How to Resell Shoes on eBay

Reselling shoes on eBay has been one of my most rewarding ventures.

Whether it's rare trainers, designer heels, or practical everyday footwear, shoes are a sought-after category with consistent demand.

Over time, I’ve learned the ins and outs of how to resell shoes effectively.

In this guide, I’ll share my experience, including tips for sourcing, creating standout listings, and pricing to maximise your profits.

Why Reselling Shoes on eBay is a Great Opportunity

Shoes are one of the best categories to resell on eBay because:

• High Demand: People are always searching for affordable or rare shoes.

• Wide Audience: eBay caters to both casual shoppers and collectors.

• Profit Margins: Shoes can often be sourced cheaply and sold for a significant mark-up.

• Diverse Categories: From trainers and boots to sandals and dress shoes, there’s a market for everything.

Where to Source Shoes for Reselling

Finding the right inventory is key to successful reselling.

Here are some of the best places for sourcing shoes to resell:

• Charity Shops: Affordable prices and a variety of styles.

• Car Boot Sales: Great for bulk purchases and hidden gems.

• Online Marketplaces: Look for undervalued listings on platforms like Facebook Marketplace.

• Retail Sales and Clearance Racks: New shoes with discounted prices are attractive to buyers.

Tips for Selecting Shoes to Resell

When sourcing, I always consider:

• Brand Appeal: Popular brands tend to sell faster and for higher prices.

• Condition: Shoes in excellent or lightly used condition perform best.

• Unique Features: Limited edition designs or hard-to-find sizes are in demand.

• Seasonal Trends: Sandals sell better in summer, while boots are popular in winter.

How to Create Winning eBay Listings

A great listing can make all the difference.

Here’s how I craft mine:

1. Craft an Eye-Catching Title

Include essential details like:

• Brand

• Model or style

• Size

• Condition

2. Take High-Quality Photos

Clear, well-lit images are crucial.

I always ensure to:

• Show multiple angles (top, side, sole).

• Highlight details like logos or unique patterns.

• Include close-ups of any flaws to build trust.

3. Write a Detailed Description

My descriptions cover:

• Size, colour, and material.

• Condition (new, lightly used, or pre-owned).

• Any unique selling points, like rare designs or comfort features.

4. Use Competitive Pricing

• Research similar listings to set a fair price.

• Consider using eBay’s “Best Offer” feature to encourage buyers.

How to Price Shoes for Reselling

Pricing is an art. I usually:

• Start with sold listings on eBay to see what similar shoes fetch.

• Factor in fees, shipping costs, and my desired profit margin.

• Use auctions for rare or high-demand items and set competitive Buy It Now prices for others.

Packaging and Shipping Shoes

Proper shipping ensures buyer satisfaction and protects your reputation.

• Choose the Right Box: Use sturdy, appropriately sized boxes to prevent damage.

• Add Cushioning: Wrap shoes in tissue paper or bubble wrap to avoid scuffs.

• Consider Shipping Costs: Offer competitive or free shipping to attract buyers.

International Shipping

If the shoes are rare or highly desirable, offering international shipping can expand your market.

Just be mindful of customs fees and packaging requirements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When I started reselling, I learned these lessons the hard way:

• Ignoring Condition: Buyers value clear information about wear and tear.

• Skipping Research: Pricing too high or low can hurt your sales.

• Poor Photos: Blurry or incomplete images lead to fewer views.

• Underestimating Fees: Factor in eBay fees to ensure profitability.

Final Thoughts on How to Resell Shoes

Reselling shoes on eBay is a fantastic way to make extra money or build a business.

With the right approach to sourcing, pricing, and listing, you can turn your shoe-selling venture into a profitable side hustle.

Remember, consistency and attention to detail are key to standing out in this competitive market.

Happy selling!