Understanding the restrictions on what can be sold on different eCommerce platforms is crucial for sellers to avoid issues and make the most of their online stores. Each platform has its own guidelines and policies in place. This guide provides information on prohibited and restricted items for major eCommerce platforms.
Wix:
Wix Payments has a list of prohibited products and services due to compliance reasons. Prohibited categories include adult goods and content, certain financial services, restricted medical devices and supplements, counterfeit and IP-infringing products, deceptive marketing tactics, regulated products like alcohol and cannabis, and high-risk securities and trading services.
Shopify:
Shopify Markets Pro has specific restrictions for various types of goods. Prohibited and restricted items include alcoholic beverages, certain animal and pet supplies, artwork that violates copyright or trademark laws, dangerous goods in the automotive and powersports category, certain batteries and electronics, certain beauty and cosmetics products, heavily-regulated consumer safety goods, drugs and drug paraphernalia, explosives and weapons, flammable and pressurized goods, various health-related items, sexually explicit materials, and tobacco-related products.
Magento:
Magento, a self-hosted platform known for its customization options, has guidelines in its Acceptable Use Policy to ensure responsible use of its services. While specific prohibited items are not listed, the focus is on maintaining a lawful, secure, and respectful environment.
WooCommerce:
WordPress.com, which hosts WooCommerce stores, has specific guidelines for eCommerce services. Prohibited items include firearms, sexually explicit material, controlled substances, and other restricted sales with conditions for alcohol and CBD products.
BigCommerce:
BigCommerce allows a broad range of products but prohibits illegal, invasive, fraudulent activities. Content restrictions include no profanity or inappropriate content. Other prohibitions include privacy violations, misrepresentation, hacking, viruses and spam, and usage of anonymous proxies.
Squarespace:
Squarespace enforces restrictions primarily governed by its Terms of Service and Acceptable Use Policy. Prohibited activities include abusing and disrupting the services, spamming and phishing, deceiving and impersonating others, stealing, infringing on rights, and engaging in improper or illegal conduct.
Selling prohibited items on any platform can lead to consequences such as warnings or notifications, suspension of listings or services, account suspension, or termination. It is important for sellers to adhere to platform guidelines to maintain a compliant and trustworthy presence.
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