Instagram has become one of the most powerful platforms for businesses to sell their products. According to Instagram, 70% of shoppers use the app to discover new products. With so many people scrolling through feeds every day, it's no surprise that more brands are looking to capitalize on the closest thing we’ve got to word-of-mouth marketing.
With its free marketing capabilities, using Instagram as part of your overall marketing strategy could be beneficial for both existing and future customers. In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the best practices when it comes to selling products on Instagram without spending money on ads.
Let’s dive in!
Why to Use TikTok for Business
If you want to turn your Instagram account into a real sales engine, it’s not enough to just post pretty photos. In 2025, success on the platform comes from using the right features strategically – from shoppable posts and Instagram Stories to Live shopping and optimized bio links.
Below, we break down five actionable strategies that will help you showcase your products, connect with your audience, and make it easy for followers to buy – all without spending a dime on ads.
1. Use high-quality images and videos
The visuals you share on Instagram should be just as high-quality as those on your website or any other marketing collateral. The good news is, with so many photo editing apps out there, creating professional-looking product photos right from your phone has never been easier.
Remember, these images are often the first impression someone will have about your brand, so make sure they showcase your products in the best way possible!
2. Make your posts shoppable
If you're using Instagram to sell products, it's time to make your posts shoppable! Adding direct checkout links to your posts will make it easier than ever for your customers to buy directly from you. This way, customers don't need to leave the app to browse your products – they can purchase right away with just a few clicks.
For e-commerce brands, setting up an Instagram shop increases sales because it removes the extra step of having a customer visit your website first. A shoppable post on Instagram is the fastest and simplest way to sell products on the platform!
3. Use Instagram Stories
Make it a habit to share your products on Instagram stories at least once a day. Think of this as a way to “ask for the sale” - the more you put a product in front of someone, the more likely they are to check it out and eventually make a purchase from you. To do this, simply add the shopping sticker option to tag your product.
However, you never want to come across too ‘salesly’. Use stories to show customers behind-the-scenes content, share exclusive deals, or give sneak peeks of new products. People love to see the human side of brands and are more likely to buy when they feel an authentic connection with your story.
4. Hop on Instagram Live
Instagram Live is another powerful feature that allows you to connect with your audience in real-time. You can use it to host Q&A sessions, product demos, or other interactive content that will help drive sales. One of the latest features to roll out on Instagram is live shopping - where you can tag products and allow viewers to buy or save them directly from the live broadcast.
5. Add relevant links in your bio CTA
Running a sale or launching a new product? Put it in your Instagram bio! If your main goal for using Instagram is to sell more products, don’t link to your homepage. Instead, use this valuable social media real estate to encourage people to check out your latest offer and get in your sales funnel. This can skyrocket conversions because it eliminates an extra step (and extra time to reverse their decision to buy) for the customer.
So, don’t hesitate to switch out your bio link often!
What Types of Products You Can Sell on Instagram
Instagram supports a wide range of products, making it suitable for many types of businesses. Popular categories include:
- Physical products: Clothing, accessories, home goods, beauty products, electronics, and more
- Digital products: E-books, online courses, downloadable templates, and software
- Services: Coaching, consulting, workshops, or personal training packages
- Experiences: Event tickets, travel packages, and memberships
Almost any product that aligns with Instagram’s commerce policies can be sold directly on the platform, giving businesses countless opportunities to monetize their content.
How to Sell on Instagram FAQ
How do I get approved for selling on Instagram?
To get approved, you need an Instagram Business account or Creator account, connect it to a Facebook catalog, and comply with Instagram’s commerce policies.
Can I sell directly on Instagram?
Yes! You can sell directly through Instagram Shop, shoppable posts, and Instagram Live Shopping.
How do beginners sell on Instagram?
Start by creating a business account, setting up an Instagram Shop, posting high-quality visuals, and using Stories and Live to engage your audience.
What are the rules for selling on Instagram?
You must comply with Instagram’s commerce policies, avoid prohibited products (like tobacco or weapons), and follow local laws for selling online.
Does it cost to sell things on Instagram?
Setting up an Instagram Shop is free. Instagram may charge fees for checkout on the platform depending on your location and payment method.
What types of products can I sell on Instagram?
You can sell physical goods, digital products, services, and experiences, as long as they comply with Instagram’s commerce policies.
Selling on Instagram can generate tons of sales for your business, even if you don’t have a budget for ads. By following the strategies in this post, you can deliver a seamless buying experience for your customers - and less leg work for yourself. Happy selling!
