Making money from selling items online

Selling items online is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to earn quick cash and it’s often the very first step people take on their debt-free journey.
It’s simple: go through your home, find things you no longer use, and sell them on trusted websites or apps.
It’s a win–win: you make money, reduce clutter, and feel lighter both financially and mentally.
Once you’ve sold your unused items, you can even turn this skill into a steady side hustle by buying and reselling second-hand items for profit.

Pros of Selling Items Online

Instant Cash: you can start earning today with zero upfront cost.
Declutters Your Home: a tidy space creates a tidy mind.
Eco-Friendly: reusing and reselling keeps items out of landfill.
Low Risk: you’re selling what you already own.
Builds Confidence: a perfect first step into side hustles.
Scalable: can become a flipping or reselling business over time.

Cons of Selling Items Online

Takes time to photograph and list items.
Postage and packaging costs can reduce profit if not priced correctly.
Some buyers can be unreliable (especially on local marketplaces).
Some platforms charge fees.
Demand fluctuates: some items sell instantly, others take weeks.

How to Start Selling Online

1. Declutter Your Home

Start small: one room, cupboard, or drawer at a time.
Use the three-box rule:
Sell items in good condition.
Donate items valuable but time-consuming to list.
Recycle/Bin damaged or unusable items.
Items that usually sell well: clothing, electronics, toys, books, tech, homeware, tools and kitchen items.

2. Take Clear Photos

Good photos sell items faster and reduce questions. Tips:
Use natural light.
Use a clean, plain background.
Photograph multiple angles.
Show any wear or damage honestly.
Add lifestyle-style photos where possible (e.g. clothes on a hanger).

3. Write Honest, Simple Descriptions

Include:
Brand / model / size
Condition (new, like new, used)
Delivery or collection
Extras (original box, accessories)
Transparency builds trust and leads to quicker sales.

Where To Sell Online (UK Platforms)

Clothing & Accessories
Vinted free to list, no seller fees.
Depop great for trendy or unique fashion.
eBay ideal for branded or vintage clothing.

Electronics & Gadgets
eBay strong demand for tech.
Facebook Marketplace ideal for local collection.
CeX / MusicMagpie / Envirofone instant quotes for old tech.

Home, Furniture & Miscellaneous
Facebook Marketplace local and free to use.
Gumtree ideal for large/bulky items.
Shpock small home goods and local sales.

Books, DVDs & Media
World of Books (Formally Ziffit)
WeBuyBooks scan barcodes for instant quotes.
MusicMagpie for CDs, DVDs, and games.

Set Fair, Realistic Prices

Research: Sold listings, not just active ones.
Price slightly higher if you accept offers.
Remember postage costs.
Bundle similar items for easy sales.

Package & Post Safely

Use recycled packaging to save money.
Always get proof of postage.
For local sales, meet in public, safe places.

Helpful Postage Sites
Parcel2Go to compare postage prices.
Royal Mail Click & Drop is an easy to use home postage service.

Reinvest or Save the Money

Once you’ve earned some cash:
Pay down a debt.
Boost your emergency fund.
Reinvest into another side hustle (like Print On Demand).
Small wins grow into big progress.

Earning Potential

Decluttering: £50–£500 (one-time)
Part-time reselling: £100–£1,000 per month
Full-time reselling: £1,000–£5,000+ per month
(requires sourcing stock & consistent reinvestment)

Selling unused items is the perfect entry point into side hustles. low risk, instantly rewarding, and incredibly motivating.
You reduce clutter, earn money fast, and build the confidence to take bigger steps toward financial freedom.

disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, business, or tax advice.
Selling items online may have tax implications, and rules can vary depending on your location, income level, and selling platform.
Always check the latest HMRC guidance and platform-specific policies before selling, and consider speaking with a qualified accountant or tax professional if you’re unsure about your obligations.
We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but Debt-Free.co.uk cannot accept responsibility for any losses, errors, or changes in regulations or platform terms.