Stumbling into Sustainability: Selling Secondhand

In my recent post, “Why Secondhand is the First New Choice,” I explored why buying used is a smart, sustainable choice. But let’s flip the script: what’s in it for sellers? Can you make money, declutter your life, and still contribute to a better planet? Spoiler alert: absolutely! Here’s my journey into the world of secondhand resale, with a focus on Poshmark, and a peek at how it stacks up against platforms like ThredUp and Depop.

My Introduction to Resale

My love for secondhand shopping started with snagging deals on Amazon and eBay, like scoring limited edition MAC makeup or the entire 21 Jump Street series (because, who doesn’t need that?). Then, I discovered Poshmark through beauty influencers selling unused PR products they had received, like foundations that didn’t match their skin tone or eyeshadow palettes they’d reviewed but never used. The best part? I could buy these at a fraction of retail. I was hooked, signing up to buy everything from makeup to shoes to purses.

But life changes, like a major shift in my clothing size after surgery, turned me from a buyer into a seller. Suddenly, I had a closet full of unused makeup, a rockabilly-inspired wardrobe that no longer fit, and a carefully curated professional wardrobe gathering dust. I saw an opportunity: sell on Poshmark to declutter and fund a new wardrobe.

Diving into Selling on Poshmark

I started small in January 2020, listing 18 cosmetic items—some gently used, some new, and a few limited-edition gems. My first sale, a MAC Pretty in Punk eyeshadow palette (retail $41), sold for $18, netting me $14.40 after Poshmark’s fees. It wasn’t a fortune, but it was money for something just taking up space. That $14.40 could buy two coffee runs or stay in my Poshmark account to fund future purchases, a lifesaver I leaned into as I rebuilt my wardrobe.

All purchased from Poshmark: Kamik, Sorel, Ugg, Doc Martens. Photo by Liz Bristow

Over five years, I’ve listed 201 items on Poshmark, sold 184, and earned $3,526. I’ve sold unused beauty subscription products, vintage-inspired dresses, and even professional attire. I’ve also bought smart, new with tags UGGs, Columbia snow gear, Betsey Johnson dresses, all at steep discounts. My favorite tactic? Finding items I already own and love in my new size, making an offer, and selling the same piece in my old size for a similar price. It’s like a budget-friendly wardrobe swap.

One of my sold items from Poshmark. Photo by Liz Bristow.

Poshmark’s Pricing and Fees

Poshmark’s structure is straightforward:

• Shipping: Buyers pay a flat $6.49 shipping fee. Sellers can offer discounted shipping, eating the difference to sweeten the deal (e.g., I offered $2 off a $75 coat to encourage a sale).

• Commission: Poshmark takes 20% on sales over $15 or a flat $2.95 on sales under $15. For my $18 eyeshadow palette, I kept 80%, or $14.40.

This simplicity makes Poshmark approachable, especially for beginners. You take your own photos, set your prices, and ship with prepaid labels.

Comparing Poshmark to ThredUp and Depop

While Poshmark worked for me, other platforms like ThredUp and Depop offer different experiences. Here’s how they compared:

ThredUp: The Consignment Model

ThredUp operates like an online consignment shop. You send your items in a provided bag, and they handle inspection, photography, listing, and shipping. Some key points:

• Pricing: ThredUp sets prices using an algorithm based on past sales, brand, and quality. You can adjust prices up to 10% or as low as $4.99, but items are progressively marked down to sell.

• Fees: Earnings follow a sliding scale (check ThredUp’s earnings page). Service fees of $7.49 (standard) or $34.99 (premium) may apply, waived if earnings exceed these amounts.

• Best For: Sellers who want a hands-off experience but are okay with less control over pricing.

Depop: The Social Marketplace Model

Depop emphasizes circular fashion and appeals to a younger, Gen Z crowd. Its Instagram-like interface prioritizes visuals and hashtags. Key points:

• Fees: No selling fee, but a 3.3% + $0.45 payment processing fee applies in the US. An optional 8% boosting fee increases listing visibility.

• Shipping: Flexible, with buyers typically paying. Sellers can use USPS labels or arrange their own shipping.

• Best For: Sellers targeting trendy, vintage, or Y2K fashion buyers who enjoy a social, creative platform.

Why I Stick with Poshmark

I plan on adding another 10 listings to my Poshmark soon. Poshmark’s simplicity suits my limited time and patience. I don’t want to manage multiple platforms or navigate complex pricing algorithms like ThredUp’s. Depop’s younger demographic and social vibe are great, but I prefer Poshmark’s broader audience (100+ million users vs. Depop’s 40 million) and mainstream appeal for my mix of luxury, vintage, and everyday items.

The Resale Revolution: Your Turn to Shine

The secondhand market is booming, projected to hit $350 billion by 2027. Whether you’re decluttering, funding a wardrobe refresh, or building a side hustle, platforms like Poshmark, ThredUp, and Depop offer unique ways to cash in. For me, Poshmark turned a closet crisis into an opportunity; $3,526 in earnings and a new wardrobe later, I'm still hooked. 

Interested in selling more than just clothes online secondhand? There are many options–maybe too many. This overview from finance site Nerdwallet can get you started with some reputable choices . Pick the platform that fits your style, start small, and dive into the resale revolution. Your wallet, your decluttered home or closet, and the planet will thank you.

Want to know more about sustainable living topics, events, and happenings? Sign up for Happy Dancing Turtle’s eNewsletter.