Are you a hoarder of some incredibly elegant fashion items? Have you considered making a profit out of them? Or maybe you just want to avoid wasting good clothes and want to make some cash off it?
Then reselling is the way to go. Platforms like Mercari and Poshmark, it’s incredibly easy to turn such thoughts into reality.
Both have niche audiences with an eye for beauty.
From designer clothes to comfortable and well-kept baby clothes, you can sell just about anything on these platforms and do so with little effort.
But which of the two is the best for you? In this article, we’ll compare them in detail and help you find the answer. Let’s get started.
Mercari Vs Poshmark At A Glance
Before we delve into the details, let’s take a quick look at Mercari and Poshmark and what they have to offer.
| Factor | Mercari | Poshmark |
| Fees | 10% commission, 2.9% + $0.50 payment processing fee. | Flat $2.95 for sales below $15, 25% commission above that amount. |
| Categories | Wide variety of categories, including clothing, home goods, electronics, and more. | Clothing and fashion accessories. |
| Audience | Diverse audience, including both buyers and sellers. | Primarily fashion enthusiasts who are interested in buying and selling fashion. |
| User interface | Simple and easy to use. | More complex and has a learning curve. |
| Customer support | Customer support can be slow to respond. | Good customer support, with quick response times. |
| Overall | Good option for sellers who want to sell a variety of items and have access to a large audience. | Good option for sellers who have an eye for fashion. |
Mercari Overview
Mercari is an online marketplace that allows users to buy and sell new and used items.
It’s popular with sellers because it makes it easy for them to list their items and for buyers to browse and purchase goods; it has a very user-friendly interface.
Key Features
- Wide range of items available for sale, including clothing, electronics, home goods, and more.
- Simplified listing process with the ability to add photos and descriptions.
- Negotiation options for buyers and sellers to agree on a price.
- Payment processing and secure transactions.
- Shipping services available, with shipping costs determined by the seller.
- Option to sell locally, offering convenience for buyers and sellers in the same area.
Upsides To Mercari
- Lower fees compared to other platforms.
- Ease of use and streamlined listing process.
- Ability to sell a variety of items, not limited to clothing.
- Local selling option for faster transactions and reduced shipping costs.
- Payment processing and secure transactions.
- Provides active buyer and seller protection.
Downsides To Mercari
- Shipping costs determined by the seller, which may vary.
- Lower visibility and audience reach compared to larger platforms like eBay or Amazon.
- Limited customer support and slower response times for inquiries.
Poshmark Overview
Poshmark is like a posh thrift store for fashion. It is everyone’s favorite specialized platform buying and selling new and gently used clothing, shoes, accessories, and more.
With its emphasis on social interaction and large community of fashion enthusiasts, Poshmark is a great place to sell second hand clothes, decor and beauty products.
Key Features
- Specialized in fashion items, with a wide selection of clothing and accessories.
- Social networking features, including sharing, liking, and following other users.
- Ability to negotiate prices and make private offers.
- Discounted USPS Priority shipping for buyers.
- Protection and authentication services for luxury goods priced over $500.
Upsides To Poshmark
- Strong fashion-focused community and larger audience reach.
- Ability to discover unique and one-of-a-kind items, including designer brands.
- Social networking features for increased engagement and exposure.
- Buyer protection and authentication services for high-end luxury items.
- Discounted USPS Priority shipping for buyers.
Downsides To Poshmark
- Higher commission fees compared, which can impact sellers’ profits.
- All sales are final unless the item is not as described.
- More time consuming to market as most of that is based on socialization.
- Presence of counterfeit goods, requiring buyers to exercise caution.
- Limited customer service support and slower response times.
Mercari Vs Poshmark 2023: Diving Into Details
Now let’s check out the details on how they compare to each other
Shipping Costs
Winner: Poshmark.
Both have their own upsides, though Poshmark still comes out on top.
On Mercari, you can set your own shipping costs, considering the size and weight of your items and choosing from providers like USPS, FedEx, or UPS. So, you can offer reasonable prices to potential buyers and increase sales.
Poshmark, on the other hand, offers discounted shipping rates through USPS Priority Mail for buyers.
As a seller, this means you can provide a more predictable and standardized shipping cost, ensuring more client satisfaction.
The flat-rate shipping fee encourages buyers to make multiple purchases, ultimately boosting your sales.
Poshmark’s discounted rates contribute to a positive buyer experience, making it great for both you and your buyers, so it gets the win here.
Selling Fees
Winner: Mercari.
Mercari offers a commission fee of 10% on the final sale price, which is relatively lower compared to other platforms. There are no listing fees, allowing you to start selling online without upfront costs. However, there are additional fees on Mercari, including a $2 charge for direct deposit and $2 for rejected direct deposit transfers.
Poshmark has a different fee structure. For items sold below $15, Poshmark charges a flat commission fee of $2.95. If your items are priced at $15 or above, Poshmark applies a 20% commission fee.
This fee structure may result in higher fees, though you should also keep the potential for increased exposure and sales on Poshmark’s target market in mind.
Mercari wins this comparison just because of its lower commission fee, which ensures a more consistent income.
Buyer Base
Winner: Tie. Depends on your preferences.
Mercari boasts a broad buyer base, attracting users looking for diverse items beyond just clothing and fashion accessories. It’s essentially a sophisticated flea market,
As a seller, this benefits you if you offer a variety of products. Mercari’s simple listing process and user-friendly interface also make it attractive to buyers seeking a seamless shopping experience.
Poshmark, on the other hand, focuses primarily on fashion, drawing buyers specifically interested in clothing, shoes, and accessories.
With a strong fashion community, it’s an ideal choice for sellers specializing in these categories. Poshmark’s social networking features further enhance the buyer experience by promoting engagement and interaction among users.
Market Reach
Winner: Tie.
While Mercari has a significant user base, it may have a slightly narrower reach compared to larger online marketplaces like eBay or Amazon.
However, Mercari continues to gain popularity and expand its reach, especially among buyers and sellers seeking a more simplified and streamlined selling experience. It still has more reach than Poshmark, due to the range of items it offers.
Poshmark has established itself as a prominent platform in the fashion resale market, attracting a large audience of fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters.
With its emphasis on social interaction and a strong community, you have the opportunity to tap into a specific market segment and connect with buyers who are passionate about fashion.
Extra Fees
Winner: Poshmark.
Mercari charges a $2 fee for direct deposit, and if your transfer is rejected, another $2 fee applies. While these fees may seem small, they can impact your earnings, especially if you sell a lot. So, it’s crucial to consider these additional costs when assessing the profitability of selling on Mercari.
In contrast, Poshmark keeps it simple. They don’t impose any additional platform fees beyond the commission fees mentioned earlier. This means you can sell on Poshmark without worrying about extra charges or deductions. With Poshmark’s straightforward fee structure, you can focus on maximizing your sales and boosting your earnings.
So, if you prefer a selling platform without additional fees eating into your profits, Poshmark might be the better choice for you.
User Experience and Support
Winner: Poshmark.
Mercari offers a user-friendly interface and streamlined listing process, but some sellers struggle to access customer support. This lack of assistance and slow response time can be frustrating, especially when dealing with transaction issues or scammy buyers.
In contrast, Poshmark prioritizes a positive user experience for both buyers and sellers. They provide support through email and live chat, actively engaging with the community.
With dedicated customer support and responsive assistance, Poshmark offers a more reliable and helpful user experience than Mercari.
Buyer And Seller Protection
Winner: Poshmark.
Poshmark stands out for its strong emphasis on user safety. They prioritize both buyers and sellers, providing comprehensive protection policies for a secure and reliable experience.
As a buyer on Poshmark, you can shop confidently. They offer support for issues like receiving items that don’t match the description or facing delivery problems. Refunds and returns are available to ensure a safe buying environment.
Poshmark also values their sellers and offers robust protection measures.
Meanwhile, Mercari isn’t as good, due to its issues with customer support – most users seem to agree that scammers like the ones on eBay are more prevalent on the platform.
Cross-Listing on Multiple Platforms
Winner: Tie.
As a seller on Mercari, you have the freedom to cross-list your items on other platforms, such as eBay, Depop, or your own website. This expands your audience and boosts your chances of making sales. Cross-listing lets you tap into the strengths of different platforms and target specific buyer demographics.
Poshmark doesn’t explicitly forbid cross-listing either, though it encourages sellers to focus on its unique features and social aspects, aiming to build a dedicated community.
Payment Processing and Payouts
Winner: Tie.
Both Mercari and Poshmark ensure secure payment processing and offer convenient payout options for sellers.
Mercari’s process is straightforward. When a buyer makes a purchase, the payment is held until the transaction is completed and both parties are satisfied.
Once the buyer receives the item and rates the seller, the payment is released to the seller’s Mercari account. Sellers can then transfer their earnings directly to their bank accounts.
Poshmark follows a similar approach. When a buyer makes a purchase, Poshmark holds the payment until the buyer receives the item and confirms its condition.
Upon the buyer’s acceptance, Poshmark releases the payment to the seller’s Poshmark account. They also cover the processing fees. Sellers can then request a payout, and their earnings are deposited into their bank accounts.
Selling On Poshmark Vs Mercari
Mercari caters to a wider range of product categories, making it suitable for sellers dealing with electronics, home goods, and more. It offers free listings, a 10% selling fee, and flexible shipping options.
If you have a diverse inventory or prefer more control over your shipping methods, Mercari may be the better choice for you.
Poshmark’s fashion-focused marketplace is ideal for sellers specializing in clothing, shoes, and accessories. It provides a social shopping experience and simplifies the shipping process with prepaid labels.
If you primarily sell fashion items and value the community aspect of an interactive platform, Poshmark may be the more suitable option.
Ultimately, you should consider your target audience, the nature of your inventory, and your preferred selling experience to determine which platform aligns best with your goals.
Is it Better to Sell on Mercari or Poshmark?
Can’t pick which one to sell on? Here are some things you can think of to make the right choice.
Target Audience
Who are you trying to reach? Mercari covers a wide range of product categories, from electronics to collectibles. Poshmark, on the other hand, is all about fashion. Think about whether your items fit better with Mercari’s diverse audience or Poshmark’s fashion-forward crowd.
Fees and Pricing
How much will it cost you? Mercari charges a flat 10% fee for every sale, which can be great if you sell higher-priced items. Poshmark, however, takes a 20% commission on items priced at $15 and above. Consider your average item price and sales volume to determine which fee structure works best for you.
Shipping Options
How do you want to handle shipping? Mercari gives you more flexibility to choose your preferred shipping method and set your own rates. Poshmark makes it easy with prepaid labels for sellers. Decide whether you want more control over shipping or prefer the convenience of prepaid labels.
Community and Social Aspect
Do you want a social selling experience? Poshmark is all about building a community, where you can follow others, share listings, and engage in discussions. Mercari is more transactional-focused. Think about whether you prefer a social and interactive platform or a straightforward selling experience.
Inventory and Niche
What kind of items do you sell? Mercari covers a wide range of categories, while Poshmark specializes in fashion. Consider whether your inventory fits better with Mercari’s broader market or Poshmark’s fashion-focused audience.
Seller Support and Resources
What kind of support do you need? Both Mercari and Poshmark provide resources to help sellers succeed. Check out their support options, educational materials, and seller communities to see which platform offers the resources that suit your needs.
Mercari Vs Poshmark for Buyers
Trying to figure out which might be better for your customers? You might be asking, “Is Poshmark or Mercari better for buying?”
Mercari offers a wide range of categories, making it appealing to buyers looking for diverse products. With free listings, sellers sometimes offer lower prices on items.
However, due to its broader focus, Mercari may not provide the same specialization and depth of fashion-related items as Poshmark, so it’s not the best place for everyone.
Poshmark, though, is a fashion lover’s paradise. It specializes in clothing, shoes, and accessories, attracting buyers looking for unique fashion finds.
However, the prices on Poshmark may be higher due to the platform’s specialization in fashion.
Should You Consider Selling on Both Mercari and Poshmark?
Selling on both Mercari and Poshmark can be a strategic approach for sellers looking to maximize their reach and potential sales.
Here are a few reasons why selling on both platforms can be beneficial:
- Expanded Audience: Selling on both platforms increases your exposure to different buyer bases, expanding your chances of making sales.
- Diverse Inventory: If you have a wide range of items, you can take advantage of Mercari’s broader focus and Poshmark’s fashion specialization.
- Competitive Pricing: By listing items on both platforms, you can experiment with different pricing strategies to find the optimal balance between profitability and attracting buyers.
However, you need to consider the time and effort required to manage listings and ensure timely fulfillment on multiple platforms.
Assess your capacity, resources, and the potential benefits to determine if selling on both Mercari and Poshmark aligns with your business goals.
Tips To Grow Sales on Mercari and Poshmark
Here are some valuable tips to help you boost your sales on either or both options:
Capture Attention with Stunning Photos
Grab buyers’ attention by taking high-quality, well-lit photos that accurately showcase your items. Clear visuals are crucial in attracting potential buyers and increasing the chances of making a sale.
Craft Compelling and Detailed Descriptions
Write engaging and informative descriptions for your listings. Highlight key features, specifications, condition, and any unique selling points. Help buyers understand the value and benefits of your items.
Price Competitively
Research the market and analyze similar listings to set competitive prices. Consider the item’s condition, brand, and current market demand. Offering reasonable prices increases the likelihood of attracting potential buyers.
Leverage Social Media
Utilize the power of social media to promote your Mercari and Poshmark listings. Share links to your items on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Engage with relevant communities and use relevant hashtags to reach a broader audience.
Engage with the Community
Actively participate in the Mercari and Poshmark communities by following and engaging with other sellers and buyers. Leave thoughtful comments, share listings, and build relationships. This not only increases your visibility but also establishes trust and credibility.
Offer Excellent Customer Service
Provide prompt and friendly customer service to enhance the buyer’s experience. Respond to inquiries quickly and professionally. Ship items promptly and communicate any updates throughout the process. Positive interactions can result in positive reviews and repeat customers.
Optimize Titles and Tags
Use descriptive and keyword-rich titles and tags to improve the visibility of your listings. Think about what potential buyers might search for and include relevant terms to increase the chances of your items appearing in search results.
Bundle and Offer Discounts
Encourage multiple purchases by creating bundled listings or offering discounts on multiple items. Buyers appreciate savings and may be more inclined to make a larger purchase if they perceive added value.
Stay Active and Refresh Listings
Regularly update your inventory and refresh your listings to maintain visibility. Consider relisting items that have been sitting for a while or adjusting prices to attract renewed interest.
Provide Accurate and Speedy Shipping
Package items securely and ship them promptly after receiving an order. Use reliable shipping providers and provide tracking information to keep buyers informed about their purchases. Professional and efficient shipping processes contribute to positive buyer experiences.
FAQ
Who pays more, Mercari or Poshmark?
Mercari is – it charges a flat 10% selling fee on all items, while Poshmark operates on a commission-based fee structure with a 20% commission on items priced at $15 and above.
Are there any Mercari or Poshmark alternatives?
There are. Vinted and Thredup are some other incredibly popular platforms that have a similar concept and sell to a similar audience.
What is mostly sold on Mercari?
Mercari offers a wide range of product categories, including electronics, home goods, collectibles, and fashion items.
What gets sold the most on Poshmark?
Poshmark specializes in fashion items such as clothing, shoes, accessories, and luxury brands.
Do people make a living off Mercari?
Some sellers on Mercari are able to make a living from their sales, depending on factors such as inventory volume, pricing strategy, marketing efforts, and sales performance.
How much does the average Poshmark seller make?
The earnings of a Poshmark seller can vary depending on factors such as inventory size, pricing strategy, marketing efforts, and engagement with the platform.
Final Thoughts
So, which one will you pick? Maybe give both a try?
Mercari can help you offer a bigger product selection, while Poshmark can serve as a good place to sell your trendy fashion items.
Remember, success on either platform needs effort – you’ll have to combine effective marketing techniques with excellent customer service.
You won’t have success from the get-go, even if both are decent platforms
