Facebook Marketplace is a feature within the Facebook app that allows users to buy and sell items locally. When you communicate with buyers or sellers on Marketplace, those conversations happen within the app’s messaging system.
If you need to find your Facebook Marketplace messages, there are a couple places you can look depending on whether you use Facebook on mobile or desktop.
Finding Facebook Marketplace Messages on Mobile
If you mostly use Facebook on your smartphone or tablet, your Marketplace messages will be found in the Message section of the Facebook mobile app.
To view your Marketplace messages on mobile:
- Open the Facebook app on your iOS or Android device.
- Tap the Message icon at the bottom right of the screen (shaped like a word bubble).
- This will open your messages. Swipe left or tap “Marketplace” at the top to filter just your Marketplace messages.
You will now see all of your current message threads related to Marketplace listings and communications. Tap any thread to view the full conversation.
Other Places to Find Marketplace Messages on Mobile
In addition to the main Message section, there are a couple other places you may find Marketplace messages on mobile:
- Notification bell: If you have unread Marketplace messages, the notification bell at the top right of the Facebook app may show a badge with the number of unread threads. Tap here to quickly jump to those messages.
- Marketplace tab: Open the Marketplace tab, tap your profile icon, then tap “Messages” to view message threads from your listings and buying conversations.
Finding Marketplace Messages on Desktop
The process for finding your Marketplace messages on desktop is very similar to mobile.
To view Marketplace messages on the Facebook website:
- Go to www.facebook.com and log into your account.
- Click the Messenger icon near the top right of the page (shaped like a speech bubble).
- In the left sidebar, click “Marketplace” to filter just your buying and selling messages.
This will display all of your message threads related to Marketplace interactions. Click any thread to view the conversation.
Other Ways to See Marketplace Messages on Desktop
Here are some other places you can find Marketplace messages when using Facebook on a computer:
- Red dot on Messenger icon: If you have unread Marketplace messages, a red notification dot will appear on the Messenger icon. Click it to go directly to those new messages.
- Marketplace tab: Click the Marketplace tab in the left sidebar, then click your profile picture and “Messages” to see all message threads.
Managing Facebook Marketplace Messages
Now that you know how to find your Marketplace messages, here are some tips for staying on top of these conversations:
- Enable notifications: In the Facebook app, go to Settings > Notifications and turn on notifications for Marketplace messages. This way you’ll be alerted when you receive a new message.
- Check frequently: It’s good practice to check your Marketplace messages at least once a day so you don’t leave buyers waiting.
- Reply promptly: Respond to inquiries and questions as soon as possible so buyers know you’re actively engaged.
- Follow up: If a conversation goes cold, follow up with the buyer after a few days in case they still need help or are interested.
- Clear old threads: Once you’ve completed a transaction, mark the thread as read and archive it to clear out old conversations.
Troubleshooting Marketplace Messages
If you’re having trouble viewing your Facebook Marketplace messages, here are some things to try:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Can’t find Marketplace message tab | Make sure you have the latest version of the Facebook app. The Marketplace messaging feature may not be available in older versions. |
| Marketplace messages not showing up | Try restarting the app or logging out and back into Facebook. This refreshes the messages. |
| Notifications not coming through | Go to Settings, Notifications and make sure Marketplace notifications are enabled. |
If none of those basic troubleshooting tips work, here are a few other things you can try:
- Check your internet connection
- Force quit and relaunch the Facebook app
- Clear the app cache and data
- Log out then back into Facebook
- Restart your device
- Update to the latest version of the Facebook app
- Contact Facebook support for further help
Using Facebook Messenger for Marketplace
While messaging through Marketplace is the default option, you can also use Facebook Messenger to communicate with buyers and sellers.
To use Messenger for Marketplace conversations:
- When viewing a Marketplace listing, tap the profile picture of the seller.
- Tap “Message” to open a Messenger thread with that person.
- Continue the conversation in Messenger as normal.
Using Messenger allows you to take advantage of features not available in Marketplace messaging, like stickers, video calls, larger file sharing, and more.
The downside is that these conversations will not be filtered into your Marketplace message tab. However, you can always find Message threads by opening Messenger.
Differences Between Marketplace Messaging and Messenger
| Marketplace Messaging | Messenger |
|---|---|
| – Only works between buyer and seller – Limited to text, photo, link sharing – Stays within Marketplace tab |
– Can message anyone on Facebook – More features like video chat, animated text, etc. – Lives in main Messenger tab |
Choosing Your Preferred Marketplace Messaging Method
Facebook gives you the ability to choose how you want to message within Marketplace.
If you prefer to keep your buying and selling conversations contained within the Marketplace tab, use Marketplace messaging.
But if you want access to expanded messaging features, starting a Messenger thread with buyers and sellers allows that added flexibility.
It comes down to personal preference. Try both messaging options and see which works better for your Marketplace communication style.
Other Facebook Marketplace Tips
Here are some additional tips and tricks for using Facebook Marketplace:
- Add plenty of photos to your listings – use all 10 photo slots
- Provide detailed item descriptions and list any defects
- Factor shipping costs into your listed price
- Respond to buyer questions within 24 hours when possible
- Leave feedback for buyers and sellers after transactions
- Report suspicious accounts or activity to Facebook
- Meet buyers and sellers in a safe public place if completing a transaction in person
Facebook Marketplace Requirements
To use Facebook Marketplace, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have a Facebook account in good standing
- Comply with Facebook’s Commerce Policies
Facebook Marketplace Categories
Some of the main product categories on Marketplace include:
- Vehicles
- Housing
- Furniture
- Apparel
- Electronics
- Sporting goods
- Home items
- Books/movies
Users can browse listings in a specific category or search for items.
Conclusion
Finding your Facebook Marketplace messages is easy once you know where to look. On mobile, access them through the Message tab or Marketplace icon. On desktop, use the Messenger sidebar menu.
Keeping up with Marketplace communications ensures buyers get quick responses when interested in an item. Always try to reply within 24 hours.
Troubleshoot any issues accessing messages by checking app settings, notifications, and your internet connection. And consider using Messenger if you want more advanced messaging features.
With a few simple tips, you can stay on top of your Marketplace messages and provide an excellent experience for all buyers and sellers.