How to Sell Shoes on eBay

You've just cleaned out your closet and found three pairs of barely-worn Nikes. Maybe they're not your style anymore, or perhaps you just need to make some room for new kicks. Whatever your reason, selling shoes on eBay can be a lucrative venture, especially if you know how to navigate the platform's specifics.

Understanding eBay's Audience and Fees

eBay's a massive global marketplace with over 135 million active buyers, largely between the ages of 35-65. This audience includes bargain hunters and collectors, making eBay a prime spot for selling everything from everyday sneakers to vintage gems.

eBay charges a 13.25% final value fee on most sales, which includes a flat $0.30 per order. If you sell a pair of shoes for $80, you'll pay approximately $10.90 in fees (13.25% + $0.30), leaving you with $69.10. Store subscribers can get lower rates starting at $4.95/month. Additionally, eBay Managed Payments now streamlines the payment process, eliminating the need for PayPal.

Shipping Strategies

eBay gives you the flexibility to choose how you handle shipping. Offering free shipping can boost your search rank, but calculated or flat-rate shipping are also popular options. For international orders, eBay's Global Shipping Program simplifies the process by taking care of customs and international shipping fees.

Sourcing Shoes to Sell

Finding the right shoes to sell on eBay involves a bit of treasure hunting. Thrift stores are great for spotting Nike, Adidas, and New Balance shoes, particularly men's sizes 9-12, which are in high demand. Outlet malls like Nike Factory or Nordstrom Rack often offer clearance prices 60-70% off retail. Estate and garage sales can uncover vintage cowboy boots or retro Nikes for as little as $5-10. The Nike/Adidas SNKRS app is another hotspot for limited releases that can resell for 2-5 times their retail price.

Setting the Right Price

Pricing your shoes correctly can make or break your sale. Common shoes typically sell for $15-$40, while name brand athletic shoes like Nike Air Max can fetch $40-$80. Vintage or rare sneakers can command $80-$300+, and designer shoes can range from $150-$600+. Always factor in the condition grading of your shoes: Deadstock (DS) is unworn with the box, VNDS is worn 1-2 times, and Good condition shows light sole wear. Include clear photos of the outsole and insole to accurately convey wear.

Photography Tips for eBay Listings

High-quality photos are crucial. Start with the "hero pair" shot — both shoes angled at 45° on a clean white surface. Capture all angles: lateral side, medial side, outsole, insole, heel, and toe box close-up. Stuff shoes with tissue paper to maintain their shape and include shots of the box or any extras like laces or tags in your listing. These elements can add significant value.

Creating an Effective eBay Listing

When you're ready to list your shoes, head to eBay's listing interface. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Title: Include brand, model, size, and condition (e.g., "Nike Air Max 90, Men’s Size 10, Good Condition").
• Category: Choose "Men's Shoes" or "Women's Shoes" under "Clothing, Shoes & Accessories."
• Photos: Upload your carefully shot photos, ensuring they're clear and cover all angles.
• Item Specifics: Fill in eBay's item specifics like size, color, style, and material — this boosts your searchability.
• Description: Use ListingGenie's eBay listing generator (/ebay-listing) to craft a compelling, detailed description.
• Price: Decide between Auction or Buy It Now. Auctions work well for rare items, while BIN is best for common items.
• Shipping: Choose between free, calculated, or flat rate shipping. For domestic shipping, using USPS Priority Medium Flat Rate ($16.10) is a reliable choice.
• Returns: Consider offering free returns to earn the Top Rated Plus badge and save 10% on final value fees.

Final Thoughts

Selling shoes on eBay is all about understanding the platform's nuances and your target audience. By sourcing wisely, pricing accurately, and crafting detailed listings, you can maximize your profits and ensure a smooth selling experience.

FAQs About Selling Shoes on eBay

• How do I determine the best shipping option for shoes on eBay?
  Consider offering free shipping if you want to boost search rankings, but balance this with potential costs. USPS Priority Medium Flat Rate is a safe bet for most shoe boxes.
• What is the best way to photograph shoes for eBay listings?
  Use a clean, white surface and shoot from multiple angles. Stuff shoes with tissue to maintain their shape and include any original packaging in the photos.
• How can I increase the visibility of my shoe listings on eBay?
  Fill out item specifics completely, offer free shipping, and consider promoting your listings with eBay's advertising options.
• What is the ideal price range for selling used shoes on eBay?
  It varies by brand and condition, but common shoes sell for $15-$40, while branded athletic shoes can go for $40-$80.
• How does eBay's auction format benefit selling rare shoes?
  Auctions create a competitive atmosphere that can drive up the price of rare or highly sought-after shoes.