Before you buy or install a multi-vendor marketplace script, check that your server can run it. The software itself is only part of the cost, and a weak server will make a marketplace slow just when orders start to grow. This guide covers the typical requirements for a Laravel-based script. Always follow the exact requirements in the script's own documentation; the details below are the usual baseline.
Typical server requirements
- PHP: a current, supported version. Recent Laravel releases need PHP 8.2 or newer, so check which version your script needs.
- Database: MySQL (or a compatible server such as MariaDB).
- PHP extensions: the standard Laravel set, including BCMath, Ctype, cURL, DOM, Fileinfo, JSON, Mbstring, OpenSSL, PDO, Tokenizer and XML.
- Web server: Apache or Nginx, with URL rewriting enabled.
- Composer: to install and update dependencies.
- SSL certificate: HTTPS is required for payments and trust.
- Cron: a scheduled task for jobs such as order timeouts and notifications.
Shared hosting, VPS or cloud?
- Shared hosting: fine for a demo or very small test, but limits on resources and access can cause trouble as traffic grows.
- VPS: the usual starting point for a live marketplace, with dedicated resources and full control.
- Cloud servers: best when you expect traffic spikes, because you can scale up.
Sizing for traffic
A new marketplace can start on a modest VPS. Watch memory, CPU and database load as vendors and orders increase, and move to a larger server before customers notice slowdowns. Use caching and a CDN for images and static files.
Things people forget
- Backups: automatic daily backups of the database and uploaded files.
- Email sending: use a proper mail service so order emails arrive.
- File storage: product images add up; plan storage and a CDN.
- Queue workers: background jobs like notifications run best in a queue.
- Security updates: keep PHP, the operating system and the script updated.
How long does installation take?
With the right server, installing the script takes about a day, including configuration. If you would rather not do it yourself, the installation service sets it up for you. Follow the VendMart documentation for the exact steps.
Before you buy
Try the multi-vendor marketplace demo to see the software working, then compare tiers on the pricing page. For help choosing between options, read what to look for in a Laravel multi-vendor script and the complete buyer's guide.
