Etsy presents an avenue for Kenyans to thrive in the global eCommerce landscape and tap into a potential customer base of over 90 million buyers.
Now, if you happen to be a seller based in Kenya seeking to broaden your market and venture into selling on Etsy, you might be curious about the available payment methods. Fret not though, for this article aims to walk you through all you need to know about Etsy payments in Kenya.
In essence, Etsy Payments serves as the primary avenue through which sellers receive payment on Etsy. This system streamlines the payment process for both sellers and buyers alike. Enrolling in Etsy Payments is an integral component of establishing a shop on the platform.
How To Start Selling On Etsy From Kenya
Starting your journey as a seller on Etsy from Kenya can be a straightforward process if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Creating an Account
Begin by visiting Etsy.com/sell and clicking on the “Get Started” button to set up your own Etsy shop.
Step 2: Customizing Your Shop
Take the time to select your shop’s language, country, and preferred currency. Keep in mind that the language you choose will be the default language for describing your products. While it can’t be changed later, you can always add translations in other languages once your shop is up and running.
Step 3: Choosing a Memorable Shop Name
Pick a unique shop name that reflects your style. Ensure that the name is between four to 20 characters in length and does not contain special characters, spaces, profanity, or infringe upon existing trademarks. However, remember that while the name is important, the quality and nature of your products will ultimately have a stronger impact on your success. Focus on promoting your listings effectively.
Step 4: Stocking Your Shop
After setting up your shop, it’s time to fill it with enticing images and prices of the products you create. Etsy caters to a diverse range of products, from handmade items to vintage finds and customizable goods. Whether you specialize in jewelry, toys, shoes, or clothing, there’s a suitable category for your creations.
Step 5: Providing Payment Information
Etsy requires you to provide essential payment details, including your banking information, address, social security number (SSN), and date of birth. This information ensures secure transactions for both you and your buyers. Additionally, it enables you to offer various payment options, enhancing the shopping experience for your customers.
Step 6: Submitting Billing Details
During this phase, accuracy is key. Provide the correct billing information according to your country of residence or where your business is officially registered. The credit card information you provide will serve various purposes, such as identification, authorization, and payment of fees and commissions.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to selling your unique products on Etsy, delighting customers from around the world while embracing the opportunities this platform
Etsy Payment Options Available for Kenyans
To provide a better experience for shoppers, Etsy requires all eligible sellers to accept Etsy Payments in their shop. This allows buyers to pay using a variety of preferred payment methods in Etsy stores throughout the world, and Etsy may give direct payment support if necessary. As a seller, you will be eligible for Etsy-wide promotions such as multi-shop checkout, delivery options, and seasonal deals. Sellers that migrated to Etsy Payments reported a 7% increase in sales.
When your shop is enrolled in Etsy Payments, customers can select from the following payment methods: Credit cards, debit/bank cards, Etsy Gift Cards, Etsy Credits, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
#1. PayPal
PayPal is the primary method of payment accepted on Etsy and is easily accessible in Kenya. Etsy and PayPal have formed a partnership that allows buyers to utilize their PayPal accounts to make purchases from Etsy sellers.
During the setup process for your Etsy shop, you will be prompted to input your PayPal account details so that customers can pay for their orders. Once this is done, buyers can choose to pay with either their credit cards or through their PayPal accounts when purchasing from your store.
#2. Credit Cards
Credit cards are the most widely accepted payment option on Etsy. Setting up a merchant account with either Stripe or Square enables you to easily accept credit card payments. With these services, buyers input their credit card information directly into Etsy, and funds are then deposited into your bank account within one to three business days.
#3. Debit Cards
Debit and bank cards can also be accepted through various services such as Stripe, Square, and Adyen. These platforms offer a straightforward setup process similar to credit card options. Additionally, funds will be deposited into your bank account within one to three business days.
#4. Apple Pay
Apple Pay is another payment option available in Kenya. It caters to buyers who own Apple devices and ensures secure payment on Etsy with its use of the same security protocols as credit cards. It is worth noting that personal information is not required when using Apple Pay.
#5. Google Pay
Similarly, Google Pay is a payment option available in Kenya, specifically for Android users. Whether utilizing the Android mobile app or a browser, buyers can confidently make payments with the same level of security as Apple Pay.
#6. Etsy Gift Cards and Etsy Credits
These are two alternatives for buyers who do not possess a credit card or bank account. These options allow you to accept payments from such buyers, whether in printed or online form. They provide an excellent solution for individuals who prefer not to share their payment information with sellers.
Why Choose Etsy Payments?
If you’re a seller, you may be wondering why it’s necessary to have Etsy Payments for your shop. Apart from being a requirement, using Etsy Payments offers numerous advantages.
Advantages of Etsy Payments for Sellers in Kenya:
1. Improved Convenience
Etsy Payments simplifies the payment process for both buyers and sellers, making it hassle-free. By utilizing this integrated system, you can provide various payment options to your customers, including credit and debit cards, PayPal, and mobile payment methods. This ensures that you cater to a wider range of customers, ultimately boosting your sales potential.
2. Secured Transactions
The security of financial transactions is a top priority for Etsy Payments, providing peace of mind to sellers and buyers. With robust fraud detection mechanisms and secure payment processing, you can conduct business confidently without worrying about unauthorized transactions or data breaches.
3. Boosted Buyer Confidence
By offering Etsy Payments on your store, you instill confidence in potential customers. Many buyers prefer shopping on platforms that offer secure and trusted payment options. By using Etsy Payments, you demonstrate your commitment to providing a safe and reliable shopping experience, which can help attract and retain customers.
4. Simplified Financial Management
Etsy Payments grants you access to an organized dashboard that presents detailed records of your sales, fees, and payouts. This simplifies financial management tasks such as tracking income and expenses, calculating profits, and preparing tax documentation. The transparency and user-friendly nature of Etsy Payments allow you to focus on growing your business.
5. International Sales
Etsy Payments enables you to expand your customer base beyond Kenya by accepting payments from international buyers. This opens up new opportunities for your products to reach a global audience, thereby increasing your chances of making sales and establishing international brand recognition.
6. Customer Support
Etsy provides dedicated customer support for sellers utilizing Etsy Payments. In the event of any issues or concerns, you can rely on their support team to promptly assist you, ensuring a seamless selling experience.
How to add Etsy Payments to your shop?
To enroll for Etsy Payments, navigate to Payment Settings in Shop Manager > Finances.
There, you will be prompted to provide your credit card details, bank account information, and residential address for deposit purposes.
Additionally, you will need to authenticate your identity.
Types of Costs for Etsy Sellers
Despite receiving payments on Etsy, sellers encounter different expenses:
1). Listing Fees
When sellers create a new listing for an item they wish to sell on the platform, a listing fee is applied to their account. This fee is a one-time charge incurred upon listing creation, granting sellers the opportunity to exhibit their merchandise for up to four months. Subsequently, after four months, the listing expires, and renewal or the creation of a new listing is required to continue selling the item.
2). Transaction Fee
On Etsy, a transaction fee also referred to as a payment processing fee, is imposed on sellers for each sale conducted through the platform. Apart from any other applicable fees, such as listing fees or shipping fees, this fee is calculated as a percentage of the sale price.
3). Fee for Currency Conversion
To account for the conversion of payment from the buyer’s currency to the seller’s currency, Etsy applies a conversion fee. This fee is typically incorporated into the overall sale price, which encompasses shipping fees and taxes.
Conclusion
Etsy Payments In Kenya offers a trustworthy and effective payment solution designed specifically for sellers in Kenya. The Etsy platform attracts millions of visitors who purchase from a wide range of sellers. To maintain a competitive edge, it is crucial to adopt various strategies, including investment in ads and offsite ads. Although this may incur additional expenses, the outcome will be increased revenue and higher profits in the future.
This blog article has provided in-depth insights into the Etsy payment methods available in Kenya, offering valuable information to assist both current and aspiring sellers in Kenya.