Recently, a visit to the post office highlighted the evolving nature of my online sales, particularly through Poshmark. Among the seven packages I was sending off, only one item could be defined as “high quality.” The remainder consisted of six inexpensive pieces sourced from fast-fashion retailers like Shein and Temu, which I had previously anticipated wouldn’t sell well at all. Why? Because, for similar prices, consumers could purchase brand new items directly from those stores.

However, the shift in the United States’ tariff regulations (notably, the abolishment of the de minimus exemption) has compelled consumers to reconsider their shopping habits. This change has made it increasingly challenging to access everything from everyday items to fashionable attire without facing added costs, especially for bigger-ticket products like automobiles and home appliances that incorporate foreign parts.

Amidst this backdrop of uncertainty, resale platforms appear to be thriving. My Poshmark transactions have surged compared to the month preceding the new tariffs, with an uptick in sales for basic, low-cost items. To explore whether this personal trend reflects a broader shift, I consulted a few experts.

Current Climate for Resale Apps Following Tariff Changes

The implementation of tariffs has unfolded in a confusing manner. Predicting when price hikes on imported electronics, vehicles, and other products will occur remains tricky. One thing is palpable—goods from China are destined to become significantly more expensive. This includes the multitude of items shipped from retailers such as Shein and Temu, renowned for their constant addition of new styles at remarkably low prices.

When the announcement of tariffs first surfaced, many consumers began to speculate about what they should stock up on, be it affordable apparel or larger investments like smartphones. Admittedly, while shopping from Shein, I also recognized the environmental drawbacks of opting for such mass-produced items. Nevertheless, I would list these garments on resale platforms after their use. Initially, selling a secondhand dress or workout outfit purchased cheaply seemed implausible, yet the unexpected demand for these items has emerged.

In recent weeks, sales of well-known brands like Adidas and Gucci have persisted, though those transactions are mostly sporadic. In stark contrast, the volume of Shein resales I conducted within the past month greatly exceeded those sales. I’ve also successfully sold some electronics—including an Apple Watch and a micro-current facial device—that had been listed for months. Is it possible these sales are linked to tariff concerns and rising apprehensions about future pricing?

My Shein sales this month compared to everything else
Credit: Lindsey Ellefson

My observations align with insights shared by a Poshmark spokesperson, who confirmed an influx in sales of international items amid fears of impending price surges due to tariffs. Even with rising costs, the demand for trendy, budget-friendly fashion persists, as consumers find value in purchasing secondhand goods to remain stylish while promoting sustainability.

Additionally, even established brands that have announced price increases related to tariffs are witnessing a surge in resale. Sales of Columbia button-down shirts increased by 61% from the previous month, while Hermès sandals saw a rise of 27%. Buying pre-owned Hermès is one thing—$840 for luxury sandals isn’t feasible for many—but Columbia shirts typically found in discount stores are now also becoming sought after as people brace for higher prices due to tariffs.

Sales of consumer electronics are on the rise as well, with Poshmark noting a 22% uptick in the resale of Sony products week-over-week, while Apple items experienced a 21% growth. The landscape is rapidly shifting.

What Tariffs Mean for Resale Shoppers

As both a seller and a shopper on resale platforms, the prevailing tariff uncertainties have influenced how purchases are approached. Heightened awareness has led to more thoughtful shopping habits. The leisurewear brand SET Active has caught my attention, prompting me to start exploring Poshmark and Depop for potential gems before prices potentially escalate. Buying pre-owned isn’t just an economical choice; it aligns with sustainability values.

Abandoning Shein has been straightforward, though my Poshmark clientele appears less inclined to turn away from fast fashion, even when pre-owned.

The trend is reflected in broader consumer behavior, with financial experts noticing a similar shift. According to Aaron Razon from Couponsnake, consumers are increasingly hunting for budget-friendly alternatives amidst rising import costs, especially as domestic products struggle to match the style and variety offered by imports. This situation has fueled interest in resale platforms.

International business attorney Bill London highlights that in addition to heightening prices, tariffs may cause shipping delays, further driving demand for secondhand apparel.

Just six months ago, a themed dress could be ordered from Shein for a mere $20, with the expectation of one-time wear. Today, that price may climb to $30 or more, compounded by delivery delays. The convenience once linked to low-cost fast fashion is diminishing, making purchasing from a local seller—who is reselling a previously worn item—far more appealing.

Beyond Just Fast Fashion

The uplift isn’t exclusive to fast-fashion retailers. As noted by Poshmark, luxury goods are also experiencing increased resale activity. In challenging economic circumstances, purchasing pre-owned luxury items remains financially savvy.

Vestiaire Collective’s representative pointed out that U.S. consumers are increasingly aware of the duties added at checkout when sourcing from Europe or Asia, prompting the platform to strengthen its presence stateside. Their acquisition of Tradesey in 2022 has broadened their range for American shoppers and emphasized real-time marketing insights to make the buying experience seamless and more efficient.

Observing an uptick in inquiries for workout gear has been notable, as the rising costs of items from premium brands like Lululemon can dissuade potential purchasers. With prices on alternatives like Shein now more than what they’re worth, resale becomes an ideal option for those needing versatile additions to their wardrobe.

Implications for Resellers

It’s both surprising and enlightening to recognize that those who may have previously bought their summer apparel from Shein are now turning to resale channels. Anyone contemplating selling unwanted clothing or household items should seize the moment; previously mundane items now carry potential value. Initially, inexpensive goods were merely a way to inflate listings to attract buyers for high-ticket items, but today those lower-end pieces are taking off.

As London remarks, “Tariffs have fundamentally changed how consumers approach shopping.” While it remains early in the ongoing tariff changes, surveys indicate that many are shifting towards resale to counteract rising costs.

ThredUp indicates that 59% of customers expressed interest in secondhand buys as prices rise, with Millennials and Gen Z anticipating a spending increase of nearly half their clothing budget on these alternative options.

Smartly reports similarly, with 50% of respondents considering resale when confronted with heightened costs. For both amateurs and veterans in the resale industry, this presents an opportunity for quick sales. Amidst skyrocketing demand for both essential and non-essential items, selling pre-owned goods can yield additional income.

Sales have notably increased month-over-month since the new tariff regulations began
Credit: Lindsey Ellefson

Years of experience in the resale market have demonstrated consistent demand for unique finds. Although the recent surge is noteworthy, interest existed prior to tariff implementation. For newcomers to resale, there is no reason to fear a decline in demand—reselling remains a steady avenue for supplementary income. Utilizing tools like Vendoo can aid in broadening reach across various platforms.

Some forecasts suggest that this enthusiasm might temper soon. As London noted, “The longevity of this trend is contingent on various factors, including the duration of tariffs and consumer responses to changing prices.” Demand is likely to continue growing if tariffs persist, possibly shifting focus toward higher-quality or sustainable options as consumer tastes evolve.

Razon anticipates that while platforms will flourish, the appeal of lower-quality, fast-fashion offerings may diminish. “Resale markets have benefited from tariff implications, especially as shoppers look for more affordable alternatives. Eventually, as consumers adapt, they might gravitate towards better-quality options,” he stated.

This implies it’s prudent to list fast-fashion items presently while enthusiasm lasts. Moreover, awareness regarding potential price adjustments on more traditional brands is essential. Assessing one’s wardrobe to identify valuable pieces becomes increasingly important, as many mainstream brands produce items internationally.

Poshmark’s founder highlights that as the landscape changes, secondhand marketplaces will become indispensable resources for cost-conscious American consumers who seek sustainability while stimulating the domestic economy.

Ultimately, engaging in resale is akin to supporting American commerce, regardless of the origin of the goods.