Brett Helling
September 17, 2024

What to Sell on Mercari: Popular Items That Sell Well

Are you a newbie wondering what to sell on Mercari? We've highlighted the four bestsellers on the platform. Learn more here.

Mercari, a Japanese-based ecommerce platform, records over two billion listings from the United States alone.

Like making your first sales on Amazon, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace, finding the best-selling products on Mercari is a vital step you can’t afford to miss, especially considering the number of listings on the platform.

While finding what to sell on Mercari can be a hassle, we’ve done all the research and have reviewed some fast-selling money-makers on the platform.

Key Takeaways

  • Electronics, home decor, clothes, and video games are top sellers on Mercari.
  • Brands like Apple, Nike, and Nintendo have high demand on the platform.
  • Environmentally-conscious buyers favor pre-owned items for cost savings and sustainability.
  • Relisting and offering discounts help boost visibility and attract more buyers.

Does Anything Sell on Mercari?

Yes, many things sell on Mercari, from electronics to collectibles.

As long as the item you’re selling is allowed within Mercari’s guidelines and policies, there’s a good chance you can find a buyer for it.

While you can list anything for sale on the platform, researching what’s in demand is one way to increase your chances of making a successful sale on Mercari.

Related: Can you make money on Poshmark?

What Sells the Most on Mercari in 2023?

Here are the most sold items on Mercari in 2023 from our findings.

1. Electronics

Technological advancements, cost savings, variety, and sustainability motivate buyers and contribute to the continued popularity and demand for electronics on Mercari.

According to the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the total retail revenue of the consumer technology industry in the United States reached $485 billion in 2023.

The continuous advancements in technology have led to the release of new and improved electronic devices. This attracts people seeking the latest features and creates a constant demand for upgraded electronics on online marketplaces like Mercari.

Environmental sustainability is another demand-driving force for electronics on the platform. An increasing number of consumers are becoming environmentally conscious and actively seeking ways to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

Buying pre-owned electronics on Mercari aligns with this trend, as it extends the lifespan of devices and reduces electronic waste.

What’s more? Price consciousness.

Electronics can be relatively expensive when purchased brand new. Many buyers turn to platforms like Mercari for pre-owned or gently used electronics at more affordable prices.

Best Electronics Brands to Sell on Mercari

Here are some generally recognized electronics brands with high demand on Mercari.

  • Apple: Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and Apple Watches, have a consistently high demand on Mercari due to their reputation for quality, innovation, and brand loyalty.
  • Samsung: Samsung is another well-known brand that offers a wide range of electronics, including smartphones, tablets, televisions, and home appliances.
  • Sony: Sony is renowned for its quality audio and visual products, such as headphones, speakers, TVs, and gaming consoles like PlayStation. Its reliability and cutting-edge technology often translate to the massive demand for it on Mercari.
  • LG: LG has a diverse range of consumer electronics, including smartphones, home appliances, televisions, and audio equipment. LG products have a loyal following and can generate interest among buyers on Mercari.
  • Canon and Nikon: These two camera brands are in high demand by photography enthusiasts. Cameras, lenses, and accessories resale from Canon and Nikon often perform well.
  • Bose: Bose is renowned for its premium audio equipment, including headphones, speakers, and sound systems. Its sound quality and design aesthetics appeal to buyers seeking high-end audio solutions on Mercari.

2. Home Decor

Home improvement and interior design have become popular trends, with many seeking to create aesthetically pleasing and comfortable living spaces.

According to a report on Investopedia, spending on home improvement projects in the United States reached over $567 billion in 2022, a 16% increase from the past years.

This shows a significant interest in the industry and a potential for increased sales.

Even more, most buyers are attracted to distinctive pieces that stand out from mass-produced options.

Since these household items may not be readily available or affordable in traditional retail stores, this drives them to sites like Mercari, creating a constant demand.

Best Home Decor Brands to Sell on Mercari

Several popular brands tend to perform well on Mercari. Here are some of them.

  • IKEA: IKEA offers a wide range of affordable and stylish home decor products, including furniture, lighting, textiles, and accessories. The brand’s modern and minimalist designs are popular among buyers on Mercari.
  • Anthropologie: Anthropologie is known for its unique and bohemian-inspired home decor items. Its eclectic mix of furniture, textiles, decorative accessories, and kitchenware appeals to buyers seeking distinctive and artistic pieces for their homes.
  • Pottery Barn: Pottery Barn offers a range of high-quality home decor products, including furniture, bedding, lighting, kitchen items, and decorative accessories.
  • West Elm: West Elm has contemporary and mid-century modern home decor collections. The brand offers a variety of furniture, rugs, lighting, and decorative accents that resonate with buyers seeking modern and on-trend pieces for their homes.

3. Clothes

Clothing is a means of self-expression, and people love to get new and unique pieces to enhance their style.

Considering the global demand for clothing, we can say that it’s a popular item you can start with.

The best thing about selling clothes on Mercari is buying a low-cost clothing item at a clearance sales store for 25 cents and reselling it for higher, just like Estrella Gallegos.

Like consumer electronics, there’s growing consumer awareness of environmental impact. Buyers on Mercari often seek pre-owned clothing or vintage category as a more sustainable option, contributing to the circular economy and reducing textile waste.

This also makes it a better platform to sell off used or old clothing.

Best Clothing Brands to Sell on Mercari

Based on consumer preferences, here are some designer items with high demand on Mercari:

  • Nike: Nike is a well-known athletic apparel brand with a wide range of clothing, including activewear, sneakers, and accessories. Its recognition and reputation make it desirable for Mercari.
  • Adidas: Adidas is another known athletic brand with several sportswear, footwear, and accessories. Its trendy designs and association with sport and streetwear culture make it sought after on Mercari.
  • Lululemon: Lululemon is known for its high-quality activewear, particularly yoga pants, leggings, and athletic tops. With a focus on comfort, style, and performance, it appeals to buyers seeking premium workout clothing on Mercari.
  • Zara: Zara is a fast-fashion brand known for its trendy clothing. The brand releases new styles frequently, making it popular among buyers looking for fashion-forward pieces at a reasonable price on Mercari.
  • Levi’s: Levi’s is a renowned denim brand offering a wide range of jeans, jackets, and other denim apparel.

4. Video Games

Considering Mercari’s resale market, buyers can find collectible and limited-edition video games that may not be readily available elsewhere.

These exclusive and rare titles attract collectors and enthusiasts, contributing to the demand for video games on the platform.

The market for collectible video games has seen significant growth, with rare titles fetching high prices in the resale market.

Notable examples include limited-edition releases, special collector’s editions, and retro games.

Also, new gaming consoles releases, such as the PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo systems, generate excitement and drive demand for video games.

Best Video Games Brands to Sell on Mercari

Some of the best video game brands to sell on Mercari in 2023 include:

  • Nintendo: Known for its popular game franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, Nintendo consistently ranks as one of the top-selling video game brands.
  • Sony PlayStation: With popular consoles like the PlayStation 5 and a library of exclusive games, Sony PlayStation remains a highly sought-after video game brand on Mercari.
  • Xbox: Microsoft’s Xbox brand has a good following and continues to release popular games and consoles, making it a great brand to sell on Mercari.
  • Activision: Activision has popular games like Call of Duty, with over nine million players worldwide.
  • Electronic Arts (EA): EA is a leading video game publisher with games like FIFA, Madden NFL, and The Sims.

Trending: These 5 simple items are selling fast on eBay. Check them out.

What’s Not Allowed on Mercari?

On Mercari, there are strict guidelines regarding prohibited items and listings. Here’s an explanation of what’s not allowed.

1. Pornographic Material

Mercari prohibits the sale or listing of any pornographic material.

This includes explicit content, adult videos, magazines, or any items of a sexual nature that aren’t suitable for a general audience.

2. Anything Sexual or Obscene

You can’t sell or list sexually explicit or obscene items.

This can include adult toys, intimate apparel, explicit artwork, or any products intended for sexual activities.

3. Offensive Listings

Mercari doesn’t allow offensive listings that promote hate speech, discrimination, or derogatory content toward individuals or groups based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or other protected characteristics.

Product listings containing offensive language or content promoting violence or harm are also not permitted.

4. Drugs or Alcohol

Mercari strictly prohibits the sale or listing of illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, prescription medications, or any items related to drug use.

Additionally, the sale or listing of alcohol, including alcoholic beverages, isn’t allowed on the platform.

5. Anything Illegal

You can’t sell or list unwanted items or those that violate applicable laws.

This includes stolen goods, counterfeit items, weapons, firearms, ammunition, or explosives.

6. Counterfeits

Mercari has a zero-tolerance policy for counterfeit items.

Within this category: counterfeit designer products, unauthorized replicas, or any expensive items that infringe upon intellectual property rights.

Note: Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in the removal of listings, account suspension, or other appropriate actions by Mercari.

What’s the Trick to Selling on Mercari?

You can use these strategies to improve your selling success on Mercari and earn extra cash.

1. Leave Room for a Discount

Offering a discount can attract buyers and encourage them to make a purchase.

Set your listing price slightly higher than your desired selling price, allowing room for negotiation.

This way, you can still achieve your target profit margin when potential buyers negotiate a fair price.

2. Sell Sought-After Stuff

Identify and sell items in high demand or have a strong market appeal.

Start by researching trending products, known brands, and sought-after items on Mercari.

You increase your chances of making quick and successful sales by offering items that buyers actively seek.

3. Get Verified

Becoming a verified seller on Mercari can enhance your credibility and increase buyer trust.

To get verified, provide accurate and complete information about yourself and your selling history.

4. Keep Your Items at the Top of Searches by Relisting

Unlike eBay, Mercari’s search algorithm favors recently listed items.

To keep your items visible and increase their chances of being seen by potential buyers, consider relisting them regularly. This keeps them relevant and increases their exposure.

Additionally, consider optimizing your listings with detailed and accurate product descriptions, high-quality photos, and competitive pricing.

Respond promptly to buyer inquiries, provide excellent customer service, and maintain a positive seller rating.

These factors contribute to a positive selling experience and can help attract more buyers.

Wrapping Up

Selling on Mercari has a lot of potential, profit-wise.

You can utilize the free listings, access to millions of users, and high demand on the platform to make extra money.

But this depends on your ability to adjust to market demand and trends.

As a newbie on the platform, you can start by selling used clothing, refurbished phones, or old video games.

And with a good business plan and strategy, you could scale into something bigger.

We’ll love to hear what items you’re selling or if you have challenges finding what to sell. Leave a comment below, and we’ll reply as soon as we can. Don’t forget to share the article with your friends if you like it.

About This Side Hustle

Learn more about this side hustle and find others similar to it