The service is called Etsy ASAP and, for now, it will only serve the local New York area, including Manhattan, parts of Brooklyn and Queens. Orders placed after 7PM are eligible for next-day delivery rather than same-day.
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The idea seems viable up until the $20 delivery fee. More about the service on the Etsy blog.
Unlike Amazon with its Flex program, Etsy is not hiring a contractor workforce to handle its deliveries, but has instead integrated Postmates’ API into its website and mobile application.
But because sellers themselves can control which products are available for ASAP delivery and when, Etsy notes that the actual product selection will change throughout the trial period. Once they review the feedback received from both buyers and sellers the company will consider expanding.
“Sellers can see the progress of the assigned courier, and once the package is picked up, both the shopper and seller can track in real-time from the Etsy app or desktop site until the package is delivered”.
Aimee Schiwal from participating vendor Hook and Matter said: “We’re super excited about Etsy ASAP- its immediacy and “buy local” spirit create a more intimate connection with our customers that didn’t exist before, plus it’s cool to be able to provide the flawless handmade product in a pinch”.
To a few extent, that’s because Etsy ASAP is in pilot testing, but another factor is the limited delivery area. “Similar to experiences like those at craft fairs and markets, Etsy ASAP makes it easier for shoppers to discover and support local makers”.
“This pilot, slated to run through the holiday season, arrives on the heels of the new Etsy Local mobile experience, which helps shoppers on-the-go find Etsy items and sellers nearby at events or local shops, and is the latest example of Etsy’s efforts to foster and grow local marketplaces”, an Etsy spokesperson tells WebProNews.
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The first holiday for ASAP will be Halloween.
