Should you resell online or start a booth at an antique mall?
Last week, our team took to the streets for a fun morning of thrifting.
We stopped at two estate sales and two thrift stores before heading out for tacos.
As the team browsed the sales and the stores, I found myself in conversation after conversation with resellers who source for their stores over the weekend.
We talked a little shop, they showcased some of their finds, and we all did a jig that the summer slump was coming to an end.
I’m always curious as to how a reseller makes the decision on where to sell.
Personally, we have always preferred the online route. Less overhead and more profit.
Some prefer a mixture of online and in-person.
While others prefer in-person only.
When I say in-person, I am referring to reselling in a store atmosphere. This usually translates to a booth at an antique mall or store.
If you are considering reselling, then here are some questions to ask yourself to help make the decision on online or in-person.
Keep in mind: you may want to resell both places.
Do I have enough storage at my home for the items I have listed online?
You can always start with a closet or shelves in your garage, but keep in mind that as your business grows so will your storage needs.
Do I want to invest in photography supplies to list online?
The 3 Ps of reselling online are
Photos
Price
Platform
Your photos will need to be bright and attractive in order to encourage shoppers to buy.
We have a small photography “studio” in our home to photograph items before putting them online. You will need to create something similar in your home.
Do I want to pack and ship orders?
I personally don’t mind packing and shipping orders; however I have been doing this since 2006. I’ve learned a few things along to way to ensure my packages arrive intact.
With that said, storing shipping materials also takes us space in our home so you will need to factor that in as well. We have a medley of boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, tape, etc. We use our computer and printer to print labels.
Related articles on shipping:
While selling at an antique mall requires active participation on your part, there is much less for you to do by way of photography, marketing, handling payment, and processing sold orders.
I’m not sure if I have made a case of reselling online but there are factors to consider when making that decision. I will leave you with one last thought, each online platform will take a commission on your items sold. Some platforms will charge you just to list. Either way, you will be paying a fee to sell your wares somewhere.
Where do you resell and what is your favorite part? Share below in the comments!
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Thrift w/me: part 6 at the Salvation Army Family Store in Gastonia, NC