Introduction
The Facebook Marketplace (with over 1 billion monthly users globally) is a platform for buying, selling, and discovering millions of products across over 100 countries (with a large portion of the transactions happening locally).
Still not sure if the Facebook Marketplace is worth your time? Well, check out these stats according to Scoop:
- In 2022 alone, an astonishing 100 million businesses actively utilized its reach, attracting over 800 million monthly visits.
- Facebook users spend around 20 minutes per visit in the Marketplace.
- 33% of Facebook users in the United States use the Marketplace.
So, if you’re trying to get access to this incredible Facebook feature, our guide will teach you exactly where to find it.
What Is the Facebook Marketplace?
Developed by Meta to integrate seamlessly with Facebook, the Facebook Marketplace is a user-friendly platform that gives people the ability to conveniently buy, sell, or (more rarely) trade items with others in their local vicinity.
Think of it as an online garage sale, but with a much MUCH larger reach and a ton more convenience.
Or like Craigslist (for those of you old enough to remember that platform); it’s a similar concept but with a more intuitive user interface and better visuals to showcase the items you’re interested in.
This modern, online, visually appealing alternative allows you to explore a wide range of products, from small and affordable items to larger and more expensive ones.
Who uses the FB marketplace the most?
- Small businesses
- Regular everyday people
The best part about this platform is that you don’t need to be a business to sell! If you’re trying to declutter your home or make a little extra cash on the side, just post a pic of the item you’re selling, a title, description, and boom: you’re done! All you need to do now is wait for a buyer.
And if you’re a buyer hoping to find a great deal, you’re in luck because there are thousands upon thousands of items waiting for you.
And while Facebook Marketplace is mostly used to facilitate local transactions, you can also offer shipping/buy from users in other parts of the world pretty easily.
Either way, the Facebook Marketplace provides a seamless and accessible experience for its users.
How to Access the Facebook Marketplace in 2 Simple Steps
Get Marketplace for Desktop Users
If you’re accessing Facebook through a desktop or laptop computer, the Marketplace is just a click away.
- Step 1: Look for the left-hand side menu, where you’ll find a dedicated icon for the Marketplace.
- Step 2: Simply click on this icon (the icon will look like a storefront).
And that’s it! Now you’ll have access to local buying and selling opportunities.
Get Marketplace for Mobile Users
Those who prefer the convenience of the Facebook mobile app can also easily access the Marketplace with a few taps.
- Step 1: On the main home screen, you’ll notice the Marketplace listed as one of the menu options.
- Step 2: Tap on it, and you’ll instantly be connected to the Marketplace.
Alternative Way to Access the Marketplace on Mobile Devices
Alternatively, you can access the Marketplace through the Facebook menu options.
- On an iPhone, this icon is located at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- On Android devices, it’s typically found at the top-right.
Once you’ve tapped the menu icon, select the ‘Marketplace’ option.
Who Can Access the Facebook Marketplace?
To use the Facebook Marketplace, users must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Location: Availability spans most countries, notably including the US and Canada.
- You can check out the footer on the official FB Marketplace website to see all the countries it’s available in.
- Device Compatibility: Must have a compatible device.
- Mobile Devices: Marketplace is accessible on iPhone (model 5 and newer), Android devices, and iPads through the Facebook app.
- Desktop: Users can visit Facebook Marketplace by going to www.facebook.com/marketplace on any desktop browser.
4 Alternative Methods to Access the Facebook Marketplace
Having some issues with entering Facebook’s Marketplace? Don’t worry because here are some effective solutions to help you gain access:
- Go straight to the Marketplace by typing its URL directly into your browser.
- For newer Facebook accounts, you may not have access to the Marketplace. To circumvent this, start using your profile by liking and commenting on posts, sharing photos, and adding friends.
- Why does this work? It shows the Facebook algorithm that your account is genuine and used by a real person (not a bot).
- Make sure that your profile lists a current city in a Marketplace-supported country by editing your profile’s location settings.
- Try removing the Facebook app and then reinstalling it or make sure you’re using the latest version (if not, check for any updates).
FAQs for the Facebook Marketplace
Why Am I Unable to See or Access Facebook Marketplace?
If you cannot access the Facebook Marketplace, it might be because of:
- Age Restrictions: Access is granted exclusively to those aged 18 and above (in some countries it may be 20 years old).
- Geographical Limitations: Not all countries have access to Marketplace. If your profile’s listed location is in one of these countries, the Marketplace feature will not be available.
- Device Compatibility: Marketplace supports use on desktop computers, iPhones (from the 5th model onwards), Android smartphones, and iPads.
- Account Maturity: Newly created Facebook accounts might not have immediate Marketplace access.
- Usage Patterns: The Facebook menu adapts to display features you frequently use. If Marketplace is seldom or never used, its icon might not show, but can be found under “See more.”
- Policy Breaches: Violations of Facebook’s usage policies can result in the revocation of Marketplace access.
Can I Sell Items From Any Category on Facebook Marketplace?
Not all item categories are allowed on Facebook Marketplace due to various guidelines and regulations.
Facebook prohibits the sale of certain items like alcohol, tobacco, adult products, weapons, and animals, among others.
So if you’re unsure if it’s okay to sell your product (or you get a warning from Facebook) check the latest Facebook Marketplace guidelines.
Is There a Way to Save Items I’m Interested in on Facebook Marketplace?
Yes, you can save items you’re interested in by clicking the “Save” button on the listing.
To see your previously saved items, go to your saved items list.
What Should I Do if I Come Across a Scam on Facebook Marketplace?
If you suspect a scam or fraudulent activity on Facebook Marketplace, report the listing or the user directly through the reporting tools provided on the platform.
Avoid sharing personal information, and never complete transactions outside the secure payment methods recommended by Facebook.
