A complete guide to purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas online: Popular sites, proxy services, customs duties, and the latest trends, all safe for beginners

The popularity of secondhand clothing from overseas is growing year by year, attracting increasing attention from people who value individuality in fashion and choose sustainable lifestyles. However, when it comes to actually purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, many people may have concerns such as "Which online site should I use?" and "Is there a way to avoid losing money on customs duties and shipping fees?"

This article provides easy-to-understand information on how to purchase online, including how to use proxy services, how to purchase from overseas secondhand clothing stores, and basic information on shipping and customs duties. It also provides practical advice on how to incorporate trends and culture unique to secondhand clothing from overseas, as well as how to make your purchase a success.

By reading on, you will be able to find the purchasing style that suits you best and decide specifically when, where, and how to purchase. Whether you are a first-time buyer or have already started selling, why not use this article as an opportunity to take a new step in your overseas secondhand clothing business?

An easy-to-understand guide for beginners on how to purchase secondhand clothing from overseas

There are several options for sourcing secondhand clothing from overseas, and it's important to choose the method that best suits your style, budget, and sales strategy. From purchasing directly from local markets and warehouses, to easily sourcing online, to using a proxy service to eliminate concerns about language and shipping, each method has its own benefits and points to consider. Here, we'll explain each method in an easy-to-understand way, even for beginners, while sorting out the features and costs of each method to give you a concrete idea of ​​where to start.

Purchase directly from overseas markets and warehouses

The big appeal of traveling overseas and purchasing from second-hand clothing markets and warehouses is that you can "purchase large quantities of rare items at once." Warehouses often allow you to purchase items in bales (large compressed chunks of clothing) or assorted formats, which makes it easy to keep the purchase cost down. However, you will need to pay for transportation and accommodation to get there, and in some cases negotiations can be difficult due to the language barrier. For beginners, it is relatively easy to purchase items by targeting "open warehouse days" held by local wholesalers.

Purchase using the online site

The easiest way to source secondhand clothing from overseas is through online sites. Platforms such as eBay , Poshmark , Depop , and Grailed allow you to purchase one-of-a-kind secondhand clothing from sellers around the world. Purchasing online has the major advantage of eliminating travel expenses and allowing you to keep up with the latest trends from the comfort of your own home. However, it's difficult to assess the condition of the product from photos alone, so you need to carefully check return policies and shipping terms. Furthermore, calculating profits while taking into account customs duties and shipping costs is key to success.

Reduce risk by using proxy services

For those who aren't confident in their English or who are worried about making payments on overseas websites, we recommend using a proxy service. Proxy services provide support from purchase to shipping and customs procedures, offering great peace of mind for beginners. They're useful in situations like "I want to buy limited-edition items that are only available locally" or "I want to reduce shipping costs by buying in bulk." However, proxy fees are charged, so be sure to calculate whether you'll still make a profit after adding this amount to the purchase price. Used effectively, proxy services can help you efficiently purchase secondhand clothing from overseas while reducing the risks of language barriers and complicated customs duties.

A list of online sites for second-hand clothing from overseas that can be used by individuals

When purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, many people first turn to online sites. Accessible from home without traveling, these sites are easy for beginners to get started with, allowing them to easily search for products that reflect the latest trends and fashions. Each platform used around the world has its own unique features, and the way you choose one will depend on your target customer demographic and sales strategy. This article will cover major online sites, including eBay, Poshmark, Depop, and Grailed, explaining their strengths and how to use them. Understanding these will help you identify the right supplier for you and start selling secondhand clothing from overseas more efficiently.

Purchase from around the world on eBay

eBay is one of the world's largest online markets, and is widely used for purchasing second-hand clothing. Sellers from all over the world, mainly from the United States and Europe, are registered, so you can purchase vintage items and brand-name second-hand clothing that are hard to find in Japan. Many items are auction-style, which means you have the opportunity to purchase items at prices lower than the market price.
However, since the condition of the product and the shipping method vary depending on the seller, it is important to check the "feedback section" and "return policy" before purchasing. Furthermore, calculating profits by taking into account customs duties and shipping costs will lead to stable purchasing.

Developing the American market with Poshmark

Poshmark is a popular online fashion site in the United States, where many secondhand casual brands and the latest trends are listed. Since many of the sellers are individual users, the prices are relatively reasonable and it's easy to find bargains.

However, many of these stores do not offer direct shipping to Japan, so it is common to use a proxy service to source goods. This is suitable for people who want to adopt American trends as they are, or who are thinking of running a shop targeting the younger generation.

Embrace the youth trend with Depop

Depop is an online site from the UK that is especially popular among young people in their teens and twenties. It has a wide selection of streetwear and uniquely designed second-hand clothing, and its unique feature is that you can search for products in a social networking site similar to Instagram. It's easy to keep up with the latest trends and fashions, so it's recommended for those who want to strengthen their selections for younger generations.
However, since products turn over quickly and popular items sell out quickly, you need to check frequently when purchasing. If you are not confident in your English, you can use a proxy service for peace of mind.

Find high-end second-hand clothing at Grailed

Grailed is an online site from the US that mainly stocks high-end secondhand men's clothing and designer items. Many brands that are in high demand in Japan, such as Supreme, Off-White, and COMME des GARÇONS, are listed. Items can sometimes be purchased at prices lower than the market price, making it a prime source for buyers seeking premium items.

However, since many of the items are expensive, it is essential to be aware of the risk of counterfeits. It is important to proceed carefully with the transaction, such as making sure the seller is trustworthy and, if possible, requesting detailed photos before purchasing. If you are targeting customers looking for high-end secondhand clothing, Grailed is an essential online site.

Things you need to know about transportation and customs duties when importing used clothing from overseas

When purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, the key to success is to correctly understand the shipping route and costs such as customs duties and import consumption tax. Shipping methods include air and sea, and the choice depends on speed, cost, and quantity. It's also important to understand that customs duties may be incurred on purchased secondhand clothing, and are levied on the total amount, including the product price and shipping costs. Furthermore, you may encounter language barriers, such as dealing with English-speaking parties and import-related paperwork. Here, we'll introduce the features of shipping methods, the basic structure of customs duties, and practical tips to help even beginners ease their worries.

Characteristics of airmail and seamail and how to choose

When importing secondhand clothing from overseas, the two main transportation methods are air freight and sea freight. Air freight offers fast delivery, making it ideal for purchasing small quantities or for trendy items that you want to sell immediately. It takes a few days to a week for the goods to arrive, making it suitable for shops that prioritize inventory turnover. However, as shipping costs tend to be higher, it's important to carefully calculate your profit margins before making your selection.

On the other hand, sea freight is suitable for bulk purchases because it uses containers, and has the advantage of keeping the transportation cost per item low. It is a method that is often used when purchasing goods in bales from wholesalers or warehouses. However, since it takes several weeks to several months for goods to arrive, it is necessary to plan your purchases in advance, taking into account the season and trends.

Basic rules for customs duties and import consumption tax

When purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, it is essential to understand customs duties and import consumption tax. Customs duties are taxes levied on imported goods, and in the case of clothing, the tax rate varies depending on the material and purchase price. In addition, in Japan, consumption tax is levied on imported goods, and is levied on the total amount of the product price and shipping costs.

For example, if the purchase price is 100,000 yen and the shipping cost is 20,000 yen, the customs duty and consumption tax will be calculated based on 120,000 yen. There are cases where costs increase more than expected, so it is important to conduct a rough simulation before purchasing. By using an agency service, these customs duties and import procedures will be handled on your behalf, allowing beginners to purchase with peace of mind.

Practical tips for overcoming language barriers

When purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, you will often need to use English when communicating with sellers and when writing customs-related documents. Many people worry about the language barrier, but it can be overcome with some practical ingenuity. Using translation tools for basic communication and using a proxy service that specializes in purchasing can help you avoid problems.

Additionally, major online sites like eBay and Grailed have standard message functions and support, making it easy for even beginners to trade. Furthermore, once you become accustomed to purchasing goods, learning basic phrases like "specify shipping method" and "confirm product details" will help you broaden your negotiation options. Overcoming the language barrier will greatly expand your supplier options, allowing you to operate a secondhand clothing business with greater flexibility.

The benefits of purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas and its advantages in the Japanese market

The greatest appeal of sourcing secondhand clothing from overseas is that it allows you to quickly adopt new trends and items that are hard to find in Japan. In addition to purchasing through wholesalers and warehouses, using online sites also offers a major advantage, allowing you to access a wide range of products, from rare one-of-a-kind items to popular brands. Depending on your purchasing method, it may also be possible to keep prices low and increase profit margins, making it easier to create an efficient sales strategy. Furthermore, incorporating overseas trends and cultures as they are can help differentiate your store from other stores. Here, we will outline the specific benefits and introduce some tips for making the most of them in the Japanese market.

You can purchase rare secondhand clothing that is not available in Japan.

A major attraction of overseas secondhand clothing is the ability to source items that are difficult to find in Japan. America and Europe are home to many long-established brands and vintage items, and there's a chance you can find one-of-a-kind items through warehouses or online sites. These rare secondhand items differentiate your store and resonate strongly with customers seeking unique products. Expanding your procurement routes can help you highlight the uniqueness of your store or online shop.

Lower purchase prices and increase profit margins

Used clothing from overseas is often purchased more cheaply than in Japan, and purchasing bulk or assorted items from wholesalers and warehouses can significantly reduce the cost per item. Reducing purchase prices leads to improved profit margins and also has the benefit of allowing you to set selling prices at competitive levels. However, this requires accurate calculation of additional costs such as shipping fees and customs duties, so prior simulation is essential.

Incorporating overseas trends and culture

Sourcing from overseas makes it possible to directly reflect local trends and culture in your product lineup. For example, incorporating American street brands or classic European styles will likely appear fresh in the Japanese market, making it easier for customers to perceive new value. Additionally, by using online sites such as Depop and Poshmark, you can quickly purchase popular secondhand clothing in the local market. Incorporating the latest trends broadens your sales strategy and can also lead to the acquisition of repeat customers.

Disadvantages and points to note when purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas

While purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas has great appeal, it also comes with the risk of unexpected costs and problems. In particular, additional costs such as customs duties and shipping fees are added to the purchase price, significantly affecting profit margins. It is also difficult to check the condition of the product, and it is not uncommon for the item you receive to be of a different quality than expected. Furthermore, differences in language and payment methods can sometimes hinder a smooth transaction, which can be a major source of anxiety for beginners. Here, we will explain the disadvantages you should be aware of before actually purchasing clothing, as well as precautions to avoid them.

Unexpected expenses arise due to customs duties and shipping costs

When purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, simply looking at the purchase price and assuming it's cheap can lead to failure. This is because additional costs such as shipping and customs duties are always incurred. Shipping from the US or Europe is particularly long, so shipping costs vary greatly depending on the weight and size of the package. In addition, customs duties and import consumption tax are often levied upon arrival in Japan, which can lower profit margins more than expected. As a beginner, it's important to always calculate the total cost: purchase price + shipping + customs duties, and check whether it's profitable.

There is a risk of checking the condition of the product and returning it

When purchasing from an online site or proxy service, you cannot see the product in person, making it difficult to assess its condition. Even if the product looks good in the photo, it is not uncommon for it to be dirty, damaged, or the size to be different in real life. Furthermore, returns and exchanges are often not handled smoothly when purchasing from overseas, and in some cases you may have to pay shipping costs yourself. To reduce these risks, it is essential to choose a reliable seller and carefully check reviews and ratings before purchasing.

Be aware of differences in language and payment methods

When purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, language barriers such as English can be a major hurdle. If you don't understand the product descriptions and terms of sale, misunderstandings and problems are likely to occur. Payment methods are also often limited to credit cards and PayPal, which can be inconvenient for those accustomed to Japanese bank transfers. Beginners, in particular, need to check the security of payments and the impact of exchange rates beforehand. Using an agency service can help overcome this challenge, but it does incur fees, so you'll need to factor these into your overall costs.

Purchasing options using wholesalers and warehouses

In addition to online sites and proxy services, wholesalers and warehouses are also effective methods for purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas. This is particularly suitable for bulk purchases and those aiming to secure a stable inventory, and is often traded in the form of bales (compressed packs) or assorted purchases. Furthermore, some trade terms impose a "minimum order quantity," which can be risky for small-scale sellers, but by understanding the terms and using them in a planned manner, it is possible to significantly reduce purchasing costs. Here, we will explain the characteristics and precautions of bale and assorted purchases, the impact of minimum lots, and introduce representative wholesalers and warehouses available both domestically and internationally.

Characteristics and points to note when purchasing bales and assorted items

Typical purchasing methods through wholesalers and warehouses include "bale purchasing" and "assorted purchasing." With bale purchasing, secondhand clothing is sold in large, compressed packs, with the exact contents unknown until the pack is opened. While it's easy to increase profit margins by purchasing large quantities of used clothing from overseas at low cost all at once, there's also the risk of items in poor condition or difficult to sell. Assorted purchasing allows you to order specific categories, such as T-shirts or denim, in bulk, making it ideal for targeted sales. However, in both cases, the basic condition is that "no returns" apply, so it's important to identify a trustworthy wholesaler before purchasing.

The presence or absence of minimum lots and their impact on small-scale sales

Wholesalers and warehouse suppliers often have a minimum order quantity. For example, they may require a minimum of 50 kg or 100 units, which can be a significant burden for individuals and small-scale sellers. On the other hand, it is also true that if you order more than the minimum quantity, the unit price often drops and economies of scale can be leveraged. Beginners who try large lots right away are likely to end up with excess inventory, so they should be creative, purchasing together with multiple people or first finding a warehouse that can handle small orders.

Examples of major domestic and international wholesalers and warehouses

In Japan, there are "secondhand clothing warehouses" and "OLDFLIP," some of which regularly hold open days. Being able to inspect the actual items before purchasing is reassuring. Overseas, there are large secondhand clothing warehouses in the United States and Europe, and in some cases, you can purchase items directly through eBay or proxy services. American warehouses, in particular, have a wide selection of categories that are in high demand in Japan, such as street brands and denim. To broaden your supplier options, it is important to compare the characteristics of domestic and international wholesalers and find a route that suits your sales style.

Practical advice for beginners to succeed in purchasing secondhand clothing overseas

Anyone can try sourcing secondhand clothing from overseas by using online sites or wholesalers, but a strategy is essential to generating stable sales. Beginners, in particular, often feel anxious about purchasing decisions and cost management, but by keeping a few key points in mind, you can avoid failure and ensure profits. Here, we'll provide specific advice that directly applies to your actual business, including selecting products with an awareness of trends, utilizing multiple routes, the importance of cost simulations, and sales strategies that incorporate social media.

Differentiate yourself by selecting trend-conscious products

Your success in purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas depends largely on your sense of product selection. Trends change quickly, especially on social media, so it's important to quickly adopt popular local brands and designs. For example, in the United States, Y2K style and street brands popular among young people are on the rise on Poshmark and Depop. By identifying genres that are not yet available in the Japanese market, you can differentiate your products and lead to sales.

Combine multiple routes to spread risk

If you rely on one procurement route, your sales may come to a halt if you run out of stock or experience transportation issues. Therefore, combining bulk purchases from wholesalers and warehouses with online sites like eBay and Grailed increases stability. Making good use of proxy services also eliminates language barriers and payment concerns, allowing you to source from a wide range of sources while minimizing risk.

Conduct cost simulations in advance to ensure profits

Customs duties and shipping costs have a significant impact on the total cost of purchasing. Duty rates vary depending on the weight and item, so it's important to always conduct a simulation before purchasing. For example, there are differences in speed and cost between airmail and seamail, so use the appropriate method depending on the purpose of your purchase. By calculating the total amount including shipping, customs duties, and agency fees, you can understand the actual profit margin and make decisions to avoid losses.

Combine with social media and online sales strategies to boost sales

To efficiently sell secondhand clothing purchased from overseas, an online sales strategy and the use of social media are essential. Providing outfit suggestions on Instagram or TikTok can enhance the value of the product beyond that of the product alone. Furthermore, by spreading awareness on social media in parallel with selling on online sites and flea market apps, you can attract repeat customers and build your brand. Thinking about purchasing and selling as a continuous process is the quickest route for beginners to achieve success.

FAQ

Many beginners have similar questions when starting to purchase secondhand clothing from overseas. For example, specific concerns such as "Which online site can I trust?", "How much will customs duties and shipping costs be?", and "When is the best time to use a proxy service?" are unavoidable points when deciding to purchase. It's also important to know how to manage costs to avoid incurring losses. Here, we'll answer some common questions beginners often encounter and provide practical purchasing tips.

What online sites for used clothing from overseas are easy to use even for beginners?

If this is your first time purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, it's important to choose an online site that prioritizes ease of use and peace of mind. eBay , in particular, handles secondhand clothing from all over the world and has a search function and buyer protection system, making it easy even for beginners to try. Poshmark , which specializes in the American market, makes it easy to communicate with sellers and find trendy items. Depop , meanwhile, has a wide selection of Y2K fashion and streetwear popular with young people, making it ideal for selections that are conscious of current trends. Grailed is a good choice if you're looking for high-end brands or vintage items. It's recommended to use multiple sites depending on the genre you want to purchase and your sales strategy.

How much will customs duties and shipping costs be?

When purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas, one thing that's often overlooked is the final cost, including customs duties and shipping. Customs duties vary depending on the material and type of clothing, and import consumption tax is also added. Shipping costs also vary greatly between airmail and surface mail, with airmail being faster but more expensive, while surface mail takes longer but is easier to keep costs down. For example, lightweight T-shirts have a relatively low customs duty burden, but if you purchase heavy outerwear in bulk, the proportion of customs duties and shipping costs will increase. It's important to always conduct simulations before purchasing and understand the total cost, not just the product price.

When should you use an agency service?

If you're not good at English or are worried about negotiating with overseas sellers, using a proxy service is a safe option. Proxies handle everything from the purchasing process to inspection and shipping, making them a great first step for beginners. In particular, when purchasing from wholesalers or warehouses that have minimum lot sizes, using a proxy can be smoother than dealing directly. However, there are fees involved, so it's important to weigh the cost and convenience before making a decision.

What are the key points to avoiding losses when purchasing used clothing?

To avoid losses, it's important to be aware of your sales strategy from the purchasing stage. It's safe to start by purchasing small lots to test demand and understand what sells before expanding. Also, accurately calculate your purchasing price, including customs duties and shipping fees, and make sure you can secure a profit margin on the selling price. Furthermore, effectively promoting trendy items on social media will help prevent purchased products from remaining unsold. Having multiple purchasing routes and spreading costs and risks is also a practical way to avoid losses.

summary

There are a wide variety of options for purchasing secondhand clothing from overseas online, including online sites like eBay, Poshmark, Depop, and Grailed, as well as proxy services, wholesalers, and warehouses. It's important to understand not only the purchase price but also the total cost, including customs duties and shipping costs, and calculate in advance whether you can secure a profit margin. Also, by incorporating rare secondhand clothing from overseas that is difficult to find domestically and the latest trends, you can differentiate yourself from other sellers. While there are some points to be aware of, such as customs duties and the risk of returns, combining multiple purchasing routes and linking them with a sales strategy using social media and other platforms can enable stable operations. Even beginners can find a purchasing style that suits them and begin selling secondhand clothing from overseas with confidence by acquiring the right knowledge and preparation.