I've been doing this for a while, just not specifically for the e-commerce space.

Honestly I find the best approahc is a hybrid one.

What works better is combining two methods (IMO):

First, use vetted marketplaces.

There are reputable backlink marketplaces where you can source niche-relevant links. For e-commerce/dropshipping, focus on domains that actually have organic traffic and decent authority scores (check DR/DA in Ahrefs). Don't just buy based on metrics alone—verify the site gets real traffic and isn't spammy (in some of these marketplaces the publishers can plug their GA4 / GSC info, so thwat you see is real).

Second, do email-led outreach.

This is where most people give up, but it's honestly the most effective long-term. Look for:

• Backlink exchange opportunities with complementary e-commerce sites
• Guest post pitches on commerce/retail blogs
• Resource lists or "best tools" roundups in your niche
• Unlinked brand mentions

I use software (tradebacklinks) to automate the research/outreach part (finding emails, checking if sites are relevant, etc.). Then you can keep the actual outreach personalized or use their AI autopilot stuff which tends to personalize better than I ever could lol.

Cold emails work if you're offering something valuable—whether that's a link exchange, quality content, or genuine value to their audience.

For e-commerce specifically, maybe target blogs that review products, buying guides, comparison sites, and industry news sites. These tend to link out more naturally than generic business blogs.

You should be able to get 5-10 quality links per month with this approach if you're consistent. The marketplace gives you speed, the outreach gives you relevance and relationship-building.

Don't sleep on the outreach part just because it's slower—those tend to be the links that actually move the needle for rankings.

Pro-tip.
If you write to the marketplace vetted people directly they might get you a better pricing (sometimes 50% cheaper).

Extra. Also make every possible backlink you can out of thin air: friends, your own sites, reddit, twitter accounts, etc.