How to Resell for a Side Hustle (and Make Serious Cash)

They say one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. So, here's how to turn those treasures into cold, hard cash.

The resale market isn't just for thrift store lovers and antique hunters anymore. It's now a booming industry, where you can find everything from secondhand Gucci bags to limited-edition sneakers, offering a budget-friendly way to explore new trends. With a growing focus on sustainability and saving money, more and more people are turning to reselling to refresh their wardrobes without breaking the bank.

In fact, the secondhand market is on track to outgrow fast fashion within the next decade, according to ThredUp. Nowadays, 64% of women are interested in buying secondhand items, a significant jump from 45% in 2016. And it’s not just one demographic—resale shoppers span various income levels and age groups.

So what does that mean for you? It means there’s a golden opportunity to make serious money by selling items, whether online or in-person. With the right strategy, you could easily earn thousands of dollars each month as a reseller. Reselling is one of the best side hustles out there and a great way to make money in your spare time.

Let's dive into what reselling is all about and how you can start your own profitable reselling business today.

What Does It Mean to Resell?

Reselling involves purchasing goods and then selling them at a profit through various channels, such as online platforms like eBay, your own online store via Shopify, or even a brick-and-mortar shop. You can also resell items you already own but no longer need.

This business model is perfect for people who might not have the time or skills to create their own products but can spot valuable items that others will pay for.

How Much Can You Make as a Reseller?

Your earnings depend on what you resell, how you sell it, and the amount of time and effort you invest. For example, the average annual revenue per worker in used merchandise stores has reached $120,000. If you’re using platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or TheRealReal, your earnings can vary greatly—some sellers make six figures, while others earn a modest side income.

Maximizing your earnings starts with choosing the right items to resell. For instance, ThredUp estimates that you could make just $0.55 for a pair of Old Navy jeans, but a used Gucci handbag might net you nearly $287. The flexibility of reselling allows you to decide how much time and money you want to invest, making it a great fit for different lifestyles and financial goals.

How to Start Your Reselling Business

1. Choose What to Sell and Where to Source Your Items

You can start by visiting yard sales, estate sales, and thrift stores, or by browsing Craigslist for items to resell. You might also consider dropshipping products from suppliers like AliExpress, or even start with items from your own closet.

2. Decide Where to Sell Your Items

The platform you choose should align with the types of items you plan to sell. For high-end designer handbags, for example, TheRealReal could be a great option. If you're flipping used furniture, a brick-and-mortar antique store might be a better fit.

3. Research to Identify Best-Selling Items

Take time to explore the platform you’re selling on to see which items sell the fastest and at the highest prices. This research will help you price your items effectively and decide what to buy for resale to maximize your profits.

Pro Tip: Consider reselling something you're knowledgeable about. If you know a lot about designer jeans, for example, you'll find it easier to spot good deals. Alternatively, you could educate yourself on a high-margin product like sneakers, researching which brands sell for the most on platforms like eBay.

Where Should You Resell Your Items?

The best place to resell your items will depend on what you're selling. Here are some popular options:

Apps:

Poshmark
Tradesy
Mercari
Grailed

Websites:

eBay
ThredUp
Amazon
TheRealReal
Craigslist
Etsy

Brick-and-Mortar Stores:

Antique stores
Vintage furniture stores
Second-hand stores
Used bookstores

Your Own E-commerce Site:

Shopify
Ionos
Squarespace
Wix

Each platform has its strengths and may charge different fees, so it's worth exploring a few options to find the best fit for your reselling business.

10 Good Items to Buy and Resell

Brand-Name Clothes: Popular brands like Madewell and Kate Spade are best sold on apps like Poshmark or ThredUp.
Shoes: Limited-edition sneakers like those from Adidas or Nike are great for eBay, while high-end designer shoes do well on TheRealReal.
Handbags: Chanel, Gucci, and Prada handbags fetch high prices on TheRealReal, while brands like Longchamp are popular on Poshmark.
Books: Textbooks, collector’s editions, and signed books can be sold on Amazon or at local used bookstores.
Toys: Vintage action figures, trading cards, and Beanie Babies are hot items on eBay.
Vintage Electronics: Cameras and record players can sell well on eBay and Amazon.
Video Games and Consoles: Retro gaming gear can fetch high returns on eBay and Amazon.
Furniture: Vintage furniture in good condition can be sold on platforms like 1stdibs or at local vintage stores.
Antiques: Items like mid-century modern furniture and jewelry can be sold online or to local antique stores.
Sporting Goods: Used sporting equipment is always in demand and can be sold locally or online.

Managing Your Reselling Business Expenses

Starting a reselling business might require you to purchase items to resell, cover platform fees, and possibly buy accounting software. A great way to manage these expenses is by using a cashback credit card, like the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card, which offers 1.5% cash back on every purchase. With a $0 annual fee and a generous welcome offer, it's a solid choice for anyone starting a side hustle.

Common Questions About Reselling

Is it legal to buy and resell items? Generally, yes, but be mindful of specific exceptions like digital media, recalled products, and prescription medications. Also, remember to account for taxes, especially if you're flipping items for profit.

What does it mean to be a licensed reseller? A resale license allows you to buy items without paying sales tax and requires you to charge your customers sales tax. Depending on your state, you might also need a retail license to sell to the public.

What’s the difference between a reseller and a distributor? Distributors work with manufacturers to sell products to retailers or wholesalers, while resellers buy products like any other consumer and then sell them to the public.

What makes someone a good reseller? Research is key. Understand what sells well on your chosen platform and focus on a niche or aesthetic. Good customer service, clear photos, detailed descriptions, and prompt shipping will help build your reputation and sales.

Is it better to sell on eBay or Amazon? It depends on what you’re selling. Some people see higher sales on Amazon, while others prefer eBay's fee structure. If you're new to reselling, choose the platform that fits your product type and financial goals.

The Bottom Line on Reselling

Whether you want to declutter your home or build a profitable side business, reselling offers a flexible and rewarding opportunity. With a little effort and strategy, you could turn your side hustle into a full-time job. Tools like ZeeDrop cross listing platforms can make the process even smoother by helping you cross-list items across multiple marketplaces, ensuring you reach a wider audience. Just remember, persistence and good customer service are key to your success as a reseller.