How to Run a Second-Hand Clothes Business

There are many ways to make money in the fashion world. If you have an eye for quality clothing and a can-do attitude, running a second-hand clothes business could be a viable option for you.

While it might not sound like a lucrative type of business, the numbers do add up in its favor. The second-hand clothes market is already worth more than $70 billion and is expected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.5% over the next 7 years.

In other words, selling second-hand clothes for a profit can be a great way to earn some extra income. This post shares a few helpful tips that will set you in the direction of success.

Find the Right Market for Selling

You definitely will want to make your inventory available for purchase online (more on that later), but there are people who still enjoy in-person shopping especially for second-hand items. Don’t discount second-hand markets as an option for your sales platform. In fact, markets should be the primary way that you sell your products. After all, displaying your goods at a market is effectively like having your own shop but with less overhead expenses. Markets are also a great way to earn repeat loyal customers.

To make this happen, you will have to do some research to find the right second-hand market for your products. If you live in a city, you will likely have many options from flea markets to farmers’ markets to craft and antique fairs. It is important to find a market that aligns with the style of second-hand clothes that you will be selling.

Add a Professional Touch

Some people who sell products at open markets will simply turn up at the market with a bunch of clothes hanging haphazardly on racks and hope for the best. However, if you want to sell more product and be profitable, a more professional approach is well advised. Consider the aesthetics of your booth and create an attractive and inviting atmosphere that is clean and well organized. A booth that looks like an individual boutique will attract more customers. Even if you are willing to haggle with customers, you should still make sure all of the items for sale are clearly marked with a price. Finally, learning how to use a POS system is essential so you can accept credit and debit card payments from customers.

Selling Online

If you establish a regular booth at a market, most of your sales will happen there. However, if you want to reach a larger customer base, make some of your products available for purchase online. There are many different clothing resale websites available to use as your platform. It is a good idea to also maintain a social media presence as well as establish your own website (even if it is just a basic one). Although your online listings may not generate many sales, they are a great way to advertise your inventory and draw people to your market booth to shop in person.

Only Sell Quality

Finally, remember the importance of selling only quality items. As your business grows, it might become tempting to buy lower-quality pieces because the cost is cheaper for restocking your inventory. However, the people who make the most money from selling second-hand clothes are the ones who adhere to strict quality control. If you make your business known for its carefully curated collections of high quality items, it will enhance customer trust and loyalty which will ultimately lead to more sales.

Clothing resale is not only a profitable business these days, it is also a wonderful way to keep old clothes out of landfills. Business decisions that also benefit the environment are generally good business decisions, in my opinion.

Have you ever resold your unwanted clothes?

Keeping it on the edge, 

Shelbee

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