According to eBay export’s analytics, clothing, automobiles, and collectibles are one of the best-selling items. Currently, around 40% of the items on eBay are found in the category Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories. However, selling clothes on eBay is not always easy due to stiff competition.
If you plan on selling used clothes on eBay, you will find this article helpful. Keep on reading to gain handy tips on selling items online via eBay.
Guide on Selling Used Clothing on eBay
Getting started with selling used clothes on eBay will be easier for you with the help of some insights. Here are some pointers:
#1: Do Good Research
It’s crucial to remember that you are not shopping for yourself when flipping clothes. You should always prioritize your buyer’s preference. To do this, you need to conduct extensive research.
Good research on what resells best in your niche works better than just shotgun selling. Vintage clothing, clothes with brand tags, and complete ensembles generally resell the most. You can find these in the following:
- your closet
- garage
- vintage stores
- friends’ or family’s closet
- thrift stores,
- clearance sales
You can make a lot of cash from these with the right pricing, presentation, and listing.
#2: Prepare Your Items
Your items might be preloved, but they should remain clean and presentable. You should wash, dry, and iron them before shipping or even before listing.
Some clothes need special attention to what detergent to use or way of drying. When the clothes are ready to wear, this will leave you with positive feedback from your buyers.
#3: Take Good Photos of the Clothes
There’s a higher chance for clothes to sell faster when you list them with visually appealing photos. Here are the steps on how to take awesome pictures for listing:
Step 1: Get a Decent Camera and Prepare the Background
A decent camera will have a huge difference when taking photos of clothes for sale. It’s also highly recommended to take pictures with ample natural lighting.
Step 2: Make the Clothes Look Presentable
Arrange the clothes according to how they will look more presentable. Some resellers hire a model or use an invisible mannequin to showcase the cloth even more. You can do this as well.
Step 3: Photograph in Appropriate Angles
Take photos not too near and not too far from the item. Focus on the front, back, and unique details.
These steps will help you achieve quality photos for your listing.
# 4: Make Your Items Easy to Search
Using the right keywords is crucial for online selling. It makes your items easy to find, boosting your chances of making a sale.
This is how you optimize your listing:
Step 1: Use keywords in the listing title and the details. Keywords may refer to a specific style, size, color, category, and brand. For instance, “Black Medium Dress” or “Small Leather Jacket.”
Step 2: Write a short description of the item. Mention more about available fabric, size, color, and patterns. Take note of the specific features too. An example is “Designer/ Branded/ Women Clothing” or “Men’s Vintage Shorts.”
Step 3: Include measurement guides such as the clothes’ length from shoulder to the bottom and length from armpit to armpit. This will make it efficient for you and the buyer.
Your listings will be easier to search after following these steps.
#5: Pricing Your Items
It’s important to consider how potential customers will rate the clothes you’re selling. Make sure it’s reasonably priced for its condition and value.
In calculating your profit, consider the cost of the clothing, shipping costs, payment methods, and type of listing. For your convenience, you can use the eBay fees calculator online.
#6: Manage Expectations
Your buyers should know the actual condition of the items you’re selling. Always disclose if there are tears or stains to manage the customer’s expectations.
Being honest will help you mitigate returns and negative feedback. It’s also important to note that listings can lead to a report against you.
#7: Packaging
In packing the item, it’s recommended that you use a waterproof envelope or another small piece of packaging where clothes fit. Wrap fragile parts of the clothing with bubble wrap before putting it inside the envelope.
You can also use a larger envelope or box if the item is covered with bubble wrap to ensure the item fits. Attach your store’s style or branding to the general packaging to boost brand recognition.
#8: Ship as Soon as You Can
Dispatch your items as fast as possible and save yourself from follow-ups. After packing, take it to your post office or courier. We suggest that you notify your buyer when the package is shipped. When you provide a tracking number, the better.
#9: Take Seller Feedback Constructively
If the buyer gives you positive feedback, then that’s great! When you get negative feedback, that’s not too bad. You can take notes and learn from the negative feedback the buyer gave you. Do what is necessary to meet your buyer halfway. Respond with gratitude to either of the feedback. It will provide positive ratings for your account and product listing in the long run.
#10: Collect Payments
Here is what you are after for selling used clothes. Your finance company (such as PayPal) will notify you in your email when a payment is received. Then you can transfer the amount to other banks if you wish to. Remember to keep your details up to date.
Conclusion
Now you know how to start selling old clothes on eBay. Just a few tweaks here and there, and some cash awaits. Use the ten tips and tricks to sell your good old clothes successfully.