eBay vs Poshmark: Which Is Better for Sellers?

eBay vs. Poshmark: A Reseller's Perspective

As an experienced online reseller, I've navigated the ins and outs of both eBay and Poshmark. Each platform has its own strengths, quirks, and ideal use cases. In this guide, I'll break down the key differences, so you can decide which platform fits your selling strategy.

Understanding the Fee Structures

One of the most immediate considerations for any reseller is the fee structure. Let's look at how eBay and Poshmark compare:

Criteria	eBay	Poshmark
Seller Fees	13.25% + $0.30 per order	20% flat commission
Buyer Fees	None	None
Shipping	Varies; seller chooses method	Flat $7.67 for up to 5lbs
Audience Size	135M+ active buyers	80M+ users
Best Item Categories	Electronics, collectibles, vintage	Women's fashion, designer brands
Payment Speed	A few days after delivery	Within 3 days of delivery
Seller Protection	eBay Money Back Guarantee	Posh Protect
International Availability	Global Shipping Program	No international shipping

Concrete Fee Comparisons

To really understand the impact of fees, let's compare earnings:

• eBay: On a $50 sale, you pay $6.92 in fees (13.25% + $0.30), taking home $43.08.
• Poshmark: On a $50 sale, you pay $10 (20% flat), taking home $40.

Clearly, if you're selling lower-margin items, eBay's slightly lower fees can make a difference.

Shipping Differences

Shipping is another critical factor. On eBay, you have the flexibility to choose between free, calculated, or flat-rate shipping, with discounted labels available. Poshmark simplifies things with a flat $7.67 fee up to 5lbs, which is great for heavier items but less so for lightweight ones.

Audience and Best Item Categories

eBay's broader audience skews older and is perfect for niche items, collectibles, and electronics. Poshmark, on the other hand, appeals to a younger, fashion-conscious crowd, making it ideal for selling women's fashion and name-brand items.

Payment Speed and Protection

Both platforms offer decent protection. eBay's Money Back Guarantee and Poshmark's Posh Protect ensure transactions are secure. Payment speeds are similar, with both platforms releasing funds a few days after delivery confirmation.

Verdict: When to Use Each Platform

• Use eBay if you're selling: Electronics, vintage or rare items, where the auction format can drive prices up.
• Use Poshmark if you're selling: Women's clothing, designer handbags, and where building a brand following is crucial.

Leverage ListingGenie

Both platforms benefit from optimized listings. ListingGenie can help craft compelling, keyword-rich descriptions that maximize visibility.

FAQs

• Which platform is better for selling high-end fashion? Poshmark, due to its fashion-focused audience and strong presence in the designer market.
• Is eBay or Poshmark better for selling rare collectibles? eBay, because of its global reach and auction format, attracting collectors worldwide.
• Can I sell internationally on Poshmark? No, Poshmark is limited to the US and Canada, whereas eBay offers international shipping.
• How does the social aspect of Poshmark benefit sellers? Engaging with the community can build a loyal following, leading to repeat buyers.