s fulfilment automation for eBay dropshipping. This is because you’re responsible for fulfillment unless you work with a supplier or logistics partner.
Customer Support
eBay offers seller support through its help center and support tickets, with limited live assistance depending on your account level.
Overall, eBay’s support is better than WooCommerce, TikTok Shop, and Facebook Shops, but a bit more limited than Shopify, which can be improved by using third-party dropshipping tools like AutoDS.
Unique Features
- Massive buyer base for secondhand and niche products. eBay remains the go-to for refurbished, collectible, and used items.
- Strong trust signals for long-time sellers. Top-rated seller badges, buyer feedback, and long-standing credibility make it easier to build trust, unlike newer platforms made with Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce, where you start from zero.
Wix
Platform Overview
Wix is a super beginner-friendly website builder with e-commerce features. With its drag-and-drop tool, you can launch a sleek, professional-looking store in no time. That said, it’s not built specifically for dropshipping, so you’ll need to connect a few extra tools, like AutoDS, to make it work smoothly.
Product Sourcing Options
Unlike Amazon’s strict policies or Etsy’s handmade-only vibe, Wix lets you connect with any supplier you want, but only if you use third-party tools like AutoDS. This is because Wix doesn’t include built-in product sourcing, so it relies heavily on external solutions to actually work as a dropshipping platform.
Integration with suppliers
Wix offers fewer supplier integrations than Shopify or WooCommerce (which can connect to many more apps and plugins), but it still solves this with end-to-end tools like AutoDS, which lets you automate product sourcing, inventory, and order fulfillment without the hassle.
Pricing & Fees
When it comes to pricing, Wix is more straightforward and affordable than Shopify, Etsy, or Amazon, as it doesn’t charge fees or commissions, just a monthly plan that starts at $27/month.
This makes it predictable and easy to budget, especially for smaller stores. However, keep in mind that it works best when paired with third-party tools like AutoDS, which have an extra cost.
Shipping & Delivery Times
With Wix, shipping depends entirely on your supplier or fulfillment partner. While it allows you to set shipping rules and zones, it doesn’t manage logistics or offer any additional services to help you with this. Compared to Amazon’s Prime-speed fulfillment, Wix leaves all shipping setup and timing on your hands, something that can be easily managed with automation and fulfillment platforms like AutoDS.
Customer Support
Wix offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and ticketing, plus a large help center with step-by-step guides. That said, it’s important to note that Wix isn’t a dedicated dropshipping tool. Unlike Shopify’s eCommerce-focused support, Wix offers more general assistance, but once you integrate with a tool like AutoDS, you can access dropshipping-specific help.
Unique Features
- Drag-and-drop freedom. Wix gives you full creative control over your store’s layout, more than Shopify’s structured themes, and definitely way more than marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, TikTok Shop, or Etsy.
- Built-in marketing tools: From email campaigns to social media integrations and SEO tools, Wix has a wide range of built-in marketing features that make it easier to grow your brand without relying on external apps like you would with other marketplaces like Etsy, TikTok Shop, or eBay.
- Beginner-friendly setup: Unlike WooCommerce, which can use multiple plugins, Wix keeps things simpler and easier by having your hosting, design, and e-commerce tool under one roof. The setup is pretty straightforward for anyone who wants to get started without the tech headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make money faster when dropshipping?
Automating your dropshipping store saves time, reduces errors, and helps you scale faster. Tools like AutoDS handle product imports, order processing, tracking, and inventory so you can focus on marketing, customers, and growth.
Is AutoDS a selling channel?
AutoDS is not a selling channel; it’s a dropshipping automation tool that connects to marketplaces and online stores to handle product sourcing, inventory, pricing, and order fulfillment.
What is best for dropshipping, a marketplace, or a selling channel?
The best dropshipping platform depends on your goals. Marketplaces like Amazon or eBay offer big audiences and trust, but limit control and branding. Platforms like Shopify give you full branding freedom and higher profit potential, but you’ll need to drive your own traffic.
What is the difference between a dropshipping platform and a supplier?
The difference is that a dropshipping platform (like Shopify or AutoDS) helps you run your store and automate operations, while a supplier provides the products, holds the inventory, and ships orders on your behalf.
Can I use multiple dropshipping platforms at once?
Yes! Many sellers use multiple platforms to reach different audiences, diversify sales, and optimize their workflows. For example, you can use Shopify and AutoDS together to get advanced automation features.
Which dropshipping platform is best for beginners?
Shopify is a great choice for beginners. It’s easy to use, scalable, and works well with automation tools like AutoDS, which lets you launch a fully automated, AI-built store in just a few clicks.
Conclusion: Best Dropshipping Platforms
After reading this article, you should have several tools to help you decide which dropshipping platform is best for your store based on the type of product you intend to sell, the audience you are targeting, and your time management criteria.
Both marketplaces and customizable eCommerce sites offer advantages and disadvantages. The choice between one type of platform will again depend on which features are more convenient for your sales.
Marketplaces are more suitable for general, impulse-buy products and for those aiming to reach a large existing audience with minimal marketing investment. Customizable eCommerce sites are better for high-end or niche products, providing complete control over branding and customer experience. They are ideal for cultivating long-term customer relationships through detailed and personalized marketing efforts.
These are some of the aspects you cannot overlook when choosing the best dropshipping platform, along with examples of some of the best sites you can trust for research. Remember that automation makes everything much simpler, allowing you to focus more on the critical aspects of your business.
To continue exploring the world of dropshipping, we recommend diving into the following articles:
