Creating a car auction marketplace may seem complicated to you. Luckily, WordPress along with its helpful plugins makes it super easy to create and run any type of marketplace from scratch.
Plus, the automotive industry is evolving significantly in recent years. People are actively seeking reliable sources to purchase their dream cars at affordable prices. In fact, recent data shared by IBIS World reveals that-
The Global Car & Automobile Sales industry is projected to reach a staggering $3.8 trillion in revenue by 2023.
Given this immense market potential, there couldn't be a better time to embark on your car auction marketplace journey.
So, without any further ado, let's get started with this 7 steps tutorial to create your very first car auction marketplace in a few hours:
- Install Dokan Lite Multivendor Plugin for WordPress
- Purchase and Upload Dokan Premium Version
- Configure the General Settings of the Dokan Plugin
- Enable and Configure Dokan Auction Module
- Choose a WordPress Theme for Your Car Auction Marketplace
- Setup Admin Shop & Upload Auction Products on Your Store
- Allow Vendors to Sign Up on Your Marketplace
Note: Before jumping into the main tutorial, make sure you have a ready WordPress website. If you don't have a site already, check our blog on creating a WordPress website in 5 steps to build your site. Then follow this tutorial to turn your website into a full-fledged online car auction marketplace.
Step 01: Install Dokan Multivendor Plugin for WordPress
Installing the Dokan plugin is simple. If you have ever installed a WordPress plugin on your site, you can install the Dokan plugin easily. Because installing the Dokan plugin is as same as other WordPress plugins.
- Navigating to Admin Dashboard -> Plugin -> Add New -> Click the search
- Type Dokan -> Install -> Activate.
Dokan also provides a setup wizard to help you easily set up your marketplace. Configuring Dokan is very easy by using its own Wizard. You can check this video on the Dokan installation to complete the process in an even easier way.
If you want to customize your store design, you can do it by going to Vendor Dashboard -> Settings. From here you can update your store name, address, opening & closing time, etc.
After doing all the customizations, your store looks like the below-
Step 07: Allow Vendors to Sign Up on Your Marketplace
All the basic configurations are done. Now it's time to open your marketplace for third-party vendors.
First, you need to enable the “Anyone can register” option. In order to do this, go to WordPress Dashboard -> Settings -> General -> Membership. And put the check mark on it.
Also, don't forget to save the changes that you have made now by clicking on the “Save Changes” button.
Now vendors can fill up the registration form to sign up in your marketplace-
As an admin, you have the ability to review and manage all vendor registration requests from the backend. Take a look at the profiles of potential vendors and selectively approve those who meet your criteria to sell their products on your site.
Navigate to your WordPress dashboard then click on the Visit Stores to check all the registered stores on your car auction marketplace.
However, getting vendors for your online marketplace can be challenging in the early days. You need an optimized process to find and convince vendors for your multivendor marketplace. Start by researching and understanding your target market, and identifying the specific niche or industry your marketplace caters to. This knowledge will help you tailor your marketing strategy.
Bonus: Optimize Your Marketplace with Dokan Advanced Features
Once your marketplace starts gaining the attention of car-loving people, you'll require more advanced features to manage their expectations. Here is a list of the advanced features with solutions that you should implement to ensure a smooth user experience in your marketplace:
i) Live Chat
Looking to provide top-notch customer service and boost your sales? Say hello to the incredible Dokan Live Chat module! This powerful tool allows you to offer real-time support and enhance customer satisfaction.
So, why do you need it? Well, imagine being able to resolve your customers' issues quickly and efficiently. With Dokan Live Chat, vendors can provide instant support through popular platforms like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Talk.Js, or Tawk.to.
It's all about meeting your customers where they are and providing swift assistance. By implementing this module, you'll create a seamless and interactive experience that leads to happier customers and increased sales. Give it a try and take your customer service to the next level!
ii) Product Advertisement
Boost your earnings by offering vendors the chance to showcase their top-selling or exclusive products through a site-wide, customizable advertisement. You have the flexibility to handpick specific vendors or items to feature, ensuring maximum exposure.
It's a win-win situation: vendors get increased visibility, and you earn more from their promotions. Customize the ad to seamlessly blend with your site's design, creating a cohesive and eye-catching display. So, why wait? Empower your vendors and enhance your profits with our Product Advertisement Module. Start showcasing their best offerings today!
Also Read: Dokan Product Advertising- Easy Way to Highlight Your Best Seller Products on Your Marketplace
iii) Vendor Analytics
Empower your vendors with detailed store analytics right on the frontend. Our user-friendly interface allows vendors to effortlessly access and analyze key metrics for their stores. With valuable insights at their fingertips, vendors can make informed decisions to enhance their performance.
From tracking sales trends to monitoring customer behavior, our Vendor Analytics Module provides the data-driven tools necessary for vendors to thrive. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to data-driven success for your vendors. Help them unlock their full potential with our comprehensive analytics solution today.
iv) Seller Badge
Recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of your marketplace vendors effortlessly with Seller Badges. As a marketplace owner, it can be challenging to distinguish and manually grant vendors the credibility they deserve.
However, our innovative Seller Badge feature simplifies this task. Admins can easily create conditions and automate the process of highlighting vendors based on their marketplace activity. Whether it's for exceptional sales, positive customer feedback, or other noteworthy achievements, Seller Badges provide a seamless way to make vendors stand out.
v) Stripe Connect
Take advantage of Stripe's renowned low fees and streamline your payment process. With our Stripe Connect Module, you can effortlessly handle all your payments in real-time, ensuring quick and efficient transactions.
Say goodbye to manual processing and embrace the automation provided by Stripe. Plus, with Stripe's competitive fees, you can keep more of your hard-earned money. Make the most of Stripe's powerful capabilities and enjoy hassle-free payments for your business.
How to Create a Car Auction Marketplace – Key Takeaways
Congratulations! You've now reached the end of our guide on creating a car auction marketplace using WordPress. Let's recap the key takeaways from our journey:
- First, install the powerful Dokan Multivendor Plugin for WordPress and upgrade to the premium version for enhanced functionality.
- Then, configure the general settings of the plugin to align with your specific requirements. Next, enable and fine-tune the Dokan Auction Module, which adds a dynamic and engaging auction feature to your marketplace.
- To create a visually appealing and user-friendly experience, carefully select a WordPress theme tailored to car auctions. Customize it to reflect your brand and attract potential buyers.
- Now, it's time to set up your admin shop and start uploading the auction products. Make sure to curate a diverse and enticing collection that appeals to a wide range of car enthusiasts.
- Lastly, open the doors to vendors by allowing them to sign up on your marketplace. This will foster a community of sellers and contribute to the growth and success of your platform.
Remember, building a successful car auction marketplace requires ongoing dedication, staying up-to-date with industry trends, and providing excellent customer support. With determination and the steps outlined here, you are well on your way to creating an exciting and profitable car auction marketplace using WordPress.
Do you have an interest in selling Used Cars? Check this blog & learn how to create a used car marketplace in 5 simple steps.
That being said, if you have any questions related to this blog, feel free to let us know in the comment section below. We would appreciate your effort. Thank you!