Introduction
When starting with dropshipping, understanding which selling channels are supported is essential for planning your business setup. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about all selling channels where you can sell using AutoDS, including detailed comparisons, challenges, scaling strategies, and best practices for each platform.
The AutoDS platform is designed to help dropshipping businesses streamline their operations by supporting multiple selling channels. Whether you're selling on major marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, and Etsy, or building your own branded online store with Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce, AutoDS offers the flexibility to connect your preferred channels and manage your entire business from one centralized platform.
Before connecting your store, confirm that your selling channel is supported in your region and that you understand the specific requirements, challenges, and opportunities associated with each platform. This ensures smooth integration and prevents issues during the setup process, setting you up for long-term success in your dropshipping journey.
AutoDS supported selling channels
Below is the complete list of selling channels supported by AutoDS, along with their regional availability and key notes:
Selling channel | Regions (Ship from) | Key notes | Returns Timeline |
Amazon | AU, BR, CA, DE, ES, FR, IN, IT, JP, MX, NL, PL, SA, SE, SG, TR, UAE, UK, US. | Sellers targeting a high-volume, global marketplace with built-in buyer demand.
Learn more: Amazon integration | 2 business days. |
eBay API | AU, ES, CA, DE, FR, IT, UK, US. | Sellers who want to sell on a large marketplace with built-in buyer traffic and full automation.
Learn more: eBay integration | 3 business days. |
eBay non-API (MIP) | AU, ES, CA, DE, FR, IT, UK, US. | Sellers who want to sell on eBay but prefer manual control.
Learn more: eBay non-API (MIP) integration | 3 business days. |
Etsy | All. | Learn more: Etsy integration | 2 business days. |
Facebook Marketplace Facebook Shop | All. | Sellers who want to leverage their social media presence to drive sales.
Learn more: Facebook integration | 2 business days. |
Shopify | All. | Sellers looking to build a custom online store with full branding control.
Learn more: Shopify integration | Defined by the seller. |
TikTok Shop | DE, ES, FR, IE, IT, PH, SG, TH, UK, US. | Sellers use short-form video content and influencer marketing to drive product interest.
Learn more: TikTok Shop integration | Must ship within 48 hours. |
Wix | All. | Beginners or small businesses who want an easy drag-and-drop online store setup.
Learn more: Wix integration | Defined by the seller. |
WooCommerce | All. | Tech-savvy users who want full control over a WordPress-based store.
Learn more: WooCommerce integration | Defined by the seller. |
Note: Regional availability may vary based on the selling channel's policies and restrictions. Always verify that your region is supported before integrating a new selling channel with AutoDS.
Prerequisites for connecting your store
Before connecting your selling channel to AutoDS, make sure you meet the following requirements to ensure a smooth integration process.
Create an AutoDS account: Sign up on the official AutoDS website and select the subscription plan that best fits your business needs. Click here to learn more about subscription plans.
Have an active subscription with your selling channel: Each selling channel (such as eBay, Shopify, or Amazon) requires its own active plan, which is managed separately from your AutoDS subscription. For example, if you're selling on Shopify, you need an active Shopify subscription. If you're selling on eBay, you need an active eBay seller account.
Store must be fully set up and verified: AutoDS recommends that your store be active, fully set up, and approved by the selling channel before connecting it to the platform. To confirm this, try uploading a product directly from the selling channel to ensure there are no blockers or restrictions on your account.
Important: If you register via a selling channel (such as Shopify or Wix), your AutoDS account will be restricted to only connecting stores from that specific platform. To connect multiple different selling channels, register directly through the AutoDS website.
How to choose the right selling channel
Before choosing a selling channel, it's essential to understand the two main categories of platforms available for dropshipping: marketplaces and e-commerce platforms. Each type offers distinct advantages and challenges, and the right choice depends on your experience level, budget, and business goals.
Marketplaces vs. e-commerce platforms
Aspect | Marketplaces | E-commerce Platforms |
Traffic | Built-in traffic from the existing customer base. | Zero traffic by default, you must drive all visitors. |
Entry difficulty | Easier for beginners. | Requires advanced marketing skills. |
Branding | Limited, buyers see purchases as from the marketplace. | Full control over branding and customer experience. |
Policies | Strict deadlines and platform rules. | Complete control over policies and shipping times. |
Marketing | Minimal marketing needed initially. | Requires paid ads, social media, SEO, content creation. |
Budget | Lower upfront investment. | High upfront costs for ads and creatives. |
Best for | Quick sales, leveraging platform trust. | Building long-term brand and customer loyalty. |
Key considerations when choosing a selling channel:
Budget: Marketplaces require less upfront investment because traffic is built-in, while e-commerce platforms demand consistent ad spend and marketing budgets.
Experience: Beginners often find more success starting with marketplaces due to their simplicity and instant access to customers. E-commerce platforms require more advanced skills and learning.
Branding: If building a long-term brand is important to you, e-commerce platforms offer full control. Marketplaces limit your ability to create brand recognition.
Traffic source: Marketplaces provide organic traffic from their customer base. E-commerce platforms require you to generate all traffic through external marketing efforts.
Policies and control: Marketplaces enforce strict rules you must follow. E-commerce platforms give you full control over policies, shipping times, and customer service approaches.
Add or delete a store on AutoDS
Managing your stores on AutoDS is straightforward, whether you're connecting a new selling channel or removing an existing one. This guide covers both processes to help you maintain control over your dropshipping business connections.
How to add a store to AutoDS
Adding a store to AutoDS connects your selling channel to the platform, allowing you to automate product imports, order fulfillment, and inventory management. Follow these steps to connect your preferred marketplace or eCommerce platform.
From the left sidebar, click Add Store.
If you see No Stores, click ➕ Add Store at the bottom left corner.
Select your preferred store or selling channel and click Continue.
Follow the platform-specific authentication steps to authorize AutoDS to access your store.
The exact steps vary depending on your chosen selling channel, but typically involve logging into your store account and granting permissions.
The store was already connected before
If you've previously added the same store to another AutoDS account, you may encounter an error when attempting to connect it again. This happens because the platform detects that the trial period has already been used for that specific store.
Connecting a previously used store: To connect a store that was previously linked to another AutoDS account, you must purchase a subscription plan for your new account. Even if this is your first time using the new AutoDS account, the platform requires an active paid plan to successfully add the store, as the trial eligibility was consumed on the previous account.
Regaining access to your previous AutoDS account: If you'd like to access the AutoDS account where the store was originally connected, you can register again using the same email address and password that you used for the original account. Make sure to log out of any currently active AutoDS account before attempting to register.
Important: Once an account is deleted, any prior trial access cannot be restored. If you reopen a deleted account, you must select a new paid plan regardless of previous trial consumption or subscription history.
How to delete a store from AutoDS
Deleting a store permanently removes it from your AutoDS account along with all associated data, including imported products, order history, and configuration settings. Make sure you want to proceed before confirming deletion.
Click the pencil icon (✎) from the left menu sidebar to open your store settings.
In the pop-up window that appears, locate the store you want to delete.
Click the three dots (⋮) next to the store name.
Click Delete from the dropdown menu.
Confirm your decision in the pop-up window. Once confirmed, the store and all its associated data will be permanently deleted from AutoDS.
Important: Store deletion is permanent and cannot be undone. All products, orders, settings, and historical data associated with that store will be removed from the platform.
Amazon stores
Amazon sellers are those who want to target a high-volume, global marketplace with built-in buyer demand. Amazon offers built-in traffic, but it comes with high competition and strict policy enforcement. Some products require approval with documentation before listing.
Supported regions: AU, BR, CA, DE, ES, FR, IN, IT, JP, MX, NL, PL, SA, SE, SG, TR, UAE, UK, US.
Returns timeline: 2 business days.
User segment: Experienced sellers with high expectations.
Business model: Data-driven research, competitive pricing, fast shipping.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration with Amazon, click here.
Key challenges
To succeed on Amazon, focus on products where you can offer competitive pricing and fast shipping. Build positive seller metrics by maintaining low order defect rates, fast response times, and excellent customer service. Below you can see the key challenges when selling on Amazon:
Product approval required: Many products on Amazon require approval before you can list them. You'll need to provide invoices from authorized suppliers, warehouse addresses, and detailed seller information. Listings may appear inactive until approved by Amazon's team. This approval process can take several days or even weeks, delaying your ability to start selling.
Seller Central complexity: Amazon's Seller Central dashboard includes extensive inventory tools, warehousing options, policies for orders, listings, shipping, and returns. The interface is less intuitive than platforms like eBay or Etsy, requiring a steeper learning curve. New sellers often feel overwhelmed by the number of features and settings available.
Customer-centric policies and rigid timelines: Amazon prioritizes the customer experience above all else. Fast refunds are often deducted from seller payouts before disputes are fully resolved. This exposes sellers to potential losses of up to 30% from fraudulent claims or customer abuse. You must price these potential losses into your profit margins when calculating product pricing.
Catalog competition and price wars: Amazon uses a catalog model where all sellers offering the same product are placed on a single listing. Visibility depends on winning the "Buy Box," which is awarded based on price, shipping speed, seller metrics, and customer service. Competition is intense, especially for dropshipping sellers with thin profit margins. Additionally, bad-actor tactics such as fake negative reviews or bulk purchases to manipulate rankings do occur and must be anticipated when planning your strategy.
Scaling patterns on Amazon
As you grow your Amazon business, you'll move through three distinct phases that require different strategies and skills. This breakdown shows you what to focus on at each stage, the most common reasons sellers fail, and how to prepare for the next level:
Phase | Focus | Common Challenges |
Phase 1 – Entry | Product research, understanding the approval process, and learning the catalog system. | Most failures occur due to the inability to provide documentation or understand the catalog structure. |
Phase 2 – Traction | Competing for Buy Box with competitive pricing, fast shipping, and excellent metrics. | Buy Box competition is intense. Without wins, sales potential is severely limited. |
Phase 3 – Scale | Sourcing from faster shipping suppliers, bulk listing products that win Buy Box. | Diversifying to other platforms like eBay or Shopify to reduce Amazon dependency. |
Mid-seller challenges
Sellers at this stage need to maintain competitive pricing and shipping speeds while managing the intense Buy Box competition. Diversification to other platforms becomes essential to reduce dependency on Amazon.
eBay API and non-API (MIP) stores
eBay sellers are those who want to sell on a large marketplace with built-in buyer traffic. API version offers full automation features, while the non-API (MIP) provides manual control. eBay provides built-in traffic with partial reliance on external marketing.
Supported regions: AU, CA, DE, ES, FR, IT, UK, US.
Returns timeline: 3 business days.
User segment: High-volume sellers with high risk tolerance.
Business model: High listing volume, low optimization.
API requirements: API integration requires API access for full automation features.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration options API and non-API (MIP) with eBay, click here.
Key challenges
Selling on eBay involves navigating automated enforcement systems, strict deadlines, and payout holds that can impact new sellers. Understanding these challenges upfront helps you avoid account suspensions and build your business sustainably:
Automated algorithms and early suspensions: eBay uses automated algorithms that can drive early account suspensions, making it difficult to reach human support when issues arise. Certain actions can trigger restrictions without warning.
Copyright and VeRO removals: Automated scans continuously monitor listings for potential copyright violations. Even false positives can result in listing removals. For example, certain product categories like knives or branded items may be flagged incorrectly, leading to temporary restrictions until you can appeal.
Deadline complexity: eBay enforces strict timelines for shipping labels, refunds, tracking updates, order processing, and message responses. Missing any of these deadlines can result in account defects, lower search rankings, or suspension. You must stay organized and respond quickly to all buyer communications and platform requirements.
Slow payouts for new sellers: New accounts typically face payout holds of 21 to 30 days, creating cash flow challenges. This means the money from your sales is held by the platform while you still need to fulfill orders upfront. Without adequate capital to cover product costs during this hold period, you may struggle to fulfill orders, leading to cancellations and potential account suspension.
Selling limits: eBay has clear monthly listing limits that are visible in your account. New sellers must gradually request limit increases as they build positive selling history.
Tip: To avoid early suspensions on eBay, start slowly with a small number of listings, respond to all buyer messages within 24 hours, ship orders promptly, and gradually request limit increases as you build positive selling history.
Scaling patterns on eBay
As your eBay business grows, you'll progress through three phases that require different strategies at each stage. This breakdown helps you understand what to focus on now and how to prepare for the next level while avoiding common scaling mistakes.
Phase | Focus | Common Challenges |
Phase 1 – Entry | Learning platform policies, setting up shipping and returns, and raising selling limits. | Understanding marketplace rules and building initial credibility. |
Phase 2 – Traction | Bulk listing products to increase visibility and sales volume. | Many fail here by scaling too quickly, leading to suspensions or policy violations. |
Phase 3 – Scale | Hiring virtual assistants, opening multiple accounts, and using advanced bulk tools. | Multi-account strategies protect against suspensions and increase listing capacity. |
International opportunities
Important: eBay offers international opportunities from a single account, which many new sellers overlook. If you sell on eBay.com (US), you can also log in and sell on eBay Canada with the same account, giving you access to two separate stores. This multiplies your traffic and sales potential without additional costs.
Example: A 10,000 listing plan on eBay.com also gives you:
25,000 listings on eBay Canada.
10,000 on eBay UK.
25,000 on eBay France.
One subscription plan allows you to sell in multiple countries simultaneously, dramatically increasing your reach.
Mid-seller challenges
Rapid scaling risks: Scaling too quickly can lead to account suspensions because eBay's automated systems flag sudden increases in sales volume as potentially suspicious.
VeRO copyright flags: Listings are at risk of takedown due to VeRO copyright flags, even for unintentional violations.
Strategy: Mid-sellers need to scale gradually and diversify across multiple accounts to reduce the impact of potential suspensions.
Etsy stores
Etsy sellers are creators selling handmade, vintage, or artistic goods to a niche audience. Etsy provides a built-in buyer base with a strong community, but is limited to specific product categories (handmade, vintage, craft supplies).
Supported regions: All.
Returns timeline: 2 business days.
User segment: Handmade product sellers expanding online.
Business model: High listing count, focused on the handmade niche.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration with Etsy, click here.
Key challenges
Selling on Etsy requires navigating automated enforcement systems, strict handmade-only policies, and hidden listing limits that can restrict your growth. Understanding these platform-specific challenges helps you build your store strategically while avoiding common pitfalls that lead to account suspensions or stunted growth:
Automated algorithms and early suspensions: Like eBay, Etsy uses automated algorithms that can drive early account suspensions, making it difficult to reach human support when issues arise.
Deadline complexity: Etsy enforces strict timelines for shipping labels, refunds, tracking updates, order processing, and message responses. Missing deadlines can result in account defects or suspension.
Slow payouts for new sellers: New accounts typically face payout holds of 21 to 30 days, creating cash flow challenges.
Hidden selling limits (shadow limits): Etsy enforces hidden limits without warning. For example, the platform may reduce your store's traffic if you list too many products as a new seller. A seller capped at 10 listings per month who doesn't know how to request limit increases will struggle to grow.
Handmade-only requirement: Etsy's policies limit the product catalog to handmade, vintage, and craft supplies, significantly restricting options for dropshipping.
Tip: To avoid early suspensions on Etsy, start slowly with a small number of listings, respond to all buyer messages within 24 hours, ship orders promptly, and gradually request limit increases as you build positive selling history.
Scaling patterns
Growing an Etsy business follows three distinct phases, but comes with unique constraints due to the handmade-only requirement and multi-account complexity. This roadmap shows you how to scale within Etsy's restrictions while understanding when and how to diversify your business approach:
Phase | Focus | Common Challenges |
Phase 1 – Entry | Learning platform policies, setting up shipping and returns, and raising selling limits. | Understanding marketplace rules and building initial credibility. |
Phase 2 – Traction | Bulk listing products to increase visibility and sales volume. | Many fail by scaling too quickly, leading to suspensions or policy violations. |
Phase 3 – Scale | Hiring virtual assistants, opening multiple accounts, and using advanced bulk tools. | Opening multiple Etsy accounts requires separate company setups. |
Mid-seller challenges
Catalog limitations: The handmade-only requirement significantly limits the product catalog available for dropshipping.
Multi-account difficulty: Opening multiple Etsy accounts is difficult because it requires separate company setups and legal entities, creating barriers to diversification strategies that work well on other platforms.
Facebook Marketplace/Shop
Facebook Marketplace and Facebook Shop sellers are those who want to leverage their social media presence to drive sales. Great for connecting with followers and social audiences, but with limited store customization compared to standalone platforms.
Supported regions: All.
Returns timeline: 2 business days.
User segment: First-time sellers with minimal eCommerce experience.
Business model: High listing volume, chatty customers, low trust environment.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration with Facebook stores, click here.
Note: Facebook Shop and Facebook Marketplace are not the same. Facebook Shop is designed for companies and businesses with advanced tools. Facebook Marketplace is intended for private sellers with different access levels and features.
Key challenges
Facebook Marketplace operates with automated enforcement, hidden limits, and a low-trust environment that requires extra effort to build credibility. New sellers face unique challenges related to buyer skepticism and unpredictable platform restrictions that can impact your scaling efforts without warning:
Automated algorithms and early suspensions: Facebook uses automated algorithms that can drive early account suspensions, making it difficult to reach human support when issues arise.
Hidden selling limits (shadow limits): Facebook enforces hidden limits without warning. For example, the platform may reduce your store's traffic if you list too many products as a new seller without prior warning. These hidden limits can block your scaling efforts.
Low trust environment: Facebook Marketplace has massive traffic but lower buyer trust due to scammers, requiring extra effort to build credibility.
Deadline complexity: The platform enforces timelines for order processing and message responses. You must respond quickly to buyer communications.
Tip: Start slowly with a small number of listings and build positive selling history before scaling. Respond to all buyer messages promptly to build trust.
Scaling patterns
Facebook follows similar patterns to eBay and Etsy, with entry, traction, and scale phases focused on gradually building listing volume and credibility.
Shopify stores
Shopify sellers are those who are looking to build a custom online store with full branding control. Easy to use, highly scalable, and offers AI-powered tools to help pre-build your store and streamline setup. You manage your own traffic through marketing.
Supported regions: All.
Returns timeline: No direct system managed by the platform.
User segment: Beginners and brand-focused sellers.
Business model: In-depth product research, strong marketing skills, and high budget.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration with Shopify, click here.
Key challenges
Shopify offers complete branding control but comes with the significant challenge of zero built-in traffic. Success requires substantial marketing investment, data-driven product research, and the ability to create compelling ad campaigns that drive visitors to your store and convert them into customers:
Zero organic traffic: Simply importing products and waiting for sales will not work on Shopify. Without domain awareness and active marketing, your store can receive zero visits even after a month of being live. You are entirely responsible for driving traffic through paid advertising, social media marketing, content creation, or SEO.
Product selection is critical: Success depends on data-driven product research, trend analysis, and competitor research. After selecting products, you must test them with strong ad creatives, including professional photos and videos, and run effective campaigns through platforms like Meta Business Center (Facebook/Instagram ads) or Google Ads. Without compelling creatives and targeted campaigns, even great products will not sell.
No reviews, no trust: New stores start with no customer reviews or social proof, making it difficult to convert visitors into buyers. Customers are hesitant to purchase from unfamiliar brands without testimonials or ratings. Building trust takes time and requires strategies such as offering money-back guarantees, displaying security badges, and collecting early reviews through incentive programs.
High upfront costs: Advertising, creative production, and marketing spend represent significant upfront investments. Many new sellers fail because they underestimate the budget required to test products and scale successful campaigns. You need sufficient capital to test multiple products, creatives, and audiences before finding winning combinations.
Marketing learning curve: Sellers need time to learn marketing fundamentals, including audience targeting, ad copywriting, A/B testing, funnel optimization, and analytics interpretation. This learning process can take months, and mistakes during this period can be costly.
Note: If you're new to e-commerce platforms, consider starting with marketplaces first to generate initial revenue and learn dropshipping fundamentals. Once you have experience and capital, expanding to e-commerce platforms becomes more manageable.
Scaling patterns
Scaling on Shopify requires mastering three phases: establishing your brand and testing products, identifying winners through data analysis, and scaling successful campaigns with increased budgets. Each phase demands different skills, from creative development to funnel optimization and customer retention strategies:
Phase | Focus | Common Challenges |
Phase 1 – Entry | Branding, product research, and running initial ad tests. | Most failures occur because sellers underestimate the marketing knowledge and the budget required. |
Phase 2 – Traction | Identifying winning products, A/B testing creatives, and focusing on one-product stores. | One-product stores perform better for branding and conversion optimization. |
Phase 3 – Scale | Increasing ad budget, expanding catalog, scaling winners, building email lists. | Implementing retargeting campaigns and customer loyalty programs. |
Note: Shopify requires third-party integrations to access multi-country selling features similar to what eBay offers natively.
Mid-seller challenges
Constant product research: Trending products have short lifecycles. For example, a seller doing well with Halloween masks will see sales drop to zero after Halloween ends. They must immediately switch to Christmas-themed products and then find new trending items again.
Budget limitations: Scaling requires consistent ad spend and creative production, which many mid-sellers can't sustain.
TikTok Shop
TikTok Shop sellers are those using short-form video content and influencer marketing to drive product interest. Strong for viral, impulse-driven sales, but requires creating or managing engaging video content. TikTok has strict category restrictions, and some items may require certifications that AutoDS does not provide.
Supported regions: DE, ES, FR, IE, IT, PH, SG, TH, UK, US.
Returns timeline: Must ship orders with tracking within 48 hours.
User segment: Content-driven sellers.
Business model: Video content creation, viral marketing.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration with TikTok shop, click here
Key challenges
TikTok Shop combines the challenges of marketplace algorithms with unique requirements for video content creation and extremely strict fulfillment timelines. The platform's tracking compatibility restrictions and 48-hour shipping requirement create significant obstacles for dropshipping sellers who must carefully select compatible suppliers:
Automated algorithms and early suspensions: TikTok uses automated algorithms that can drive early account suspensions, making it difficult to reach human support when issues arise.
Hidden selling limits (shadow limits): TikTok enforces hidden limits without warning. These limits can block your scaling efforts if you don't understand how to gradually increase your listing capacity.
Strict fulfillment requirements: Orders must be shipped with tracking within 48 hours. This is extremely difficult for dropshipping sellers who rely on suppliers without inventory control.
Tracking compatibility: TikTok Shop does not accept tracking numbers from China-based suppliers or Amazon, limiting supplier options for dropshippers. You must work with suppliers that provide tracking numbers accepted by TikTok.
Content creation demands: Success requires consistent creation of engaging short-form video content, adding complexity to your operations.
Tip: Start slowly with a small number of listings and focus on creating high-quality video content. Work only with suppliers that provide TikTok-compatible tracking.
Scaling patterns
TikTok Shop offers fast initial traction through viral content, but requires solving critical tracking and fulfillment challenges to scale successfully. This roadmap shows you how to progress from content-driven entry to multi-account scaling while navigating the platform's strict supplier requirements:
Phase | Focus | Common Challenges |
Phase 1 – Entry | Promoting products with video content (reels), listing products. | Engaging videos are essential for visibility. |
Phase 2 – Traction | Bulk listing is easy; initial sales follow quickly. | Many stop here due to tracking and fulfillment issues. |
Phase 3 – Scale | Opening multiple accounts, solving tracking compatibility issues. | Must work with suppliers providing TikTok-accepted tracking. |
Mid-seller challenges
Strict fulfillment policies: Scaling is hindered by the requirement to ship orders with tracking within 48 hours, which is difficult for dropshipping sellers without inventory control.
Tracking limitations: TikTok Shop does not accept tracking from China-based suppliers or Amazon, severely limiting supplier options.
Wix stores
Wix sellers are often beginners or small businesses that want an easy, drag-and-drop online store setup. Good for local or niche sales with a user-friendly interface for non-technical users. You manage your own traffic.
Supported regions: All.
Returns timeline: No direct system managed by the platform.
User segment: Beginners and brand-focused sellers.
Business model: In-depth product research, strong marketing skills, and a high budget.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration with Wix, click here.
Key challenges
Wix provides an easy-to-use store builder but shares the same fundamental challenges as other e-commerce platforms: zero organic traffic, high marketing costs, and the need to build trust from scratch. Success requires investment in advertising, creative content, and ongoing marketing education.
Wix faces the same challenges as Shopify and WooCommerce:
Zero organic traffic: You must drive all traffic through marketing efforts.
Product selection is critical: Requires data-driven research and strong ad creatives.
No reviews, no trust: Building credibility takes time and strategy.
High upfront costs: Significant investment in ads and marketing required.
Marketing learning curve: Time needed to learn marketing fundamentals.
Scaling patterns
Wix follows the same scaling patterns as Shopify, with phases focused on branding, product research, ad testing, identifying winners, and scaling campaigns.
WooCommerce stores
WooCommerce sellers usually are tech-savvy users who want full control over a WordPress-based store. Highly customizable but requires hosting and web development knowledge. Complete control over every aspect of your store.
Supported regions: All.
Returns timeline: No direct system managed by the platform.
User segment: Beginners and brand-focused sellers (with technical skills).
Business model: In-depth product research, strong marketing skills, and a high budget.
To learn more about the AutoDS integration with WooCommerce, click here.
Key challenges
WooCommerce offers maximum customization and control but adds technical complexity to the standard e-commerce challenges of traffic generation and marketing. You'll need both technical skills for platform management and marketing expertise to drive sales, making it more demanding than other platforms.
WooCommerce faces the same challenges as Shopify and Wix, with the addition of:
Technical complexity: Requires hosting setup and web development knowledge.
Maintenance responsibility: You're responsible for security updates, plugin compatibility, and technical troubleshooting.
Scaling patterns
WooCommerce follows the same scaling patterns as Shopify, with additional technical considerations for server capacity and performance optimization as traffic grows.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I connect more than one selling channel to AutoDS?
Can I connect more than one selling channel to AutoDS?
You can connect multiple selling channels to AutoDS as long as you registered through the official AutoDS website. If you registered directly through a partner's app store (such as Shopify or Wix), your AutoDS account will be limited to connecting only that specific selling channel. To manage multiple different selling channels from one account, register directly at the AutoDS website.
Do I need a paid AutoDS plan to connect a store?
Do I need a paid AutoDS plan to connect a store?
To connect your first store, you can start with the $0.99 trial for each selling channel. This gives you access to the core platform features without committing to a full subscription right away. The 14-day trial allows you to test AutoDS and see if it fits your business needs before upgrading to a paid plan.
Can I remove or replace a store later?
Can I remove or replace a store later?
You can manage your connected stores under the Stores tab in your AutoDS account. From there, you can remove, replace, or add more stores according to the subscription plan you choose. This flexibility allows you to adapt your setup as your business grows and changes.
Can I register the same store on a different AutoDS account?
Can I register the same store on a different AutoDS account?
You can register the same store on a different AutoDS account. However, the new account will not have access to the trial period because the trial has already been used for that specific store.
To proceed, you have two options:
Continue using the trial period on your original AutoDS account.
Purchase a subscription plan to activate the new account.
If you want to keep using the trial period, consider adding VA (Virtual Assistant) users to your original account instead of migrating. This allows you to grant access to others without losing your trial benefits or having to manually transfer all your products and settings to a new account.
Which selling channel is best for beginners?
Which selling channel is best for beginners?
For beginners, marketplaces like eBay API or Facebook Marketplace are often the best starting points because they provide built-in traffic and require less marketing expertise.
eBay API offers clear listing limits and straightforward policies, though you'll need to manage strict shipping deadlines, payout holds, and potential copyright issues.
Facebook Marketplace provides massive traffic but comes with a low-trust environment, hidden listing limits, and requires quick responses to buyers. Both platforms allow you to start making sales quickly without needing to invest heavily in paid advertising. Once you gain experience, understand dropshipping fundamentals, and build capital, you can expand to e-commerce platforms like Shopify for more branding control, though you'll need to handle zero organic traffic, high marketing costs, and building trust from scratch.
Which selling channel is best for building a brand?
Which selling channel is best for building a brand?
E-commerce platforms like Shopify, Wix, and WooCommerce are best for building a brand because they give you complete control over your store design, customer experience, branding elements, and policies. However, these platforms come with significant challenges, including:
Zero organic traffic.
High upfront marketing costs.
No initial customer trust or reviews.
Except for Shopify, where you can use AutoDS Product Reviews.Steep marketing learning curve.
If long-term brand building is your goal, invest in an e-commerce platform despite the higher initial costs and marketing requirements, but be prepared to invest months learning marketing fundamentals and testing products before seeing consistent results.
How do payout holds work on marketplaces?
How do payout holds work on marketplaces?
Most marketplaces hold payouts for new sellers for 14 to 30 days. This means the money from your sales is held by the platform while you still need to fulfill orders upfront using your own capital.
eBay typically holds funds for 21 days, while Etsy and other platforms have similar policies. These holds create cash flow challenges that can lead to order cancellations and potential account suspensions if you can't fulfill orders.
To manage this challenge, start with lower-priced products that require less upfront investment, build a cash reserve to cover fulfillment costs during the hold period, and gradually increase your product prices as your account matures and payout holds are removed.
What's the difference between eBay API and non-API integration?
What's the difference between eBay API and non-API integration?
eBay API integration provides full automation features, allowing AutoDS to automatically manage listings, inventory updates, price changes, and order processing.
eBay non-API (MIP) integration gives you more manual control over your store operations, but with fewer automation capabilities.
Both integrations face the same eBay challenges, including strict 3-day return timelines, shipping and tracking deadlines, payout holds for new sellers, and copyright/VeRO removal risks.
API integration is recommended for sellers who want maximum efficiency and time savings, while non-API is suitable for sellers who prefer more hands-on control over their business operations despite the additional manual work required.
Can I sell the same products on multiple selling channels?
Can I sell the same products on multiple selling channels?
You can sell the same products across multiple selling channels connected to AutoDS. The platform allows you to manage inventory, pricing, and orders from a centralized platform, making it easy to maintain consistency across different marketplaces and e-commerce platforms.
However, be mindful that each platform has different challenges: Amazon requires product approvals and has 2-day return timelines, eBay has 3-day return deadlines and copyright monitoring, Etsy restricts to handmade products only, and TikTok Shop requires 48-hour shipping with compatible tracking. Ensure your inventory management is properly configured to avoid overselling situations where you sell a product on multiple channels simultaneously.
What are the main differences between Facebook Shop and Facebook Marketplace?
What are the main differences between Facebook Shop and Facebook Marketplace?
Facebook Shop and Facebook Marketplace are not the same platform. Facebook Shop is designed for established companies and businesses, offering advanced tools, features, and integration capabilities for professional selling operations. Facebook Marketplace is intended for private sellers and individual users, with different access levels, rules, features, and audience expectations.
Both face challenges with hidden listing limits, automated suspensions, and a low-trust environment requiring extra credibility-building efforts. However, Facebook Shop offers more professional features while Facebook Marketplace provides easier entry, but with more chatty customers and minimal eCommerce tools.
The requirements, policies, verification processes, and functionalities differ significantly between the two platforms, so make sure you understand which one aligns with your business type and goals.
What happens if I scale too quickly on a marketplace?
What happens if I scale too quickly on a marketplace?
Scaling too quickly on marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, or TikTok Shop can trigger automated account suspensions because the platform's algorithms flag sudden increases in sales volume or listing activity as potentially suspicious.
Each platform has different risks:
eBay may suspend for rapid listing increases while holding your payouts.
Etsy enforces hidden limits that reduce traffic without warning.
TikTok Shop has strict 48-hour fulfillment requirements that become harder to manage at scale.
To avoid this, scale gradually by slowly increasing your listing count, maintaining excellent seller metrics (fast shipping, good communication, low defects), and requesting limit increases incrementally as you build positive selling history.
Diversifying across multiple accounts and selling channels also helps protect your business from the impact of single-account restrictions.
Why do some selling channels have hidden limits?
Why do some selling channels have hidden limits?
Platforms like Etsy, TikTok Shop, and Facebook enforce hidden limits (often called "shadow limits") to protect their ecosystems from spam, low-quality sellers, and rapid account abuse. Unlike eBay, which displays clear monthly listing limits, these platforms reduce your store's visibility or restrict your activity without explicit notification.
Etsy may cap new sellers at 10 listings per month without warning.
TikTok Shop can block scaling if fulfillment metrics drop below standards.
Facebook Marketplace may reduce traffic for listing too many products too quickly.
The platform may reduce traffic if you list too many products as a new seller, or limit your growth if your metrics don't meet their standards.
To navigate these hidden limits, start slowly with 5-10 listings initially, focus on quality over quantity, maintain excellent customer service metrics (respond within 24 hours, ship on time), and gradually increase activity as you build credibility and positive selling history.
What should I do if my store gets suspended?
What should I do if my store gets suspended?
If your store gets suspended on a marketplace, immediately review the suspension notice to understand the specific policy violation or issue. Contact the platform's seller support with detailed explanations and any requested documentation to appeal the suspension.
Common suspension reasons vary by platform:
eBay suspensions often involve missed shipping deadlines, VeRO copyright complaints, or rapid scaling. Learn more about how to prevent copyright complaints here.
Amazon suspensions relate to product approval issues, low seller metrics, or customer complaints.
Etsy and TikTok suspensions typically result from policy violations or hidden limit triggers.
To prevent suspensions, maintain excellent seller metrics, respond to buyers within 24 hours, ship orders on time with tracking, meet all return and refund deadlines, and understand each platform's specific policies before you start selling.