Selling unwanted items online can help you declutter while making some extra cash. If you’re tidying up this New Year, consider transforming those items into profits instead of just donating them. Especially if that anticipated tax refund isn't coming through this year! In the past, options like consignment shops or Craigslist were common. Nowadays, online platforms make it easier than ever to sell from the comfort of your home.
You don’t need a marketing background to succeed in online selling, but a well-crafted listing can make a significant difference. Attractive listings usually contain multiple photos showcasing different angles of the item. According to a shopping expert, checking out successful sellers can provide valuable insights into effective styling. Once you identify what you want to sell, it’s time to pick the right platform.
Here’s a rundown of some leading online selling platforms to consider.
Best for Clothing: Poshmark
Poshmark makes it simple to create listings using your smartphone. Just take a photo, write a description, and post it. When you sell an item, Poshmark provides a prepaid shipping label. You can choose to have the item picked up for free or drop it off at a USPS mailbox. Frequent sellers can track their most popular categories and earnings over time.
Earnings: For sales under $15, Poshmark charges a flat fee of $2.95. For items priced at $15 or more, the commission is 20%.
Top-selling items: Popular categories include cozy WFH attire, cashmere pieces, and 14k gold jewelry, along with sought-after items like Hunter boots and Coach bags. Men’s bestsellers include merino sweaters and the iconic plaid Acne Studios scarf.
Best for Clothing with Minimal Effort: thredUP
If you prefer not to deal with listing or shipping, thredUP might suit you. Upon signing up, you receive a “Clean Out” bag to fill with unwanted items, which you send back for free. thredUP handles evaluation, pricing, photography, and listing, and you can choose between upfront payment or consignment.
Earnings: Payouts vary; for items under $14.99, you receive 5%, while items over $300 can earn you 80%.
Best-selling brands: Lululemon, Everlane, and Kate Spade are consistently popular, along with luxury items like Gucci and Louis Vuitton.
Best for Large Items: OfferUp
If you're looking to sell furniture or large items, OfferUp is ideal. You can snap a photo and list your item quickly. This platform focuses on connecting local buyers and sellers, making it convenient for larger, unshippable items. Users can message directly and schedule safe meetups for transactions.
Earnings: There are no fees to download OfferUp and sell, but limits exist based on category.
Popular items: Electronics, furniture, and home goods are top sellers, but almost anything can be listed.
Best for Electronics: decluttr
For tech items, decluttr is a great option. You sell directly to them. Once you request a prepaid shipping label and send your items, payment is made right after they arrive. You can choose payment methods like PayPal, bank transfer, or even donate to charity.
Earnings: You receive 100% of the offer amount from decluttr, with no listing fees.
Top-selling items: Popular products include iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and gaming consoles.
Best for Everything: eBay
eBay is one of the oldest and most recognized online selling platforms, featuring a vast community of active users. Sellers can quickly upload photos and details for their items. Given the high number of users, pricing can be competitive. Researching similar sold items can help you set a fair price.
Earnings: Sellers can list up to 50 items for free each month; additional listings incur a fee of about $0.35 each. Shipping costs are determined by the seller, so consider including them in your prices to avoid cutting into profits.
Trending items: Current favorites include luxury handbags, electronics, and stylish sneakers.
