Brett Helling
September 18, 2024

Sell Faster & Smarter with These 9+ Apps Like OfferUp

Looking for apps like OfferUp? Check out these 9+ OfferUp alternatives that will make selling and shopping a breeze. Flipping has never been easier!

Are you looking for legit apps like OfferUp? Your search ends here! OfferUp has been a fantastic service connecting local buyers and sellers for years. From clothing to furniture, electronics to collectibles, this app has everything you need.

But if you want variety or if OfferUp hasn’t met your expectations, you’ve got options. You can sell stuff to potential buyers and find amazing deals on online marketplaces like OfferUp.

Some of these apps charge a lower commission. Others are available outside the United States, meaning you can keep doing business even on the go. We’ve compiled a list of 9+ OfferUp alternatives where you can buy and sell items faster.

Key Takeaways

  • OfferUp is a user-friendly marketplace for buying and selling various items locally.
  • Its strengths include ease of use, in-app chats, and safe meetup locations.
  • OfferUp's drawbacks are high commission fees and difficulty getting noticed among listings.
  • Top OfferUp alternatives include LetGo, Mercari, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay.

An Overview of OfferUp

OfferUp is a mobile-based online marketplace for buying and selling items in the United States. Since 2011, the selling platform has become a leading player in peer-to-peer commerce. Some of the top-selling items on OfferUp include electronics, furniture, clothes, kitchen equipment, and collectibles.

Where Does OfferUp Excel?

One of the biggest attractions of OfferUp is its ease of use. To buy or sell stuff online, navigate to your Apple or Google Play Store and search for the OfferUp app. Once you’ve downloaded it and signed up, you can post ads or find items to shop online.

The service also prioritizes security. If you find a deal that catches your eye, the app has an in-built chat feature to negotiate terms. After, OfferUp provides a couple of safe locations for meetups.  

Where Does OfferUp Fall Short?

While OfferUp remains one of the best selling apps, there are a few drawbacks. There are no listing fees to post your ads, but getting noticed is the challenge. With so many sellers like you uploading their items daily, it’s easy for yours to be overlooked.

OfferUp also charges sellers a high commission fee. At 12.9% of the item’s final price (excluding shipping), it is among the highest.

The Best OfferUp Alternatives (Overview)

  1. LetGo – Best Overall
  2. Facebook Marketplace – Broad Customer Base
  3. Mercari – Multiple Delivery Options
  4. eBay – Variety of Selling Options
  5. Poshmark – Best for Buying and Selling Clothing
  6. Craigslist – A Pioneer Free Online Marketplace
  7. Etsy – Best for Selling Handmade and Craft Items
  8. Listia – Best Auction Site
  9. StockX – Best for Reselling Sneakers

Editor’s Choice: Our Top Picks Overall

If you don’t have time to read the entire article to find the best apps for selling things online like OfferUp, check out our top choices below.

What Is the Best Alternative to OfferUp?

Our top choice for the best app like OfferUp is LetGo. The reason for this is that OfferUp and LetGo are essentially the same. The two customer-to-customer platforms merged in 2020. As a result, they offer the same benefits and drawbacks, and users of LetGo can now take advantage of OfferUp’s TruYou program.

Who Is OfferUp’s Biggest Competitor?

OfferUp’s biggest competitor is Mercari. The Japanese-founded online marketplace offers free listings and charges a lower commission fee. Plus, the service provides international shipping and protects your products with its Mercari Now service.

The Best OfferUp Alternatives in 2023

The best apps like OfferUp will depend on each individual’s preference. For instance, you can choose a resale site that deals with in-person sales if you need quick cash. Other apps are better for selling online or specific types of items.  

The idea is to know what you’re looking for before choosing a selling app from the list below.

1. LetGo

Good: LetGo allows users to buy and sell online quickly.

Bad: Meeting up with strangers to complete sales can be dicey.

When to Choose LetGo: This platform is perfect if you’re looking for an online marketplace with many similarities to OfferUp.

LetGo is a selling app that connects local buyers and sellers. As with apps like OfferUp, sellers can post ads for items they want to sell, and buyers can contact them.

LetGo is similar to OfferUp in that after buyers and sellers agree on a fee, the remaining part of the transaction happens offline. In 2020, OfferUp merged with LetGo and launched a new OfferUp & LetGo app.

Why Is LetGo A Great Option?

LetGo is an easy-to-use platform for buying and selling items locally. Since its merger with OfferUp, LetGo users can now access TruYou and Community Meetup Spots — the nationwide shipping, industry-leading safety programs previously available to only OfferUp users. And as with OfferUp, sellers can list products for free.

Drawbacks of LetGo

Since OfferUp and LetGo have combined, they share similarities in their disadvantages. Like OfferUp, LetGo transactions are completed offline. That means buyers and sellers must meet.

While LetGo users can now participate in OfferUp’s meetup program, it’s still tricky. Meeting a stranger offline has risks; therefore, users must be cautious.

2. Facebook Marketplace

Good: You can access a larger pool of potential buyers and sellers.

Bad: The service does not provide payment or shipping services, leading to additional costs.  

When to choose the Facebook Marketplace: Consider Facebook Marketplace if you want to buy and sell products internationally.

Facebook Marketplace is a feature provided by Facebook where users can discover, buy, and sell items online. It ranks on our list of the best apps like OfferUp because of its reach and ease of use. The social media network has over three billion active users, meaning you can access more buyers and sellers.

To start buying and selling on the Facebook Marketplace, you must have a Facebook account. Then, access the feature on your account, list the item you want to sell, take quality photos, and add a price. If you’re a buyer, browse through the listings till you see the product you want.

Why Is the Facebook Marketplace a Great Option?

The Facebook Marketplace is an excellent option for buying and selling stuff online because of its reach. With over three billion active monthly users, this platform increases the number of potential buyers and products you can choose from. It is completely free to post listings, and you can verify a buyer or seller via their Facebook account before engaging.  

Drawbacks of the Facebook Marketplace

Even though FB Marketplace requires potential users to have a Facebook profile to prevent scams, that hasn’t stopped scams on the platform. Many users have fallen victim to scams despite the profile of the fraudster looking legitimate.

And unlike OfferUp, the Facebook Marketplace doesn’t have designated areas for safety meetups.

3. Mercari

Good: You can choose from a variety of delivery options that suit your needs.

Bad: No shipping protection for big-ticket items over $200.

When to choose Mercari: It makes sense for buyers or sellers who want flexible delivery.

Mercari is another app like OfferUp where you can make more money on the side. It allows people to buy and sell locally. The service started in Japan and entered the United States in 2014. It has since become one of the most popular marketplaces in the nation.

Why Is Mercari a Great Option?

Similarly to other apps like OfferUp, Mercari has a short learning curve that even a beginner can quickly understand.

One helpful feature Mercari provides that many OfferUp alternatives lack is multiple delivery options. This selling platform lets sellers choose between local meetups and shipping options like FedEx and U. S. Postal Service (UPS). Mercari also offers a lower commission fee of 10%.

Drawbacks of Mercari

With an A rating by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Mercari is legit. But because of its poor customer service, it has a 3.1 rating on Trustpilot.

While Mercari provides shipping protection with Mercari Now, that protection is unavailable for items over $200. That means you won’t be covered if you buy or sell higher-value items on the platform.  

4. eBay

Good: eBay has a vast and diverse customer base, increasing the visibility of your listings.

Bad: The platform is highly competitive, making it harder for sellers to stand out.

When to choose eBay: Use eBay to access multiple purchase/selling options.

eBay is one of the oldest and most well-known marketplaces, founded in 1995. It boasts over 187 million users, is available in 190 markets, and offers more than 1.4 billion products through its listings. Users can buy and sell different categories of products, including electronics, fashion, collectibles, and antiques.

Why Is eBay a Great Option?

Selling things on eBay is easy. All you need to do is create an account, register as a seller, provide the necessary information, and you are good to go! Unlike other apps like OfferUp, eBay has three selling options: auction-style, fixed-price, and best-offer listings. As a result, sellers can choose the best selling method for them.

eBay also provides a seamless shopping experience for buyers by offering various payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and other digital payment solutions.  

Drawbacks of eBay

If you sell items on this platform, be prepared to pay various fees, like listing fees, final value fees, and fees for PayPal transactions. The final value fee is a portion of the final sale amount, including shipping costs. eBay also has strict policies that can result in higher seller fees (typically 4-5%) or a hold on your account.

5. Poshmark

Good: Buyers pay a flat fee, and shipping is fast.

Bad: Poshmark charges a 20% commission fee for sales over $15 and $2.99 for sales under.

When to choose Poshmark: For buying and selling fashion items at great prices

Poshmark is a free online shopping site like OfferUp with a fashion focus. Users can buy and sell clothing, accessories, and even designer brands from their mobile devices.l

Sellers need to take quality photos of the items they want to sell, describe the product in detail, and set their prices. But unlike OfferUp, there are no in-person meetups.

Why Is Poshmark a Great Option?

Shipping items on Poshmark is super fast. Once the buyer pays, Poshmark emails you a label to print off. Next, you can use a poly mailer or any box and arrange a pick-up at your doorstep with UPS. Print the prepaid label, put it on your package, and you’re ready.

Poshmark has a supportive community that welcomes new sellers and helps them to feel at home. They are happy to answer any questions about using the service.    

Drawbacks of Using Poshmark

As with other OfferUp alternatives, getting your listings noticed is a challenge. You need to constantly share your items for them to appear on your followers’ feeds. That is a lot of work. Posmark’s high seller fee of 20% is also discouraging.  

6. Craigslist

Good: Craigslist is one of the most popular online platforms for local sales.

Bad: Scams and illegal activities have been reported on the platform frequently.

When to choose Craigslist: Users who want an easy-to-use platform to sell locally should choose Craigslist.

Craigslist has come a long way since it was a San Francisco community electronic newsletter. It is a pioneer of online classifieds and a worthy mention on our list of apps like OfferUp.

While it functions as an online classifieds forum, it supports community discussions, job postings, service advertisements, and more. Site visitors can post ads, apply for gigs, or take advantage of deals that interest them.

Why Is Craigslist a Great Option?

Because of how long it has been around, selling on Craigslist means millions of potential buyers. Posting an ad on this platform costs little to nothing, making it perfect for small businesses. The Craigslist platform is also user-friendly.

Drawbacks of Using Craigslist

This platform has had a lot of bad press over the years due to scams and illegal activities. That means you must be vigilant when buying or selling on Craigslist. Getting traction for your listings can take time, too, since new posts quickly bury old ones.

Also, their customer service could be better. There is no one to turn to if you encounter any problems.

7. Etsy

Good: Etsy is easy to set up and manage and has a strong community of sellers.

Bad: Several fee increases and policies have made sellers uneasy recently.

When to choose Etsy: When you want to buy or sell handmade and vintage items.

Etsy is one of the best apps like OfferUp for people who want to buy or sell handmade items or craft supplies. Since its launch in 2005, this free online marketplace has amassed over 90 million users. It is a reliable platform for creators and artisans to showcase and profit from their unique creations.

Why Is Etsy a Great Option

One of the best things about using Etsy as a buyer or seller is its simplicity. Setting up your store is straightforward, and you don’t need to be tech-savvy. Sellers can access various tools and resources, such as affordable promoted listings and star seller status, to manage their shops effectively.

Etsy also has a vibrant and welcoming community where sellers can tap into a wealth of knowledge and support.

Drawbacks of Etsy

Recently, Etsy has increased transaction fees from 5% to 6.5%, among other charges. This led sellers on the platform to strike in April of 2022, as this increase amounted to 20% of their revenue. Considering the competition and how tough it is to get buyers, it isn’t surprising.

Speaking of competition, Etsy is the 12th largest online marketplace. That means getting found can be a challenge. One effective tactic to boost visibility is keeping your shop fresh by adding new pieces frequently.

8. Listia

Good: Users can get what they want for almost next to nothing.

Bad: Getting enough points to buy your desired items may take a while.

When to choose Listia: Sell or buy things online with little or no money.

What if there was a platform to exchange stuff you no longer need for new items? Well, wonder no more because there is, and its name is Listia.

It is a mobile marketplace where people can auction things they no longer need for points. Then, they can use those earned points to buy stuff they need or redeem gift cards from the reward store. The idea of Listia is giving: the more you give, the more you get.

Why is Listia a Great Option?

Like OfferUp, Listia lets you list the items you want to sell. But there are no seller fees, and it is easy to use. Thanks to its vast inventory, you can find gems on this platform. For instance, you can find free items you usually have to pay a lot for.

Drawbacks of Using Listia

The inventory is a blessing and a curse. Since there are many free items on this platform, it can take a while to find something you like. There is also the issue of getting points to buy what you want. You may have to discard many unwanted items to gain enough points to get what you want.

9. StockX

Good: This platform has a rigorous vetting process to ensure sneakers are intact.

Bad: It encourages an unregulated market, which means customers determine the value of sneakers.

When to choose StockX: For people who want to buy and sell sneakers.

If you love sneakers, StockX is one selling app you need to check out. This platform is the hub of sneakerheads and collectors — although it now features other products like streetwear, handbags, and watches.  

Selling on StockX is simple. Once you sign up and post ads about the items you are selling, you wait for interest. If a buyer likes your shoe, they can make an offer. After you accept that offer, you will ship the shoe to StockX for inspection. If your product passes, they are delivered to the customer.  

Why Is StockX a Great Option?

Perhaps an underrated benefit is that with StockX, sellers don’t have to take photos or write a description to sell sneakers. All this info is available on the platform, including shoe models, retail prices, colorways, and release dates. If you have a lot of stock, this is incredibly helpful.

StockX has a thorough authentication process, which is a good thing for buyers and sellers. Sellers know they are getting the real deal, and buyers can protect their reputation — everyone’s happy.

Drawbacks of Using StockX

The downside of StockX, especially for sellers, is that the platform encourages a free market. That means customers determine the value of sneakers. Buyers can place bids lower than the market value of the sneakers. As a result, it could lower the value of the shoe on the site.

Notable Mentions: Even More Options to Check Out

VarageSale

VarageSale is another app like OfferUp that narrowly misses out on our list. This platform is essentially an online garage sale for buying and selling locally. As per the developers, it is the only company that verifies every user. This is a great way to reduce scams.

But where VarageSale falls short is its reach. Users can only buy and sell within their immediate neighborhood, potentially limiting your sales. Getting approved to transact on this app can also be a lengthy process.  

Swappa

Swappa is a mobile-based marketplace to buy and sell old and new tech items. Unlike other apps like OfferUp, there are no seller fees. You keep all the proceeds of your sale, which is fantastic. Sellers can also receive instant payouts via PayPal.

The disappointment with Swappa is the time it takes for your listings to be approved. Swappa staff meticulously check each listing, and approval may take up to six hours.

Decluttr

Decluttr is a popular app for selling used audio and video, like Blu-ray, CDs, and DVDs. It is easy to use, and there are no shipping fees. Also, the platform pays quickly, which is awesome! Once your item passes quality assurance, you get paid the next day.

The problem with this OfferUp alternative is that if your DVD, Blu-ray, or book isn’t accepted, they won’t return them. That means you lose your property and won’t get paid. That’s a significant drawback. The company will send back defective tech items, though.

Wrapping Up

The best OfferUp alternative is LetGo, with Facebook Marketplace and Mercari as first and second runner-ups, respectively.

Even before their merger, LetGo operated like OfferUp. But since they became one app in 2020, LetGo users can access all of OfferUp’s benefits, making this a tie between both platforms.

If you’re looking for an app like OfferUp, LetGo is perfect for you!

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