Even individuals can start buying secondhand clothes! A complete guide for beginners to earn 30,000 yen a month
In recent years, the keyword "individual secondhand clothing purchasing" has been gaining attention as a way to work from home or as a side job. As a low-risk, low-capital business, it is an easy option for students, housewives, and those looking for a side job to start, and is rapidly spreading among people who are sensitive to trends and brands.
In this article, we will thoroughly explain the purchasing methods, knowledge, and practical steps necessary for beginners to aim for a profit of 30,000 yen per month. By the time you finish reading, you will have a concrete path to starting your own secondhand clothing business.
Is it possible for individuals to purchase secondhand clothing? The benefits and mindset of starting a side business
The secondhand clothing business is becoming increasingly popular as a side job that can be started with low initial costs. In particular, the fact that it can be run from home by individuals using Mercari and Rakuma is what has made it popular with many people. In this section, we will explain in detail why "individual secondhand clothing purchases" are attracting attention now, their appeal as a side job, and the important mindset to have when starting one.
Why is "individual second-hand clothing buyers" attracting attention now?
The secondhand clothing market is booming due to the spread of sustainable lifestyles and the retro boom centered on Gen Z. The value of secondhand clothing is being reevaluated, driven by the trend of environmental awareness and emphasizing "unique fashion."
In addition, the following factors are also cited as reasons why "individual second-hand clothing buyers" are attracting attention:
・Low barrier to entry, you can get started with just one smartphone
・A business model that can be completed from home
・Realistic profitability that allows individuals to earn tens of thousands of yen per month
These changes in the times and people's needs are supporting second-hand clothing reselling as a side hustle that anyone can try.
The appeal and potential of working from home or as a side job
Compared to other side jobs, purchasing used clothing requires very little initial investment and inventory risk is easy to control. For example, if you purchase a few used clothes cheaply and sell them on Mercari, you can make a profit of 1,000 to 3,000 yen per item.
It also has the following benefits:
- You can work from home, so you can work any time and anywhere
・You can sell products using your own sense
・Reuse also contributes to society
For fashion lovers, the fact that you can combine your hobby with profitability is a big attraction. Even at the beginning stage, the fact that you can aim for 30,000 to 50,000 yen per month is a great motivation.
Three things beginners should understand first
Before you start buying secondhand clothes on your own, there are some basic points you should keep in mind. If you don't understand these, you're more likely to have trouble buying and selling.
Important points for beginners to understand
・Procurement risk management: Start with small quantities and inexpensive items
・Understanding market trends: Research popular items and price ranges on sales platforms
・Improve your listing skills: You need the skills to convey the appeal of your product through photos and descriptions.
If you keep these things in mind and make the necessary preparations, it is realistic to aim for profitability from the first month. In order to avoid failure, it is most important to spend time on "research and preparation".
There are two main ways to purchase used clothing: domestic and overseas.
There are two main ways to buy secondhand clothes: domestically and overseas. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and for beginners, the first step to success is to determine which method is best for you. In this section, we will explain in detail the characteristics of domestic and overseas purchasing, and how to choose the method that is easiest for individuals.
Characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of domestic procurement
Domestic procurement is a method of purchasing goods from reuse shops, second-hand clothing wholesalers, and flea market apps in Japan. It is easy to get started, and there are no shipping fees or language barriers, making it the easiest method for beginners to get started with.
Benefits of Domestic Purchasing
- Purchasing procedures are simple and fast
You can see the quality and condition with your own eyes.
・Sizes and brands suitable for Japanese people are easily available
Disadvantages of Domestic Purchasing
- Prices tend to be somewhat high and profit margins tend to be low
・Inventory is unstable depending on the supplier
-Popular genres are very competitive
The wide range of options, such as purchasing from physical stores or using flea market apps, is attractive, but securing a stable procurement route is the key to continued operation.
Characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of purchasing from overseas
Overseas procurement involves ordering second-hand clothing directly from the United States, Europe, etc. This method has attracted attention because it allows for unique items to be purchased at low prices, but there are also hurdles to overcome, such as language and transportation issues.
Benefits of purchasing from overseas
-Low purchase price and high profit margins
・We handle rare items that are not available in Japan
- Bulk purchases can further reduce unit prices
Disadvantages of purchasing from overseas
Shipping and customs duties may be expensive
Difficult to deal with problems
・Knowledge of English and currency required
However, in recent years, the number of overseas wholesale sites catering to individuals has increased, making it much easier to get involved than before.
How to identify procurement methods that are easy for individuals to implement
The most important thing for beginners is whether they can continue the procurement method without difficulty. Both procurement methods are attractive, but it is recommended to choose based on the following points.
・Low initial capital → Start with domestic procurement
・Want to sell unique items → Consider purchasing from overseas
・Language skills and import experience → Suitable for overseas procurement
・I want to try something simple first → Flea market apps and second-hand shops are recommended
It is also effective to first get used to purchasing from domestic sources, then try purchasing from overseas. Either way, the key to success is to create a system that allows you to continue without straining yourself.
Basics of buying used clothing that beginners should know to avoid mistakes
While buying secondhand clothes is easy to start, it can be hard to make a profit if you make a mistake in choosing your supplier or items. Beginners in particular need to have a solid understanding of the basics so they don't get stuck in the first step. In this section, we'll explain in detail how to choose a wholesaler, which genres are easy to handle, examples of mistakes and how to deal with them.
Points to check when using a used clothing wholesaler
Used clothing wholesalers are very convenient as a source of supplies that individuals can use, but not all of them are trustworthy. Using them carelessly can lead to you being left with dead stock.
Check points for choosing a wholesaler
・Can I trade in small lots?
-Is the genre and condition of the item clearly stated?
Is there a return/exchange policy?
Can you check the track record and reviews?
Are shipping and handling fees clear?
By checking these points, you can greatly reduce the risk of failure. It is also important to do a test purchase at first to assess the quality and response.
Genres and brands that are easy to handle when reselling used clothing
For beginners looking to buy secondhand clothes, it is recommended to start with genres and brands that are in demand and have a stable price range. There are classic brands that boast a certain level of popularity in the fashion market.
Recommended genres and brands for beginners
・90s revival streetwear (Nike, Adidas, Champion)
・Vintage T-shirts (band T-shirts, movie T-shirts, character T-shirts)
・Military jackets and denim (Levi's, Wrangler)
・Sports and outdoor (The North Face, Patagonia)
These items are always in demand, so they have a high turnover rate and are easy to sell. It's also easy to balance the purchase price, making them an ideal choice for beginners.
Common mistakes in purchasing and how to avoid them
There are three common mistakes when buying secondhand clothes: buying too much, unsold items, and overlooking the condition of the items. All of these can put a strain on your profits.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
・Too much inventory
→ At first, try out one item at a time. Avoid purchasing large quantities of items.
・Purchasing damaged goods
→ Don't judge based on photos and descriptions alone, but choose a dealer that clearly states the condition rating.
Choose a genre that is not in demand
→ Research popular products in advance on sites like Mercari.
Although mistakes in purchasing can be reduced with experience, it is important to be especially careful in the beginning. In order to avoid repeating small mistakes, it is important to carefully check each item one by one.
Practical steps for purchasing used clothes to sell on Mercari and Rakuma
When it comes to reselling used clothing, it is just as important to "list items in a sellable condition" as it is to buy them. No matter how good the items you buy are, they won't sell if the photos are bad or the price is too high. In this section, we will explain the ability to buy items with the intention of selling them, the techniques for listing items that will sell, and specific methods for identifying best-selling items.
Points to consider when purchasing with the intention of selling
When purchasing used clothing, it is essential to determine whether the item is sellable or not, since the purpose is to sell it. Rather than judging only by appearance and brand, it is necessary to select items with consideration for condition, trends, and the needs of the buyer group.
Points to consider when purchasing
・Check brand popularity and search volume in advance
・Check the size range and condition (fading, stains, fraying)
-Selecting products that are in line with the season and trends
Can it be easily cleaned and maintained before being listed?
What is particularly important is to base your criteria on "what the buyer wants," not "what I want." By having an objective perspective rather than a subjective one, you can prevent mismatches and maximize profits.
Why photography, pricing, and listing copy can change sales
How you present your product is crucial to selling it. Even if the product itself has value, it won't sell if you don't have the skills to communicate that value. Especially on Mercari and Rakuma, where you compete only with photos and text, the quality of your listing page is directly related to the results.
Three ideas that influence sales
・Photography: Under bright natural light, clearly showing the whole picture, details, and damaged areas
Price: After researching the market price, set it a little cheaper to get a good initial response.
・Description: Briefly state the brand name, size, condition, purchase date, usage, etc.
The biggest way to increase purchase rates is to make the product appealing at a glance. In particular, for fashion items, adding "wearing images" and "styling suggestions" can help differentiate the product.
Tools and methods to use to identify best-selling products
In order to purchase products that will sell, it is necessary to know "what is selling." By utilizing tools and methods for market research, the accuracy of purchasing can be greatly improved.
Recommended research methods and tools
・Mercari "sold out items" search
- Check trends using keyword suggestions
· Check seasonal demand with Google Trends
・Observe examples of fashion on Instagram and TikTok
- Auction price comparison tools such as "Aucfan"
By utilizing these, you will be able to make purchasing decisions based on data rather than intuition. Beginners tend to get better results by relying on research rather than experience, so be sure to make use of them.
An efficient procurement route that even beginners can follow in the used clothing business
To continue buying secondhand clothes on your own, it is important to have a procurement route that you can continue without straining yourself. The shortcut to success is to create a system that allows you to buy small quantities of high-quality items without having to carry a large amount of inventory. In this section, we will introduce efficient procurement routes that beginners can start with while minimizing risk, and specific ways to use them.
Tips for reducing risk by purchasing in small quantities
For beginners, buying in bulk is risky and if the items remain unsold, it will lead directly to a loss. Therefore, the golden rule is to start with small quantities of items that you are sure to sell.
Tips for purchasing to reduce risk
・Limit purchases to 5-10 items at a time
・Select products with unit prices of around 500 to 1,500 yen
・Purchase items of the same genre and size in bulk to increase turnover
Choose items similar to products that have a proven track record of selling
The key to success is to start small and use the data from sales to improve your next purchase. Think of purchases as a source of profit and take your time when selecting products.
4 recommended second-hand clothing wholesale sites that can be used by individuals
In recent years, the number of secondhand clothing wholesale sites that can be used by individuals has increased, and we are now in a convenient era where anyone with an internet connection can purchase used clothing. Below, we will introduce reliable sites that are easy to use even for beginners.
Recommended used clothing wholesale sites
・[Mode off online]
An online version of a famous reuse chain. Ideal for domestic purchases.
・【SILVER BULLET】
The lineup is centered on street style, and is strong in keeping with trends.
・【BULK VINTAGE WHOLESALE】
Most of the items are vintage items imported directly from the US. Small lot orders are accepted.
・【RAGTAG ONLINE】
There is a wide selection of high-end second-hand clothing, all in good condition.
・【Used Clothing Wholesale.com】
Many items are sold in bulk, making it easy to choose by genre.
Many of these services can be used simply by registering as a member, making them user-friendly even for individuals with little purchasing experience. It's a good idea to start by ordering a small amount to check the quality and customer service.
How to find bargains at events and in stores
By taking advantage of real stores and events, you can buy while looking at the actual product, and you have the chance to find an unexpected bargain. Flea markets and closing-out sales are especially good places to visit.
Tips for finding bargains
・If you visit early in the morning, you'll find great products.
- Buying in bulk makes it easier to negotiate discounts
・Pay attention to "high-quality items from unknown brands"
・Collect information about vintage clothing events and markets in advance on social media
Purchasing at stores and events is not only a way to hone your product knowledge and sense, but also allows you to enjoy the excitement of purchasing. By visiting stores regularly, you may be able to receive preferential treatment for repeat customers.
OLD FLIP allows individuals to purchase used clothing
At OLD FLIP, even individuals can purchase large quantities of used clothing. Bales containing hundreds to thousands of compressed used clothing are available in a variety of brands, types, and sizes, and are overwhelmingly cheaper than purchasing them individually. Picking up and purchasing at the warehouse allows you to select products that suit your sales style, maximizing profits and improving customer satisfaction.
Picks can be purchased from 200 yen per item, and we handle a wide range of items, from sports brands such as Adidas and NIKE to department store brands such as Onward, World, and Sanyo Shokai. Sorted and unsorted inventory can be traded by weight (starting from 80 yen per kg). Anyone can use the facility by reservation, making it the perfect place to start a second-hand clothing business.
summary
Purchasing used clothing is a side job or home business that anyone can easily try, and its big appeal is that it is easy to start with low initial costs. If you acquire the correct knowledge, such as domestic and international purchasing routes, sales know-how, and how to use tools, even beginners can realistically aim for a profit of 30,000 yen per month.
In this article, we will cover the benefits of a side job, basic knowledge to avoid failure, and practical steps and how to use suppliers, with a focus on the keyword "secondhand clothing purchasing for individuals." By starting small and gaining experience, you can establish a purchasing style that suits you, and then you can make a continuous profit.
Everyone is a beginner at first. If you don't fear risks and take action, you will be able to experience the joy and rewards of fashion business.