Getting rid of clothes and want to try to make some money from selling your clothing? Consignment stores are the best way to easily get you money for your old clothing. What if you don’t have a consignment store near you, though – or the time to go to a consignment store? ThredUP is an online consignment store offering to buy your clothing and sell gently used clothing online.
Photo/ Pixabay
But is thredUP worth it?
After I saw thredUP promoted on nearly every blogger’s site that I knew, I was intrigued. Why were so many people suddenly writing about thredUP and how wonderful the online consignment store was?
So I decided to do a thredUP review that wasn’t sponsored. I had a lot of really nice clothes that I no longer fit into anymore and I wanted to make some money off of them.
ThredUP Consignment
I tried selling some of my Express clothing on a private Facebook group for my HOA community. A few things did sell for about $30-40 profit. I sold Forever 21 dresses for $5 each, and my Express clothing for $10 each.
There was still a huge pile of clothing left, though, including Express pants, shorts, tops and more. Also, some stuff from Kohls. There was some stuff from Synergy Organic Clothing, too, but I knew (based on thredUP’s guidelines) that there was likely no way they’d take them. I decided to keep those items to donate to charity instead.
I am pretty gentle with my clothing. In fact, there are still things from high school in my closet that I can wear. That’s how little wear and tear my clothes get. Especially my dress clothes (I work from home after all. My dress pants might get worn 10 times a year.)
Selling Clothes on thredUP
So I ordered a Clean Out bag when it was free.
{UPDATE February 2018: thredUP has since tried charging for all Clean Out bags, then has changed to a policy where you can get free Clean Out bags or pay $16 for an expedited service with your Clean Out bags}.
I filled the Clean Out bag with what I couldn’t sell on my own and hoped for some money for selling my clothes.
Here’s how thredUP works. You get credit for their online clothing store from clothes that they “accept” to resell. Any clothes not chosen are apparently recycled or donated, unless you want to pay to have them sent back to you. {An interview with CBS This Morning on April 13, 2017 about the online clothing retailer suggested that the Thred Up’s customers were most interested in getting clothes out of their house, rather than making money. If you want to get clothes out of your house, did you know that there are non-profits and charities that will come pick up a bag in your driveway for free? They include Salvation Army, Vietnam Vets and many others.}
Then, if you’re given any thredUP credit, your choices are:
- Credit for shopping on thredUP (the only option for the first 14 days after receiving the credit)
- PayPal credit (available after 14 days – with a 2% fee)
- Get a thredUP Visa Prepaid card (available after 14 days with no fee)
So I sent in my big bag and waited. And waited. And waited.
Yeah, it took about 30 days. I sent my bag in on August 6. My credit wasn’t processed until September 10.
Related Posts:
- ThredUp Goody Boxes Review – What’s Inside
- Buying Clothes on ThredUp’s Sale Site
- Sustainable Fashion on Amazon
- PACT Organic Clothing at Affordable Prices
ThredUP Review
I was shocked – literally – when I found out that my massive polka dot bag of high quality, name brand clothing only scored a grand total of $7.40 of thredUP credit. That’s all.
WHAT?!?!?
Yeah, I was pretty upset.
That’s less than $2 per item.
Here’s what was accepted – only 4 items.
For less than $8, I would have rather donated all of my things to a local thrift store who could have made three times that money for worthy programs for the needy.
The amount was truly an insult.
Especially when the pants are now selling for $18.99 (that’s just ONE of the items):
Here’s what I submitted. With no tears. No sweat stains. No pilling on most items. Hardly any wear or tear on most. All were Express except for the lemon dress:
Will I ever use thredUP again? No.
I would rather sell my clothing in local stores, through online groups that I know and love, or donate to worthy charities.
Considering selling clothing through thredUP? They take women’s clothing, children’s clothing – both boys and girls – and handbags and shoes and maternity. No men’s clothing.
You also better have ponied up for some high end brands to begin with. They are very label conscious and brand oriented. I personally don’t like that, because paying a high price for name brand clothing doesn’t mean anything. I want great clothing, no matter what the brand tag says.
If you want to see what thredUP is like, use my affiliate link and get a $10 credit. At least you’ll have some money to spend.
or
Have you ever used thredUP? What did you think???
Danielle says
I also tried the selling with them I was extremely disappointed they refused clothing I just bought that had tags on it so glad I pd the fee for them to return refused clothing. I ended up making nothing I wasted my time and effort for 17 bucks I would never recommend this site to anyone
Kimberly Button says
Danielle,
I agree. I would rather donate to a charity or gift the clothes to a friend or relative rather than go through the hassle and then the anger of getting a few bucks. Better to just give to independent charities who need the donations to help people.
Kassandra says
Seriously wished I would have seen this before I did my clean out 17 dollars for 5 pairs of like new jeans 7 dresses and several tops dosent even show three if the dresses I sent and they are going to make 180 off of the clothes they listed and gave me 17 bucks for.
Kimberly Button says
Yep. Someone is making money of off these clothes. I can’t predict values and what anyone sells anything for, but as with anything, cutting out the middleman (or reseller) will almost always give you more money in your pocket if you sell yourself.
old bat says
one of the ways they can make money is the way some (all?) donation thrift shops do. by wholesaling what they cant sell to people who ship the clothes overseas.
Kimberly Button says
Agree. Yes, when donating to any organization that says they give the products to charity, it’s ALWAYS important to confirm if the product is going to people or if the clothing, etc. is just being stripped down for its parts or sent elsewhere.
Dory Kissner says
Thanks for info! Just saw their commercials. You can Most Importantly donate to services that come and pick up for free with groups (forget the name) that give (take) most anything for Womens/Childrens shelter (for domestic abuse) I think its called “Hope” here in GA. Its all tax deductable, and you’re really helping these poor Women/Children that left their homes w/Nothing!! WOMEN HELPING FELLOW WOMEN!! WHAT AN AWESOME CAUSE…It takes these women a lot of courage to leave in 1st place, and to leave everything they know & have!! My husband is a flight attendant & I have him bring home all nice toiletries from nice hotels.
Thank Y all for awesome info!
Dory
Kimberly Button says
Yes! I love collecting the toiletries from travel, too! There is a wonderful organization called Clean the World that is based in Orlando that helps homeless and third world countries by recycling leftover toiletries in hotels. But bringing back new bottles and donating them to worthy local organizations such as women’s shelters is so smart, too.
ILC says
I wish I would have read the reviews prior to sending the clean out bag. I sent in like new items that filled the WHOLE bag and my payout was an insulting $6.95! It took three 1/2 weeks to get $6.95. Customer service is of no help either so it’s pointless to even reach out to them.
Kimberly Button says
So sorry about your small payout!
Heather Mocny says
I also had a terrible experience with them. Out of all the clothing including a hardly used leather Coach purse and a only worn once dress that I paid over $200 for at White House blackmarket I got a just shy total of $40 credit. Super disappointing especially since they never supposedly accepted the dress to sell but I wasn’t going to pay to have it sent back. Never again.
Kimberly Button says
Yikes! It really hurts when the items are like brand new and expensive and you get nothing for it. We all think that if something is in excellent shape, we should be monetarily compensated for it. I’m sure there were tons of people who would have loved to score your items in Facebook groups or other online selling apps!
Kim says
Thanks for the advice. I just received my polka dotted bag and was getting ready to go through my gently used items but after reading this blog I am reconsidering this.
Kimberly Button says
Kim, If you do decide to do it, just keep in mind what you’re likely going to be paid based on everybody else’s stories here. Only you can decide if it’s worth it for you.
Ash says
Same thing happened with me! I sent in a huge bag. Some items still had tags on them and weren’t accepted! I made 5.40 and not really, because they now charge 10 dollars for the bags they send out of what you make and wave the the rest of that fee if what they offer you doesn’t fully cover it. I just thought I would give it a try and sell some things to make room for our new baby that hadn’t sold on other sites I use. I will never use Thred-up again.
Kimberly Button says
They charge $10?!?????? Wow. It’s crazy. So sorry you had to find out this way, too.
Toni says
So this morning I saw a commercial for threadup. I had never heard of it and thought what a great idea!!! I’ve used consignment stores locally. I thought what a great consignment spin off idea but on a grander scale! Kind of hated I hadn’t thought of it first. So I Google threadup and look at reviews. Wowwwwww! Thank you all for saving me from what sounds like a great idea, turned scam!
Kimberly Button says
Toni,
Glad you looked online. Everyone should make up their own mind if it’s right for you or not. I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment! Thanks so much, and good luck to you!
Tasha says
Yes I wish I had seen this also ahead of time I sent in about 500 worth and they gave me 10.81 but charged me 10.99 to return bag huge rip off they make sick profits off those trying to get a few dollars will never use or recommend
Kimberly Button says
Wow. That means you actually had to pay money to donate $500 worth of clothes?
Ash says
I also wanted to say I wish I had found this review sooner! I was just browsing around trying to see if my experience was the norm for most people who have tried the site and came across it. I hope more people see this before using them!
Monica Garza says
I had bad experience selling clothes . I sent a lot of clothing for a baby boy between 3- 18 months. Also some of mine really good dresses . It was a lot of clothing in really good conditions, no stains . some were sets. And they send me what they accepted and they just accepted the ones with tags as a consignment for a payout for .50 cents to a 1.00 dlls. Total was 7 dlls. The clothes accepted was only 4 items and they pay me 3.20 cents. terrible!!! I saw they separate the sets the shirts with the cute shorts for babies. The worst thing is that I saw a lot of of my items that I sent were in the selling list but not as mine!!! some of them were listed as clearance. It is like they keep them (recycling ) but in reality they are selling without paying to nobody else. I am really upset . I will never send clothing again and I will not buy anymore from them. So disappointing. Hopefully many people see this and the store disappear.
Kimberly Button says
That’s so sad. Yes, it’s interesting to find your clothes for sale on their website, and see what they sell them for. The clearance thing, though, wow! I’m so sorry you found out this way, too.
Krystal // The Krystal Diaries says
Thanks for this review. I have so many clothes that are in good condition that I’d like to try and sell. I was considering Thredup but I didn’t really like that I have to pay them to return my stuff that they don’t want to accept. I’ll be trying something else now.
Kimberly Button says
Krystal,
Glad I could help! Yes, I had more success selling on my own. Hoping you do, too!
CAROL BOWLING says
I’m glad i found this site because i was going to try thredup but now no way. Thanks for the info
Kimberly Button says
Thank you!
Stephanie says
I sent in quite a few items expecting to make some money. Most of the clothes and shoes were from Forever 21 and H&M. They chose about 8 to resell. My payout was only $3. I lost that to cover shipping anyway. It was a dissapointing experience. Next time I will be donating to local charities.
Kimberly Button says
Wow. So you lost money to donate clothing? That is sad. Especially when local charities could have made way more money for their non-profit work. Now you know. Thanks for being committed to donating and helping others out though! 🙂
elissaknits says
I’ve donated 5 bags to ThredUp. I didn’t expect to make any money from the clothes I sent them, but I liked their mission and it was easier than taking my used clothing to Goodwill. Everything was fine until last week. I got a mysterious message from ThredUp that they were putting $23 in my PayPal account, for what, I had no idea. It wasn’t bad, just odd, no explanation. Then this morning I received the following e-mail:
I wanted to apologize to you directly for an email you may have received from us this morning.
The subject line of the email was in poor taste and does not reflect how we talk to our customers or anyone for that matter.
We value each and every one of you hugely. We strive to bring you great deals everyday and make your life a little brighter. This morning’s email missed the mark by a mile. I am sorry.
The send was stopped as quickly as possible, once the mistake was identified. And we are improving the process by which our emails are approved.
If you received the email, we hope you can accept our sincere apologies.
We know better, and we will do better for you in the future.
Anthony
So, I think I’m done with ThredUp, something weird is happening at that company.
Kimberly Button says
Anthony, that is weird! They sent money to you? Hmmmmmmmm. Hopefully you can contact a non-profit near you that might come pick up your donations at home or work? That would be awesome 🙂
raesmithdesigns says
Elissa – I got that apology email too. It’s in regards to a promotional email that they sent out earlier that day with the poor taste subject line of: “Fuq overpriced handbags”. A lot of people took offense to that, which is why they sent out the apology email. I used to do well selling and buying with them, and now everywhere you look it’s terrible reviews. It’s like they hooked me with a decent payout for my first clean out bag, and they only paid me $4.50 for subsequent bags with quality baby clothes and maternity items. Luckily this was all before the $9.99 processing fee took place!
Kimberly Button says
Yeah, a processing fee really eats up the profit. Wow. Glad I tried it before the $9.99 fee!
Vicki says
I will not be recommending thredup to anyone!!! I sent in close to $1000 worth of clothes (designer), many with the tags still attached and never worn, they decided to pay out for those items $51 but minus the shipping and other fees a total of $41!!!???
Then selling some of the items for up to $21!! Do the math, I sent in about 8-10 items, resale $18-21 per item……I now have from thredup for these items a whopping $41!!!???
I will be taking anything I have in the future to the resale shop down the road from me who gives their profit to special needs children. This is a complete ripoff!!! AVOID THEM! DO NOT USE THEM!!
Kimberly Button says
I applaud your effort to help local nonprofits and charities. I, too, want my donations to help people close to home, and get more money than what would be received by sending the clothes to a for-profit business. $41??!?!?? WHATTT????????
gthomssen127 says
Thank you for this post. You just saves me the disappointment of sending my clothes to ThredUp. I’ll take them to a local consignment shop instead. Thanks so much for taking the time to help others make the right decision!
Kimberly Button says
Awww, thanks! Glad that I could help you with my experience to make the smart decision for you! 🙂
karen says
Thank you!!!! I had been looking for something to with some rather nice business clothing which is too small for me (the local women’s shelters/help sites don’t want them because they’re small sizes) so thought I’d check out Thredup – just knew there was something strange going on when I could click on NOTHING without first entering my email address! Run far away from this site!! Thanks again!
Kimberly Button says
Karen, Thank you so much for being so conscientious in trying to help others with your clothing! I love that! There are so many people that could use some nice clothes to get ahead in their job and they just can’t afford it. It breaks my heart that there are people who really need some new clothes out there and they could get them for less at thrift stores and community agencies from donations. I hope you find a great place to donate the clothes to help out those who need them!
karen randlev says
thanks for the critiques…., I,too,was burned.I sent them a heavy linen gudrun shodden kimono jacket worn once . cost over $100…..they gave me less than $10 for stand first said they wouldn’t take it because it wasn/t a designer brand………..bad site & business. Karen R.
Cloe says
The website will not even let you look at the clothes until you register. Pass. I’ve decided this website sucks.
Christina S. says
Agreed. I tried it once over a year ago, and it seems they were paying better percentages.I made about $40 on 14 items most of which were posted at between $10 and $15. Fast-forward one year. They changed their payout percentages. This time, they accepted 17 decent, brand-name items, (that I could have easily sold for $2-10 each), and I made a total of $7.48; subtract the bag fee, I have $2.49 credit. For 17 items!!!! That’s as good as donating. I won’t be sending anything again. Most of the items had a description of “excellent condition, you might mistake it for brand new.” Very disappointed.
Kimberly Button says
Wow! That’s crazy! Yeah, you can schedule a free pickup from many community agencies, including Salvation Army, and they’ll take things off of your hands for free. Sorry you only got a $2.49 credit! Thank you for sharing your real story, too. We all appreciate it!
Kris Johnson Parker says
I will never send clothes to Thredup again. I wish I had looked at these reviews first. I have bought clothes a few times from Thredup but had never sold clothes to them. So decided I had a few items (11 total) all had tags still on them, most were bought within the past year. Today I got the notification that my total payout for those 11 items is $8.55. What an insult. That’s less than $1.00 apiece for these clothes. I promise all my friends that I have raved to about this site will all be warned don’t send any items to sell to them. The cheapest list price that they are selling my items is $12.99 They are crooks!! All I cam say is when a company does their customers wrong…its just a matter of time Karma will get them.
Kimberly Button says
Yes, creating a for profit company that dupes individuals into donating their clothing worth a lot (rather than giving it to non-profits so that they can make some money for their worthy programs) is not good. My problem is in encouraging people to “donate” their items for a $5 fee, when major and local non-profits would love your donations and will come pick them up for FREE at your door. And that money is used locally. Also, I hate how they are paying bloggers to rave about their products. If it wasn’t for all of the paid “I love Thredup” campaigns on bloggers sites, I don’t know if this company would even be around.
Pat says
I also think they are a rip off. I sent in some clothes never worn from Bebe an other name brand stores and I also receive such a small amount of money from them that I will never send them another thing! I would rather donate them to salvation in the future! Don’t use this company!
Kimberly Button says
So frustrating, huh? Especially when you can give to another organization that helps people in need.
Tracey says
I love that lemon dress! What brand is that?
Kimberly Button says
Thanks! It was from Kohl’s about 2-3 years ago. One of the designer collaborations that they did.
Chris says
I really wish I read this before sending them 2 bags! They are thieves! My very gently worn bundle included several designer brands along with Topshop, Madewell, Anthropoloige, etc. I received the same payout as everyone on here approximately $4.00. I generally sell on ebay or to Buffalo Exchange (or donate). I plan to use my 4.00 credit and never go on their website again.
Kimberly Button says
So sorry this happened, Chris! Yes, please share this post with your friends and on social media so that no one else has to give away their clothes for mere pennies!
Claire Kirch says
I sent in a bag of clothing to ThredUp. They accepted a third of the items I sent — which I had washed and folded. All the clothing was very lightly used, and the things they accepted were in excellent condition: four of the seven items sold almost immediately for a total of $31. I checked the items that I’d sent that Three Up posted for sale. They are going to gross $66 on the seven items — I grossed less than $6 — and after being charged $4.99 just to do business with them with the laundry bag … I netted 12 cents. What a total ripoff. I am so angry!
The director of marketing, Anthony Marino, sent me an email the same day I received the email about my 12 cents payout, asking for my honest feedback about my experience selling clothing to ThredUP. I replied to that email — and it bounced! So I did a little search and found his *real* email and re-sent my reply, expressing my disappointment at being ripped off. Never heard back from him.
It wasn’t worth my time washing the clothing and packing it and bringing the bag to the post office. Never again. I could have donated the items to Goodwill or some other nonprofit organization and taken a tax deduction.
No wonder they can afford offices in downtown San Francisco.
Kimberly Button says
Claire, I agree with you! I am saluting you, girl, with digital high-five for finding his real email address and sending your thoughts. Laughing out loud right now! Kudos!
Lynda Hopkins says
Hey there, I too feel prey to Thred Up. I had only ordered clothing there. Had no trouble with purchasing. So I ordered a clean out bag and filled it, like everyone else with lots of new with tags stuff that I just needed to get out of my closet. I sent 36 items in and got $20. They are selling one of my Lululemon tops that they paid me nothing for, for $30. That is ONE ITEM for more than they paid me for 36 items. And they paid me nothing for 4 of my lulu tops. So I made maybe $4 for my lulu tops from them and they are charging $30 per…. hmmmm they make $120, I make $4, IF THAT…. I was livid, so I filed a complaint with the better business bureau. I do not like their process. Seems you are stuck when you find out the payout or lack there of…
also If I see any of my clothing on there, that they claim they didn’t accept, I will be contacting them and my attorney friend to see what my options are. Too many people letting these guys rip them off and chalking it up to a learning experience.
Rebecca says
Definitely a joke ! $7.50? Never again!
Patsy says
I sent my bag in in June. I am still waiting for them to process it. After reading the other reviews, I am pretty sure I was a sucker. I wish I had my clothes back; at least I could try to sell them on eBay or donate. I had nice stuff too.
Kimberly Button says
Patsy, I bet you did! Still waiting from June? There is really no excuse for that. Sorry. I’d check up on the bag. Now you know!
Donna says
Worked all day cleaning out closets. Filled one bag with
Dior handbags, (2) new, Ferragamo and Bally shoes,never
worn, Neman Marcus silk blouses, Bloomingdale silk blouses and chashmere sweaters, ALL with tags
Woman’s intuition prevailed. Looked up these reviews. Never will I send to thredup.
Thank you ladies for sharing your experiences.
Kimberly Button says
Donna,
Oh, man. I would have LOVED to seen how much they gave you for such high end clothing! Glad you listened to your heart, though, and looked at others stories and experiences. Wouldn’t want you to take any less than you could possibly get for such great clothes and accessories, no matter who you sell them through! I’d love to know what you get via consignment stores, selling online, or however you choose to sell them. Fascinating!!!!
Linda says
Sent two bags stuffed totally full. I did one bag expedited, and the other with return guarantee. So far, only the expedited processing one has been paid out. There were 15 items that they accepted, many with designer labels and tags still on… The sale value on their website totals $164.85. They paid me 15.15 for everything – so a whopping $1.01 average per item. Then, minus the 9.99 expedite fee, and I ended up with about 5$. What an insult! The other bag was ENTIRELY new with tag items, and I’m VERY GLAD that I did a return option on them, but I know that I’ll be ripped off in the end because I’m sure they’ll accept everything, only to give me pennies after their fees. Sickening!!!! Fool me once – shame on me. ThredUp will NOT fool me twice.
Kimberly Button says
Linda, That sounds horrible. Isn’t it so frustrating to have perfectly new clothes WITH TAGS STILL ATTACHED! And yet get no money for them? Ugh. That payment is so small. I’d be so upset.
Kat says
But what about the ease of being able to buy good secondhand clothing (i.e. recycle, help the planet) if you don’t live in a place near good consignment stores? Are there other, better business, websites doing this? Because I shop there for the ethical value of it. Thanks.
Kimberly Button says
Kat, Great question. Everyone’s experience is different. If buying secondhand clothing is important to you, it makes complete sense to shop through thredUp if you can’t support a local charity. I find that the promise of getting paid for your clothing, though, leaves much to be desired, based on the dozens of comments of others that have believed they could get a lot of money for their quality clothing, yet got paid minimal amounts. I believe getting paid fairly is ethical, too. That’s been the complaint of everyone who has responded to this post. Businesses deserve to make money, but average consumers deserve to be treated with fair prices, too. There is no easy answer. We can all only do what’s most important to us and touches our heart.
1337gf says
Thank you so much for an HONEST review! I’ve been searching for one for awhile. Also very thank you to other readers for sharing their experiences! Saved me a heap ton of time and trouble!
I would also like to say this is my first visit to your site and I really enjoyed your layout and writing style!
Kimberly Button says
Glad that we could help! And thank you for the compliment! 🙂
Hannah B says
Adding my experience to the pile – I have used ThredUp 7 times, with a lifetime payout of $124 (essentially $17/bag). The highest amount I ever received for a bag was $37, and that was before they implemented the bag processing fee. I was generally fine with this, it’s easy enough to stuff a bag and send it in the mail, and it seems to be for a good cause.
But I am furious about my most recent bag – payout of $2.90, which got eaten up by the $10 processing fee. This bag included a pair of barely used Hunter rain boots (which are EXPENSIVE! and amazing quality! I just never wore them) and apparently those were deemed unfit to accept, but two pairs of boots from Target in the same bag were accepted. I do not understand the logic behind this. But am tempted to search for those rain boots on ThredUp to see if they appear anyway…..
I will not be using ThredUp again, and will find a way to benefit local charities instead.
Kimberly Button says
Hannah, I would be so frustrated. Wow! Only $2.90 🙁 I agree with helping local charities. You know who you’re helping in your community. Thanks for sharing all of your experiences.
Patricia B says
Hannah B – I will buy your Hunter boots if they’re a 9.5-10, lol!!! Those suckers ain’t cheap!
emerald515 says
I sent Thredup 15 items, many which were NEW with TAGS. Many of the items I sent were dressy dresses made by brand names, some with tags of $200 and up. I received $55.91 for them as an “upfront” payout. Who is making all the money here?
I will never send my nice things or anything for that matter to them. They must sit back laughing at how much they pay out. I would love to know how much THEY made on my items. Also, I sent a blouse with a sash belt. They lost the sash and I know it was in the bag.
Kimberly Button says
Ugh! That’s so frustrating! Especially when items have tags on them! So much more money could be made selling on eBay or even local consignment. Thanks for sharing your story. Every story tells us exactly what to expect when sending in high quality clothes and yet getting hardly nothing in return.
Patricia B says
OK found this website when I was searching for ThredUP reviews. Here’s MY experience, so far:
I recently changed from being an outside sales professional with a very nice wardrobe to owning my own business with my husband where I wear almost exclusively casual clothes; I no longer need nice blazers, heels, slacks, etc. I did a “hard edit” in my closet and literally gave away 2 huge piles of clothing to a teacher friend w/ a disabled husband on a single income. I kept a smaller pile of the “cream of the crop“ and thought I would try ThredUP. These were items that are brand name, expensive and nearly new condition – a little too nice to just give away to Goodwill. My thought was if I could make a little bit of the $$$ I spent on them I would be happy.
I ordered a free (at that time) clean out kit and stuffed it to the point of barely closing. In went things that still had tags on and gently used items like a beautiful Nordstrom leather jacket, a Karen Kane suede jacket, another designer suede jacket, Adrienne Vittadini jacket, and many many other very nice items. The bag was so heavy I honestly worried it might rip in transit.
I was notified they received it October 15. Checking my account, the expected processing date is around December 15!!! 2 MONTHS?!? This is VERY frustrating, because they make it a point to remind you to send clothing that is “in season”, in excellent condition, and name brand. If I send winter items in October and they don’t even check them in until late December I’ve already missed half the fall/winter selling season! I am already less than impressed. I did request they return my clothing if they don’t sell it so we shall see what happens.
About their payouts: a few years ago, I sold professionally on eBay so I know it does take some time to properly stage/photograph a piece of clothing to get it to sell. I no longer have the time to futz with photographing & writing descriptions. I’m factoring this in what I expect to get paid from TU once they list my items. We all need to keep in mind that we aren’t doing any of the legwork. We are literally just folding clothing and putting it into a bag; we don’t even have to drive anywhere. I would assume the cost to ship the bags (based on weight) to be substantial (mine prob weighed 20 pounds!) Once received, somebody has to unpack it, inspect everything for stains and holes etc., then they probably steam or press the garments, then arrange on mannequins and photograph w proper lighting. Then someone has to write the description. When clothing sells, there’s a cost to package the garments to the buyer. So I’m sure there’s quite a bit of handling that goes into listing the items, which is probably why the payouts are so disappointing.
I actually factored in all of the above before I packed my bag. My inner skeptic told me this was probably a losing proposition b/c when you consider how much it has to cost TU to obtain, process & list the clothes, then sell them at “bargain” prices, there probably ain’t gonna be much left for momma. I know I could ABSOLUTELY get more for my clothing if I was to take the time to sell it myself, but as I stated I just no longer have the time or even the energy. I figured I would be happy with a smaller payout as long as it was in the realm of worthwhile. As I said, they have yet to process my bag almost 2 months later so we shall see! I will post an update once I get their email.
Kimberly Button says
Patricia, great ideas and I love that you helped someone you know first!
I want to be getting your clothes! Wow, they sound amazing!!!!!!
I can totally understand your very valid points of the costs and markups for business. Very true. What I don’t get is why ThredUp constantly has sales – always offering 15% extra off their clothes. They’re giving away extra money. Also, the packaging for new orders – the polka dot wrapped clothing with 7 fold postcards promoting the benefits of ThredUp or the specialty hang tags. That stuff ain’t cheap. Neither is the custom oversized glossy postcard with a picture of an item I bought in the past, reminding me to come back and shop.
I would love to hear what happens on your payout – and see what they listed the stuff for for sale. PLEASE let us know!!!!
Linda Cunha says
Wish I would of read you post before I submitted clothes to ThredUP. I had been buying clothes from them for awhile and really liked the selection. So, thought, why not send some of my clothes to try to sell. I sent a big, polka dot bag and then had to wait 2 months for them to go through it. Out of 15 items, they took 8 so not that bad BUT I got a whopping ZERO dollar credit after being charged a $9.99 processing fee. In fact I was minus $1 credit! What a ripoff. Five of my clothing items so far have sold but didn’t find out what they sold for but you can bet it was alot more then I got credited for. I feel I got totally ripped off.
Kimberly Button says
Linda, that is horrible. Waiting 2 months and then having to pay a processing fee?!? I understand too. Buying is so much fun! The prices are unbelievable sometimes (I share my fab finds in this recap: https://www.getgreenbewell.com/thredup-review-buying-clothes-on-clearance/) Hope that you find another way to donate clothes that makes you feel better! I totally get it!
Sus Andersen says
Thanks for the article…good info!
Sarah says
I have purchased from ThredUP once, keeping only one item and returning the rest. I then attempted to use their consignment services for both clean out and extra cash purposes while planning my wedding and moving to my future husbands home. I requested 3 clean out bags over a 2 month span. Nothing ever came. Ever. I contacted customer service 2 weeks after the last request, was told it would be arriving by the end of the week. The address was the same one I had already received deliveries at. The bag still never came. After that I gave up on this waste of time online consignment and have gone back to donating. It serves the local community better and I’ll get more on tax deductions than ThredUP buyback prices….
Kimberly Button says
Sarah, Yes, the tax deduction would be WAY higher than the payout from thredUp! Especially hearing how many wonderful things everyone is trying to donate and yet getting no money for them. You seem to have come to the same conclusion that I personally did. I feel better donating to local charity. Everything happens for a reason!
Roneva Price says
Thanks for your article. I’ve been buying clothes from them for about a year now and in that respect they are great. But after reading a lot of reviews about them…I feel like I’m buying stolen stuff. Honestly it feels wrong when you think that you paid $25 for a skirt or whatever from someone who got ripped off..giving it up for a dollar or two at best. No more.
Hilary says
Thanks for posting. I was just about to order a “kit” when I decided to read some reviews on their service. Sounds pretty awful and very big as I don’t have designer duds to give I’ll just donate to goodwill.
Kimberly Button says
Smart idea to check for real life reviews Hilary! I love how you’ve decided to do good in your community!
Sherri Mudd says
I sent 20 items, 12 were brand new with tags. I didn’t consider having my rejected items being returned to me as I knew they were all good items. I received 55 CENTS for my items. I saw one item sold online. Price tag said $49.99 as the sale price for a Ralph Lauren denim skirt. It sold for $10.99 and I got 55 CENTS! The rest of the items don’t appear online at all so I guess they were rejected. I’m in shock!
I don’t know what happened to the rest but someone got some freebies.
DON’T USE THIS COMPANY.
Kimberly Button says
Wow, Sherri! If that was your denim skirt it is so frustrating. Your story sounds so similar to so many of the comments. Was it 55 cents after the bag handling fee or just 55 cents at all?
Bonnie Haigler says
I sent ThredUp a bag FULL of name-brand clothes. When the items finally showed up on my account with ThredUp, it didn’t show several items that I had sent. Turns out the Gap jeans in perfect shape were denied because they already had too many? The other items sold and after paying almost $10 for the bag to ship the clothes in, I received nothing…..$0. What a disappointment. I will never waste my time sending clothes to ThredUp again. I would much rather GIVE them to an organization that I would at least get a tax donation from.
Kimberly Button says
I agree with you on the tax donation aspect of giving away clothes to charities in your community! If you are not going to make any money, help someone in need and get the tax deduction.
Lena Presti says
Hi Kimberly,
Thanks for creating this site and I hope many more will read it before getting scammed by Thredup.
I sent in my bag with very gently used items (I get bored and sometimes only wear an item 1 or 2 times). Some items were gifts that still had tags that I didn’t want. I also sent in about a dozen pieces of very nice costume jewelry.
After holding onto the items for 2 months, I finally saw them online and all except 1 piece of jewelry and an Elie Tahari dress sold. My big payout was $8.30. And I had to reclaim the unsold dress (which they are shipping back to me for $5.99) so I have a whopping $2.31 left in my account.
Very sad experience and I emailed them to tell them how dissatisfied I was and will no longer do business with them or recommend them. I agree with everyone who has posted on this page it is better to donate to a local charity and feel good about the experience.
Kimberly Button says
Lena, Wow! I’m so impressed with the way you kept track of every item that you sent in and if it sold or not. Making $2.31 for all of your work and keeping up with things is crazy. Thankfully so many people have shared their personal stories, so I hope more people can learn about what really goes on before deciding whether or not to donate. Thank you for sharing your story!
Ana Menendez says
I have sent clothing with tags, not accepted, sets-pant/jacket, dress/jacket and they split them up, they don’t mention they’re a set, they mislabel clothing-call jackets, cardigans, say things are slightly used when they’re new without tags, and clothing in excellent condition they donate, or so they say. Thred Up is good for buyers, not so good for sellers.
Kimberly Button says
Yes, the deals for buyers are great! Wish it was the same for sellers, too, but I guess then it wouldn’t be a deal for buying.
Jess says
I sent a very large amount of expensive items to them, many of which still had the tags on it. Once they sell some of your items they WILL CHARGE SHIPPING! Also, even if you pay to have your bag processing expedited, there is a 14 day hold after ThredUP “credits your account” before you can actually cash out. They made hundreds of dollars in profit from my items, and they paid me less than $30 total.
Kimberly Button says
Yes, the waiting for a pay out rule is a little odd, I think. You either have money or you don’t. Your story sounds like so many others who have commented. It’s important to share this post so that others can read the real-life experiences of those who have tried selling with-tags clothing and think they will make a lot of money.
Lexie says
I had the same experience as many of you! Would never ever recommend selling clothes to them. My payout was $14 and some change. I waited over a month for my bag to be processed and then had to wait another 14 days to get my money and then found out I had to pay a paypal processing fee if I wanted the money instantly. So frustrating and so not worth it.
Kimberly Button says
Lexie,
Wow. A PayPal processing fee? I don’t remember having to pay that, but it was so long ago and they have changed a lot of things. That is certainly insult to a small payout. Having to pay to receive money. So sorry about that.
Leslie says
I agree they are terrible on percentage for selling your clothes!! I was very disappointed in what I sent them and my return as a seller. I will never send my clothes to this company again. I do however still buy clothes from them and have never been disappointed in what I purchased. So am am a loyal buyer for sure..but that’s it.
Kimberly Button says
Leslie,
It is hard. The buying experience is nice because (usually) you can get great clothes for less. However, someone has to be selling their clothes for little money in order for others to have that experience. It’s not a win-win situation, which makes the choice hard.
Orit says
I was robbed. Literally they lost or sold two pants under another name. They made 100 off my bag and my payout was zero…..they said my bag didn’t even cover the cost of shipping. They made 100 I got zero. I will never use any online consignment again. This shouldn’t be legal. Thredup treats sellers like shit it’s amazing anyone sends them anything. I hope they go out of business.
kitchenbelle says
ThredUp has gone down the tubes. They started put paying well and there has been a steady decline ever since. The last (and truly will be my last bag) I sent it seems they have changed the rules again. My only option for payout was a prepaid Visa card that will arrive in two weeks. (Also should mention that I had to wait two weeks before a Visa Card that was even an option. Until then you can only use the payout as a credit to shop.) I did not even have the option for paypal. I’m grateful you wrote this post because nowhere else can I find an honest portrayal of the experience of using ThredUp. I’m not sure what is going on with the company. It is a good concept and it started out well and now you literally can only receive pennies for brand new designer clothing. PENNIES. I think they need to rethink their business model AGAIN. I have yet to find someone who has been pleased with the experience.
Kimberly Button says
Thank you! Yes, I know that the payment structure keeps changing. And it’s harder to get money without it being a ThredUp credit. I can’t believe that so many people have had negative experiences, too. It’s sad, but thankfully everyone is sharing their stories so that others know what really happens when you send in your clothes or buy them from ThredUp.
Melissa Marr says
I had the same issue with Thredup. When I first started selling to them, my payout would be between 60-70% of the listing price. These are all designer handbags in excellent condition I have sent in over the last three years. Over the last year, my payouts have steadily decreased with my last one being averaged at a 36% payout, out of almost $300 worth of stuff based on their listing prices, and my stuff sells super quick, so it isnt like items are not selling when Thredup puts them on the website. I have 5 things currently on there and two have sold, two are reserved and just one remaining after only two days of being listed. So never again.. I will either Ebay them or just sell to friends. I am done.
Kimberly Button says
Melissa, It’s interesting that the pay outs have been going down for you. I hope you can find other ways to make a decent income from selling gently used clothes to others that want them!
Cynthia H Crowder says
Tried Thredup – sent some of my better stuff – they sold all of it for about $140. I got a whopping $10.40. That’s about 8% – and it’s only that high because one of the items was actually consigned and not paid upfront. I was totally disappointed. I get that they have to make money and the shipping isn’t cheap…but seriously? But hey, that’s their business model and I guess it’s working for them…so they can certainly survive without my stuff. In my case, better off taking the tax write off for charity and I feel better about it. .
Kimberly Button says
Agreed, Cynthia! Wow, a big $10.40. That is pretty high considering all of the other stories in the comments!
Lauren says
I wanted to chime in with my experience with thredUP, which for the most part has been positive.
I’ve sent 2 boxes in containing a total of 89 items. Of the 89 items sent they accepted 76. Of those 76 items, about half were paid out upfront and the other half taken on consignment. They’ve sold 30 of the 39 consignment items so far. The average payout for the 67 items sold is approximately $25 per item with individual payouts ranging from $0.65 to $200.
My recommendation for anyone considering sending items to thredUP is to figure out what your goals are and do your research. Are you looking to quickly purge items from your closet and as a bonus get a little money back in the process? Great! thredUP might be a good option. Are you looking to get the most money you can for those items and are less concerned with how much time it takes to do it? You might be better off selling it yourself on a site like Poshmark or Mercari. There’s always going to be a tradeoff between money earned, time, and effort. thredUP allows me to get the items out of my house, not bother with photographing, writing descriptions, answering questions, and shipping, and still get a little money back for those items.
In terms of payouts, thredUP’s prices seem pretty reliably formulaic – a percentage of retail price that’s then adjusted for condition. Similar items from the same brand are typically priced the same. Take a look at how they’re currently pricing items from the brands you have and compare that to their payout chart to estimate how much you’ll earn. If you’re not satisfied with that amount, save yourself the disappointment. Sure I wasn’t thrilled to only receive 75 cents for some items, but I wasn’t surprised either.
Overall, I’m pretty happy with my experience with thredUP. There have been a few bumps along the way but it’s a service I’ll likely keep using as both a buyer and a seller.
Kimberly Button says
Thanks for your experience, Lauren! Wow, $200 for one item? What did you sell??!?!?!? If people go into selling with ThredUp seeing all of these comments, then they’ll know what to expect. Unfortunately, many people assume that ThredUp is going to pay like other consignment stores or online sites and are quite surprised when they get .75 for an item (Which, I think, is horrible anyway considering a charity could do so much more with the clothing and what they can sell it for.) More people need to share their stories for an adequate representation of what to expect.
Karolina says
I think it’s safe to say that tredup is a one big scam. I send them 2 big polka dots bags fool of clothes and I get 4.57$ for it and it took over a month for them to processmy bags!. Definitely do not recommend it!
Kimberly Button says
Wow! Only $4.57? What did you send? Women’s clothing or kids?
Lisa says
SCAM ALERT!!!! I had the same experience after sending in 3 BAGS of high quality designer label women’s clothing in excellent condition. It took MONTHS before I was notified that they had accepted maybe 3% of my clothing and then months later I received a Visa Debit card for $16.55! I did not use it for about 6 months and when I verified the amount and then tried to use it that SAME DAY the amount was reduced to only $10.60!! The card clearly states “FUNDS DO NOT EXPIRE” and the website states there is no fee however the card does have an 2024 expiration date. Thred up is making some major $$$ with this site…. highly recommend to just donate locally. DO NOT USE THIS C0MPANY – IT IS A TOTAL RIP OFF AND A SCAM!!!!
Kimberly Button says
YIKES!!!
Kel says
Yes They are a ripoff. Will never sell or buy through them again
Janet says
ThredUp rips you off. Anyone who has a good experience must’ve gotten lucky, is sponsored or sent something worth at least thousands of dollars.. if they get back hundreds of dollars for one item. I sent them a bag many years ago and got an OK payout. I can’t remember the amount of items, but it was around $40 for the whole bag. Beats having to list everything myself on eBay. But last year, I packed 2 bags with much better brands. Most of the items were not worn because I transitioned my wardrobe. I got back $5 and some change for both bags. I could’ve made more money selling one item on eBay than what ThredUp credited me for the entire 2 bags.
Ever since then, I never recommended them. And every time I see a blogger being sponsored and getting paid hundreds for their clothes, I just roll my eyes. Sometimes I wish I could’ve said something to prevent their followers/readers from getting ripped off, but my comments would probably get deleted or people would just bash me. I have only seen 1 good experience with ThredUp per 100s of bad ones.
Kimberly Button says
Janet, Yep. I agree. I’ve seen FAR too many fashion bloggers talk about how great ThredUp is in sponsored blog posts. Frustrating.
Janet says
Definitely! I’m glad to have read your honest review. It’s also much more recent. Your blog post was I think third or fourth on Google search! 🙂 Thanks for sharing.
Pixie8 says
OMG! I sent 1 bag with jeans and blouses and jackets. I got lesss than $10. I regretted sending the cleanup bag I should have donated it to goodwill or Salvation Army. I even washed everything before sending it. I have 1 more bag, I’m donating it to a goodwill store.
Kimberly Button says
Yikes. I love the fact that you still want to do good, though, and are donating it elsewhere! Thank you! Those in need will greatly appreciate it in your community!
Elaine says
With the market as flooded as it is, you can’t expect to get much by selling clothing from cheap brands such as Express. I sell on ebay and I would never list an item from an inexpensive brand such as this because the market is flooded and the brand isn’t that good and cheap to begin with. Pants and slacks generally no longer sell at all, even from expensive brands such as eskandar or isabel marant, people just don’t wear them, and it’s becoming harder and harder to sell anything other than Lululemon leggings which is the only item still popular in the second hand market. I understand your frustration with ThreadUp payouts, but you have to understand that they take all the risk by paying you upfront and paying their employees to process items. I can’t tell you how many times ThredUp lost money by paying me for upfront items and then eventually selling them cheaper than what they paid me! For instance, they paid me around $40 for a pair or Michael Kors boots they ended up selling 2 years later for $30 because no one would buy them for more! They paid me about $40 for stuart weitzman shoes they ended up selling for $20. I agree that sometimes their payouts are disappointing and even shocking, like they paid me less than a dollar for a pair of Luciano Barbera pants, or less than $10 for Oscar de La Renta runway piece (not the Target collaboration but actual high end designer stuff sold at Neiman Marcus), but at the same time they simply cannot pay more than pennies for brand like A&F, Forever21, etc. that are dirt cheap to begin with.
Kimberly Button says
Elaine, valid points, but would you suggest that people just give away their clothes out of the goodness of their hearts to a for-profit company to make money? If their business model doesn’t work, it is up for them to fix it. Americans shouldn’t have to give like they’re giving to charity so that a business can be profitable. In fact, that’s what giving to charity is all about. Donating clothing to people who need it, so that you can do good in the world. If you are willing to make pennies on the clothing that you give away, perhaps there is a single mother who needs clothing for a job interview, an abused woman who is reentering the workforce, an immigrant family or foster child that has nothing but a bag of clothes on their back, or a cancer patient who’s entire monthly income goes towards chemotherapy treatments. The online sale of consignment clothes surely isn’t an easy profitable space, but that doesn’t mean we have to find a way to make it work while others could be benefiting in our own community.
Jenifer says
I too have sent some expensive brand name Items which were in excellent condition to
ThredUp, and as many others have commented, I have been appalled at the prices they have charged on their website and The pittance I was paid for these items. I will never send to this company again.
Kimberly Button says
Thanks for leaving your story, too, Jenifer. Always good to hear real-life accounts of true stories of what actually happened.
Christine says
One of my relatives told me about thredUP because we both like nice clothes. She buys and sells, but I was more interested in the selling aspect.
I decided to do an experiment; I see others have done that as well. The thought of paying to get back the clothes they decline was not appealing to me. I’m trying to declutter, and figured my closet was a good place to start. I ordered a clean out kit, and sent in some clothes I didn’t want back; things I knew I could live without. I only made a few dollars, but decided it was worth it just to have that stuff out of my home. Then I sent some clothes from better brands (again, things I could live without), and figured if thredUP is paying the shipping, I”m going to get that bag chock-full.
So far, I”ve sent at least seven bags to thredUP, and have received nearly $200.00 (total). It takes time; and yes, the payout is not everyone’s cup of tea, BUT…I know if I had a garage sale with these same clothes, people would look at me with a straight face and offer to buy my daughter’s Land’s End summer dress, or bought-but-never-worn Gymboree skort for 25 cents – say what?? So yes, I’ll take the $1.40 from thredUP. Everyone has to make their own decision, and do their homework, but for me, the clothes are out of my house, and thredUP is doing the legwork. Again, I’d say start with things you don’t want anymore. The truth of the matter is, in all of those bags, I haven’t missed a single item of clothing, and neither has my family. You might be pleasantly surprised; as you and your family purge your closets, you may find some clothes you really love and can’t wait to wear.
I agree with the author; yes, thredUP is very brand conscious. Well, ok. With all the thrift stores, charity shops, outlets, and websites that offer clothes for less, I can understand why the payout is what it is. I’m utilizing the site only to sell and edit my family’s wardrobe. If you really want more money for your higher end clothes, a consignment store or other online site might be a better option. But you need to decide if you want to sell, store, photograph, describe, wait, pack, post, and ship. It sounds like I’m one of the few people who’s had a good experience with thredUP thus far; I hope it continues.
Kimberly Button says
Christine, Very well said. I think most people’s expectation with selling their clothes is that they will actually make money, and more than just a few pennies. It’s an expectation that you should be paid a fair price for something of value. However, look at any online selling group and you’ll quickly find out that no one wants to pay you decent money for used items, even if they are of great quality. Which is a shame, and a hard learning lesson when you think you’ll be able to recoup some cost of investment, whether clothes or furniture.
What it comes down to, is, are you willing to use convenience to get rid of clothes (without seeing what your community donation options are)? If donating and decluttering are your paramount concerns, then how you donate is up to you and your values. If you want to make money, then that is a different guideline to consider!
Andy says
Thanks for the info, saw commercials, thought of shopping, but will NOT!!!, after reading how horrible they’ve been to you all! As an FYI for everyone, Habitat For Humanity accepts like everything!, clothes, shoes, books, furniture, jewelry, electronics, dishes, household goods, etc. etc. etc. AND! they will then give you a receipt if you want it, that you can use to file with your taxes, for a charitable donation tax deduction that YOU fill in the $ amount you think is the value of donated items. Obviously it has to be reasonable, you can’t put $1500 for grammas old worm out slippers, lol. But it’s a better option, and they then sell the stuff in their stores and online and use the money to rebuild homes and lives!
Kimberly Button says
Yes, there are so many places to donate so many things in your own community! No one should ever have to feel that they have no options where they live. So many people can benefit from the things and clothes that we no longer need or want.
Lynn says
Hi,
I totally agree with you not using ThredUP again to sell or consign your clothing. I will NEVER use ThredUP again to sell it consign my clothing. I was very disappointed in the amount I received for my items. It’s terrible that they’re getting the majority of the profit from your items. I sent in items brand name like: Jcrew, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Zara, Gap and etc…more than 50 pieces and received $25.00. My items were in prestine condition. More sellers and consigners need to know about the truth about guidelines and they way their payout works…I will not be telling family and friends about the website. This company needs to remove from online selling and receiving clothing. No one needs to selling or consign with the company, EVER! Such a rip off!
A Disappointed seller!
Lynn
Kimberly Button says
Lynn, So sad that you only got $25 for 50 pieces. Yes, I know how difficult it can be to take great care of your clothes and think they are worth something valuable. Thank you for sharing your personal story.
Emma says
I also wish I would have read this before trying out thredUp. I get that recycling clothes is good for the environment, and I’m all for that, but I agree with the writer and other comments. Someone is making money on this and it ain’t me! I made $9.75 for a Longchamp bag and Frye heels, both in good condition. Not worth it. I also agree with the writer and comments, just donate your clothes to a local nonprofit bc this will only make you feel ripped off.
Kimberly Button says
Thank you, Emma, for sharing your story! I’m so passionate about donating to local nonprofits to help those in need. Glad you want to do good with your donations too!
Pamela Wolf says
I wanted to make sure I wasn’t the only one with the pretty rough experience. I sent int well over 1500 worth of clothing and just received $16. I get they’re a business and there’s overhead but this seemed extreme. As many others have mentioned, I would’ve rather donated to someone in need than a bargain shopping middle class mom.
Kimberly Button says
Pamela, Ugh! I wish you had read these stories from others, too! Wow, you sent in a lot of clothes! Sorry you only got $16 for your big bag.