Like any loyal reader of The Penny Hoarder, I know the value of thrift shops.
To cut expenses, I started shopping for clothes at places like Goodwill and Salvation Army.
Thrifting is always hit or miss, but Ive found many decent items.
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One day, I found a pair of NYDJ jeans.
I adore the brand for its fit and quality but hate the $120 price tag.
I was so excited to see them at Goodwill but they were about four sizes too small.
I ended up buying the jeans for just $5.
I was utterly shocked when those jeans ended up selling for more than $50.
That was my first introduction to the idea ofreselling thrift store clothes for profit.
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Now its how I supplement my income and build my savings.
How to Start Selling Clothes on eBay
I started very small.
For shipping materials, I used USPSs free flat rate envelopes.
I decided to focus solely on womens clothing, since Im more familiar with those brands.
Instead, I started all my listings as auctions and offered free shipping.
Amazingly, each item went for $20-$30 over the minimums.
I more than tripled my money.
I learned what brands sold well and which didnt.
If a sweater had even 1% of cashmere, it was a moneymaker regardless of the brand name.
I ordered business cards fromVistaPrintand bought thank-you notes from the dollar store.
Feedback is essential for any eBay seller and I found mine went up when I included thank-yous.
As my profits grew, I began to get more elaborate.
I also have an expandable dress form for tops and dresses, which was a godsend.
Some thrift store clothes have been hanging in musty places for some time and they smell like it.
For less than $10, the kit makes full loads of clothes smell fresh and new.
Cashmere is a huge seller.
Many sweaters I find are gorgeous, but were donated because they have heavy pilling.
Five minutes with a $9 fabric shaver and those sweaters look brand new!
They often sell for $50 and up.
Rather than ironing, I use a steamer to get wrinkles out for pictures.
For less than $50, it makes items lay nicely on the dress forms.
For items too big for my dress form, clothespins are essential to show the garments shape and details.
Its a very part-time job.
The money has been excellent supplemental income and helped me significantly boost my savings.
And with new clothing donations constantly coming in, I always have fresh inventory to sell.
Kat Tretina is a freelance writer located in Orlando specializing in personal finance.
She is a long-time eBay seller and side gig enthusiast.
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