The internet is the world's largest marketplace, allowing people to purchase goods and services with a single mouse click in seconds. If you're feeling entrepreneurial and want to make money instead of spending it, you can also harness the power of the internet to sell stuff online. Many platforms make it fast, easy, and secure for sellers and buyers to connect.
Read on for a list of apps and websites to sell stuff locally for extra cash, plus some tips on how to maximize your profits when selling online.
Considerations Before Selling Goods via E-commerce Platforms
There are many online platforms that allow you to sell goods online, both to people within your immediate geographic vicinity and globally. Before you start pursuing the below list of options, it can help get a better idea of what type of platform suits your needs. Ask yourself these questions:
- What types of goods do you want to sell? Some platforms are more diverse and cater to anything and everything, while others are more niche. For example, Amazon sells it all, while Etsy is focused more on hand-crafted and artistic items. Note that you can't sell everything online. For example, there are legal restrictions on firearms, alcohol, fresh fruits and vegetables, and tobacco products, to name a few limitations. Most seller platforms provide guidelines for what you can and can't sell (e.g., Amazon's restricted products).
- Do you want to sell locally or long-distance? If you're simply looking to unload a few things (like furniture) to someone in your area, you may opt for more localized platforms. For example, Craigslist sorts marketplaces according to city, state, etc. Many people prefer local selling because it eliminates the need for mailing items. However, it also limits your marketplace, which can mean less demand — and, possibly, less money.
- How will you hand over goods? If you decide to sell unwanted items to people far away, make sure you're prepared. You will need tape, packaging, and postal supplies like stamps. You also have to account for shipping costs. If you're selling goods locally, decide whether you will deliver or whether the buyer needs to pick the items up themselves. While it's convenient to skip delivery and demand pick-up, it can limit your market.
With these points addressed, you can make a more suitable decision about which of the many websites to sell stuff locally, and online is best for you.
20 Websites to Sell Stuff Locally and Online
This list of the best apps and ecommerce websites to sell stuff locally and online covers everything from books to bridalwear. Read on to find the right platform to fit your needs.
1. Facebook
The social media network also doubles as an online store thanks to Facebook Marketplace. You can target your activity based on location, finding buy-and-sell groups in your neighborhood or city. Check each group's guidelines for listing restrictions before posting.
2. Craigslist
Craigslist is a longstanding online marketplace that connects people locally to buy, sell, and exchange goods and services. From electronics to children's toys, you can find it all here. You can list items in your city's designated "for sale" section.
3. eBay
eBay is another website where you can buy and sell pretty much anything and everything, from collectibles to crafts. However, the platform does charge listing fees and commission fees, which can be a drawback. Still, it receives millions of monthly visitors, giving you a massive audience.
4. OfferUp
OfferUp is a mobile marketplace and a counterpart to eBay that focuses on local buying and selling. You can post your items for free, targeting people in your immediate area. You can link your Facebook account if you want to, adding another layer of security.
5. YardSales.net
Want to unload a bunch of stuff at once and declutter your home? Why not host a yard sale or garage sale. You can ensure the local sale is a success by broadcasting the event online via YardSales.net. It's free to post, and you can get feedback about items you're selling beforehand, allowing you to scout out serious local buyers.
6. Amazon
These days, anybody can become an Amazon retailer. If you're looking to build a business out of online selling, this may be an option. Also, check out the Amazon Trade-In program, which lets you trade in old Kindles, books, and video games in exchange for Amazon credit.
7. Recycler
Recycler is an online selling app that's especially handy for niche areas like selling used cars, boats, trucks, and SUVs. It also has well-populated verticals for pets and apartment, house, and mobile home rentals.
8. Shpock
Shpock is another app-based platform that offers a marketplace for pretty much anything, from cars to clothing. The app is available for iOS and Android. It's fast and easy to use. Creating a listing takes about 30 seconds.
9. Poshmark
Poshmark is primarily focused on fashion. If you're looking to clean out your closet, this is the way to go. Note that Poshmark takes a commission on sales. For sales under $15, there is a flat fee of $2.95. However, for sales of $15 or more, there is a 20% fee.
10. Depop
Depop is another mobile marketplace that's focused exclusively on fashion. It also doubles as a social network, connecting a global community of fashion lovers. There is no fee to list items, but you will get charged 10% once an item sells.
11. Bag Borrow or Steal
If you want to make some quick cash selling your old designer handbags, Bag Borrow or Steal is a great platform. You can sell to individuals via the website or to the website directly. The store inspects every bag they get to ensure quality.
12. Buffalo Exchange
Buffalo Exchange focuses on vintage items and recycled fashion, meeting the call for more sustainable fashion industry. If you have a major closet cleanout planned, you can book an appointment to sell your items in person. They buy good-quality men's and women's clothing.
13. Once Wed
Once Wed is focused on a very specific type of fashion — bridal wear. If you have old wedding or bridesmaid dresses to sell, this website can connect you with thousands of sellers. You're charged a one-time fee per dress sale.
14. Decluttr
Are you looking to unload some old electronics? Decluttr is for you. This website is focused primarily on DVDs, CDs, games, and cell phones (including Apple iPhones). You can even sell directly to Decluttr without having to vet sellers. This makes for a trustworthy platform; it's also accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
15. Cash4Books
If you're a bookworm looking to make room on your shelves, head to Cash4Books. The website buys books directly, and you can easily get a quote by simply inputting a book's ISBN number. This is also a great place to sell used textbooks.
16. Route 66 Furniture
Route 66 Furniture is a marketplace for buying and selling used furniture from desks to beds, tables, and more. This platform stands out because if you sell to them, they send a delivery team to pick up your stuff. This saves a lot of hassle. Of course, they take a significant commission of 50% in exchange.
17. Apartment Therapy's Bazaar
The Apartment Therapy Bazaar is another useful tool for selling furniture and home decor accessories. In this case, you sell to buyers directly. It's free to list, plus the website has a handy app for iOS and Android.
18. Reverb
Reverb is all about music. This is a one-stop-shop for buying and selling recording gear, drums, guitars, keyboards, DJ gear, and more. Listing is free, and you can benefit from the secure Reverb Payments system — it's like PayPal but with lower transaction fees.
19. Play It Again Sports
Old sports gear cluttering up your garage? Sell it via Play It Again Sports and let another eager athlete get some use out of it. They buy a variety of sporting goods, with multiple locations throughout the United States.
20. Etsy
Whether you're into knitting or oil painting, you can sell your goods via Etsy if you've got an artistic talent. This online marketplace is focused more on arts and crafts, including jewelry, home decor, and furniture — most of it handmade.
How to Succeed When Selling Items Online
Whichever of the above platforms you opt for, a few basic rules of thumb can help maximize your success when selling items online. The first step is choosing the right platform. For example, if you're selling a musical instrument, opt for a music-specific platform to increase your odds of connecting with potential buyers.
Beyond that, keep these guidelines in mind as you list and sell items:
- Take good quality photos of the products you sell. Make sure the photos are well-lit. For clothing, it can help to take photos of you wearing the item (you can crop your face out).
- Write an honest, clear description of the product's state. It can help to explain why you're getting rid of the item in question. Otherwise, people may assume it's defective.
- Clarify logistical details, such as whether the item will be shipped or delivered — or if it's available only for pick-up. Also, be clear regarding selling price and added costs (e.g., if the buyer pays for shipping).
- Decide on pricing and payment. Some platforms offer their own payment systems or allow for transactions via credit cards, PayPal, etc. Others don't have any set system, leaving you to figure it out yourself. Avoid scams and don't provide personal financial details.
- Never meet up with buyers alone. If an item is available for local pickup, have a friend or family member with you when the buyer comes by. If you're delivering, likewise, bring another person with you.
- Finally, follow any guidelines stipulated by the seller platform you are using. You don't want to get kicked off because you didn't follow basic rules.
Track Your Income From Online Sales With Skynova
When selling stuff online, you are technically earning a form of income. This needs to be reflected in the relevant tax paperwork. Make sure to track all of your income and issue receipts to buyers to simplify subsequent tax keeping. Skynova can help. Our accounting software makes it easy to track, organize, and manage your financial transactions. By saving you time on the financial, administrative work, we give you more time to focus on successfully selling goods online.
Notice to the Reader
This content is meant to be used as general information about selling products online and may not apply to your specific situation. Consult your local laws regarding applicable regulations for the online sale of goods and services. Further, when accounting for your income from online sales, consult a professional accountant to make sure you are maintaining accounting best practices.