Selling pre-owned items is one of the most popular home business ideas of the moment. Many sellers are able to start with minimal investment, selling favorite items from around their homes and investing a portion of their profits in items they pick up at garage sales, thrift stores, and flea markets.
In the past, we’ve talked to successful sellers on eBay, Amazon, Craigslist and Facebook. Today we’re talking to Depop’s super seller Hazel.
Depop A free smartphone app available to sellers in the US, UK and worldwide. In a short amount of time, Hazel was able to earn over $18,000 annually while attending college.
Tell us a little about yourself. What was your motivation for joining Depop?
I’m currently studying graphic design at Norwich University of the Arts and have an eye for everything from 80s movie memorabilia to kitschy mugs and homeware. Before Depop, I sold clothes on other platforms like eBay, however, I got fed up with the whole selling/bidding system and wanted to reach a different audience. Fortunately, I heard about Depop and was very excited by the idea of being able to buy and sell through an app from my pocket!
Please share your success on the site. It is my understanding that you have managed to earn quite a bit by now.
I have been an active user on Depop since July last year and have managed to earn a decent amount of money over time. I would say the busiest times of the year have been from summer to mid-autumn as this is car boot season (Editor’s note: think flea markets in the US) On and so I tend to buy more items because of the lower prices as opposed to charity shopping (US Former Thrift Store). I think my success has been due to the selection and reasonable pricing of the stocks I sell. Plus, being on Depop most of the day means I respond to customers immediately, providing them with instant gratification.
What is the process like to get an item listed on the site? What are the requirements?
The process required to list an item is extremely simple and takes less than two minutes! You can upload up to four photos per listing and add filters to enhance your photos The next step is to write a short yet detailed description as well as select categories and sizes, a great way for users to filter their searches in the app. Next, as you set your pricing and delivery method, having the option to post nationally and globally can help attract more customers. And that’s it!
How is normal sales in terms of selling and getting paid?
The selling experience is simple and secure. Users receive payment via PayPal when an order is completed, as well as a sale notification and email from Depop. After you sell something it appears in the ‘Sold Items’ list on your profile and each item has a receipt with the option to add the user’s address and tracking information.
Does the site take a commission on each sale or do you pay a flat listing fee?
The app is free to download and listing on Depop is completely free, however, they take a 10% commission on each item you sell.
What tips do you have for those starting out on Depop?
When it comes to photographing your items, my top tip would be to shoot your photos in natural daylight as this portrays the item in its original form and always looks professional. If possible, model the garment so customers can measure its fit and take close-up shots of the item’s details. When it comes to user interaction and communication, replying to messages and comments as soon as possible is a top tip to keep your customers interested! Using relevant hashtags will make your items more visible in search, and uploading items daily keeps your followers engaged. Another tip is to list your items at reasonable prices if you want them to garner interest and sell quickly. Mostly just be really friendly and happy because it will leave a lasting impression on customers and get you five-star reviews!
It is my understanding that you have transitioned from selling items from your personal closet to becoming a successful reseller. Can you share with us some of your favorite places to pick up items to resell? What do you look for when shopping for new items on the list?
I started Depop by selling clothes I liked before I started university, hoping to downsize my clothes and make some money. As mentioned earlier, I used to resell items on other platforms/websites so I have an eye for what’s in fashion and what customers are looking for. I get most of my stock from car boot sales around my area and can visit up to five boot sales every weekend. Car boot sales are a great way to source unique items and trendy clothing at a good price. During the week, I visit charity shops to see if there are any cool items to upload to my Depop store.
When shopping for new items to list, I search for retro sportswear and other trendy clothing that creates a buzz on my page. I also look out for unique homeware, key chains, accessories, pin badges, cameras, etc. that make my Depop store more diverse and interesting, as well as attract a different kind of audience. Not only do I buy these kitsch trinkets to sell, but I personally always like to collect unique treasures and memorabilia for my own use.
The thing I love about resale is that items and clothing can be sent door to door where they will be loved again and again, this is what encourages me to source the best products for my customers!
Tell us about your favorite programs or resources for getting started? What are the tools of the trade to have?
Great factor about Depop You don’t need to invest in any professional camera or equipment as all photographs can be taken using your mobile phone. Not only does this make it super easy to use, but it means anyone with a smartphone can do it! One thing I would recommend buying Mailing bag To post your items safely and securely. They are cheaper to buy from places like Ebay And come in a variety of sizes, they ensure your items are securely packaged and easy to deal with with a permanent marker. Other than that, you are good to go!
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