1. Define what you sell and to whom
Choose a specific niche instead of selling everything. A focused business is easier to remember and recommend.
- Baked goods and made-to-order food
- Clothing and accessories
- Natural and personal care products
- Crafts and gifts
- Pet supplies
2. Make paying easy
SINPE Móvil is the most used payment method among small businesses because it's fast. Complement it with bank transfer and, if your ticket is high, a card payment link. Always confirm the money arrived before shipping.
3. Plan shipping inside and outside the GAM
Within the Greater Metropolitan Area you can use couriers or your own deliveries on fixed routes. For the rest of the country, parcel services and the postal service are the usual options. Publish costs and timelines for each case.
4. Publish clear prices in colones
Show the final price and say whether shipping is included. Customers leave the chat when they have to ask three times to know what they'll pay.
5. Create your catalog and share it
A link with photos, prices, and variants saves hours of messages. Put it in your Instagram bio, your WhatsApp Business profile, and every post.
6. Get known in your community
Facebook groups for your canton, entrepreneur fairs, and word of mouth are still the most effective channels to get started.
7. Formalize when the business calls for it
Once sales are steady, learn about registering as a taxpayer and electronic invoicing. Check official sources or an accountant, because requirements get updated.
With instant payments, well-explained deliveries, and an organized catalog, selling online in Costa Rica is within reach of any consistent small business.