How to Sell on The RealReal: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Sell on The RealReal: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Looking to sell your luxury fashion items but don’t want the hassle of traditional online marketplaces? The RealReal offers a convenient and reliable consignment service, taking care of everything from authentication to shipping. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of selling on The RealReal, providing insights and addressing common questions to help you maximize your earnings.

Table of Contents

Part 1: Getting Started with The RealReal

1. Determine if The RealReal is Right for You:

Before diving in, ensure your items align with The RealReal’s acceptance criteria:

  • Brand Acceptance: The RealReal specializes in luxury and contemporary brands. Check their “Designer Directory” on the website for a comprehensive list.
  • Categories: They accept a wide array of categories, including women’s and men’s clothing, kids’ items, fine jewelry, watches, art, home goods, and collectibles.
  • Condition: Items should be in good to excellent condition. While some signs of wear are acceptable, significant damage can impact acceptance.

2. Understanding the Consignment Process:

The RealReal’s streamlined process takes the burden off your shoulders:

  • They handle it all: Authentication, photography, listing, shipping, customer service – The RealReal takes care of it all.
  • Choose your payout: Select your preferred payout method: direct deposit, check, or site credit. Opting for site credit often comes with a bonus, boosting your earnings.
  • Commission structure: The commission structure is tiered, with higher commission rates for higher total consignment values. We’ll delve into the details later.

Part 2: Consigning Your Items

3. Choosing a Consignment Method:

The RealReal offers multiple convenient consignment options:

  • Free At-Home Appointment: A Luxury Manager visits your home to evaluate and collect your items, providing a personalized and hassle-free experience.
  • Free UPS Pickup: Pack your items according to the provided instructions, schedule a free UPS pickup, and they’ll handle the rest.
  • Drop-Off at a Store: If you prefer a more hands-on approach, locate a nearby RealReal store and drop off your items directly.

4. Preparing Your Items for Consignment:

Presentation is key to attract buyers and ensure smooth authentication:

  • Clean and Presentable: Clean your items thoroughly and ensure they are free of any visible damage.
  • Include Original Packaging: Dust bags, boxes, authenticity cards, and tags not only increase value but also strengthen the authenticity verification process.

5. Packing and Shipping:

The RealReal provides clear guidance for safe and efficient shipping:

  • Free Shipping Labels: Print the provided free shipping labels and securely attach them to your package.
  • Detailed Packing Instructions: Follow the packing instructions meticulously to safeguard your items during transit.
  • Flexible Drop-Off: You can drop off your package at a UPS location or opt for a scheduled pick-up.

Part 3: The RealReal’s Process and Your Account

6. Item Processing and Listing:

Once your items reach The RealReal, they undergo a meticulous process:

  • Authentication: Highly trained experts verify the authenticity of your items, guaranteeing buyer confidence.
  • Photography: Professional photographers capture high-quality images to showcase your items in their best light.
  • Pricing: The RealReal’s specialists determine a competitive selling price based on brand, condition, current market demand, and historical data.
  • Listing: Your authenticated and professionally photographed items are listed on The RealReal’s website and mobile app, reaching a vast audience of luxury shoppers.
  • Timeline: Be patient! The entire process, from receiving your items to listing them, typically takes 2-3 weeks.

7. Managing Your Account:

Stay informed and in control with your The RealReal account:

  • Track Your Items: Monitor the status of your consigned items, from processing to listing, through your online account dashboard.
  • View Listings: See the photos, descriptions, and pricing of each listed item, ensuring accurate representation.
  • Contact Your Concierge: Reach out to your dedicated sales concierge with any questions or concerns. However, be aware that responsiveness may decrease after the initial stages of the consignment process.

Part 4: Maximizing Your Earnings on The RealReal

8. Understanding the Commission Structure:

The RealReal’s tiered commission structure rewards you for consigning more valuable items:

  • High-Value Items (Over $200): Commission rates range from 55% to 70% for items priced above $200, offering substantial returns for luxury goods.
  • Lower-Priced Items (Under $100): For items priced under $100, the commission rate is typically 40%.
  • Site Credit Bonus: Opting for site credit, especially if you are a frequent buyer on The RealReal, often comes with a 10% bonus, effectively increasing your earnings.

9. Strategies for Reaching the 70% Commission Tier:

Aspiring to the highest commission rate? Here are some tips:

  • Consign Regularly: Send items frequently to build your consignment value and reach the sales threshold for higher commission tiers faster.
  • Include Lower-Profit Items: Even items with smaller profit margins contribute towards your total consignment value, helping you ascend the commission ladder.

10. Deciding When to Pay Upfront for Items:

The RealReal allows you to pay for certain items upfront. Carefully consider your options:

  • Factor in the 20% Off Coupon: The RealReal frequently runs site-wide discounts. Factor this into your calculations to assess the potential profitability of paying upfront.
  • Compare Prices: Thoroughly research sold prices on The RealReal and other platforms (like Poshmark or eBay) to determine fair market value and potential profit margins.
  • Calculate Potential Discounts: Be realistic! Account for potential price reductions over time and the commission rate before committing to paying upfront for an item.

11. What Sells Best on The RealReal:

Strategically select items for consignment based on market demand:

  • Focus on Popular Categories: Handbags, fine jewelry, streetwear, men’s sneakers, and luggage tend to be popular and sell quickly on The RealReal.
  • Check Trend Reports: The RealReal often publishes insights into current demand for different brands and categories. Leverage this information to make informed consignment decisions.

Part 5: FAQ

Q1: How long does it take to sell on The RealReal?

The sales timeframe varies depending on the brand, demand, pricing, and item category. Some items sell quickly, sometimes within days, while others might take longer.

Q2: What happens if my item doesn’t sell?

You can choose to have the item returned to you (for a fee) or donate it to charity through The RealReal’s partnership with organizations like Goodwill.

Q3: Can I adjust the price of my item after it’s listed?

You can request a price adjustment through your concierge, but The RealReal reserves the right to approve or deny the request based on market conditions.

Q4: How do I choose between Poshmark and The RealReal?

Poshmark: More suitable for newer, trendier items. You control pricing and shipping, earning a higher percentage of the sale. However, you handle all aspects of the selling process.

The RealReal: Best suited for vintage, luxury items. They handle everything, from authentication to shipping, but take a commission. Their large customer base and expertise in luxury goods can result in quicker sales for specific categories.

Q5: What are the benefits of the first-time seller bonus?

The first-time seller bonus is a generous site credit, making your initial consignment experience particularly profitable. It’s a great way to maximize your earnings right from the start.

Conclusion

Selling on The RealReal provides a convenient, reliable, and profitable solution for offloading your unwanted luxury fashion items. By understanding their consignment process, commission structure, pricing strategies, and tips for maximizing earnings, you can turn your pre-loved treasures into cash while enjoying the seamless experience that The RealReal offers.