The Rise of Second Hand Ecommerce

Over the past few years we have seen a huge rise in the second hand eCommerce market. With people looking to spend in more cost effective and eco-friendly ways, it’s no surprise that the thrift market is doing so well. Particularly with Gen Z and the emphasis they put on brands’ values, the rise of second hand eCommerce makes total sense.

Greener Ecommerce

Businesses are trying to move towards greener eCommerce in any way they can. This includes strategies focusing on packaging, reducing deliveries, and using more sustainable materials. However, thrifted eCommerce tackles this problem at the root.

Consumer attitudes towards the second hand market are changing. Whereas before people saw second hand clothes as unappealing, people are now realizing that second hand products hold a lot of potential. They reduce landfill waste, and alleviate the problems created by fast fashion. So many people wear clothes that are made under bad conditions, and do not last for very long. Second hand thrifting solves these problems.

Everybody Can Be A Seller

Apps such as Depop and Vinted have proven how popular this trend actually is. Through allowing people to sell their old clothes and items on their apps for no sellers fee, the companies have boomed. When executed well, this is proof that a second hand eCommerce strategy can go a long way.

Ebay, known to be the giant in this area historically has had to alter their strategy. They have now removed their sellers fee to keep up with the likes of Vinted and Depop who are now leading the way. 

Making everyone a seller means that there is a sense of community, and trust between members. Word-of-mouth marketing works effectively here, and high social proof, as the more people use the service the more of their friends understand about it.



Suitable For Your Business

Even bigger fashion brands, such as Urban Outfitters, have incorporated a second hand section into their sales strategy. This shows that they understand that their users are interested in this area. If you sell new items, it could be a smart business move to also provide and allow second hand sales within your store. 

This could open up your target audience to a more environmentally conscious group. It also appeals to Gen Z, a younger audience, and shoppers on a tighter budget. It also stays very on trend. Opening your appeal to a wider audience is always a good idea for any business.

Practical Matters

Expanding your eCommerce business to include second hand sales does not need to be a huge task. In fact, if you are already using Shopify, there are plugins that can enable a quick and easy move to incorporating second hand goods into your platform. You can also use bespoke software to create this initiation. 

One thing to ensure, however, if you do decide to make this move, is the quality of products you are sharing are up to standards. With pre-owned, or pre-loved objects, there is the risk that the objects bought don’t match up to the correct standards. You need to make sure that your items are quality assured, and that you have a strategy in place for any that may fall through the checks. Transparency and good communication, such as chatbot technology, can be of great help here. Customers want to feel seen, heard and valued.



The rise of second hand eCommerce makes sense for a number of reasons. It shows your shoppers that you are able to adjust to their changing needs and understandings. Modern consumer values: conscious consumption, sustainability and budgeting all come into play here. There’s a reason it has grown so far, and will continue to do so.