The Facebook Marketplace allows users to buy and sell items locally. It can be accessed through both the Facebook website and mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Here is a guide on how to find and use the Facebook Marketplace.
Accessing the Marketplace on the Facebook Website
To access the Marketplace on the Facebook website, follow these steps:
- Go to www.facebook.com and log into your account.
- Click on the “Marketplace” icon in the left sidebar. It looks like a small shopping bag icon.
- This will bring you to the Marketplace homepage. Here you can browse items for sale, search for specific items, and filter by location and category.
The Marketplace homepage shows you a feed of listings in your local area. You can scroll through to browse items for sale. Use the search bar at the top to search for specific items. Filter the results using the location and category filters on the left sidebar.
Creating a Marketplace Listing on the Website
To create a new listing to sell an item:
- Click the “Sell Something” button in the top right.
- Select the category your item falls under – such as cars, furniture, electronics, etc.
- Add photos and description details for your listing.
- Enter a price and your local pickup information.
- Click “Post” to publish your listing.
Your listing will now appear in the Marketplace for other users to find and contact you about purchasing.
Accessing Marketplace on the Facebook Mobile App
The Facebook Marketplace can also be accessed and used via the Facebook mobile app for iOS and Android. Here’s how to find it:
- Open the Facebook app on your device.
- Tap the menu icon (3 horizontal lines) in the top right corner.
- Scroll down and tap “Marketplace” – it’s the shopping bag icon.
This will bring you into the Marketplace where you can browse, search, and filter just like on the website. Tap the camera icon to create a new listing directly from your device.
Marketplace Features in Mobile App
The Marketplace in the mobile app makes it easy to:
- Take photos directly within the app to include with your sale listing.
- Use your device’s location to populate your listing pickup location.
- Chat with buyers interested in your listing.
- Get notifications when buyers message you about an item for sale.
Tips for Buying on Marketplace
When browsing and buying items on the Facebook Marketplace, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the search filters to narrow down listings to find exactly what you’re looking for.
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate on price with sellers.
- Thoroughly inspect items before purchasing.
- Only buy from local sellers for safe in-person pickup.
- Use Facebook Pay to securely send and receive payments.
- Trust your gut feeling – if a listing seems fishy, move on.
Safety Tips for Marketplace Meetups
When meeting a seller in person to purchase an item, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Meet in a safe public place like a cafe or store parking lot.
- Bring someone with you or tell a friend where you’re going.
- Don’t go to the seller’s home and don’t let them in your home.
- Only pay cash upon inspecting and collecting the item.
- Make the exchange during daytime hours if possible.
Tips for Selling on Marketplace
To have a successful experience selling your items on Facebook Marketplace, follow these tips:
- Take clear, well-lit photos to show off your item’s condition.
- Accurately describe any flaws or damage to your item.
- Price items competitively based on Marketplace value.
- Respond promptly to buyer inquiries and questions.
- Arrange safe public meetup spots to complete the sale.
- Accept cash payment only upon buyer pickup.
Creating Effective Listings
To create listings that effectively sell your items:
- Choose an appropriate title that describes the item.
- Write a detailed description noting features, flaws, dimensions, etc.
- List the brand name and model for electronics, vehicles, etc.
- Select the most accurate category and condition.
- Add relevant hashtags like #furniture or #used.
Marketplace Allowed and Prohibited Items
While Facebook Marketplace permits a wide range of item listings, some products are prohibited:
| Allowed Items | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|
| Used clothing | Illegal drugs |
| Handmade crafts | Weapons |
| Cars and vehicles | Live animals |
| Furniture and home goods | Sexual content |
| Electronics | Stolen goods |
Sellers should carefully review the full Marketplace Commerce Policies before listing an item.
Reporting Prohibited or Inappropriate Listings
If you come across a Marketplace listing violating the Commerce Policies:
- Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the listing.
- Select “Report Listing”.
- Choose the reason for reporting.
- Submit your report.
Facebook’s review team will investigate and take down any listing confirmed to violate policies.
Managing Your Marketplace Settings
You have a few options for customizing your Marketplace experience:
- Location visibility – Control whether your general location is visible to others.
- Deal alerts – Get notified when listed items you’ve saved drop in price.
- Listing privacy – Choose who can see your sale listings.
Adjust these from the Marketplace Settings menu which can be accessed by clicking the account icon in the top right corner of Marketplace.
Marketplace Help Resources
If you need assistance using Marketplace as a buyer or seller, consult these resources:
- Marketplace FAQ page
- Facebook Marketplace community and forums
- Contact Facebook support for account issues
- Provide in-app feedback on glitches
Conclusion
Facebook Marketplace provides a convenient way for people to shop locally from their mobile device or computer. Items are arranged by location so buyers can easily browse what’s available in their neighborhood. By following the tips in this guide, you can have success buying and selling on Marketplace while staying safe.