Where to Source Products to Sell on Whatnot

Where to Source Products to Sell on Whatnot
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The rapid growth of live-streaming commerce platforms like Whatnot has opened up exciting opportunities for resellers to connect with niche audiences and sell unique products in real-time. However, success on Whatnot depends heavily on one key factor: having the right products to sell. Whether you’re looking to flip collectibles, dive into vintage fashion, or tap into other trending markets, sourcing the right inventory is essential.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best strategies and places to source products that can thrive on Whatnot, with actionable tips to help you stand out in a competitive marketplace.

Understanding Whatnot’s Marketplace

Before diving into sourcing, it’s crucial to understand the types of products that perform well on Whatnot. This platform caters to niche communities, with popular categories including:

  • Collectibles: Trading cards (Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering), Funko Pops, sports memorabilia, comics, and more.
  • Apparel: Vintage and thrift clothing, streetwear, and brand-name items.
  • Toys and Games: Retro video games, action figures, and LEGO sets.
  • Other Niche Markets: Sneakers, art prints, accessories, and even beauty products.

By identifying a niche you’re passionate about or one that aligns with current trends, you’ll be better equipped to source products that resonate with your audience.

1. Thrift Stores and Secondhand Shops

Thrift Stores and Secondhand Shops

Thrift stores and secondhand shops are treasure troves for finding unique items at a fraction of their retail value. Many sellers on Whatnot source vintage clothing, retro toys, and rare collectibles from these locations.

Tips for Success:

  • Visit Frequently: Inventory at thrift stores changes daily. Frequent visits can help you snag valuable items before others do.
  • Research Brands and Trends: Familiarize yourself with popular vintage brands, collectible items, and popular styles in your niche.
  • Shop Off-Peak Hours: Avoid crowded times to get first dibs on new inventory and shop without distractions.
  • Look for Discounts: Many thrift stores offer discount days or loyalty programs that can further reduce costs.
  • Negotiate Prices: Some secondhand stores are open to negotiating, especially if you’re buying in bulk.

Pro Tip: Build relationships with store employees—they may tip you off when new stock arrives or set aside items you’re interested in.

2. Consignment Shops

Consignment shops offer higher quality items compared to thrift stores, making them ideal for Whatnot sellers who focus on premium products.

Tips for Success:

  • Build Relationships: Establishing a rapport with shop owners can lead to early access to new inventory or bulk discounts.
  • Focus on Brand Names: Designer clothing, handbags, and accessories from consignment shops usually get high prices on Whatnot.
  • Research Pricing: Be aware of the resale value of specific brands or items to ensure a strong profit margin.

Pro Tip: Consignment shops may have seasonal sales, so plan your visits to coincide with markdown periods.

3. Estate Sales and Garage Sales

Estate Sales and Garage Sales

Estate sales and garage sales are ideal for sourcing rare and valuable items like antiques, vintage toys, and household goods. Sellers are often looking to clear out items quickly, which can lead to great deals.

Tips for Success:

  • Search Online: Use platforms like EstateSales.net, EstateSales.org, or GarageSalesFinder.com to find local sales in your area.
  • Arrive Early: Being first in line gives you access to the best items before they’re picked over.
  • Bundle Items: Offer to buy multiple items at once to negotiate a lower price.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for hidden gems like first-edition books, rare trading cards, or designer clothing that may have been overlooked by the seller.

4. Wholesale Suppliers

If you’re looking to scale your Whatnot business, sourcing from wholesale suppliers can be a game-changer. Buying in bulk allows you to secure products at a lower cost per unit, boosting your profit margins.

Where to Find Wholesale Suppliers:

  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like Alibaba, Faire, Tundra, and Ghost connect you with suppliers offering wholesale prices.
  • Local Wholesale Markets: Many cities have wholesale districts where you can purchase items in bulk.
  • Industry Trade Shows: Attend trade shows in your niche to discover new products and build relationships with suppliers.

Tips for Success:

  • Start Small: Test a few products before committing to a large order to ensure they perform well with your audience.
  • Check Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs): Make sure the supplier’s MOQ aligns with your budget and storage capabilities.
  • Verify Authenticity: Especially for branded items, confirm that the supplier is legitimate to avoid counterfeit goods.

5. Online Marketplaces

Online Marketplaces

Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Mercari are excellent for sourcing products to resell. You can often find undervalued items that can be flipped for a profit.

Tips for Success:

  • Use Alerts: Set up keyword alerts for specific products or brands to get notified when new listings are posted.
  • Negotiate: Many sellers are willing to accept offers, especially if items have been listed for a while.
  • Check Local Listings: Look for items listed as “pickup only” in your area—they often have less competition.

Pro Tip: Focus on auctions with low starting bids and end times during off-hours (e.g., late at night) for better deals.

6. Liquidation and Closeout Sales

Liquidation sales are an excellent way to source new products at deeply discounted prices. Retailers often sell excess inventory or returned items to make room for new stock.

Where to Find Liquidation Deals:

  • Liquidation Websites: Sites like Liquidation.com, B-Stock, and DirectLiquidation.com offer pallets of goods at wholesale prices.
  • Retailer Programs: Major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon have programs for selling overstock or returned items.
  • Local Liquidation Warehouses: Check if there are liquidation warehouses in your area for in-person deals.

Tips for Success:

  • Understand the Condition: Items may range from brand-new to slightly damaged. Always review the condition and return policies before purchasing.
  • Start Small: Begin with smaller lots to minimize risk until you’re familiar with the process.

7. Flea Markets and Swap Meets

Flea Markets and Swap Meets

Flea markets and swap meets are great for sourcing unique and hard-to-find items. These venues often have a mix of collectibles, vintage goods, and bargain-priced products.

Tips for Success:

  • Bring Cash: Cash gives you more bargaining power with vendors.
  • Inspect Items Carefully: Double-check the condition and authenticity of items before purchasing.
  • Build Relationships: Regularly attending flea markets and getting to know vendors can lead to better deals and insider tips.

8. Your Own Collection

If you’re just starting out, consider selling items from your personal collection. Many Whatnot sellers begin by selling items they already own, such as vintage clothing, collectibles, or unused electronics.

Tips for Success:

  • Be Transparent: Clearly disclose the condition of items to maintain trust with buyers.
  • Use Proceeds to Reinvest: Use profits from selling your collection to fund new inventory.

Pro Tip: Selling your own collection not only helps you declutter but also gives you valuable experience with the Whatnot selling process.

9. Networking with Other Sellers

Networking with Other Sellers

Collaborating with other resellers can be a valuable sourcing strategy. Sellers who specialize in different niches may be willing to trade, sell, or share sourcing tips.

How to Network:

  • Join Whatnot Communities: Participate in live streams, forums, or social media groups to connect with other sellers.
  • Build Partnerships: Establish relationships with suppliers or local businesses that complement your niche.
  • Attend Meetups: Look for reselling meetups or conventions in your area to expand your network.

10. Crowdsourcing Leads from Buyers

Engage with your Whatnot audience to uncover sourcing opportunities. Buyers often have insights into what’s trending and where to find it.

Tips for Success:

  • Ask for Feedback: Poll your audience during live streams about what they’d like to see in future sales.
  • Offer Finder’s Fees: Reward buyers who refer you to new inventory sources or help you secure rare items.

Additional Tips for Successful Sourcing for Whatnot

  • Follow Social Media Trends: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are gold mines for identifying trending products and sourcing tips. Search hashtags like #resellertip or #whatnotseller to stay informed.
  • Leverage Local Resources: Community bulletin boards, Craigslist, and Facebook groups often advertise local sales or free items.
  • Invest in Tools: Inventory management tools, sourcing apps, and price comparison software can help streamline your sourcing process.
  • Stay Organized: Track your sourcing expenses, potential profits, and inventory turnover to identify which sourcing methods work best for you.

Smart Sourcing Tips for Whatnot

Sourcing the right products is the foundation of success on Whatnot. By combining multiple strategies—thrifting, attending estate sales, leveraging wholesale suppliers, and more—you can build a diverse inventory that resonates with your audience. With persistence and smart sourcing, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful reselling business on Whatnot.

Looking for more tips to grow your resale business? Subscribe to the Resale Pro newsletter! Our weekly emails are packed with actionable advice, sourcing secrets, and platform-specific strategies to help you succeed on Whatnot.

Picture of Sachit Sachdev
Sachit Sachdev
Meet Sachit, a passionate investor actively involved in the technology and reselling industry with expertise in buying, selling, and liquidating goods online.
Picture of Sachit Sachdev
Sachit Sachdev
Meet Sachit, a passionate investor actively involved in the technology and reselling industry with expertise in buying, selling, and liquidating goods online.

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