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Big Cartel is an online platform that allows artists, musicians, and other creators to sell their products, ranging from T-shirts to handmade crafts, direct to consumers. Its simple design and ease of use make it an attractive option for those searching for an affordable, customizable e-commerce solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
-Allows for customization of storefronts and product listings
-Simple user interface and checkout process
-Integrations with popular payment and shipping providers
-Affordable pricing plans
Cons:
-Limited features compared to other e-commerce platforms
-Does not offer built-in marketing or SEO tools
-No phone support for customer service
User Experience
The user experience on Big Cartel is simple and streamlined, with easy-to-use interfaces for both sellers and buyers. Both parties can easily create and navigate custom storefronts and product listings, while the checkout process is easy to follow and understand.
Pricing and Value for Money
Big Cartel offers a range of pricing plans, with the lowest tier being free but limited to five product listings. The other tiers range from $9.99 to $29.99 per month, offering more products and additional features. While Big Cartel may be less expensive than some other e-commerce platforms, its limited features may make the higher-tier plans less attractive when compared to more feature-rich alternatives.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Big Cartel include more comprehensive e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Squarespace. These platforms offer a wider range of features, such as built-in marketing and SEO tools, but may also come with higher pricing plans.
Customer Service
Big Cartel offers customer service through email and social media, but does not offer phone support. However, their customer service team is known for being responsive and helpful.
Product Quality and Selection
The quality and selection of products on Big Cartel varies widely depending on the individual seller. Because the platform caters to artists and creators, buyers can expect to find unique and handcrafted products that may not be available elsewhere.
Website Usability
Big Cartel's website is easy to navigate and use, with simple navigation and clear call-to-actions. The platform also allows for customization of storefronts and product listings, making it easy to create a unique and cohesive brand image.
Returns and Exchanges
Returns and exchanges are up to the individual sellers on Big Cartel, as the platform does not offer a built-in returns process. It is important for buyers to review individual seller policies before making a purchase.
Promotions and Discounts
Promotions and discounts are up to the individual sellers on Big Cartel, and may not be available on all products. Buyers can search for discounted products within the main navigation of the platform.
Reputation
Big Cartel has a positive reputation within the e-commerce community, with many users praising its affordability and ease of use. However, some users have noted that the platform's limited features may be a drawback for larger businesses or those in need of more comprehensive e-commerce solutions.
Payment Options
Big Cartel integrates with popular payment providers such as PayPal and Stripe, making it easy for both buyers and sellers to process transactions securely.
Loyalty Programs
Big Cartel does not currently offer a loyalty program.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews on Big Cartel vary depending on the individual seller and product, but many buyers praise the platform's uniqueness and handmade quality of the products sold.
Community Involvement
Big Cartel is involved in various charity and community initiatives, such as their partnership with Pledge 1%, which encourages businesses to donate 1% of their time, product, or profits to charitable causes.
Shipping and Costs
Shipping costs and methods are up to the individual sellers on Big Cartel, so it is important for buyers to review seller policies before making a purchase. The platform does integrate with popular shipping providers for easy processing and tracking of orders.
Review Title: Great, easy and affordable option for Artists
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Review Description: I opened my shop on Big Carel in the Fall of 2021 and everything has worked smoothly since. I appreciate it's just one price a month and that they remit taxes to states. I have my store integrated w/ my personal website and I appreciate all the tools. There's also effortless integration with PIRATE SHIP for shipping. I don't know what the bad reviews are about, but as an artist with a small sales side business, I didn't want a store to take over my life and this was the best option
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Reviewer Name: latrice Jones
Review Submission Date: 2022-11-08
Review Title: I order two pair of shoes in August for…
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Review Description: I order two pair of shoes in August for 214 dollars haven’t receive my shoes yet n they won’t give me refund
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Reviewer Name: Theo
Review Submission Date: 2022-08-14
Review Title: Borderline scammers, don’t support
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Review Description: First time I bought from big cartel not a problem. Fast forward two years and place an order, I don’t receive my package, I write 3 friendly emails, nothing. I write a nice but pissed email, nothing, waiting on my charge back from the bank. Don’t buy from them, it sucks because I love the merch one band was selling. No customer support 0/10 don’t buy from boarder line scammers.
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Reviewer Name: Alleyah Smith
Review Submission Date: 2022-06-09
Review Title: An amazing website builder!
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Review Description: I am using Big Cartel to make my small business, it is a great site especially if your new. All of the other reviews that say it’s a scam or they took their money, that’s not big cartel, that’s a site someone made on big cartel to scam people.
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Reviewer Name: nomika
Review Submission Date: 2022-06-07
Review Title: Great CSR experience, nice features to bulid your online shop (Seller)
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Review Description: Great website bulider platform, you can start with no bigger investment, which is very helpful!From a seller point or view, amazing customer service as well. Thank you!
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Reviewer Name: Gretchen Barrett
Review Submission Date: 2022-05-11
Review Title: Scam!
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Review Description: My husband attempted to buy Ludos for me. They took my husbands payment. Never sent a confirmation email. Never answered emails, answered messages off of Instagram, and apparently never sent the item! Definitely a scam!
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Reviewer Name: Carson Sampl
Review Submission Date: 2022-03-15
Review Title: It’s a great free website builder
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Review Description: It’s a great free website builder great
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Reviewer Name: Hunter George
Review Submission Date: 2022-01-31
Review Title: Look everyone To make a website/online…
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Review Description: Look everyone To make a website/online store big cartel is simply at its finest and yes it’s small but it’s great to start out. the REVIEWS are based on the SELLERS themselves not the website!
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Reviewer Name: Camilla Bruggen
Review Submission Date: 2022-01-18
Review Title: Avoid at all costs!
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Review Description: The product was shoddy and tiny (I ordered a UK size 8 - it was more like an 8 year old child). I have returned the package and heard nothing back. Small print on their website says no refunds - I think this is illegal in the UK. Avoid at all costs!
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Reviewer Name: Jess
Review Submission Date: 2021-11-13
Review Title: Never received item I paid for
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Review Description: I ordered a Ludo back in May. Seller claimed they had surgery so there would be a delay in shipping. That's fine, life happens. Months go by, messages are ignored, my money is gone. PayPal wasn't an option when I paid and it turns out these debit/credit cards are just as much of a scam because they don't offer any of the protection they advertise.