Consumer-to-consumer, or C2C, is commerce between consumers. One individual sells to another. No business is involved. eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace are platforms that enable C2C transactions. But the sellers are people, not companies.

C2C has exploded with the internet. Before online marketplaces, C2C was limited to garage sales and classified ads. Now anyone can sell to anyone, anywhere. The platforms provide the infrastructure: listings, payment processing, messaging, and reviews. They take a cut of each sale. C2C is appealing because it often offers lower prices and unique items. It is also riskier. There is no business to hold accountable. Fraud happens. Disputes are common. Trust is built through ratings and reviews. A seller with a strong reputation can command higher prices. A new seller struggles to get the first sale. C2C has created new income opportunities for millions of people. It has also disrupted traditional retail. Why buy new when you can buy gently used from someone down the street?

Popular platforms

• eBay
• Etsy
• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• Poshmark