Making sales on Poshmark is a great way to earn some extra money. But some people are unsure how to get paid once they make sales.
So how do you get paid on Poshmark? After you successfully sell something and the transaction is complete (delivery must be finalized), Poshmark will release your earnings to your Poshmark account. You can see available funds by tapping on your account tab in the bottom right of the app (@username), then scroll down to “My Balance.” You can choose to keep the funds on Poshmark to shop, or redeem via Instant Transfer ($2 fee), PayPal ($.35), Venmo ($.35), Direct Deposit (free) or a paper check mailed to you (free).
If you’re still wondering more about “how do I get paid on Poshmark,” this article explains exactly how the process works.
I’ll also give you some tips for making it as smooth as possible so you can get your money fast. After all, you need to have cash flow in order to keep buying new inventory!
Blog posts may contain affiliate links and create no additional costs for you.
What is Poshmark?
Poshmark is a popular online marketplace or resale website where people can buy and sell new or gently used clothing, accessories, beauty products, home decor, pet products and even electronics. The company was founded in 2011 and has since become one of the most popular ways to make money from the secondary market.
You can choose to keep the funds on Poshmark to shop or redeem cash in multiple ways.
Selling on Poshmark is actually pretty easy, and it’s a very flexible business idea. The key is research and knowing the market. You’ll need to know the items and brands that sell best on Poshmark as well as how to price them.
Just about anyone can make money selling on Poshmark with the right strategy (Should you ever list items as “firm on price”?).
How Does Poshmark Work?
The way Poshmark works is that you create an account, upload pictures of the items you want to sell, and set your own prices. When customers buy items from you, Poshmark takes their fee out of your earnings when the item sells. They charge $2.95 for sales under $15 or 20 percent for anything over that.
The buyer typically pays for shipping, unless you offer free or discounted shipping (Does Poshmark ever pay for shipping?). After you ship the package and the buyer receives it, hopefully they will mark it as received so that you get your earnings. If they do not mark it as received, then after three days, the sale is considered complete, and Poshmark will release your earnings to you.
FYI: Poshmark sends emails to the customer throughout the sales process to encourage them to confirm receipt and share a rating. But you still receive your funds even if the customer does not leave a rating.
How Do You Make Money on Poshmark?
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You can use your profits to buy more inventory to sell.
The process is fairly easy to get started as a seller on Poshmark.
Do you want to get started on Poshmark? Sign up with code THRIFTYIQ and get $10 toward your first purchase!
Decide what you want to sell; clothing can be a simple kickstart. You can get started for free by selling things from your own closet or getting items from friends and family members.
Sign up for a Poshmark account and download the Poshmark app so you have it on the go.
Choose a name for your closet (find out how to change your username), take photos of the items you want to sell, and create your listings.
Whenever a buyer purchases something, give great customer service and ship their package quickly. Before you ship, wait the 3 hours they have to cancel a sale.
Like any other business, reinvest in it. For example, you can use your profits to buy more inventory to sell.
Is It Worth It to Sell on Poshmark?
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I definitely think that selling on Poshmark can be worth it.
The nice thing about Poshmark is the platform is easy to use. Listing items is very simple and there are not a lot of required details. Just the important ones. And you don’t need to be too tech-savvy to navigate it.
There are also some great benefits, like free listings. You don’t have to pay upfront to list products, which is great for new Poshmark sellers just learning what clothing or other itemssell best.
Also, while some shoppers on Poshmark are laser-focused on deal hunting, most shoppers are more willing to make purchases. They also are generally willing to pay more for certain brands, (although some shoppers make a sport out of low-ball offers🤨). So, I definitely think that selling on Poshmark can be worth it.
As long as you price your products right, making money on Poshmark is easy. But like anything else, it can take time to learn the process and research to source popular products.
What You Need to Know to Be Successful as a Seller on Poshmark
The way to get paid on Poshmark is to start selling clothing, accessories, and other items to buyers. So here are some tips to help you make money on Poshmark and the steps for getting paid.
Learn the Market
One of the best tips I can give you for selling on this platform is to understand the market. You must pay attention to trends and prices. Regularly check comparable sales. See what other Poshmark sellers are selling similar items for; listing price means nothing until it sells.
Being successful on Poshmark relies on what you are selling and the prices you list items. If you price something higher or lower than everyone else, make sure there’s a good reason.
Know Your Brands and Inventory
Selling on Poshmark and making money requires you to understand the brands you sell, and you must know your inventory. If you know your products, then it’s easier to convince buyers to purchase.
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Sellers that know the ins and outs of the brands they sell are much more successful than those who don’t do the research.
Sellers that know the ins and outs of the brands they sell are much more successful than those who don’t do the research and don’t share item specifics.
You also want to keep your inventory fresh by listing new items regularly.
Learn the Platform
TERMS: To sell on Poshmark, you need to know the platform. As mentioned, you want to make sure you know the rules, so you don’t violate them.
SHARING/FOLLOWERS: But another MAJOR element to Poshmark – unlike other selling platforms – is the social sharing aspect. Yes, to be successful on Poshmark you must grow your followers and share your listings regularly. Aim to share multiple times a day. It can help to share during Posh Parties, themed sharing events held at specific times. While this can be a turn-off for some, sharing and growing your followers are what exposes your listings to more potential buyers.
PRO-TIP: Posh Parties are Noon, 3p, 7p and 10p EST daily. Check the schedule (you may need to sign in to view this info) to find out guidelines for each theme.
BUY SOMETHING: Using the platform as a customer is a great way to understand the complete buying and shipping process through their eyes. You can use this info to make a great impression on your buyers by providing them a superior experience.
Also, connecting with other sellers on Poshmark, on social media or at live events is a great way to get to know the platform and get good tips.
How to Get Paid on Poshmark
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Poshmark gives buyers 3 days to review their order, after which they consider the sale final and release the money.
Once you list an item, potential buyers will see “Offer” and “Buy Now” on the bottom right of your listings. With the “Buy Now” option, people can tap the button and purchase immediately. But with the “Make an Offer,” someone can send you an offer of a lower price, and then you can choose to accept, counter or decline it. Similarly, as the seller, you can see an “Offer/Price Drop” tab on the bottom right when you view the same listing.
Then you want to ensure that your listings are seen, so regularly share your closet within the app and with your social media followers to increase the traffic to your closet.
Ship the Order Quickly
Shipping (and professional, sometimes elaborate, packaging) is a huge part of customer service on the platform. Once you make a sale, Poshmark automatically emails you a shipping label that you need to print off and attach to your Priority Mail box or waterproof envelope (learn how to ship with Priority Mailers).
I’ll briefly go into shipping a little later. Make sure you follow the shipping guidelines, so products don’t get delayed. Poshmark uses USPS Priority Mail for shipping and charges customers a flat fee.
NOTE: If your item weighs more than 5 lbs, you will need to upgrade the label, which you can easily do in the app or online (find out how shipping on Poshmark works). The max weight for a single Poshmark package is 10 lbs.
Wait for the Buyer to Accept the Item or the 3-Day Waiting Period
This part can be annoying because customers are told that they need to “accept” the item once they have checked it over. But many buyers don’t do this. Poshmark gives buyers 3 days to review their order, after which they consider the sale final.
Once the 3 days have passed, you should be able to log in to redeem your money. There are now 5 ways you can redeem your Poshmark balance:
You now have 5 ways to redeem your money on Poshmark, including Instant Transfer.
Instant Transfer: Get funds in 30 minutes or less; $2 fee
PayPal: $.35 fee
Venmo: $.35 fee
Direct deposit: 1-3 business days; no fee
Mailed check: 2 weeks; no fee
Instant Transfer, PayPal and Venmo are the fastest ways to get your money. But there are additional fees. Direct Deposit can take 1-3 business days, but it is free. And it’s the method I use because I prefer to maximize my profits.
Here’s how to redeem your money using the app or web:
Select your account tab/profile picture at the top-right.
Choose My Sales or Order Activity.
From the menu on the left side, select My Balance.
Choose Redeem Your Balance Here.
Select your preferred cash-out method.
FAQs
Do you need a PayPal account to Sell on Poshmark?
No. You can choose to use PayPal to redeem your balance when you make sales. But it’s optional. You can also use Venmo, Instant Transfer, Direct Deposit or request a check be mailed to you.
How Do I Link My Bank Account on Poshmark?
Please follow the directions under “How Do I Get My Money To My Bank Account”
Does Poshmark give you real money?
Yes, this isn’t one of those schemes where you get credits or gift cards for selling things. Poshmark is legit and pays you actual money for the items you sell.
How long does it take Poshmark to direct deposit?
It usually takes one to three business days for the money to get to your bank if there are no errors in your bank account information. It may take longer over holidays.
How do I ship items on Poshmark?
Shipping orders for Poshmark is pretty easy. You can get Priority Mail boxes for free online at USPS.com or from your local post office. You can also use plain or recycled boxes and padded envelopes.
Print the prepaid shipping label Poshmark emails you and attach it to the box or envelope. Buyers pay one flat fee for shipping depending on the weight of the package, which makes it easy for users and sellers.
Then schedule a pick-up or take it to the post office to mail it.
Selling on Poshmark is a great way to make extra money as a side hustle or full-time business.
Now you know the answer to, “How do I get paid on Poshmark?” The steps are simple and easy to follow.
Selling on Poshmark is a great way to make extra money as a side hustle. You also may decide to become a full-time seller.
The key to making money and growing your business is to research and price your items right. Be sure to take high-quality photos of each item you sell, and remember to provide great customer service.
One question new resellers often ask is, “Should I add thank you notes for eBay buyers when I ship orders?”
The answer is it is completely up to you! I say yes, because I think there is a business benefit for you as a seller on eBay, Poshmark or other marketplaces (and partly because of my Southern sensibility😉). There are definitely pros and cons on either side of the debate. But thank you notes don’t have to be fancy, handwritten, time-consuming or expensive! It’s a simple, but potentially impactful way to show gratitude for customers’ support while marketing your brand.
Plus, it may (though not guaranteed!) increase the chances that the buyer will leave you positive feedback.
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An eBay or Poshmark thank you note is a simple card you add to each order you ship – and you can do so with all selling platforms.
Of course, there are many online resellers who never add thank-you notes, cards or stickers and they receive consistently positive feedback. There also are some sustainably-minded buyers who prefer not to receive the extra paper that they then have to recycle.
But I am a HUGE fan of showing gratitude. And a branded thank you note doesn’t have to be fancy – it can be a really simple postcard, notecard, business card or sticker. So, here is everything you need to know about sending thank you cards with your orders for eBay or other platforms, including how to write them and what you should say.
What Are eBay Thank You Notes?
An eBay thank you note can be a simple card you add to each order you ship for eBay, Poshmark, Mercari or other marketplaces. Basically, they thank the buyer for their purchase and can even include a personal note saying, “Hope you enjoy the top,” “Thank you for supporting my small business,” “Positive feedback is welcome,” or something similar.
When I started reselling, I used to handwrite every single card for every single order. I created a basic template that I would then copy every time. Great, but once the volume and pace of sales picked up, I realized that was not the best use of my time (Video:how not to send a thank you note). Also, after I ran out of cards that I already had on hand, I realized buying fancy cards would bite too deeply into my profit margin.
Now, I include a small business card for my brand (above) that says “Thank You” while listing my website and social media accounts. I made mine for free on Canva, who also prints at a low cost and I choose free shipping, which takes a little longer to arrive. (FYI: I tried Canva’s print and pickup for free at FedEx, but I did not like the quality as much).
Beyond the different types of cards, another popular option is thank you stickers attached to the packaging, inside or outside. You can buy these on Amazon, Poshmark, eBay, Etsy and many other marketplaces (check out examples below).
Why You Should Send a Thank You Note
Sending thank you cards to your eBay buyers encourages them to leave positive feedback and shows that there is an actual human behind your business.
Since you know how important good reviews are, especially on eBay, a note may encourage them to give you positive feedback when they may not have left any at all.
Many sellers report that more buyers leave feedback in general, and that they receive more positive feedback than negative. And positive feedback can really make a difference on the status of your account or eBay store.
Plus, it is a great way to advertise your resale business. Buyers can connect a voice with the brand. A simple note can make your customers happy and feel special.
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Your genuine thank you note builds a relationship and expresses a level of sincere gratitude for their business.
In short, sending out a thank you note with every order shows that you aren’t just an eBay seller – you’re a professional business. It also proves that there is a person behind the screen, and it increases their trust.
The downside is that it could add a nominal fee to your COG (cost of goods), and it could take more time if you decide to hand-write the notes. Also, there are some shoppers who do not like the idea of adding paper waste to the planet.
Still, while you have to choose or design a pre-made card and purchase it, this is simply reinvesting in your business especially considering their potential benefits.
Your genuine thank you note expresses a level of sincerity you can’t do so otherwise, particularly with online shopping. And it’s generally easier to get someone to buy from you again versus finding new customers. On average, the success rate of retaining a buyer is 60 to 70 percent, while the success rate of persuading a new buyer to purchase something is significantly lower at 5 to 20 percent.
What Should I Include in a Thank You Note to a Buyer?
Here are some things to consider adding to your thank you note as well as the tone and voice you want to set.
Be thoughtful and Sincere
The key is to add a note that reflects your brand, and is not too cold or generic. Since you want each customer to feel appreciated, you may want to avoid terms like:
Thank you for your business
Thank you for your order
Instead, say something like:
Thank you for shopping with us
Thank you for supporting my small business
Your support means the world or is invaluable
Thanks for choosing us; it means a lot
Send a Physical Thank You Note, Not an Email
In a forum, I saw that many people did not like emails because too many could be annoying, and many say they didn’t even read them. Plus, it may be against a platform’s terms of service to message about anything other than order/delivery details (e.g. Amazon). Also, make sure you send a physical card with the purchase, not afterward.
Examples of Thank You cards and stickers I have purchased.
Stick With Your Brand Voice
When creating a note, be sure it matches your brand voice because your thank you card is building a relationship with your customer. Besides the item they purchase, a thank you note may be their first real connection with your online business.
Make Sure Your Note Looks Professional
While yes, we want our eBay thank you cards to be friendly and cordia
l, you also want to look professional. Don’t tear off a piece of notebook or journal paper to write your thank you note on.
The Thank You Note is About Your Customer and Not You
When writing your note, remember it is about the customer, not you. It’s best to focus on being thankful and sincere instead of trying to get more sales.
Include Your Store Name and Logo
Since it is all about people getting to know your brand, be sure your eBay thank you cards are customized with your shop name and logo. And if you cross-post to other platforms, include those without cluttering up the note. Push shoppers to your website or social media accounts if that’s less overwhelming.
Consider Adding Your Return Policy
If you include your return policy, it may prompt buyers to ask for a return rather than leave you negative feedback if they are unhappy with their purchase.
Add Your Website or Social Media Channel to Follow
You can even add your website, store or most popular social media channel to ask them to follow you for more great deals or something similar.
Consider Adding a Blurb About Your Brand
Help your buyers connect with you more by adding a quick message about your business. You can share your sustainability practices, goal to pay off student debt, mission to support loved ones or your donation of proceeds to a certain organization. Your reasons are your own IF you decide to share. Just remember, friendly but professional.
Ask Them to Leave Feedback … Maybe
Like most things, resellers don’t agree on whether you should ask buyers to leave your feedback. People are busy, and they often forget to leave feedback. And they don’t know how important that is as a seller or online business, so this could be a great reminder.
But it could also annoy some buyers, because most platforms including eBay, Poshmark and Amazon, send reminder emails to buyers seeking their feedback and ratings.
It’s your call on whether to ask for feedback, but this is one I do not do. I just focus on showing appreciation and inviting them to shop with me again.
How to Write an eBay Thank You Card
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Here are some quick tips on how to write eBay thank you cards.
Start with the Introduction
When you only get one first impression, it’s important to start your thank you note right. If you ordered customized thank you cards, here is your chance to personalize them for your customer and add a handwritten introduction.
Use your customer’s first name and write a greeting like “Dear Cynthia” or “Hey Jennifer.” This approach makes your buyer feel special and adds a personal touch.
Handwriting part of your note can further humanize you and let them know you’re a person and not a robot.
I used this very technique until I quickly learned that the greeting cards I already had on hand were “free”, but still costly, because of the added weight to the packages. [Check out this 15-second YouTube Short video to see the type of card I’m talking about] AND because of the TIME it took to write each note even with a pre-written script.
Now I include a business card that has a pre-printed “thank you” note as well as additional ways to shop with me. The weight is negligible, and it takes hardly any extra time to grab a card and toss it into a package.
Add the Thank You
If you ordered cards, then this part is already done, so you need to consider what you are going to say ahead of time. If you ordered blank cards to hand-write the whole card, now’s the time to write a sincere thank you.
Include something about how much you appreciate their business and maybe even add a discount code for the next purchase. People love to save money!
Let them know how thankful you are that they chose you.
Most importantly, have some pre-written notes that you save on your phone, laptop or notebook so you can reference the text without making up something new every single time.
Request Positive Seller Feedback
If you choose to, you can kindly ask your customers for feedback. I personally do not ask for feedback or ratings, because most shoppers are aware of the process and will do so if they want. For me, the downside of annoying buyers is too big a risk.
Include Your Store or Closet Details
Be sure to include your store details as many customers forget the seller they ordered from.
Provide them with at least one way to contact you either via your marketplace store/closet, website or social channels.
With so many scammers out there, providing your store details shows your customers that you are a legitimate business.
Be Sure to Personalize It
I already mentioned using your customer’s first name, if you write a note or simply add it to your business card.
You can also customize it by showing you’re paying attention to that customer and their specific order, like mentioning that the product they ordered is one of your favorites or that you hope they enjoy it.
But this is not required! You have to judge whether this personalization step is best for YOUR business and brand. I typically do not do this because I also communicate with my shoppers on the marketplace’s messaging app.
End It Casually
End your thank you notes for eBay buyers by saying thanks again or whatever goodbye phrase you typically use like “Cheers,” “Enjoy,” “Thanks Again,” etc.
If you still aren’t feeling confident about writing your own little thank you card, there are plenty of scripts online you can use. In this case, “just Google it” actually works😊
FAQs
How do you thank customers on eBay?
You can easily thank your customers on eBay or other marketplaces by adding personalized thank you notes to each order. It can be as simple as, “Thank you for supporting us!” A nice note with each purchase could help you connect with your buyers.
Instead of sending a thank you note with every order, another option is to just send one with special, unique or high-dollar orders.
Are thank you notes required with every purchase?
No. You are not required to add a thank you note with orders. It is completely optional! In fact, many sellers do not include notes to save time and money. And they do not suffer negative feedback or ratings.
Where can I buy pre-made thank you notes?
Basically, anywhere cards are sold. I originally had pre-made thank you cards left over from WalMart, Target and stationery shops. eBay sells thank you notes in their branded stores (if you pay for an eBay store subscription, you can use your quarterly allowance towards these). Etsy has lots of cute ones that you can personalize to match your brand. Here is an example of aPoshmark thank you note and anothersimple card you can send to buyers. This is anothersimple thank you note that would work on most reselling marketplaces.
eBayand Poshmark both sell branded stickers and cards (see examples above), but there are sellers across most selling platforms that sell good options.
How do I add buyers’ notes on eBay?
You can add buyers’ notes on eBay by clicking the item in your sold area that you want to add a note to.
Then look up towards the top of the page, and you’ll see “Other Actions.” Click on that and select Add/Edit Notes” to leave a message. Once you’re done, save it.
How do I give feedback to a buyer on eBay?
First, go to Orders in the Seller Hub or Sold in My eBay. Then choose the item you want to provide feedback on and select, Leave Feedback.
Once you select that, you can choose positive or negative, then enter your comment. When you are finished, click Leave Feedback.
Final Thoughts on Thank You Notes for eBay Buyers
Your online buyers may appreciate that you took time to send a note.
Sending thank you notes to eBay, Poshmark or other buyers could make customers feel special and appreciated. It helps connect your buyers to your brand and is a great way to get repeat customers.
Your buyers may appreciate that you took the time to leave them a note. And while there are no guarantees, shoppers may be more likely to leave positive feedback and ratings, which helps your reputation as a seller.
Do you want to sell on eBay, but you’re not sure if it’s right for you? Or maybe you’re not sure how to start.
I love reselling on sites like Poshmark, Mercari and, of course, eBay. They are excellent secondary marketplaces to sell (and buy😉) pre-owned clothing and other products. Being a reseller is pretty easy once you get used to it – though it does take effort. For eBay, you just need to learn the rules, especially what you can’t sell, and tips to be successful with your eBay business.
eBay is an online marketplace best known for its auction-style and consumer-to-consumer sales.
This blog post is all about eBay for beginners who want to sell clothing and other items. You’ll learn the basics of how to sell on eBay and some helpful tips to become a successful eBay seller.
Blog posts may contain affiliate links and create no additional costs for you.
What is eBay?
If you don’t know what eBay is, it’s an online marketplace best known for its auction-style and consumer-to-consumer sales. In addition to individuals, many businesses open
aneBay store and use the platform as a primary or additional sales channel.
The platform opened in 1995 and has evolved into the huge marketplace that it is today. There are more than 19million sellers and more than 159 active users.
People from all over the world make money or purchases on eBay, and nearly anyone can open an eBay personal account – for individual sellers – or a business account – which allows you to sell large quantities – for free to start selling.
The model is quite simple. You find products like gently used clothes, accessories, household products, etc., at a good price and then resell them for more money on eBay. There are also lots of people who sell brand new, never used items. Just double-check eBay’s VeRo list to confirm brands that you are not allowed to sell.
Why Should I Sell on eBay?
If you’re wondering if you should sell on eBay, my answer is almost always yes! It’s easy to set up a personal or business account, and you get access to millions of customers. HEADS-UP: To be completely honest, listing items can be a huge pain in the butt compared to listing on PoshmarkorMercari. eBay has a growing list of required item specifics that can be a major time-suck. But that is offset by the large volume of potential customers.
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Selling on eBay is a flexible job that allows you to work from home and set any schedule you want.
You can sign up for an eBay account, list an item, and sell it all in one day. With eBay, you can sell new or used products as long as you do your research to see what sells on the platform. And to confirm what you cannot sell.
It’s generally cheap to start as you can find things you don’t use around the house that you want to get rid of and make money. Your eBay business can be a part-time side hustle or even a full-time job.
Selling oneBay is a flexible job that allows you to work from home and set any schedule you want. The flexibility is a draw for many sellers, including me!
Is It Worth It to Sell on eBay?
It really depends on what you’re selling on eBay. eBay is a great choice if you have new or pre-owned products to sell like collectibles, trading cards, electronics, games, toys and, yes, closting. It is worth noting that if you plan to start a business reselling clothes, you’ll want to consider a variety of platforms includingPoshmark, Depop, Grailed and others.
It’s all about doing the research to see what sells, how often and at what price point – all of which can change depending on seasons or shoppers’ moods.
New sellers can get started quickly and relatively easily.
Create An Account
First, you want to create an eBay account – either personal or business. New sellers can get started quickly and easily, and I recommend the personal account (you can change later, if you choose).
When you set up an account for your business on eBay, you need to create a user ID. If you already have an online business, you may want to make that your username.
This account and user ID is what you’ll use to make purchases as well.
Set Up Your Automatic Payment Method
Next, you want to set up your automatic payment method for your eBayaccount. You can connect a credit card or checking account.
This account is the one thateBay will deduct your insertion, final value and subscription fees (if you decide to get one), and other charges for selling on eBay.
Product Research + How to Find Items to Sell on eBay
The research piece is one of the most important parts of selling on eBay. If you don’t list popular, profitable products on the platform, then you’re wasting your time.
Thrifting (check out “examples of a reseller” and “common reselling strategies” for more on thrifting) andretail arbitrage are some of the best ways for eBay sellers to make money. In fact, they are some of the best ways to sell products on many e-commerce sites.
The key is finding things that customers want to buy.
The easiest way to see what items are in demand on eBay is to look at the data it provides. There are two methods to know.
A: You need to determine the sell-through rate of an item. This is essentially the number of listings sold compared to the number of active listings for that item on eBay, stated as a percentage.
A higher sell-through rate illustrates that there is demand for the product. All resellers have their own opinions about the ideal sell-through rate, especially for specific niches. In general, I aim for at least 60-70% but some need at least 50 percent.
To do this, search for your item on the eBay and take note of the number of active listings. Then, filter the search results by using the “Show Only” option to show only sold or completed listings.
Then take the sold number of listings and divide that by the active listings. This gives you the percentage.
A higher sell-through rate illustrates that there is demand for the product. All resellers have their own opinions about the ideal sell-through rate, especially for specific niches. In general, I aim for at least 60-70% but some need at least 50 percent.
B: Another research tool is Terapeak, eBay’s exclusive market analysis tool. Just search on an item you want to sell to get data on previous sales, demand and pricing. “Product Research” is now free to ALL sellers with access to Seller Hub. Terapeak “Sourcing Insights” offers sales data on every eBay category and other information and is free to sellers with an eBay Store Subscription.
The Most Popular Products on eBay
The most popular products sold on eBay include some of the following. But keep in mind shoppers may change with seasons or economic factors:
Garden and Patio – Outdoor furniture sets, canopies and awnings, panel fences, garden lighting, and BBQ tools and accessories.
Home and Garden – Vacuum cleaners, light bulbs, small appliances, lawn mowers, power tools, air tools, outdoor heating, eating and cooking products, etc.
Pet Supplies – Beds, grooming items, poultry products, and training and obedience items.
Automotive – Air and fuel delivery, interior car parts and accessories, exterior parts and accessories, lighting and bulbs, motorcycle parts, alternators, starters, wiring, and ECUs.
Clothing and Accessories – Women’s and Men’s clothing, accessories, and shoes, women’s handbags and bags.
Collectibles – Decorative collectibles, collectible matchboxes, lighters, other smoking items, military equipment, and World War II items.
Watches and Jewelry – Watches, watch parts, accessories, tools, guides, antique and vintage jewelry, fashion necklaces, bracelets, chards, pendants, and more.
Where Can I Find Popular Items to Sell on eBay if I’m Stuck?
If you’re completely stuck on finding items eBay buyers will purchase, here are some tips.
Know What Products are Trending
First, always be aware of trends. Some things are timeless, while other items are only popular for brief periods of time, then no one is willing to pay for them.
But if you stay on top of new and emerging trends, you can take advantage of these items and make a lot of money as they are rising in popularity.
This is where magazines, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Podcasts and other sources are helpful.
Everyday Common Products Generally Sell Well
While you can make a lot of money on trendy stuff, everyday items can be in demand. Try selling household necessities like toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo, and conditioner, etc. if this is the type of reselling you’re interested in.
Always Think Seasonally
Seasonality is significant in reselling for many categories like clothing, accessories, outdoor furniture and equipment, crafts, etc.
On average, you make less money selling coats or snow boots in the summer or swimsuits in the winter.
And the last quarter of the year is primie holiday season. So it’s historically one of the best times to make the most money for many businesses because people are buying gifts.
KEEP IN MIND: Just like time zones, the seasons may be different from you in another part of the world. And Christmas/holiday items can sell year-round #XmasinJuly.
Just be aware of the seasons when sourcing items you plan to sell. You often need to list things in advance to make sure customers can find them, especially if you do any marketing on Pinterest. and you can make eBay sales.
Where to Find Items to Sell on eBay
You’ll find plenty of ways to source great products you can sell on eBay. It just depends on your business model. A few ways are:
Buy things in bulk for a low price; think pallets, outlets, clearance sales, etc.
Local thrift shop
Neighborhood garage sale
Auctions, in-person or online (*this is one of my absolute favorites!)
Online stores, other e-commerce marketplaces. You can even buy individual items on sale at retail stores (Wal-Mart, Target, Dollar Store, etc.)
DON’T FORGET: Look out for vintage items. Older, retro or vintage items can be great products to list on eBay, depending on what they are. Often the more unique and collectible an item is, the more money you can make.
Thrift stores, garage sales and church sales are some of the best places to find hidden vintage treasures that customers love. Check out the “How Do Resellers Get Their Products?“ section for some ideas on where to source.
Items You Can NOT Sell on eBay
There is a very extensive list of products you may not sell on eBay. Read it and learn it, otherwise you risk being suspended or banned.
There is also a very exhaustive list of brands you may not sell or mention in your listings. This VeRO (Verified Rights Owner) list allows brands to keep sellers from infringing on their intellectual property rights. A very well-known example is that you are not allowed to say something has “Velcro.” Instead, it’s suggested that you say “hook-and-loop closure.” Seriously.
Selling on eBay: How to Create a Listing
Identify Your Item and Use Keywords
Once you have done some research and selected your products, it’s time to create your first listing!
When you sell an item on eBay, it’s important to show up in search results, so you want to make sure you use keywords in your title and product description so you can show up in the search engine algorithm.
There are a couple of ways you can list something on the platform – the advanced listing form and eBay’s quick listing tool. The quick listing tool is great for new eBay sellers because it guides you through the process, while the advanced listing form has additional features.
To get started with the quick listing tool, just enter the ISBN, UPC code or keywords that describe your product. To identify your products using the advanced tool, type the keywords for your item, then tap “Get Started.”
If you don’t know the keywords, you can find your product using the “Browse Categories” feature.
TITLE TEMPLATE: Brand + Item + Size + Other Descriptive Keywords
Depending on what you sell, listings can require several specifics.
Fixed Price vs. Auction Listings
Now it’s time to choose the type of listing. eBaygives you two options – auctions and buy-it-now listings.
Some items do better with auctions, while buy-it-now works well for many others. It really depends on the product.
With auctions, you set a time limit, and the highest bid wins once the auction is over. You’ll find this type of selling works well with rare, vintage and collectible items. But even then, many sellers select buy-it-now and allow shoppers to send a best-offer.
Auctions are also great for products that you aren’t worried about profitability on and/or you want to sell fast. However, you provide a starting price, and you can create a minimum amount that you’ll accept.
The “Buy It Now,” or fixed price listings are for items you want to make the most money on as you set the fixed price. These types of listings are best when you want to accept a specific price.
And you can allow shoppers to send you offers, which I do on all of my listings. You can set a minimum price you’re willing to consider and you can always counter or decline an offer.
How to Set Your Listing Duration
Once you decide on a selling format, it’s time to set the duration of your listings.
Things to consider:
Auction listings can last from one to 10 days.
Whether you want to set a duration or just leave them as “Good Until Cancelled.”
When potential buyers will be purchasing online – with auctions, more people bid when your auctions close. If you list something at 4 AM, it will end at 4 AM, and there won’t be as many people online.
4. Pricing Items on eBay
Now it’s time to price your listing. You can set a fixed price or you can create an auction. You will get different options either way.
You can also allow “Best Offer.” This option allows people to make offers that are lower than your list price.
Pricing on eBay is VERY important. Setting a competitive price affects your visibility in the search results, and it can’t be so high that buyers are scared off.
Many people just guess or estimate and throw a price up, but you must be strategic and do your research. Check “sold” comps to see how much others have paid for the same item recently. And also consider how many of that item are available; supply vs demand.
But make sure you look at the price of unsold listings too, because they can give you vital data as well. And many sellers use this info to set a price just lower than the current lowest price in hopes of getting the sale. This “race to the bottom” strategy is a bit controversial among sellers, but do what’s best for your business.
5. Set Up Your Shipping Options
The nice, and sometimes overwhelming, thing about eBay is they give you several shipping options. And eBay also offers discounts to sellers when they purchase shipping labels through eBay.
You may offer multiple shipping types to a buyer, such as USPS (First-class, Parcel, Priority Mail, Flat-Rate, etc), FedEx and UPS. And you can choose different shipping options for every item.
Having a scale so that you can weigh the exact amount for shipping is critical! Not only can incorrectly charging for shipping eat into profits, but your packages could be returned to you or worse, sent the buyer with a requirement that they pay additional fees.😟
It’s important to know that the shipping cost can affect whether an item sells or not. Many people don’t factor in these costs when they offer free shipping. If you don’t add this cost to your price, then shipping can eat into your profits.
Should you Offer Free Shipping?
Free shipping is a very attractive incentive to buyers and they may pay more for a product if it ships free. But it’s up to you whether to offer it or not.
I generally don’t offer free shipping. Approximately 10% of all of my listings have free shipping, and it’s usually lightweight items that may cost a few bucks to ship. But I do allow people to send offers to get a discount.
Many resellers will encourage you to make your shipping and return policies as buyer-friendly as possible. They say you should aim to offer free returns and free fast shipping. I say it’s a personal/business decision you need to make for yourself.
KEEP IN MIND: Buyers can sort items they are searching for by many factors including free shipping, free returns, accepts offers and many more.
eBay Guaranteed Delivery
eBay’sGuaranteed Delivery specifications are guidelines that promise customers that they will receive their purchases by a specific date.
There are several requirements for your listing to qualify for Guaranteed Delivery:
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Buyers can sort items they are searching for by many factors.
You must include the postal code for your item in the listing.
Resellers offering same-day delivery should set a reasonable cut-off point.
International: GSP or Not?
You can also choose to offer international shipping. You can go through GPS (Global Shipping Program), which is much easier for sellers, but more expensive for buyers. You just ship the item to a shipping center in the U.S. and then eBay ships it to the customer’s international destination. There are no additional forms or fees for you to worry about.
Or you can use International Shipping, which is a bit more complex for sellers, yet cheaper – and more attractive – for buyers.
I personally use GPS, because it opens up my items to more shoppers while keeping things easier for me.
6.Return Policy
I mentioned a return policy a little bit above. The nice thing about eBay versus other platforms is that you can set your own return policy as a seller.
eBay’s Money Back Guarantee protects buyers when they receive an item that doesn’t match the description (INAD – item not as described) or is damaged.
You don’t have to offer returns, but this could affect your conversions as people may not want to take a chance on your listing. Many eBay sellers say that in our current “Amazon Age”, returns are required to succeed.
Offering 30-day or 60-day returns to buyers can increase your conversion rate and help you sell more items. And you don’t always have to pay for the return.
As a seller you get a certain number of free listings. eBay gives each seller 250 insertion-free listings per month. For some people, that might be all they need.
After you use your 250 free listings you will pay insertion fees. Here is what to keep in mind with these insertion fees:
They are non-refundable even if your item doesn’t sell
These fees are only charged once per listing even for listings that include multiple items.
They are charged per category and per listing. If you list an item in more than one category, you will pay for each category.
These fees are charged for the original listing every time you relist your product.
They are charged per listing if you create duplicate listings for identical items in auction-style formats.
There are also final value fees. A final value fee is charged once your product sells and is calculated as a percentage of the total amount of the sale. Sales tax, shipping services, handling charges, and the price of the item are included in the final value fee.
There are also some basic fees that differ per category. You can learn more aboutall eBay seller fees here.
Things to Do After You List an Item on eBay
Once you’ve listed an item on eBay, your job isn’t over yet. There are some things you still need to do.
No time to relax yet!
Managing Your Listings
Once your listing goes live on the website, you’ll get an email saying that it’s active. After this, you’ll be managing your listing which could mean engaging with potential customers, answering questions or responding to offers.
DON’T FORGET: Make sure to check your account or email daily! You don’t want to miss questions, offers or sales. I did this once and thankfully was able to reconnect with the shopper. But I learned my lesson that day.
Of course, once you make a sale, you’ll be shipping your buyer’s purchase.
How to Promote Your Listings and eBay Store
You’ll also want to promote your store or items listed. You can actually do this right on eBay with ads. You can set up a promoted listing under the “Sell It Faster” option.
It’s much easier than some other platforms. There are no daily budgets, keywords, etc. to track. The rate for your ad is a certain percentage of the final sale price, and you are only charged if the item sells.
You can also promote your store (if you have one) or just your listings on your personal website, social media accounts (Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube andTikTok are all great) and email newsletter if you have one.
What to Do After You Sell an Item on eBay
How to Ship Items on eBay
Once an item sells on eBay, the buyer receives a confirmation email and has several days to actually pay for it unless you require immediate payment. Like many things with eBay, this is a controversial policy that they say will go away but never does.
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Before you ship an item, make sure the buyer has paid for it
Before you ship an item, make sure the buyer has paid for it. You’ll get confirmation in your account and via email. Then make sure you create a great customer experience by ensuring that you:
Use the shipping service specified in your listing
Then leave feedback for the buyers and if you run into any issues, make sure you communicate with the buyer.
Do everything right, and the customer will likely leave you positive feedback.
KEEP IN MIND: “Feedback” is another contested area on eBay. Sellers are not allowed to leave any negative feedback for a buyer, no matter what happens. Seriously.
And some buyers use feedback as hostage by incorrectly claiming INADs (Item Not As Described) or by requesting refunds. Just beware!
Tips for Selling on eBay
Here are some tips for selling your items on eBay.
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Tips & Tricks
Turn on International Shipping
It’s easy to turn on international shipping, especially GSP. So take advantage of this expanded marketplace as more people will have access to your items.
Look for Deals Online
If you do your research, you can find great places to source your items. There’s a website calledbrickseek.com that allows you to see online deals on products. If you search by zip code, you can find local deals.
Consider Signing Up for an eBay Store Subscription
As you grow your reselling business, consider signing up for an eBay store. They have five main subscriptions with different benefits:
Starter
Basic
Premium
Anchor
Enterprise
You get many benefits, like access to additional tools you can use to manage your business, discounted seller fees, FREE SHIPPING SUPPLIES every quarter and more. Learn more about eBay stores here.
Join Reseller Groups
New eBay sellers can benefit from the various reselling communities that share tips and support each other.
eBay has an exclusive market analysis tool calledTerapeak . The “Product Research” is now free to all sellers with access to Seller Hub. Terapeak “Sourcing Insights” offers sales data on every eBay category and other information and is free to all sellers with an eBay Store Subscription.
REMINDER: You do NOT need a store subscription to start selling on eBay. And I recommend you sell some items before you decide to purchase a subscription, just to make sure that it’s worth the monthly cost for your business.
This tool uses the most recent eBay data on pricing, supply and demand to help you identify trends. And, you will also know what products to market, what price to sell them at and when to list them.
Tools like this make the research part of selling easier.
FAQs
Do I need PayPal to sell on eBay?
No. eBay has a “Managed Payments System.” This connects to your credit card or bank account and is the preferred method of payment for sellers to pay their fees.
Selling on eBay can be very profitable
Do I need a bank account to sell on eBay?
You don’t need to connect a bank account to list products on eBay. However, if you want to receive payments from eBay you need to connect a bank account.
Is it free to list on eBay?
Each seller gets 250 free listings each month; after that, you must pay an insertion fee. So, many sellers using eBay as a side hustle won’t pay to list things. But professional sellers will pay more.
How long does it take to get paid on eBay?
Once a buyer’s purchase is confirmed and paid for, eBay initiates your payment, which is made to your checking account or debit card. It typically takes one to three business days for your bank to receive the funds.
Final Thoughts on How to Sell On eBay
Selling oneBaycan be very profitable if you know what items to list, when to sell them and how much to charge. You must pay attention to trends and seasons, so that you list items people want to buy.
Plus, you need to find places to source good products at a great price.
You’ll find eBay has plenty of resources to help you get started. Learn the platform and guidelines, and you can earn great money selling oneBay.
You may also be interested in these other posts on reselling:
Amazon Prime Day is finally here (July 12-13, 2022)! But porch pirates know this and are lurking about. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for someone’s Amazon package to be stolen.
It does happen, especially around the holidays and times like Amazon Prime Day when thieves know people are ordering more things online. And today, people buy things online all the time, including resellers (What is a reseller?)
And there are definitely some great products on Amazon that you could use daily in your reselling business (check out some great tools and products for resellers).
Amazon Prime Day is July 12-13, 2022.
So what do you do if your Amazon package is stolen, and how can you prevent it? This post answers these questions and more, and I’m giving you some helpful tips on preventing package theft year-round.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission if you make a qualifying purchases from affiliate links.
What Do I Do If My Amazon Package Is Stolen
Porch pirates can make a lot of money selling stolen items, and that is why they steal packages in the first place. They know that many people will be receiving packages around Amazon Prime Day (get a free 30-day trial!).
And despite changing work habits due to the pandemic, many people work during the day when packages are delivered. So your Amazon delivery can sit out all day until you get home.
Turn On Delivery Notifications
The nice thing about Amazon these days is that once someone delivers your package, Amazon will notify you. And sometimes the deliverer marks down or even takes a photo of where they left it.
So, if you get home and have a missing package, you can check Amazon to confirm if it was delivered. Then, start the process of finding it.
Before you contact the seller or Amazon, there are a few things to do to make sure your package was delivered and then taken.
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BUYER BEWARE: Prime Day Deals can be alluring for shoppers – and porch pirates.
Sign Up for Amazon Notifications to Track Your Package
The first step is to set up notifications that help you track your package if you haven’t yet. Amazon customer service can tell you what to do.
Check the Amazon App or Website to Check the Status of Your Package
Sometimes Amazon does run behind, or things can delay deliveries. So, next, you need to log in to your account and check to see if Amazon says your package was delivered. If the information is available, check to see where it was placed.
Check with Neighbors to See if They Saw It Delivered or Any Suspicious Activity
Next, check with your neighbors to see if they saw your package delivered or if they noticed any suspicious activity. A neighbor you’re close with could have brought your package to their home so it wouldn’t get stolen.
They may even have a security camera, such as the Blink Security Doorbell (shown below), that shows your package being delivered and/or someone walking to your porch (or door, patio, garage, etc.) and taking it.
It’s also possible that your Amazon package was delivered to the wrong house. While this isn’t an ideal situation, you may be able to track it down by talking to your neighbors.
Contact the USPS or Delivery Carrier
Often the shipping carrier is the U.S. Post Office, so you can call them to see where they left the box. This isn’t always helpful due to the volume of packages the post office processes. But you can at least tell Amazon or the third-party seller you tried.
If you get notifications and can see a picture of where it was left, and it wasn’t your house, let the shipping service know. You’ll need the tracking number for your package, so have that information ready.
How Do I Report a Stolen Package to Amazon
If you’ve tried all the things above, it’s time to contact Amazon or the seller about your missing or stolen package. Who you contact depends on if you purchased your item from a third-party seller or if Amazon fulfilled it.
Don’t be surprised if, when you call, Amazon tells you to wait 48 hours because several things could delay or interrupt the delivery of your package. The package might be damaged or opened, or the mail carrier could have been interrupted while delivering your Amazon packages, and you may receive them late.
If you have a picture that proves it wasn’t delivered to your house, they may talk to you earlier.
Once you and Amazon are certain that the package was lost or stolen, what happens?
Does Amazon Give Refunds for Stolen Packages?
Once you can prove the things you ordered weren’t delivered to the correct shipping address, stolen or missing, Amazon usually issues a refund or ships a replacement out. The couple times this has happened to me, Amazon issued a refund or shipped out a replacement very quickly.
The A to Z guarantee is essentially purchase protection. It states that Amazon will cover purchases up to $2,500 even for items sold or fulfilled by third-party sellers or retailers.
What About Expensive Items?
If the item was a more expensive or large purchase, Amazon might require a copy of a police report to file a claim for stolen packages. Filing a claim is fairly easy, and Amazon may not require a police report at all. But it’s still a good idea to let the authorities know if it was a high-dollar item.
While there isn’t much that law enforcement can do, they can write a police report. If you or a neighbor has video of the theft, they have a little more to go on. Plus, many times, this type of theft isn’t limited to one incident, so it could be a good warning for your neighbors. Also, there may be a rash of theft after package delivery in your neighborhood, so this could lead to increased patrols.
Tips to Prevent Package Theft
There are several things you can do to help deter package theft.
Install a Security or Doorbell Camera
Installing a security system or doorbell camera allows you to record any suspicious activity on your porch. This security equipment is very helpful and easy to install on your front door.
These cameras will record anyone delivering packages and prove if they were lost or stolen.
Surveillance equipment like Blink Security Doorbell (shown below) or Ring Doorbell sends you notifications in real-time to see when someone steps on your porch and also allows you to view live video feeds.
You can even have two-way communication with whoever delivers your package. You can give the mail carrier directions on where to set it or even open your door remotely so they can set the package inside if you also have smart locks.
And of course, you may scare away porch pirates by talking to them even when you aren’t home.
While cameras are no guarantee to prevent theft, they may help catch thieves and prevent additional crimes.
Partner with a Neighbor to Watch and Protect Deliveries
Partner with a close neighbor to look out for deliveries when the other person isn’t home. You can even take each other’s packages inside, so they aren’t sitting on your porch or at your door all day. My neighbors and I do this, especially if we know we’ll be away for more than a day. A quick text or face-to-face and we know to look out for each other. This can help you prevent stolen packages altogether.
Pick up Packages at an Amazon Locker or Whole Foods
More and more areas now have Amazon Hub lockers or other secure pickup spots such as Whole Foods grocery stores. This can be a great alternative to shipping to your home, especially if you know you won’t be there or if your area is a target for porch pirates.
Have Packages Delivered to Work
If you’re worried about getting a package stolen at home and you’re a frequent Amazon customer, you can even have orders delivered to your work. Just double-check if your company allows it.
Final Thoughts on Amazon Package Stolen
Amazon Prime Day has become a major online shopping event for many. Plus, as any reseller knows, shopping online is becoming more and more common. This means if you’re one of these shoppers, dealing with porch pirates could be a problem you continuously deal with.
Now that you have some ideas for securing your deliveries and avoiding theft, you can protect your future orders from Amazon or other retailers.
If your Amazon package is stolen or lost, be sure to file a claim with Amazon to get a replacement or refund.
Whether you partner with a neighbor, install cameras or choose alternate delivery locations, you have a few solutions to protect any delivery you’re expecting.
So you want to start a reselling business? That’s great! Reselling is a fantastic way to make extra money, and it’s something that anyone can do with the right information.
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Retail arbitrage is taking advantage of discounts or sales at a retailer like Wal-Mart, Target or the Dollar Tree and then reselling them for a profit.
In this guide, I will share everything you need to know about starting a reseller business. You’ll learn the answer to “what is a reseller?” and what an online reselling shop is. I’ll also let you know the benefits and some pitfalls of running an online reselling business.
Selling on places like eBay, Poshmarkand Mercarihas given me freedom like no traditional job could, and I’d love to share my experience with you. Are you ready to learn more? Let’s get started!
Blog posts may contain affiliate links and creates no additional cost for you.
What is a Reseller?
A reseller is a person or business who buys products from a manufacturer or supplier and then sells them to customers, usually at a higher price.
To start a reselling business, you’ll need to find products you can sell. After you decide on the types of products you sell, you can look for suppliers (including thrift, retail and your own home!) or other marketplaces to buy them at a good price.
Once you figure out what to sell and where to get the products from, you’re on your way to starting a reselling business.
Buy low, sell high – it’s a simple business model that almost anyone can do.
What Does a Reseller Do?
Basically, a reseller buys products from suppliers or manufacturers (or raids your own closets) and sells them to customers at a higher price.
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Buy low, sell high – it’s a simple business model that almost anyone can do.
To be successful as a reseller, you’ll need to find reliable inventory from suppliers who offer good prices on the products your buyers want. This can be as simple as shopping at your favorite thrift store or garage sale for inventory.
When I started, I chose items from my closet and I bought a mix of items (clothes, shoes, dresses, office supplies, home decor, etc.) at a local Goodwill just so I could test things out and learn what actually sells.
You’ll also need to create a system for marketing and selling your products so that you can reach your target market.
The nice thing is, in some cases, you don’t have to keep a lot of inventory on hand or pay much to market your product, especially if you start a dropshipping business. And you can start reselling clothing and accessories on platforms like Poshmarkand eBay with very little money invested up front.
Online resellers are similar to retail stores, except they don’t have brick-and-mortar locations. They simply sell to customers online instead of in-store.
What Type of Business is a Reseller?
A reseller business model is a type of eCommerce where you typically sell products online, usually through a platform like Amazon, eBay, Facebook, Poshmark, Etsy, Mercari, your own website or many other platforms.
There are many reselling opportunities out there, like selling sneakers, fashion, vintage items, jewelry, home decor, comic books or other collectibles. Or you could even start a consignment store or vintage boutique.
What Are Examples of a Reseller?
RETAIL ARBITRAGE: One example of a reseller is an Amazon FBA seller. Amazon FBA (fulfilled by Amazon) is a program where you can sell products on Amazon, and they will store, ship, and provide customer service for your products. Many of these sellers utilize retail arbitrage to secure inventory to sell (Reseller Nikki Kirk has some great tips on this strategy).
NOTE: Some sellers (like me) also sell as Amazon FBM (fulfilled by merchant), which means the seller handles storage and shipping.
WHOLESALE: Another example is a seller who buys products from wholesalers, manufacturers or authorized dealers and then sells them on eBay at a higher price. This type of seller typically buys in bulk or larger quantities.
THRIFTING/GARAGE SALES: Some sellers who buy and sell clothing, accessories and other products on places like Mercari orPoshmark, frequently shop at thrift stores, garage sales, yard sales, flea markets, consignment shops and the like. You can also source online at auctions or even on your selling platforms. You typically buy individual or a small number of items but can sometimes work out deals for larger quantities depending on the situation (reseller MsTaffy often shops at Goodwill clearance centers aka The Bins).
DROPSHIPPING: Dropshipping is another type of reselling business, and the best thing about it is that you can use platforms like Amazon or Shopify to sell products without keeping any inventory in stock.
Adropshipping business uses a unique method of order fulfillment in which you buy inventory as needed from a third-party manufacturer or wholesaler, who typically ships it directly to the buyer. The dropshipper or reseller acts as the middleman coordinating between the buyer and the manufacturer.
How Does a Reseller Make Money?
Many say the profit is in the purchase.
Resellers make money by buying products at a certain price and then reselling them at a higher price (consider when you should list items as “price is firm“). Most resellers sell products online, but some open physical brick-and-mortar shops.
It’s a fine balance to make a profit as a reseller. You must consider the cost of the item AS WELL AS any fees you pay to sell that item.
You also must regularly research the current value of items, which change depending on seasons and buyer opinions. As such, many say the profit is in the purchase, because the lower the cost of the item, the higher the potential profit even when you must lower prices to incentivize sales.
How Much Do Online Resellers Make?
This is a difficult question to answer as resellers can make different amounts depending on the products they sell, how much they sell, how much they work, their profit margins and other factors.
Just look at any reselling influencer that shares their income and you will see ranges from a few bucks a month to hundreds a month to 6-figure annual incomes and even higher (The Nurse Flipper makes a full-time income by reselling).
Some resellers make a full-time income while others only supplement their income with their online reselling business. But really the sky is the limit with the income you can make with a reseller business. And once you get the hang of it, you start making more money.
As long as you have products that paying customers want, the reseller business model is a smart one. It’s a great type of business to make money reselling online.
How Do Resellers Get Their Products?
There are a few ways resellers can get their products. They could source them from wholesalers, manufacturers, other retailers, or even online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay.
Running a successful reseller business means you have to research what to charge for products and services.
Another option is to source products locally at garage sales, thrift shops, or even on clearance at stores like Dollar Tree, Target or Wal-Mart. Once you find a product, you can research it online and see if it’s selling for more than you paid for it. If it’s enough to cover ALL of your expenses AND leave you profit, then you’ve found yourself a winning product to resell.
Running a successful reseller business means you have to research what to charge for products and services.
If you don’t know how much customers will pay for something, then you could price items too high, and they won’t sell. Or, if you’re reselling things too low, you won’t make enough profit to make it worth the work involved.
What is the Difference Between Wholesale and Retail?
The difference between wholesale and retail is that wholesale is the sale of goods or services in larger quantities at lower prices. While retail is the sale of these same goods or services in small quantities directly to consumers.
Many resellers like to use wholesalers to source inventory or other places where they can buy things at low costs so they can increase profitability. Finding products during good sales helps you increase your profit margin so you can earn more.
Where Do Resellers Sell Their Products?
Resellers can offer products online at many places.
Resellers can offer products online at many places, including:
YES: In general, it is legal to resell products that you have lawfully acquired. You are allowed to resell products you bought at a store, and there are entire online communities dedicated to reselling on the secondary market, like Facebook Marketplace and Poshmark.
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eBay has a VeRO (verified rights owner) list of brand limitations.
NO: There are exceptions, however, such as copyrighted material, trade secrets, guns (though you can sometimes sell gun parts on certain platforms), counterfeit or imitation designer goods, foods and drugs. But detailed exclusions depend on the marketplace.
MORE LIMITATIONS: Also, some brand names may have limitations when reselling their products online and may explicitly say that reselling is not allowed. Meanwhile, some brands may allow reselling, but they may not allow you to use their promotional materials or copyrighted photos in your listings.
EVEN MORE LIMITATIONS: eBay has a specific VeRO (verified rights owner) list to see its brand limitations. A great example is the brand VELCRO. You can’t use that trademark as a description in your listing unless you are referring to the genuine fastener. Many manufacturers have rules about using their trademarks as descriptions as well as selling certain brands.
I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH:You must abide by the rules of the marketplaces where you sell! They are all different, and if you do not follow the rules, your store can be suspended or shut down completely (find out why eBay permanently suspended this prominent reseller).
WARNING: It is imperative to review and understand the terms of service for each marketplace. (Photo courtesy of Muhammad Daudy/Unsplash)
Do You Need a Business License to Resell?
Generally speaking, you do not need a business license to resell items online. But each state and city is different, so check with your local municipality to be certain.
You also don’t necessarily need an LLC or something similar to resell. But you may choose to create one for liability protection or other reasons.
Either way, you are generally allowed to deduct business expenses, but check with a tax professional and your local guidelines to confirm specifics.
Separately, most states offer what is called a resale certificate or a seller’s permit. This is a special document you can apply for that allows certain resellers to make purchases without paying taxes to avoid paying taxes twice.
However, if you’re just starting out, it’s probably not worth getting a business license unless you have to. There can be a significant cost or time to get any state or local license, and you want to first confirm you actually plan to continue reselling.
What are the Benefits of Being a Reseller?
Selling products as a reseller has many benefits!
Flexibility
Starting a reselling store is a flexible business you can do from home. It allows you to pick from a wide range of products and manufacturers, and you don’t need a huge inventory to start. Many people start with items in their own closets and attics.
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Starting a reselling store is a flexible business you can do from home.
Dropshipping businesses require even less space for product inventory.
Best of all, you determine your own schedule! This allows you to choose when, how often and how long to work on any given day. That means more freedom for you to do what you choose.
You Can Expand Fast
The profitability and flexibility of reselling make it easy to scale your business and grow quickly, if you choose. If you use smart online marketing tactics and build strong relationships with suppliers, you can grow even faster.
Reselling Businesses Don’t Require Much Money to Start
You can start a resale business with very little to no monetary investment. You can start by selling things around your house and even get items from friends and family who want to get rid of items. Then you can reinvest the money you make into buying more inventory. You’ll also need some shipping supplies (check below for some tips on what to spend).
Pro-tip: I recommend buying a good scale to manage shipping costs (find more details below under “what tools you need”).
How Do I Become an Online Reseller?
The process of starting a resale business is simple.
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Decide the type of resale business you want to start.
Do you want to get started on Poshmark? Sign up with code THRIFTYIQ and get $10 toward your first purchase!
Decide the type of resale business you want to start (selling clothes, vintage goods, books, comics, etc.).
Choose the platforms you want to sell on and create accounts
Pro-tip: I recommend starting with one or two marketplaces max so that you can get comfortable with the process.
When you’re ready, try a cross-listing tool like List Perfectly to help you quickly share listings to multiple platforms.
Review all the selling rules on these platforms.
Find items to sell, including from your own house; do some research on the specific items by checking similar items that have recently sold on those marketplaces (i.e. check the comps)
Prep the items if needed, including cleaning, pressing, taking measurements, etc., and then take clear photos in good lighting.
Whenever someone asks a question, reply. And if they make a purchase, package the item neatly and professionally and follow the shipping rules (check out this guide on Poshmark shipping).
Try to invest profits into more inventory or resources to improve your efficiency.
Common Reselling Strategies
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The less you pay for items to sell, the more you will make reselling them. Here are a few helpful strategies you can use:
Thrifting
Thrifting is going to thrift shops, garage sales, flea markets or other places that sell pre-owned products. These can be great sources of highly sought-after vintage fashion, games, tools, electronics and more.
Retail Arbitrage
Retail arbitrage is taking advantage of discounts or sales at a retailer likeWal-Mart,Target or the Dollar Tree and then reselling them for a profit.
Online Arbitrage
Online arbitrage is similar to retail arbitrage, except you buy from a store online like eBay, Walmart, etc. The online arbitrage process is one of the most popular ways to resell, and you can sometimes find other resellers looking to get rid of their inventory (Reseller Steve Raiken has lots of video tips (Reseller Steve Raiken breaks down his Top 3 Strategies to Grow).
Wholesale
This strategy involves obtaining products from a wholesaler and then reselling them. It’s often less expensive per item to buy in bulk, but may require a larger upfront expense.
What Tools Do You Need to Get Started?
Beyond the items you are going to sell, I mentioned a scale to help you manage shipping costs.
There are huge differences among costs to ship 4 oz, 8 oz, and 16 oz, and this can be a dealbreaker for a customer – or a profit buster if you offer free shipping. You can purchase a good scale for as low as $25. This is the first one I ever bought and it still works great.
You’ll also need shipping supplies, which you can get free at the post office if you are shipping Priority Mail. For First Class (typically less than 1 pound), you can get supplies at warehouses and other places that throw away their boxes. You can also recycle boxes from deliveries you or your family gets or buy ultra low-cost supplies at discount stores or on eBay or Amazon.
Pitfalls and Other Things to Consider
If being a reseller sounds perfect to you, then there are some things to consider and avoid.
Sales Slumps
Sometimes sales slow down, which is sometimes called as a sales slump. One of the most talked about stalls among resellers is the summer slow-down, and often, it’s beyond your control which can be frustrating. Meanwhile, sales may be better at certain times of the year, like Q4 (October-December). And certain items sell better at specific times of the year as well.
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Sometimes sales slow down, so you must organize your finances or have multiple income sources to accommodate these slumps.
Seasonality
Sales slumps lead me to seasonality. Q4 (October-December) is typically a major money-making season for most retail, including resellers. And holidays like Memorial Day and the 4th of July can mean fewer sales because more families are doing outside activities instead of shopping. At the same time, notable dates such as Halloween, start of summer and Black Friday
Trends
If you’re selling clothing and accessories like I do, trends play a huge part in sales. Fashion trends change all the time, and it’s the same with other items too (check out this Pinterest board for some popular items to sell). This directly affects the price you could potentially earn.
So, pay attention to what’s popular and try to jump on trends as soon as possible so you can take advantage of them. If you sell the right things at the right time, you can make excellent profits.
Economic and Societal Issues
Changing habits and issues like inflation can have a significant impact on shopping in-person or online. The COVID-19 pandemic is a perfect example when people did the vast majority of their shopping online. This created a huge business opportunity for resellers.
Just a couple years later, as restaurants, stores and entertainment venues reopened fully, more people wanted to break free of their homes. As such, online sales declined, creating a major slump for many online resellers.
Similarly, during inflation the prices of nearly everything rise – gas, groceries, housing, etc. As a result, many people don’t have additional funds to shop for non-essentials as much (get the best reselling tips from Pinterest).
Final Thoughts on What is a Reseller
Now you know the ins and outs of becoming a reseller and starting a reselling business. It’s fairly simple to start with very little upfront costs, and the process isn’t too complicated. But it does require work, especially if you plan to sell secondary clothing and shoes.
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The sky is the limit with the amount of money you can make.
The sky is the limit with the amount of money you can make as long as you identify profitable inventory and make adjustments as you go. Don’t forget to follow each platform’s rules. And pay attention to photos, marketing, shipping, customer service and other areas that can impact sales.
I’d love to hear about you! Are you a new reseller? Thinking about taking the dive? Is there anything else you would add to this list? Let me know in the comments!
Are you going on vacation and concerned about missing out on sales? Don’t worry – Poshmark has a way to help you with vacation holds! Poshmark’s vacation mode (check out this quick how-to video) will alert shoppers you are away, while letting them continue to browse your closet. This way, you can relax and enjoy your break because you won’t get orders you can’t ship while you’re unavailable.
In this article, I will explain Poshmark vacation mode and show you how to put your closet onvacation hold while you are away.
My blog posts may contain affiliate links and create no additional cost for you.
Is There a Vacation Mode on Poshmark?
Yes, there is a way to temporarily close your shop while you’re away, so no sales sneak in and you don’t miss shipping a package while you’re not home (get tips on shipping with free Priority Mailers). A vacation hold is nice because, let’s face it, most of us started reselling for more freedom and flexibility.
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Your closet shouldn’t prevent you from traveling or taking a break.
That means you’re going to want to take time off (for family, church, travel or just some me-time!), and missing sales can be an issue if you have an active closet.
What is Vacation Hold on Poshmark?
Poshmark vacation mode is a way to close your Poshmark closet while you’re away. This feature will place a message on all of your listings saying, “Be right back! Closed for vacation until (specified date).”
Your listings can still be viewed, liked and shared. People can also comment on them. But customers can’t purchase items when your store is on a vacation hold.
Download pre-made Poshmark closet signs to let customers know you are on vacation – just change the wording anyway you like. You can use these templates for FREE in your store or on Instagram.
On the App
Once you log into the app and go to the Account Tab (@username)
Select My Seller Tools.
Select Vacation Hold.
Click on the toggle to set your start date and end date.
Select Save.
On the Web
Go to your account and tap your profile image at the top right of the screen.
Select Account Settings.
On the menu on the left side, select Vacation Hold.
Choose On to set your start and end date.
Enter your start and end date.
Select Save.
If you have any questions about putting your closet on vacation hold or using your seller tools, you can message Poshmark through the support center.
Do you want to get started on Poshmark? Sign up with code THRIFTYIQ and get $10 toward your first purchase!
What Happens Once I Temporarily Close My Closet?
Your listings are temporarily set to Not for Sale, which prevents people from purchasing any items when you’re away. That way, you don’t need to worry about figuring out how to ship an order someone makes when you’re not home.
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There is a way to temporarily close your shop while you’re away.
It also gives potential customers the heads-up that you’re away in case they have questions that you can’t immediately answer.
For most sellers (not all), it could be impractical to bring a large volume of items you’re selling with you on a trip, so Vacation Mode solves all of this.
The nice thing is Poshmark creates that automatic “Be right back!” message. It displays as a banner at the bottom of your closet in the app and follows the viewer as they scroll through your shop.
Customers can still comment on listings to ask questions, so you may want to check for this while you’re gone.
When Should I Turn Poshmark Vacation Mode On?
The most obvious reason for sellers to use vacation mode is that they are traveling for a break or for a sourcing trip (or both😉).
You may have a personal situation such as being sick, in the hospital or caring for someone else.
You may need some time to reorganize your Poshmark closet or your entire inventory system.
You also may just need a complete time-out and that’s OK!
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The best rule of thumb is to temporarily close your closet if you will be unavailable for over five days.
The best rule of thumb is to temporarily close your closet if you will be out of town or unavailable for over five days. That way, you won’t disappoint buyers or risk an order cancellation if it takes longer to ship their items (find out how to cancel an order on Poshmark). And, of course, you can always message a buyer if there are ever any shipping delays on your part.
How Do I Turn Off Vacation Mode When I Return
All you need to do is go to the account tab on the Poshmark app or account settings online and toggle Vacation Mode off, then save your settings.
The listings you’re selling on Poshmark will be set to For Sale again, so sellers can buy them.
Final Thoughts on Poshmark Vacation Mode
Now you know how to temporarily close your Poshmark shop when you are going on a trip. Or, in case something in life happens that would prevent you from shipping a package to a customer.
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You can relax and enjoy your time without worrying about missing sales.
Many of us build our reselling businesses for more freedom and flexibility in our lives, so your store shouldn’t prevent you from traveling or stepping away for any number of reasons. Poshmark knows this and allows for some flexibility in the process.
Do you want to change your username on Poshmark, but you’re not quite sure how? Well, you’re in the right place, because I will walk you through the process of how to change your name on Poshmark.
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The process to change your name on Poshmark is pretty easy.
It is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things that you need to know before getting started. I’ll cover how to change your name on Poshmark, how to change your address, and other helpful tips.
Blog posts may contain affiliate links and create no additional cost to you.
What is Poshmark?
Poshmark is one of the top marketplaces for buying and selling fashion, accessories, beauty products, home decor, pet products and even electronics.
Poshmark is one of the top marketplaces for buying and selling fashion, accessories, beauty products, home decor, pet products and even electronics. It’s similar to sites like eBay and Mercari, but it specializes in clothing, shoes and accessories.
You can buy or sell new or used items, and there are no fees to list items. Poshmark makes its money by taking a cut of each sale.
Do you want to get started on Poshmark? Sign up with code THRIFTYIQ and get $10 toward your first purchase!
Specifically, Poshmark takes a fee of $2.95 for sales under $15. And for all sales above that amount, they take 20 percent. The fees are very straightforward and easy to understand, even if relatively higher than other marketplaces.
Consider your personal style and what you want your brand to represent, as your store is your brand.
When it comes to choosing a username, also called your closet name, on Poshmark, I have some helpful tips for you. First, I would brain dump all of your closet name ideas on paper, Google Doc or spreadsheet. That way, you can cross them off as you narrow your list down.
If you are planning to sell as a side hustle or as a potential full-time business, then consider your personal style and what you want your brand to represent, as your store is your brand (check out tips for using “price is firm” on your listings). Here are some other considerations.
Is the name you want available?
Try to avoid using terms that are highly used, like shop or Posh.
Make sure to choose a name that will be relevant years down the road.
Make it clear and simple so buyers can find you again.
Don’t use too much of your personal information in your closet, like your full name, year of birth, physical address, etc. – online safety is critical.
Make sure your username can’t be misconstrued as something else.
How to Change Your Username on Poshmark
Now we’re to the good part – how to change your name on Poshmark. First, you can only change your username through the web, so you must do it on your desktop, laptop or through the web browser on your tablet or smartphone.
You will need to change it through your account settings. Here are the steps:
Sign into your account online using your password.
Select Account Settings.
On the left-hand side menu of the page, select Account Info.
You’ll see Change beside the username. Select it to receive a verification code.
Once you receive your verification code, enter it and click Done to gain access to change your username.
Enter your new username.
Select Done to save it.
ContactPoshmark support if you are unable to access your account settings through the website.
Where Is Your Poshmark Username Located?
Your Poshmark username appears in multiple places. Most notably it’s the “@namehere” under you profile photo and at the top of your mobile screen in the app when you tap the profile icon in the bottom right (see photo below).
In this example, @thriftyiq is my username at the very top of my profile on the app. You can also see my username on the bottom right. FYI, your profile name (“Thrifty Q” in this photo) is also top left.
When you log in on a laptop or tablet, you’ll see your username at the top left of your closet’s profile. Again it’s “@namehere” and it is just below the Profile Name you choose – which is different than your username (see photo below).
Your username also shows up when you comment on listings and send messages (ship with free Priority Mailers from the post office.)
On the laptop or browser, your username (mine is @thriftyiq) is just below your profile name (“Thrifty Q” in this example). They both are located on the top left on your profile.
BONUS TIP: To change your profile name, which is structured as first and last name, go to your closet and tap “Edit Profile” at the top right under your current profile name. You can also tap the profile icon in the bottom right of the app and then tap “My Profile.” On your laptop, go to your closet and tap “Edit Profile” on the top right.
How Many Times Can You Change Your Name on Poshmark?
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You can change your username on Poshmark twice.
You can only change your username on Poshmark twice, so make sure you avoid any typos, misspellings, etc. That’s why it’s important to take your time and choose the right username, as you can’t change it too often.
If you have any questions, be sure to contact support.
FAQs
Where is the account tab (account settings) on Poshmark?
When you sign into the app, the Account tab is the small icon on the bottom right of your screen. It’s one of the most important tabs as you can access multiple areas from there including your closet, your seller tools, your balance and more.
How do I change my covershot on Poshmark?
There are multiple ways to change your covershot or main profile photo. On the app, you can go to your closet and then tap the + sign on your current image on the top left. This allows you to take a quick photo or pull one from your phone. Instead of tapping the + sign on the left, you can also tap “Edit Profile” on the right of your profile and then tap “Edit” on your profile photo.
Pro-tip: This is also where you can easily change your profile’s Header Image (the horizontal image that’s at the top of your profile).
On the web, go to your closet and tap “Edit Profile” on the top right of your profile.
How do I find my URL on Poshmark?
On your laptop or desktop, sign in to your account and tap your profile picture on the top right side. Then select My Closet from the menu, and you can simply copy the URL in the address bar.
How do I change my URL on Poshmark?
Your link includes the name of your closet (aka your username), so it will look something like this: Poshmark.com/closet/myclosetname
So, to change your URL, you will need to sign in to your account and follow the directions above to change your username.
How to add or change your address on Poshmark?
Unlike changing your username, you can change your address on the app or on the web.
On the Web
Sign into your Account Settings using your password.
Once you sign in, select your profile picture located at the top-right of the web page.
From the menu on the left-hand side, select My Addresses.
Then select Change. If you don’t have an address on file, it will say Add Address.
Select Edit to edit an address on file or Add Address to enter a new address.
After you’ve made your changes to your address, select Done to save your information.
In the App
Go to your Account Tab in the app.
Then select My Addresses from the menu.
Select Change next to your current address. If you have no address on file, you will need to select Add Default Shipping Address or Add Default Return Address.
Next, select Edit to edit a current address or Add Address to enter a new one.
Select Done when you’re finished.
You may need to enter a verification code to access your account to make the changes, so that may be an option that pops up at any time.
How to change your email address on Poshmark?
In the App
Log in to the app and go to the account tab (@username). Select My Profile and then Account Info.
Then select Email Address. It will prompt you to get a verification code. Once you receive it, enter the code and then change your email address.
On the Web
Once you sign in from the web page, select your profile picture from the top right. Then from the drop-down menu, select Account Info.
Beside Email, you’ll see Change. Select it to receive a verification code. Once you receive the code, enter it into the web page. Then you can enter your new email address and select done to save it.
Contact support if you have any issues.
Can you have two Poshmark accounts?
No, you can only have one active Poshmark account unless the platform has given you written permission to have more than one.
Final Thoughts on How to Change Your Name on Poshmark
Now you know how to change your name on Poshmark. Since you can only change your username twice, make sure you take the time to pick the right one.
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Your Poshmark username is the same as your closet name.
Just keep in mind some actions you can only do on the web and not in the app.
Over time, you’ll be able to sign in and easily navigate your Poshmark account and closet. If you have any problems, contact Poshmark support for more help.
In the meantime, let me know if you have Poshmark questions in the comments below so we can keep the info-share going!
As a new buyer or reseller of fashion and products on platforms like eBay, Poshmark and Mercari, you’ve probably seen the phrase “firm on price” or “price firm.” But what does that mean? Many people think it means that the seller isn’t willing to negotiate on price, but that is not always completely accurate.
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Some people think the “firm on price” meaning indicates sellers are not willing to negotiate. That’s not always completely true.
Blog posts may contain affiliate links, and creates no additional cost for you.
When I first started my resale business, I made plenty of mistakes, which is why my goal is to help you avoid them! And, I’ve seen people use “firm price” and “fixed price” interchangeably, and that can be really confusing.
For example, understanding the phrases buyers and sellers use in this market can be a chore in itself. So, if you plan on making reselling an actual business, even just part-time, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about how to sell on a variety of platforms.
In this post, I’m discussing the firm on price meaning as well as what “fixed price” means and other helpful things you need to know about it.
What Does Firm on Price Mean?
So, what am I talking about when I say firm on price meaning?
Normally, firm on price means that the seller has set a specific price for a product, and they won’t accept anything less. But that doesn’t mean that they aren’t willing to negotiate.
This Poshmark seller @mateodaking is firm on prices $10 and below, but may be open to negotiating bundles of multiple items.
The seller may be open to negotiating other parts of the deal like shipping costs or payment terms. This is true on secondary marketplaces like eBay and Poshmark (find out how to cancel an order on Poshmark), but it’s especially true if the seller has something like Shopify or their own eCommerce website.
And sometimes, if the item has been listed a while, they may accept a reasonable offer, not something crazy low though.
In general, a “fair” offer is 5%-35% less than the list price. If you ask for a 40% or higher discount, you run the risk of insulting the seller (but like most things in reselling – there are exceptions).
@thriftyIQ
You may also see the term firm-fixed-price that applies to a specific type of contract. A firm-fixed-price contract is an agreement with a predetermined value for a service or product that is provided – it’s related, but not like the prices of goods you’re selling on sites like Mercari that this article is about.
Should You Negotiate with the Seller or Buyer if the Listing Says Firm on Price?
It really depends on factors like how old the listing is and if there is room for negotiating, etc. As a buyer, if the price is already low, the person likely won’t budge. But I’ve sent reasonable offers that weren’t insulting and have scored some really good deals on my favorite purchases.
It’s much better to approach people about the product in general before you start asking for a lower price. And you may not even want to approach a lower price at all as you could ask for free or reduced shipping or something similar.
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The seller @lvoe_4ever explains they are unwilling to negotiate further on discounted offers they send to likers.
It’s always better to build a rapport with them first, and then start talking about a lower price later if you feel the item is overpriced.
Waiting is your best strategy for deep-discount offers. Then in a few days (or weeks or months, depending on the item), if the item hasn’t sold and you still want it, it’s fine to approach the seller about a lower price. If you want to negotiate with a seller, sometimes letting them know that you saw it was a firm price is typically enough to open them up to negotiation. Since it also proves you read their listing and didn’t ignore it all together.
As a seller, it’s totally up to you and really depends on the situation. Like shopping for a new car, just be prepared to walk away if the person won’t accept your deal.
As a Seller, Do I Ever Negotiate On My Prices?
Absolutely! When I’m listing items, I’m open to negotiation depending on the circumstances. When you sell things on platforms like Poshmark or eBay, you can just price the product slightly higher so that room for some negotiation is built in without listing items as firm prices.
In fact, I promote the fact that I’m open to negotiation with potential buyers. This is especially helpful on marketplaces like Mercari (see image below), where offers are less of the norm compared to Poshmark, where buyers seem to make a sport out of trying to get a lower price😬. My goal is to make buyers feel less awkward about making a lower offer, and to let them know that I won’t be insulted – I either accept or counter with my lowest price.
My actual negotiation offer on Mercari
The 1st gold star of one of my Mercari listings explains that I’m open to a buyer’s discounted offer.
As such, a number of things I sell are typically priced slightly higher for negotiating, but also to cover the cost of cleaning, listing, packaging and shipping the item. But I caution you to not raise your prices too high, or no one will pay for them because your competition will constantly beat out on price.
People often list their items at a firm price when they know the true market value of their product. Or they might recognize the item is in high demand and low supply, or because they think they are offering a deal.
But sometimes they’re wrong. I’ve seen people list pre-owned products at a higher price than the cost to buy them new. Of course, that may be perfectly acceptable for certain items in ultra high demand.
But, there are times when the seller has not done their research to see what the actual sales of comparable items are. And at some point, if the person wants to sell the item, they will need to lower the price.
The flip-side is when you’re listing a popular item, you may encounter buyers who thrive on the hunt for the deepest discount they can get. Or you might get other cheapies that just don’t want to spend a dime. And for whatever reason, they approach you for bargain basement prices.
This seller @jennasch80 confirms they are firm on price of item AND shipping.
In general, some are resellers trying to buy things on the cheap, and then there are real buyers just trying to get something they like at a good price.
As a seller, adding “firm price” to your listing helps you save time fielding low-ball offers that aren’t worth your time. And you can also use it if you’d rather to keep the item rather than let it go at a price lower than you’re asking.
What is the Difference Between Firm Price and Fixed Price?
You’ll see both of these terms whether you’re a buyer or reseller, so you’ll need to know what they mean. You already know what a firm price means, but what about a fixed price?
Fixed Price
A fixed price refers to a price that the buyer will pay regardless of any costs the seller incurs. It is non-negotiable. This is where the firm-fixed-price contract comes into play.
With this contract, the buyer or customer purchases a service or product from the seller or contractor. The buyer pays this amount no matter what it costs the contractor to deliver the services or products. They can’t tag on extra costs to the final price.
No matter how long it takes for the seller to finish the job or deliver the product, the customer still just pays the agreed-upon price. Even if the contractor gets less profit or takes a loss in the end. If they finish quicker, they make more money, if it takes longer, they get less profit.
An example of this type of contract would be one between a freelancer and a client where the client just pays the fixed price.
So, “fixed price” and “firm price” are actually very different and shouldn’t be used interchangeably.
Final Thoughts on Firm on Price Meaning
Now you know whether you should make lower offers on firm price listings and whether you should list your items at a firm price as a reseller.
Some sellers use “price firm” when the cost is low.
Don’t be afraid to make an offer as a buyer. But I would still wait before making a deep-discount offer. You may choose to avoid shopping these listings altogether unless it is an item you are really interested in.
And as a seller, listing your items at a firm price can help you avoid rude low-ball offers.
You also learned not to use the terms firm price and fixed price interchangeably as they do not mean the same thing.
The nice thing is that as the owner of a shop, closet or store, you can do whatever you want!
Do you want to get started on Poshmark? Sign up with code THRIFTYIQ and get $10 toward your first purchase!
