Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is ThredUp?
- How Does ThredUp Work?
- Which Products Sell Well on ThredUp?
- How to Start Selling on ThredUp
- The ThredUp Sales Process
- ThredUp Pricing and Payouts
- Conclusion
- FAQ Section
Introduction
The second-hand fashion market has surged in popularity recently, with sustainability becoming a higher priority for consumers. Scoring designer apparel or vintage finds has never been easier, making platforms like ThredUp highly attractive. ThredUp offers a golden opportunity for entrepreneurial fashion lovers to make the most of this booming market. Aspiring to tap into a consumer base that values both sustainability and style? This guide will equip you with everything you need to successfully sell on ThredUp.
What is ThredUp?
ThredUp has earned its reputation as the "Amazon of resale." Since its inception in 2009, it has made significant strides in promoting sustainable fashion, facilitating the resale of millions of items, and saving substantial amounts of CO2 emissions in the process. Recognized for its innovation and commitment to environmental sustainability, ThredUp is a reputable and impactful player in the second-hand fashion industry.
How Does ThredUp Work?
Selling on ThredUp is straightforward, thanks to the platform handling most of the labor-intensive tasks. Sellers send their preloved items using a ThredUp Clean Out Kit, and ThredUp manages everything from photographing to listing and shipping the items. This user-friendly approach simplifies the second-hand selling experience, making it accessible even to beginners.
Which Products Sell Well on ThredUp?
Top-Selling Categories
- Seasonal Garments: Ensure your items align with current weather trends. Selling heavy coats in summer or swimsuits in winter is less likely to yield results.
- Current Trends: Items that align with current fashion trends tend to have higher success rates. Monitoring fashion cycles can give you an edge in selecting inventory.
Picking Items That Make the Cut
Not all items are accepted. ThredUp’s quality control ensures that only lightly used and good-condition items make it to their listings. Generally, about 50% of submitted items pass their stringent inspection process.
ThredUp Quality Control Standards
Items must be clean, freshly laundered, and devoid of major defects like stains, tears, or missing components. Size labels are essential, except for select high-demand brands like Lululemon.
Prohibited Items on ThredUp
Certain items are strictly banned, including:
- Damaged or worn-out clothing
- Undergarments and swimsuits
- Counterfeit goods
How to Start Selling on ThredUp
Step 1: Create Your ThredUp Account
Sign up on ThredUp using your email or through platforms like Google, Facebook, Apple, or Amazon.
Step 2: Order Your Clean Out Kit
Order a Clean Out Kit from the 'Sell' section on ThredUp’s website. Options include a shipping label for quick packaging or a ThredUp bag which may take longer to arrive.
Step 3: Choose Your Processing Time
The default processing time can be up to eight weeks. For quicker turnaround, opt for expedited processing at an extra cost of $16.00, reducing the processing time to three weeks.
The ThredUp Sales Process
Once ThredUp receives and processes your items, they are listed for potential buyers to bid on. The initial bidding window lasts 12 hours, followed by an extended listing period—60 days for regular brands and 90 days for designer items. During the listing period, you can adjust the prices to encourage sales. If an item sells and is not returned within 14 days, you receive a payout accordingly.
ThredUp Pricing and Payouts
Use ThredUp’s price estimation tool to gauge potential earnings. Payouts differ depending on the brand value, with high-end brands yielding better returns. Note that certain brands are not eligible for payouts. You have several options to cash out your earnings, including direct deposits and gift cards.
Is Selling on ThredUp Worth It?
For casual sellers and those looking to declutter their wardrobes, ThredUp offers a convenient way to make extra money. However, serious entrepreneurs may find limitations in terms of control and support. ThredUp’s model is geared more towards everyday sellers.
Alternatives to Selling on ThredUp
For those serious about scaling their second-hand business, consider alternatives like Etsy, Wish, eBay, and Amazon Renewed. These platforms offer greater control and flexibility for sellers, alongside higher consumer visibility.
Conclusion
Mastering how to sell on ThredUp can be a rewarding experience for casual sellers. It offers a hassle-free way to contribute to sustainable fashion while making some extra money. However, for those aiming for high-volume sales and significant profits, exploring other platforms might be more beneficial.
FAQ Section
Q: What is ThredUp's Clean Out Kit? A: ThredUp's Clean Out Kit includes a bag or shipping label for sending your preloved clothing to ThredUp, which handles the rest of the selling process.
Q: How long does it take for ThredUp to process my items? A: Standard processing can take up to eight weeks, with an expedited option available for three-week processing at an extra cost.
Q: What happens if my items don't sell on ThredUp? A: Unsold items become the property of ThredUp. Managing prices and high-demand items can mitigate this risk.
Q: Can I sell items in poor condition? A: No, ThredUp only accepts items in good, lightly used condition. Items with significant defects or missing components are not accepted.
Q: Are there any items I cannot sell on ThredUp? A: Yes, certain items like undergarments, swimsuits, and severely damaged clothes are prohibited. Check ThredUp's guidelines for detailed information.
By following the guidelines provided, you can navigate the ThredUp selling process and maximize your potential earnings while contributing to the sustainability movement. Happy selling!
