Guide
Best platforms for casual / side-hustle sellers
If you're selling on weekends, clearing your closet, or running a low-volume side hustle (under ~$5k/year), the platform that nets the most isn't always the one full-time resellers pick. Different priorities: low friction, fast payouts, no monthly subscriptions, easy interfaces.
Quick verdict
- Lowest fees: Vinted (0%) for fashion, Facebook Marketplace (0%) for local pickup.
- Easiest to start: Mercari — predictable structure, fast payouts, broad categories.
- Highest engagement: Poshmark — steepest fees but social features move inventory fast.
- Y2K / trend fashion: Depop — near-zero fees plus the right audience.
Net payout at $20, $50, $100
| Platform | $20 | $50 | $100 | All-in fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vinted | $20.00 | $50.00 | $100.00 | 0% |
| Depop | $18.89 | $47.90 | $96.25 | ~4% |
| Facebook Marketplace | $19.00 | $47.50 | $95.00 | 5% (shipped) / 0% (local) |
| Mercari | $16.92 | $43.05 | $86.60 | ~13% |
| Poshmark | $16.00 | $40.00 | $80.00 | 20% (above $15) |
When to choose each
Vinted
Calculator →Best fee structure of any major platform — zero commission, zero processing. You keep 100% of the asking price. The trade-off is a smaller US buyer pool than Poshmark or Mercari (Vinted launched in the US in 2022 and is still growing). Lowest friction overall: no store, no tiers, no math.
Depop
Calculator →Near-zero fees since the 2024 commission removal — sellers pay only payment processing (3.3% + $0.45). Strongest fit for Y2K, vintage streetwear, and trend-driven fashion aimed at a young audience. If your inventory matches Depop's vibe, this is the cheapest path with the best-matched audience.
Facebook Marketplace
Calculator →Local pickup is completely free — no fees of any kind on local sales. The cheapest option by far for bulky furniture, appliances, or anything where shipping would eat your margin. For shipped sales, the 5% fee with $0.40 minimum is competitive but the platform leans local.
Mercari
Calculator →The most general-purpose starting platform. Predictable 10% selling fee plus 2.9% + $0.50 payment processing. Broad category support beyond fashion (electronics, collectibles, home goods). Payouts in 1-3 days after sale — fastest among the major platforms.
Poshmark
Calculator →Highest fees at 20% above $15 (flat $2.95 below) — but the engagement features (likes, shares, parties, bundles) actually move inventory faster than less social platforms. Best for sellers who enjoy building a closet brand and engaging with the community.
Frequently asked
What's the best platform for someone just starting out as a reseller?
For pure simplicity: Mercari. It has the lowest learning curve, predictable fees, broad category support, and fast payouts. For fashion specifically: Vinted (zero fees, simplest interface) or Poshmark (more engaged buyer pool, steeper fees but faster sales). Facebook Marketplace is best for selling locally without ever touching shipping.
What's the cheapest platform for casual sellers?
Vinted is the cheapest on fees — 0% seller commission and 0% payment processing. Depop is a close second since its 2024 commission removal (sellers pay only 3.3% + $0.45 processing). For local pickup, Facebook Marketplace is free. Mercari (~13% all-in) and Poshmark (20%) are the higher-cost end.
Can I sell on multiple platforms as a casual seller?
Yes, and many casual sellers do — listing on multiple platforms increases reach without much extra effort if you're moving inventory slowly. The catch is inventory management: when an item sells on one platform, you have to delist on the others quickly to avoid double-selling. Tools like List Perfectly and Vendoo automate this but cost monthly fees that may not be worth it at casual volumes.
How does 1099-K affect side-hustle sellers?
Payment processors and marketplaces must send a 1099-K to the IRS (and you) when annual sales cross a reporting threshold. The federal threshold has been shifting; many states have lower thresholds ($600 in some). Receiving a 1099-K doesn't automatically mean tax is owed — your costs (item cost, shipping, fees, mileage to source) reduce taxable income. Keep records from day one even if your volume is low.
Do I need a business license to sell casually?
Generally no for occasional personal sales (selling your own used items at a loss isn't taxable income). It can become relevant when you sell consistently for profit, hit certain revenue thresholds, or sell in regulated categories (food, alcohol, supplements). Rules vary by state and city. Consult a local tax professional if you cross from occasional to regular profitable sales.