Selling on Facebook Marketplace opens up a whole new world of buyers beyond your local neighborhood. But if you’re only offering local pickup, you’re limiting your reach—and likely leaving money on the table. That’s where shipping comes in.
Facebook now allows sellers in eligible locations to ship items to buyers and get paid directly through the platform. It’s a game-changer. You don’t have to wait for someone to show up in person. You can sell to someone three states away, package it, ship it, and watch your payment arrive securely.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to ship items sold through Facebook Marketplace—from setting up shipping options to tracking the sale. Plus, we’ll cover common concerns, provide pro tips, and answer two frequently asked questions.
Why Offer Shipping on Facebook Marketplace?
Think about this: local sales are limited by your ZIP code. But when you enable shipping, your listings go nationwide (or beyond, in some cases). That means more eyeballs, faster sales, and often higher prices because your product is reaching more people.
Here are some major benefits of offering shipping:
- Expanded reach: Your item shows up in searches across the country.
- Convenience: You can sell and ship from home without arranging in-person meetings.
- Secure payments: Facebook holds the payment until delivery is confirmed—reducing risk.
- Better for niche items: Things like collectibles, electronics, or specialty goods often sell better with nationwide visibility.
So, if you’re serious about selling more and growing your marketplace hustle, shipping isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Step-by-Step: How to Ship Items on Facebook Marketplace
Let’s break it down. Here’s how to set up shipping on your listings.
1. Enable Shipping When Creating a Listing
When creating a new listing on Facebook Marketplace:
- Go to Marketplace > Create New Listing
- Select Item for Sale
- Fill in your title, price, photos, and description
- Under Delivery Method, select Shipping Only or Local & Shipping
Note: If you don’t see the shipping option, it could be due to your location or category.
2. Enter Shipping Details
Once shipping is selected:
- Set the item’s weight (Facebook uses this to calculate postage)
- Choose who pays for shipping—you or the buyer
- Set your preferred shipping method (USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc.)
- Add your return policy if needed (optional)
If you’re using Facebook’s prepaid shipping labels, the platform will generate one for you once the item is sold.
3. Add Your Payout Information
Before selling with shipping, you’ll need to set up how you get paid:
- Go to Marketplace > Your Account > Shipping Orders > Payout Settings
- Add your bank account or debit card to receive payments
Facebook typically releases funds after the item is marked as delivered.
4. Package and Ship the Item Promptly
Once your item sells:
- Facebook will notify you with the buyer’s address
- If using Facebook’s label: download, print, and attach it to your package
- Drop the item off at your selected shipping carrier (usually USPS, UPS, or FedEx)
You must ship within 3 business days, or the order could be canceled.
5. Mark as Shipped and Track Progress
Once shipped, mark the item as “Shipped” in your order history. Facebook will automatically track the item using the provided tracking number and notify the buyer once it’s delivered.
6. Get Paid
Payment is usually released five days after delivery. This gives the buyer time to report any issues, but in most cases, the funds will automatically transfer to your bank account.
Tips to Sell and Ship Like a Pro
Want to look like a top-rated seller from day one? Follow these tips:
- Use accurate weights: Guessing the weight can lead to underpaid shipping or buyer complaints. Use a kitchen scale if you can.
- Take clear, honest photos: Show any flaws or damage upfront to avoid returns or disputes.
- Pack like a pro: Use bubble wrap or padded mailers for fragile items. Make sure your box fits the item snugly.
- Ship fast: The sooner you ship, the faster you get paid—and better reviews will follow.
- Keep proof of shipment: Always retain your shipping receipt and tracking number.
What Can’t Be Shipped?
Before listing, make sure your item is allowed. Facebook does not permit shipping of the following:
- Hazardous materials
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Perishable food
- Firearms, ammunition, or explosives
- Gift cards or digital products
Stick with physical, non-volatile goods like clothes, books, gadgets, shoes, toys, and decor.
What Happens If the Item Gets Lost or Damaged?
By using Facebook’s prepaid shipping label and the item gets lost or damaged in transit, you may be covered by Facebook’s Purchase Protection Policy. If you used your own label, however, you’re responsible for tracking the shipment and resolving disputes with the carrier.
If the buyer reports a problem, Facebook may hold the funds until it’s resolved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I ship internationally on Facebook Marketplace?
A: No, currently Facebook Marketplace only supports shipping within the United States. International shipping is not available through the platform’s built-in features. If you want to sell internationally, you’d need to use a different platform like eBay or Etsy.
Q2: What if I don’t have a printer to print shipping labels?
A: If you’re using a carrier like USPS, many locations will print prepaid shipping labels for you. Just bring your tracking barcode to the counter. Alternatively, you can choose “Ship On Your Own” when listing and use a shipping service like Pirate Ship, UPS, or FedEx, where you can pay and print elsewhere.
Conclusion
Shipping on Facebook Marketplace is one of the smartest ways to level up your selling game. It opens the door to a broader market, builds buyer trust, and helps you move inventory quickly—all while staying in the comfort of your own home.
The key is to stay organized, ship promptly, and communicate clearly. Facebook has made the process streamlined, especially if you use their prepaid labels and built-in payment system.
So the next time you list something on Marketplace, don’t just limit yourself to “local only.” Turn on shipping, tap into a wider audience, and start making nationwide sales today.