How to save and earn on online marketplaces

Want to spruce up your wardrobe without draining your bank account? Online marketplaces like Vinted, Depop and eBay make it simple to shop smart.

With the cost of living still biting, these platforms are a lifeline for many households. And you can do more than just bag a bargain. Next time you’re having a wardrobe clear out, why not use an online marketplace to turn your unwanted clothes into cash?

The second-hand market is booming

Did you know that two-thirds of Brits bought second-hand products last year? This combined effort saved them more than £5.6 billion. Plus, it kept more than 199 million items from the landfills; bonus points for the climate conscious.

Roughly a third of second-hand bargain hunters said the cost-of-living crisis drove their purchasing choices. But, around a fourth said climate change and sustainability were key considerations.

So, if you’re looking to grab a bargain or even sell some of your own stuff online, now’s the right time.

How to buy quality second-hand items online

The best thing to do if you’re looking to snap up a bargain online is to sign up for a reputable online marketplace like Vinted, Depop, or eBay. Many of them have built-in protections for buyers that make it easy to shop with confidence.

Here are some ways to get value for your money once you’re all set up:

• make use of the search functions – you can usually filter based on size, brand, and condition to narrow the results
• ask questions – if the description is thin on the details, it’s okay to ask questions about sizing, the material, and even request extra photos
• check seller ratings – the higher the seller’s ratings and the more reviews they have, the more trustworthy they are
• don’t be afraid to haggle – platforms like Vinted have built-in features to allow you to make lower offers if the price is set too high for your liking; the worst they can say is no
• bundle up – many sellers offer discounts on multiple items or cheaper shipping, so if a seller has a large catalogue, it’s worth exploring it before buying just one item
• set alerts – use the “favourite” or “watch” function to add items to your list and get alerts when the price drops; bonus points, some sellers will give you discounts if you like an item but don’t buy it right away

How to turn unwanted stuff into cash online

Having a clear out? Whether it’s old clothes or toys or even tech, there are ways to turn your unwanted stuff into cash. Here are a few suggestions for making quick sales:

• take nice photos – use natural light, show multiple angles and make sure to highlight details including labels or flaws (buyers like honesty)
• write detailed descriptions – include size, brand, condition, fit, material composition and anything else you can think of
• price smart – check what similar items sell for and price accordingly
• respond quickly – if a buyer has a question, it’s worth answering fast; a quick reply can seal the deal
• ship promptly – a quick dispatch means a happy buyer and better ratings; the better reviews you have, the more sales
• stay seasonal – list coats in autumn and dresses in spring, i.e. when people are most likely to be looking for those items

If you follow these tips, you could nab a bargain and even make a little extra cash if you choose to re-sell.