WebProNews

AOL has entered into the classified market place with the launch of AOL Classifieds that allows users to search through local listings for every Zip Code in the U.S., as well as post their own ads for free.

AOL partnered with Oodle, which operates the largest network of classifieds services in the U.S. Users will have access to more than 40 million listings aggregated from more than 80,000 different sites.

AOL Classifieds links users directly to classifieds listings on other properties within the AOL network including AOL Autos, AOL Jobs, AOL Personals, and AOL Real Estate.

"With the current economic climate, providing consumers with an easy way to buy and sell merchandise and services, or make local connections through classifieds is becoming even more important," said Chris Spanos, General Manager, AOL Local and Specialty Verticals.

AOL Classifieds will be competing with more established services such as Craigslist and eBay’s Kijij.

AOL Classifieds is now part of the AOL Local Network, with a monthly reach of 54 million unique visitors.

AOL also launched a classified site for Canada and has plans to launch one in the UK later this week.