How to Choose the Best B2B eCommerce Software: An Ultimate Guide

Are you set to launch your own B2B eCommerce platform? Choosing the right B2B marketplace software is paramount. 

B2B operations are more complex than B2C or any other. Not choosing the right solution can be a threat to your marketplace idea. Further, it may lead to operational inefficiencies, reputational damage, revenue loss, and even marketplace failure.

In this craft, you will get to know how to choose the best B2B eCommerce software that can meet your requirements and users’ expectations, including sellers and buyers. However, before we dive deeper into exploring the blog, let’s take a look at some of the stats that are inspiring entrepreneurs and startups to build their own online marketplaces. 

The B2B industry is evolving at a good pace, and the growth is primarily driven by online marketplaces. According to a report, the global B2B eCommerce market is expected to be worth approximately $32.1 trillion by the end of 2025 and is expected to double by 2030, reaching $62.2 trillion. 

According to statistics, the online B2B industry has great potential and your business can thrive if you build a platform that can perfectly align with B2B transactional needs. 

What is B2B Marketplace Software?

A B2B marketplace software is a readymade solution that helps entrepreneurs and business owners launch their own eCommerce platform. The software comes with a comprehensive set of features that are essentially required to ensure seamless B2B operations. It enables transactions between two business entities online by connecting different participants on the marketplace. These participants can be manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers and other businesses, including marketplace operators (Admins) who take care of operational aspects. What makes a B2B marketplace software different from any other solution is that it facilitates the selling and purchasing of products in bulk and handles a large volume of transactions, making the trade seamless and efficient.    

Top 20 Essential Features to Look for in the Best B2B Marketplace Software

B2B marketplace operations are complex. At the same time, it requires some unique features and functionality to ensure hassle-free buying and selling on the platform. Below are the top 20 essential features that you can’t ignore when choosing a B2B marketplace software. 

1. Request for Quote (RFQ)

Unlike B2C, B2B customers don’t make an instant purchase decision with the listed price. As they deal in big numbers, a small discount can cause a significant difference when finalizing the deal. That’s the reason a B2B marketplace requires the Request for Quote feature. Instead of Buy Now or Add to Cart, the B2B buyers get an option to Request a Quote from sellers. 

This essential feature enables them to negotiate pricing and grab the best deal. Using an RFQ (Request for Quote), a buyer can either send a request to an individual seller or to all, mentioning the price. On the other hand, a seller can either accept the same deal or counteroffer. In short, this feature enables a price negotiation option for both user types. 

Image: Yo!Kart B2B

2. Bulk Ordering and Volume Discount

B2B customers purchase items in large quantities. The Bulk Ordering feature enables them to make purchases in desired numbers. Compared to buying an individual item, ordering them in large numbers reduces costs through volume discounts. Buyers can see a clear price difference on the increased numbers, which are mostly mentioned on the product page. 

The image below from Alibaba demonstrates how bulk ordering and bulk order discounts work. 

3. Minimum Order Quantity 

This feature also sounds similar to the bulk order, but it’s not exactly the same. However, the primary difference is that bulk ordering is a buyer-specific feature that indirectly works for sellers. 

On the other hand, the minimum order quantity feature is a seller-specific feature that allows sellers to restrict a buyer from placing an order by minimum order volume according to their preference and business strategy.  

In short, this feature is used to set a quantity that the buyer must meet to place an order. Sellers set MOQs to ensure profitability, cover production and logistics costs, and others. 

4. Flexible Payment Option (Partial Payment)

B2B transactions are handled differently compared to B2C or any other business model. Therefore, they require flexible payment options. Similarly, when operating an online B2B marketplace, a feature for flexible payment options is necessary. 

Flexibility in making payments helps businesses manage cash flow, reduce financial friction as they deal with a large volume. This feature eases managing the payment flow by enabling partial payment options, allowing buyers to make payments in installments as mutually agreed. It’s an important feature for buyers to maintain liquidity and business flow. 

5. Hide Pricing

The hide pricing feature is again an important feature for an online B2B marketplace. To manage pricing differences on the platform and encourage buyer-seller interaction to discuss pricing based on personalized needs, this feature is significant. 

The hide pricing option allows the marketplace to enable the Request for Quote/Send Enquiry instead of allowing them to place an order with the current pricing. The buyer and seller can directly interact and discuss personalized pricing based on specific business dealings. However, the marketplace can enable both of these features together, allowing buyers to either buy the product at the same price mentioned or request a quote. 

6. Custom Invoicing 

Business-to-business transactions require customized billing. One can’t manage invoicing via standard or general invoices. A B2B marketplace software supporting Custom Invoicing allows businesses to share invoices based on payment terms, order type, unique requirements, and others.

7. Downloadable Documents

In an online B2B marketplace, the ability to download documents is crucial. There are several products and types of transactions that require additional documents, such as White papers, certificates, research papers, case studies, ebooks, guides, brochures and other technical documents. 

The upload and download document features in the B2B marketplace software allow associated users to upload and download documents based on their specific requirements and preferences. 

8. Direct Buyer-Seller Communication 

Direct Buyer-Seller communication option benefits in many ways. It fosters effective communication by allowing both users to discuss business deals with each other directly and get a fast resolution. On an online B2B marketplace, buyers and sellers can discuss pricing, customization requirements, and other topics. Ultimately, direct buyer-seller communication on the platform helps build trust and enhances the overall online buying experience.

9. Advanced Search and Filter

Mostly, the first interaction of a buyer begins with searching for a product on an online marketplace. The best B2B marketplace software comes with an advanced search and filtering option that allows buyers to search and filter products from a large number of available options. This practice helps them find the product that exactly matches their needs. A buyer can use several filters based on product category, pricing, size, type, feature, and many more to minimize search results to find more precise results.

10. Multiple Payment Options

Multiple payment options on the marketplace enhance the overall shopping experience and help build a loyal customer base. These options allow buyers to initiate payment using their preferred payment option, such as debit card, credit card, digital wallets, net banking, and more. 

Additionally, the marketplace also allows buyers to place an order on COD or the buy now and pay later option. However, these two payment options are not so feasible when it comes to handling B2B transactions. 

11. Data Analytics & Reporting

Data and insights play a crucial role in growing your business. A robust B2B marketplace software offers advanced data analytics and reporting tools, allowing access to valuable insights and marketplace performance. 

Whether you are an admin or seller on the platform, by analyzing data and performance, you can plan further strategies and grow your marketplace or business by making informed decisions. 

12. Multi-Language and Multi-Currency Support

The best multi-vendor B2B marketplace software comes with multi-lingual and multi-currency support. These features ultimately break the geographical barriers and allow the marketplace to expand its reach without worrying about language and currency barriers. Users on the platform can interact in their own regional language and make payments using their own currency, making the shopping experience seamless. 

13. Tax Management 

Tax management is a critical consideration when operating a marketplace, especially across different regions. Because taxes vary region-wise. To ensure compliance with tax laws, minimize errors, save time and, of course, automate the process, an online B2B marketplace requires the right tax management tool to manage the entire tax cycle. The tool automates tax deductions, managing tax obligations for the marketplace operators, sellers and others if required.

14. Catalog Management 

The catalog management system in B2B marketplace software helps in organizing, maintaining and updating product details systematically. A product catalog contains complete product details, including product category, description, image, pricing and more. 

The ultimate goal of a product catalog is to provide a list of products to customers so that they can easily navigate and find the product. A well-managed product catalog enhances the overall buying experience of the customers. At the same time, it also helps sellers to manage product information and inventory effortlessly.

15. Inventory Management

Proper inventory management is crucial to maintaining the supply chain without interruption. The inventory management tool on the marketplace helps sellers keep track, control and maintain their stock, preventing stockouts and ensuring they meet buyers’ demand. However, in B2B trade, businesses get orders and ensure delivery accordingly.  

16. Order Management

An order management system is crucial to streamline orders. From order placement to ensure delivery at the doorsteps, it helps you keep track during the entire order cycle. The process of managing orders includes capturing orders, verifying payment, syncing with inventory, managing order fulfillment, providing real-time updates and maintaining data.

17. SEO and Marketing

The role of SEO and marketing tools begins post-marketplace launch. You need to attract buyers and sellers on the marketplace. SEO and marketing tools on an online marketplace help you drive organic and paid traffic. They help you enhance your online visibility and search results on targeted keywords. 

18. Quick Reordering

Quick reordering features enable buyers to place orders quickly. It simplified the reordering process by eliminating multiple steps. Based on previous orders, a buyer can simply add quantity and place an order simply by choosing the mode of payment. Moreover, this feature encourages repeat purchases and enhances the overall buying experience on the b2b marketplace. 

19. Simplified Registration and Onboarding

A simple and easy registration process improves user experience in the first interaction. Therefore, an easy and streamlined registration, whether it’s a sellers or buyers, is paramount to attract and encourage more users. In addition, a straightforward onboarding process also allows sellers or vendors to join and start selling products on the marketplace effortlessly.

20. Content Management System 

The best B2B marketplace software comes with a powerful content management system. It allows the admin to customize the look and feel of the marketplace by tailoring the platform to foster a personalized experience. CMS enables the admin to create, manage, and publish all types of digital content without the need for coding expertise. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a B2B Marketplace Software

Not all the marketplace software offers the same level of control, access and tools to manage operations and transactions. In addition, pricing model, third-party integration capabilities, and technical support are also notable considerations that can’t be ignored. Therefore, be careful when choosing a B2B marketplace software. It’s not a decision that you can change on the very next day. Below are a few key considerations you should be mindful of when selecting the software. 

• UX/UI and B2B Specific Features for an Enhanced Experience

User experience always matters the most. It’s about how a user navigates and interacts with the marketplace. A user-friendly UX/UI offers easy navigation and enables the marketplace users to play their roles seamlessly. Therefore, look for a marketplace software with an intuitive user interface that can enhance the overall marketplace experience for its different user types. 

Additionally, when operating a B2B marketplace, it’s crucial to look for a platform that comes with B2B specific features. These features also ensure seamless transitions and enhance overall user experience. 

• Multi-Vendor Capabilities to Meet Users’ Demand 

Look for software that is inherently a multi-vendor solution when building a marketplace. Enabling multi-vendor functionality in software via third-party apps that are not specifically designed for multi-vendor use can present several challenges, limitations, and performance-related issues. 

Moreover, users on the platform can experience a lack of features and functionality when performing their roles. In addition, it will cost you more than a dedicated one. Overall, it’s essential to consider software that is specifically designed for multi-vendor use.

• Hosting Type to Gain Better Control Over the Data and Platform

There are primarily two types of B2B marketplace software available. One is hosted (Cloud Hosted) and the second one is self-hosted (On-Premise). 

A cloud-based software is hosted and managed by the service provider.  They manage the hosting, server and other maintenance costs. That ultimately requires lower upfront costs. However, in the long run, a hosted software can cost you more as your growing business’s demand increases. In addition, what makes the decision straightforward is that you don’t gain complete control over data and platform when you opt for a hosted solution. 

However, a self-hosted B2B marketplace software offers complete control over your data and the platform. You just need to manage the server and hosting. Initially, the upfront costs of choosing a self-hosted solution are higher. However, in the long run, it’s a cost-saving decision. A self-hosted solution lets you host the platform on your preferred server, offering complete control. 

• Customization Flexibility to Tailor the Platform for Personalized Needs

Every business is unique and has distinct requirements. A customizable B2B marketplace software allows businesses to tailor the platform to their specific requirements. It offers complete control over the user experience by allowing the marketplace operator to customize the marketplace according to the users’ preferences and demands. Therefore, choose a fully customizable marketplace software.

• Scalability Support to Meet the Growing Demand of Your Business

A scalable marketplace software supports growth and expansion. It allows businesses to grow without worrying about infrastructure, performance and other operational issues. Select a software that can handle a growing number of users, listings, transactions and others without any performance degradation.  

• Licensing Type to Determine the Level of Ownership and Control  

Ownership and control are always critical considerations when selecting a marketplace software to launch an eCommerce platform. You need to confirm the level of ownership and control offered. Otherwise, you can experience a lot of hurdles and barriers when growing or demanding additional implementations. 

Several SaaS-based solutions limit your ability to access data, customize the platform, develop architecture to support growth and more. They also require higher packages and recurring fees. On the other hand, self-hosted software provides complete control by offering you access to the source code.  

• Third-Party Integration Compatibility to Enable Additional Functionality and Services 

Third-party integration capability is paramount to look for when choosing a marketplace software. There are a number of essential services and functionalities that you can’t enable without integrating your marketplace with APIs and third-party tools. A marketplace software compatible with third-party APIs and tools lets you enable services and functionality via integration without developing from scratch. 

• Pricing Model that is Cost-Saving in the Long Run

Considering the pricing model is again crucial to help you make a decision on the kind of solution to choose. The marketplace software industry primarily follows two pricing models. 

One is that they charge a recurring fee monthly or yearly based on packages and offerings. SaaS-based marketplace solutions are a prominent example of this pricing model. Another one is a one-time payment model. In this pricing model, the marketplace operator pays a one-time fee to own the software. Self-hosted solutions like Yo!Kart is a leading example of it. 

However, it is recommended to choose a marketplace software that is available at a one-time payment model, as it lets you predict the final cost of the solution. 

• Technical Support to Get Immediate Support and Resolution

Technical support from the same team behind the software is crucial to ensure. It is one of those factors that you must consider. Technical support helps you with setup and installation, deal performance, functionality and other workflow-related concerns. What makes seeking technical support from the same team behind the software is that they understand the fundamentals and can help you quickly address and resolve unexpected issues that might be time-consuming for others. 

• Security Compliance to Build Trust Among Users

When dealing online, data security and protection are always challenging. Make sure the B2B marketplace software you are selecting complies with security standards and follows all the necessary security measures. Undoubtedly, to protect data and sensitive information, it’s important to choose a secure marketplace software. It helps businesses build trust and a loyal customer base.

You need to look for: 

• Compliance with PCI DSS
• Industry Standard Data encryption
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR Compliance)
• Multi-Factor Authentication 
• Secure payment processing

How to Choose the Best B2B Marketplace Software: Easy Steps to Follow:

A brilliant idea of building a marketplace is only the blueprint. The execution of your concept to transform it into reality requires the right tool. Similarly, when you are planning to build a B2B marketplace, it’s crucial to choose the right software. Even if your idea is flawless, without choosing the right tool, you can’t drive success and achieve goals. In this section, you will explore the steps on how to choose the best B2B marketplace software. 

1. Define Your Requirements

The first and foremost step before you start looking for the best B2B marketplace software is to define your requirements. It requires thorough market research, analyzing competitors, identifying market gaps, following trends and more. This will help you clearly define your requirements, including budget, timeline, technical aspects, business model and more. 

2. Prioritize B2B Specific Must-Have Features

Finalize the list of features required in your B2B marketplace software. This will help you choose the solution that can perfectly align with your specific needs. Additionally, always prefer a dedicated marketplace software over enabling multi-vendor features via third-party app integrations. 

3. Evaluate Key Considerations 

In the above section, you have explored all the factors that must be evaluated when deciding on a B2B marketplace software. Let’s take a look at these undeniable considerations: 

• Look for an intuitive and user-friendly UX/UI. 
• A dedicated platform inherently built to operate a multi-vendor marketplace.
• Prefer a self-hosted solution over a hosted one. It offers complete control and access to data and the marketplace infrastructure.
• Always choose a B2B marketplace that is flexible with customization. 
• Scalability is one of those crucial factors that you can’t overlook. It helps you grow and expand your business without worrying about the marketplace performance-related challenges. 
• Prioritize the solution that offers more control and access. 
• Enabling desired features and functionality by accessing code can be more expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, select a solution that is compatible with third-party integrations to enable required features and functionality. 
• Avoid opting for a solution that charges monthly or recurring fees. 
• It is paramount to choose a solution that prioritizes relationships and offers technical support without any interruption or at additional costs. 
• Select a marketplace software that follows industry-standard security measures. 

4. Shortlist and Finalize the Right eCommerce Software

Once you have finalized all the above steps, the next step is to shortlist and choose the eCommerce software that best fits your requirements and expectations. 

Top 10 B2B eCommerce Software Solutions Available 

Software	Hosting Type	Dedicated B2B Multi-Vendor	Source Code Ownership	Pricing Model	G2 Ratings Out of 5
Yo!Kart B2B	Self-Hosted	✓	✓	One-time	4.6
Arcadier	Hosted (SaaS-Based)	✓	✗	Recurring (Subscription Fee)	4.3
PrestaShop	Self-Hosted	✗	✓	Free, Recurring cost for Extended features	4.3
Pepperi	Hosted (SaaS-Based)	✗	✗	Recurring (Subscription Fee)	4.4
Shopify Plus	Hosted (SaaS-Based)	✗	✗	Recurring (Subscription Fee)	4.4
Adobe Commerce	Both Hosted and Self-Hosted	✗	✓	Free or Recurring (Subscription Fee)	4.0
BigCommerce	Hosted (SaaS-Based)	✗	✗	Recurring (Subscription Fee)	4.2
OroCommerce	Both Hosted and Self-Hosted	✓	✓	Dynamic Pricing based on the number of admins, GMV and other	4.3
VirtoCommerce	Both Self-Hosted (Open Source and Hosted (SaaS/PaaS)	✗	✓/✗	Recurring (Subscription Fee)	4.7
Wix	Hosted (SaaS-Based)	✗	✗	Recurring (Subscription Fee)	4.2

In the above comparison, you have explored the top 10 B2B eCommerce software, each with different hosting types, offerings, pricing models and ratings. You can decide on a solution that is perfectly aligned with your specific needs. Additionally, you can also explore case studies, testimonials and clientele before choosing anyone.

However, it is recommended to prefer a readymade solution like Yo!Kart that offers complete control over your platform with no recurring charges. Additionally, there are several more benefits of choosing Yo!Kart that you can explore below. 

Post Launch Suggestion for You: Launch, Market, Monitor and Implement Feedback After selecting the best eCommerce software that is most suitable and solve your purpose. Now it’s time to promote your platform. Plan several marketing strategies, run paid campaigns in order to attract more sellers and buyers.  However, your responsibility is more than just promotion. Additionally, after your platform is live, always keep an eye on data and metrics, implement feedback, and follow trends to keep your marketplace thriving.

How is Yo!Kart The Best B2B Marketplace Software for You?

Launching an online marketplace can be an exciting and profitable adventure. At the same time, choosing the right readymade marketplace software is a critical decision. Many entrepreneurs and startups fail to find the right solution, which ultimately leads to potential losses and future challenges. 

However, if you are looking for the best B2B eCommerce software that comes with all the essential features and multi-vendor support, Yo!Kart B2B can be one of the most acceptable options. The solution has been developed specifically to cater to B2B requirements, ensuring seamless transactions on the marketplace. 

Yo!Kart B2B has an intuitive and user-friendly UX/UI that offers an enhanced marketplace experience for different user types. It’s also a 100% white-label B2B marketplace software. Businesses can operate their own marketplace under their brand name without building a platform from scratch.

Benefits of Choosing Yo!Kart to Launch Your B2B Marketplace

Yo!Kart helps you launch your marketplace with confidence without worrying about any kind of limitations and hidden charges. Alongside all the features you need for a fully functional B2B marketplace, Yo!Kart comes with zero regrets and offers maximum returns. Let’s explore why choosing Yo!Kart is a wise decision.

• Cost-Effective, Transparent and Predictable Pricing

Unlike SaaS-based solutions, Yo!Kart’s license is available at a one-time payment. You don’t need to pay any recurring or transactional charges.  The solution allows you to predict the pricing to build your marketplace. Additionally, Yo!Kart’s one-time payment and a lifetime license to use the solution without any additional cost also make it cost-effective in the long run. 

• Fully Customizable and Scalable Architecture

Yo!Kart is designed to be flexible with customization. The marketplace operator can implement customization as per their personalized needs. They can modify look and feel, navigation, workflow and other features using its robust content management system or by accessing source code. 

In addition, the solution has been built with scalability in mind. Hence, Yo!Kart supports scalability without compromising its performance. Your marketplace launch with Yo!Kart B2B can easily handle an increased number of users, listings and transactions.  

• White-Label, Source Code Ownership and Control 

What makes Yo!Kart B2B the most preferred solution among a large number of available options is its source code ownership. It offers a similar level of access and control one gets by developing a marketplace from scratch. From modifying the marketplace using CMS to implementing code-level changes, everything is possible with Yo!Kart with no restriction.

Additionally, Yo!Kart is entirely a white-level B2B marketplace which means it also offers complete control over the branding. You can update the logo, domain, and other aspects related to the brand and branding. 

• A Robust Marketplace Solution and Native Mobile Apps

Yo!Kart is a ready-to-launch marketplace software that allows you to launch your eCommerce platform quickly and effortlessly. It provides a complete ecosystem required to operate a B2B multi-vendor marketplace alongside native mobile apps. 

Yo!Kart offers buyer mobile apps for Android and iOS users. Therefore, by launching your marketplace with the software, you can also provide an enhanced shopping experience for buyers by allowing them to place orders using their preferred device.

• Enhanced User Experience and User Feedback

Yo!kart has separate dashboards for Admins, sellers and buyers, especially designed for ease of operations. From simplifying marketplace management to offering an enhanced online shopping experience, the software is the best choice for entrepreneurs, startups, SMBs and enterprise-level businesses. 

Furthermore, Yo!Kart’s users often appreciate its support and instant resolutions. Once you get started with Yo!Kart, you experience peace of mind. The expert behind Yo!Kart should always be available to deal with any unexpected issues promptly. In addition, our dedicated project manager makes the journey more seamless.   

Conclusion

A readymade marketplace solution gives you a quick start. It provides a pre-built platform that comes with all essential features like vendor management, product catalog, payments, and customer accounts. Unlike building from scratch,  a readymade solution saves time, reduces development costs, minimizes risks and offers much more. However, your decision to select the software must align with your business goals, budget, and growth plans.

In this blog, you have been through all the essential features required when operating a B2B marketplace software, factors that you can’t miss when selecting the solution and the steps to choose the best marketplace software. In addition, you have explored how Yo!Kart B2B can be the best fit for your purpose if you are planning to launch a multi-vendor B2B marketplace software. 

FAQs

Q 1. What is readymade B2B marketplace software?

Ans. A readymade B2B marketplace software is a pre-built solution designed to launch and operate your online multi-vendor B2B marketplaces without developing everything from scratch. This type of Solution helps you save time, money and resources. Furthermore, readymade solutions are time-tested, which means you don’t need to worry about a lack of features and functionality. 

Q 2. Which is more cost-saving: SaaS or license-based marketplace software?

Ans. SaaS-based solutions are good for short-term projects but may become costly with commissions and recurring fees. Licensed software offers lifetime ownership, making it more economical in the long run. In addition, SaaS-based solutions limit your control and access and are restricted by the pricing tiers. On the other hand, a self-hosted solution like Yo!Kart offers complete control and access over the platform at a one-time payment. 

Q 3. Can I customize my marketplace after I choose Yo!Kart?

Ans. Yes, Yo!Kart is a fully customizable marketplace software that allows you to tailor the platform as per your personalized needs and brand guidelines. 

Q 4. How much does it cost to build a marketplace using a readymade solution?

Ans. Costs vary depending on the solution you choose, the features you are looking for, the flexibility and control you want and much more. 

However, if you develop a marketplace from scratch, it may cost you anywhere between $30000 – $200000 or more. Choosing a SaaS-based solution can cost you a monthly recurring fee anywhere from $200 to over $5,000. On the other hand, with a readymade solution like Yo!Kart, you can launch your marketplace for just $1499 with a lifetime license at a one-time payment.  

Q 5. Is Yo!Kart a suitable marketplace software for startups?

Ans. Yes, Yo!Kart is a startup-friendly marketplace software that offers affordable packages, scalability, and features designed to launch a marketplace quickly while supporting future growth. It offers complete flexibility and ownership by offering an experience similar to a marketplace built from scratch. Yo!Kart is highly flexible with customization. It also provides source code ownership, making it an ideal selection for startups seeking complete control and ownership over the platform without any restrictions.