Key takeaways
- Confirm every payment in your own bank or payment app before you release goods.
- Be honest in your listings and keep clear written records.
- Protect your accounts and your customers’ details.
The short answer
Selling online lets you reach customers far beyond your street. It also attracts scammers, so a few safe habits matter from day one. This guide covers how to choose what to sell, where to sell it and how to handle payments and delivery without being cheated. For a full store set-up, read start an online store in Nigeria.
Step 1: Choose what to sell
- Start with something you know, can supply reliably and that people already want.
- Check that it is legal to sell, and that you have the rights to sell it.
- Test with a small batch before you buy a lot of stock.
- Digital products such as templates and guides can be sold without delivery costs. See sell digital products on Selar.
Step 2: Choose where to sell
| Option | Strengths | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Marketplaces | Built-in buyers and some buyer protection | Fees and competition |
| Social media and WhatsApp | Easy and personal | More scams, and no protection for either side |
| Your own online store | Full control of your brand | You must drive traffic. See Shopify vs WooCommerce. |
Step 3: Take payments safely
- Use trusted payment services and payment links, so the money goes into a verified account.
- Always check that money has really arrived in your bank or payment app before you send goods. Do not trust screenshots or text alerts from a customer.
- Beware of overpayment tricks, where a buyer “accidentally” sends too much and asks for a refund before the original payment fails.
- Never share your PIN, password or one-time code with a buyer, even one who says they need it to pay you.
- Keep payments and personal money in separate accounts if you can.
Step 4: Write honest listings
- Use your own clear photos. See how to take better photos with your smartphone.
- Describe the item, size, condition, price, delivery time and return policy honestly.
- Do not use fake reviews or copied pictures.
- Reply to questions quickly and politely.
Step 5: Handle delivery
- Use reliable couriers and keep tracking numbers and receipts.
- Package items carefully and photograph them before sending.
- For local sales, meet in a safe, public place in daylight.
- Give buyers a clear delivery window and keep them updated.
Step 6: Protect your accounts and customers
- Use strong passwords and two-factor login on your email, bank and selling accounts. See password manager and two-factor login.
- Be careful with links from “buyers” or “support teams”. See phishing emails and SMS scams.
- Keep customers’ addresses and phone numbers private, and do not share them without permission. See data privacy.
Step 7: Keep records and obey the rules
- Save orders, receipts, messages and delivery proof.
- Track income and costs with a simple spreadsheet. See Excel and Google Sheets skills for small business.
- Learn which business registration, licences and taxes apply to you. See Nigerian tax law for freelancers and small businesses.
- Issue receipts or invoices. See choose invoicing software.
Common seller scams
| Scam | How to avoid it |
|---|---|
| Fake payment alert | Check your own account, not a message |
| Overpayment and refund request | Do not refund until your bank confirms the money is final |
| Fake courier who collects goods | Use couriers you chose and confirm identity |
| Buyer asks you to click a link | Do not click. Use official payment links only |
| Request for upfront “release fee” | Refuse |
Quick checklist
- Start with a product you know
- Choose a platform and read its rules
- Verify payment in your own account
- Write honest listings and keep records
- Protect your accounts and customers’ data
- Learn your tax and registration duties
Key points to remember
Selling online rewards patience and caution. Build trust with honest service, and you will keep customers coming back. Check any unfamiliar website with check if a website or app is safe before you pay.
This guide is general information to help you decide and act with confidence. Features, prices and settings change, so confirm current details with your device maker or service provider before you act. Last reviewed October 2026. Read our editorial standards.
