In today’s fast-growing digital economy, Filipinos are no longer limited to selling products in physical stores or markets. With platforms like Shopee and TikTok Shop, anyone can launch a business from home — turning homemade goods into profitable ventures.
Whether you’re selling yema spreads, scented candles, handmade soaps, or baked goodies, this step-by-step guide will walk you through how to start selling successfully online.
Why Sell Homemade Products Online?
Selling homemade products online is one of the most accessible and low-cost business models for Filipinos. With only a smartphone, stable internet, and creativity, you can reach thousands of potential buyers nationwide.
Here’s why this business model works so well:
- Low capital requirement — no need for physical rent or big inventory.
- High profit margin — you control production and pricing.
- Nationwide reach — online platforms handle logistics for you.
- Flexible schedule — perfect for stay-at-home parents or side hustlers.
In short, e-commerce empowers ordinary Filipinos to build sustainable livelihoods from their homes.
Step 1: Choose the Right Online Selling Platform
Before anything else, decide where to sell. The two most popular platforms for homemade and small-scale sellers in the Philippines are Shopee and TikTok Shop.
Shopee
- Best for product-based sellers (food, crafts, fashion, beauty).
- Has built-in features like ShopeePay, Shopee Live, and Free Shipping promos.
- User-friendly for beginners.
TikTok Shop
- Ideal for sellers comfortable with video marketing.
- Boosts sales through short-form videos and live selling.
- Algorithm favors engagement, making it easier to go viral.
Pro Tip:
Start with Shopee for stable orders, then expand to TikTok Shop to grow your reach through video content.
Step 2: Identify Your Niche and Product Line
Don’t try to sell everything. Focus on a specific niche that matches your passion and resources.
Popular Homemade Product Niches:
- Food & Snacks: Yema spread, peanut butter, baked goods, banana chips, chili oil.
- Beauty & Wellness: Handmade soaps, lip balms, natural scrubs, candles.
- Home Crafts: Crochet items, keychains, resin art, plant pots.
- Eco-friendly Products: Reusable bags, bamboo toothbrushes, organic cleaners.
SEO Tip:
Use descriptive keywords like “homemade peanut butter Shopee” or “handmade soap TikTok” in your titles and listings to attract organic traffic.
Step 3: Register Your Business Legally
While Shopee and TikTok allow casual sellers, registering your business adds credibility and trust — important for scaling your brand.
Basic Registration Steps in the Philippines:
- DTI Registration – Register your business name via https://bnrs.dti.gov.ph.
- BIR Permit – Secure a Certificate of Registration (Form 2303) for tax purposes.
- Barangay & Mayor’s Permit – Required if operating from a home or physical site.
Pro Tip:
Once registered, you can issue official receipts and join Shopee Mall or TikTok Shop’s verified seller programs, which boost buyer confidence.
Step 4: Prepare High-Quality Product Photos and Videos
Online buyers rely on visuals — a clear photo can make or break your sale.
Photo Tips:
- Use natural light or a ring light.
- Show multiple angles and packaging.
- Use a clean background.
- Add a short product description overlay (optional).
Video Tips (for TikTok Shop):
- Keep it under 15 seconds.
- Show how your product is made or used.
- Use trending music and hashtags like #PinoySeller #SmallBusinessPH.
SEO Tip:
Always include your product keywords in file names (e.g., homemade-soap-philippines.jpg).
Step 5: Set Up Your Online Store
For Shopee:
- Go to https://shopee.ph.
- Click “Start Selling” and create an account.
- Upload product photos, set prices, and write descriptions.
- Enable ShopeePay and Free Shipping promos.
For TikTok Shop:
- Go to https://seller-ph.tiktok.com.
- Register as a seller using your mobile number or TikTok account.
- Upload your business documents (if verified).
- Link your bank account for payouts.
Step 6: Write SEO-Friendly Product Descriptions
Your product title and description should include keywords buyers are searching for.
Example (for Yema Spread):
Homemade Yema Spread 250g – Creamy, Sweet, and Perfect for Bread | Made with Fresh Milk and Real Butter.
SEO keywords included: homemade yema spread, sweet spread, small business, food business Philippines.
Tips:
- Add bullet points for ingredients and benefits.
- Mention shelf life and packaging size.
- Include delivery and payment options.
Step 7: Set Up Payment and Shipping Options
Both Shopee and TikTok Shop make it easy to integrate with logistics partners.
Payment Options:
- ShopeePay
- GCash / Maya
- Cash on Delivery (COD)
Shipping Partners:
- J&T Express
- Ninja Van
- Shopee Xpress
- TikTok Logistics
Pro Tip:
Offer Free Shipping vouchers and Cash on Delivery to increase conversions — especially for new sellers.
Step 8: Promote Your Products Effectively
Building visibility is key to long-term success.
Promotion Tips:
- Use TikTok videos to show your product in action.
- Join Shopee campaigns like 3.3 or 12.12 sales.
- Offer limited-time discounts or bundles.
- Encourage buyer reviews to boost store credibility.
- Share product links on Facebook Marketplace, Messenger, or Instagram Reels.
SEO Tip:
Use phrases like “buy handmade candles Shopee” or “homemade snacks TikTok Shop” in your post captions to appear in Google searches.
Step 9: Track Your Sales and Improve Performance
Regularly review your sales data through:
- Shopee Seller Center Analytics
- TikTok Seller Dashboard
Check which products sell the most, what time people buy, and how your videos perform.
Then, adjust your content and pricing strategies accordingly.
Step 10: Build Customer Loyalty
Don’t just aim for one-time buyers — focus on repeat customers.
You can:
- Include thank-you cards or discount vouchers in every order.
- Respond quickly to chat inquiries.
- Post regular updates on your shop’s feed.
A loyal customer can bring 10x more sales through word-of-mouth and reviews.
Final Thoughts: Turn Your Passion into Profit
Starting an online business with homemade products is one of the most rewarding ventures for Filipinos today. You don’t need a big capital — just creativity, consistency, and customer care.
Whether you’re baking, crafting, or creating something unique, Shopee and TikTok Shop give you the tools to reach your market, grow your brand, and make your passion profitable.
Start today. Visit Shopee.ph or TikTok Shop Seller Center and take the first step toward your online success.
References
- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). (2024). Business name registration system. Retrieved from https://bnrs.dti.gov.ph
- Landbank of the Philippines. (2024). DTI Negosyo Center programs. Retrieved from https://www.negosyocenter.gov.ph
- Shopee Philippines. (2025). Seller Education Center. Retrieved from https://seller.shopee.ph
- TikTok Shop Seller Center Philippines. (2025). Start selling on TikTok Shop. Retrieved from https://seller-ph.tiktok.com
- Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). (2024). Philippine E-Commerce Roadmap 2024–2028. Retrieved from https://dict.gov.ph