Depop Shipping: A Guide to Prices, Options, and Best Practices

Depop Shipping: A Guide to Prices, Options, and Best Practices

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Confused about Depop shipping? You’re not alone. Figuring out the cheapest, most efficient way to ship your items can feel like navigating a maze, especially with Depop’s own shipping system and external options like Pirate Ship. But fear not! This guide will be your compass, leading you through every step to become a Depop shipping pro.

Table of Contents:

Choosing Your Shipping Setup on Depop

When you list an item on Depop, you’ll encounter two shipping options:

  • Ship with Depop: Depop generates a prepaid shipping label, and the fee is displayed directly on your listing. It seems simple, right? But…
  • My Own Shipping: You arrange shipping independently, choosing your preferred carrier and setting your own price.

While “Ship with Depop” might be tempting for your first few sales, especially for getting familiar with the process, “My Own Shipping” is the secret weapon for savvy sellers. Why? Let’s dive in.

The “My Own Shipping” Advantage

1. Save Your Precious Coins (aka: Make More Money!)

Depop’s generated labels can be pricier than what you’d pay independently. Let’s say you’re selling a small Brandy Melville shirt. Depop might charge you $4.50 for a “small” package. But, using Pirate Ship, you could snag a label for $3 or less—a $1.50 difference that goes straight into your pocket!

Imagine the impact on your profit margins over time! By sourcing your own labels, you keep more of your hard-earned cash.

2. Take the Reins: Control and Flexibility

“My Own Shipping” allows you to be the boss. You choose the carrier, service, and even the packaging that best suits your item and your budget. Need faster delivery? Want better tracking? Have a bulky item that won’t fit Depop’s categories? No problem—you’ve got options!

Essential Equipment for Shipping on Depop

Ready to unlock the “My Own Shipping” magic? Here’s what you need:

Must-Haves:

  • Weighing Scale: The foundation of accurate shipping costs. Grab a kitchen or shipping scale to avoid overpaying.
  • Measuring Tape: Determine your package dimensions for selecting appropriate packaging and getting the best shipping rates.
  • Poly Mailers: Durable, lightweight, and affordable, these plastic bags are perfect for shipping clothing. Explore eco-friendly, compostable options too!
  • USPS Priority Mail Padded Flat Rate Envelopes: Our top recommendation! Stretchy, durable, and often the cheapest option for small to medium-sized items under 1 pound. And guess what? They’re FREE on the USPS website!

Optional:

  • Shipping Label Sheets: Print labels directly onto sticky sheets for extra convenience.

Sourcing Free USPS Packaging

Free is always a good thing, especially when it comes to shipping supplies.

Here’s where to get those Priority Mail Padded Flat Rate Envelopes and other goodies:

  • USPS Website (usps.com): Order them online and have them delivered straight to your door.
  • Local Post Office: Visit the self-service shipping supplies kiosk and grab what you need.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping a Depop Order Using Pirate Ship

Pirate Ship is your secret weapon for finding the cheapest shipping rates. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare for Sale:

  • Weigh It: Place your item inside its final packaging (poly mailer or envelope) and weigh it on your scale.
  • Measure It: Measure the packaged item in its closed state to get accurate dimensions.

2. After the Sale:

  • Copy Buyer’s Address: Grab it from your Depop receipt.
  • Pirate Ship Ahoy!: Go to pirateship.com, create a free account (if you haven’t already), and fund it with your payment method.

3. Creating and Printing the Label:

  • New Label: Click “Create a Single Label.”
  • Paste Address: Paste your buyer’s address.
  • Package Details: Enter the weight (rounding up ounces to the nearest whole number), dimensions, and packaging type.
  • Get Rates: Click “Get Rates” and compare the options from different carriers.
  • Choose the Best: Select the cheapest shipping option that meets your needs.
  • Buy and Print: Purchase the label, select the right paper size (8.5×11 for standard printers or 4×6 for thermal printers), and print it.
  • Secure It: Fold the label in half and tape it securely to your package.

4. Finalize on Depop:

  • Tracking Number: Copy it from Pirate Ship.
  • Mark as Shipped: Go back to your Depop receipt and mark the order as shipped, entering the tracking number and carrier (USPS).

5. Drop It Off:

  • Head to the Post Office: Hand it to a worker, use the designated drop box, or leave it on the counter with other pre-labeled packages.

Level Up Your Shipping with a Rollo Printer

Tired of fiddling with paper, ink cartridges, and manual label cutting? Enter the Rollo Wireless Printer—the ultimate Depop shipping companion.

Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

  • Ink-Free: Print thousands of labels without needing ink cartridges—saving you money and time.
  • Automatic Label Detection: The printer automatically detects and crops your labels, eliminating errors and streamlining the process.
  • Versatile Compatibility: Works seamlessly with your Mac, PC, iPhone, or Android device, connecting via WiFi or Bluetooth.
  • Speed Demon: Prints one label per second, keeping your shipping moving fast.
  • Portable Powerhouse: Small and lightweight, you can take it with you wherever you go.

Extra Tips for Winning at Depop Shipping

  • Delight Your Buyers: Include a handwritten thank-you note and a small freebie (a sticker, candy, etc.) in each package. It’s a simple way to create a positive experience and encourage repeat business.
  • Protect Yourself: Print the packing slip from your Depop email for your records and update the tracking information on Depop to activate seller protection.

FAQ

  • Does Depop pay for shipping? No, Depop doesn’t cover shipping costs directly. Sellers either incorporate the cost into the item’s price (“free shipping”) or add it as a separate charge during checkout. Factor in shipping costs when setting your prices to ensure you’re making a profit.
  • Can I use Depop for international shipping? Yes, Depop supports international shipping, but be prepared for higher costs and longer delivery times. Research carriers carefully and communicate clearly with international buyers about shipping costs and potential customs fees.
  • How long does Depop shipping take? Shipping times vary depending on the method and destination. Domestic shipments often arrive within a few days, while international shipments can take several weeks. Use a shipping calculator to estimate delivery times.
  • How can I change the shipping address on Depop? You can update the address before generating the shipping label. Find the sold item in your Depop account and edit the shipping details.
  • Can I use a different shipping carrier besides USPS and UPS? Absolutely! While Depop integrates directly with USPS and UPS, you can use other carriers with the “My Own Shipping” option.