Posted on August 14, 2015 by admin
When it comes to owning an online business it is important to choose a suitable E-commerce platform that will meet both your business needs and the needs of your consumers. Nowadays, there are a number of available E-commerce solutions to choose from and most of them fall into two different categories: non-hosted and hosted.
While some may disagree, for some business owners, having a hosted E-commerce platform provides some advantages over a non-hosted solution. Hosted E-commerce platforms that are available on the market today tend to be equipped with dedicated and skilled support personnel and as a result, server downtime can be significantly lower than non hosted options.
Here are 5 of the best hosted E-commerce platforms on the market today:
1. Shopify
As one of the leading, popular hosted E-commerce platforms available, Shopify boasts an attractive, user-friendly administration interface enabling even the newest of novices the ability to manage their online store. Small start up businesses would best be suited for the starter plan at a cost of $14 per month, while an established, medium to larger sized business would be better served with the basic plan at $29 per month, as it comes with 1 GB of storage.
2. X-Cart Cloud
For those who have used WordPress before, X-Cart Cloud provides similar capabilities as a publishing platform, offering a variety of free and paid modules, but it also offers hosted capability with the ability to access the POS module via a single interface. Package pricing starts at $15 per month.
3. 3dcart
Engaging consumers is important for online business success nowadays. This particular e-commerce platform hosted solution not only will let you accept Bitcoins, but it offers a built-in loyalty program system, giving your consumers the opportunity to earn rewards while shopping. Prices start at $16.99 per month.
4. BigCommerce
A popular online shopping cart, well suited to small to medium sized E-commerce businesses. Offer real time shipping quotes and gift cards. Prices start at $29.95 per month.
5. Volusion
Starting at $15 per month, this E-commerce platform offers built-in loyalty program, along with eBay and Amazon integration.