Selling Used Clothes on ThredUp: Maximize Your Earnings

Understanding ThredUp and How to Maximize Your Earnings

ThredUp has become a popular platform for individuals looking to sell used clothing. It offers a convenient way to get rid of unwanted items without the hassle of managing the entire process yourself. The company handles everything from photographing, listing, pricing, shipping, and customer support, making it an attractive option for those who want to focus on other things.

However, there are fees involved, and understanding how to maximize your earnings is key. Here’s a breakdown of how to make the most out of your experience with ThredUp.

Step 1: Select the Right Clothing

The first step in selling with ThredUp is selecting the right items. Not all clothes will sell, so it's important to focus on pieces that are in good condition and in demand. According to Danielle Vermeer, Head of Social Commerce at ThredUp, "Everything should be in a condition that you yourself would feel comfortable wearing, ideally freshly laundered."

In-season and in-demand items tend to sell faster and for higher prices. For example, a Reformation sundress in the summer or a Canada Goose coat in the winter can fetch better returns. It’s also worth noting that high-quality items can generate significantly more income than lower-end ones. Vermeer shared her own experience of selling a pricey dress through ThredUp, which sold for over $80 and resulted in a payout eight times higher than what she would have received on another luxury consignment site.

Pro Tip: Use ThredUp’s earnings estimator to get a preview of what you might earn before sending in your items. A pair of Madewell jeans could net around $9, while a Lululemon track jacket might reach close to $20.

Step 2: Order Your Clean Out Kit

Next, you’ll need to order a Clean Out Kit. While you don’t pay upfront, the fees are deducted from your final earnings. The Standard Clean Out Kit costs $14.99, while the Premium version is $34.99. Each bag costs $2.99, so it’s essential to plan ahead to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Here are some tips to help minimize costs:

• Get a Code: Keep an eye out for promotions that offer discounts on Clean Out Kits. For example, during Earth Month, sellers could order kits for half price.
• Be Decisive: If you send back an item, you’ll be charged $5.99 per item. Make sure you’re ready to part with your items before sending them.
• BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag): You can use your own box instead of paying the $2.99 bag fee.
• Fill ‘Er Up: Take advantage of the 30-pound shipping limit to ensure you’re getting the most value from your kit.

Step 3: Edit and Optimize Your Listings

Once your items are sent in, you might think the work is done. However, taking a few extra steps can increase your chances of selling and earning more. ThredUp automatically writes item descriptions, but these may lack detail. Sellers can add specific attributes such as the rise of jeans or the presence of embellishments like sequins or ruffles. This helps potential buyers find your items more easily.

You can also adjust the price of your items if you believe they could sell for more. For instance, if you’re not satisfied with the initial price of a Chanel bag, you can raise it. On the flip side, if an item isn’t selling, you can lower the price to attract more buyers.

Step 4: Cash Out Strategically

After your items sell, it’s time to cash out. ThredUp offers several options for receiving your earnings. While direct deposit via Stripe costs $0.25 plus 1.5% of the total, using PayPal incurs a flat fee of $0.25. Alternatively, you can convert your earnings into credit for brands like J.Crew and Athleta, which can give you up to 15% more value.

Final Thoughts

Selling with ThredUp can be a convenient way to make some extra money, though it’s unlikely to result in large profits. The convenience factor makes it appealing for many, especially when compared to platforms like Depop or Poshmark. However, by following these steps and being strategic about your listings, you can maximize your earnings and make the most of your ThredUp experience.