Depop for beginners: how to get started step by step

By FastBuySale Newsroom · 9 Nov 2026 · 10m ago

Why sellers choose Depop

Depop has a strong following among younger shoppers in the UK who love vintage, streetwear and unique pieces. It works like a social app as well as a marketplace, with profiles, follows and likes, so presentation matters more than on some other selling apps. For beginners, it is an accessible way to clear a wardrobe or test a small reselling idea. This step-by-step guide explains how to get started. Fees and features change, so check the help centre for current details.

Step 1: download the app and sign up

Download Depop and sign up with an email address. Choose a username that fits the style of what you will sell and is easy to remember. Many sellers use a shop-style name rather than their full name, which keeps personal details private.

Step 2: build a trustworthy profile

Add a clear profile photo or logo and a short bio describing what you sell, such as vintage sportswear or y2k accessories, and your posting days. Buyers check profiles before buying from new sellers.

Step 3: set up payments

Go to payment settings and complete identity verification and bank details before your first sale. This prevents delays when money is due.

Step 4: choose what to sell first

Start with items that suit Depop's audience: branded, vintage, unusual or trend-led pieces in good condition. Everyday basics can sell, but may move more slowly.

Step 5: prepare items

Wash, steam and lint-roll clothes. Check for marks, missing buttons or damage. Clean shoes and bags.

Step 6: photograph with style

Depop is visual. Use daylight, a clean background and include a photo showing the item worn or styled, plus close-ups of labels, details and flaws. Square images display best in the feed. Avoid heavy filters.

Step 7: write a clear description

Start with the brand and item, then size, measurements, condition, material and any flaws. Mention styling ideas or era for vintage pieces. Use relevant tags that buyers search for, without spamming unrelated brand names.

Step 8: fill in item details

Choose category, brand, size, condition, colour and style. These power search filters, so accurate details help buyers find your item.

Step 9: price your items

Search similar items and check those that have sold. Consider condition, brand and trend. Leave a little room for offers.

Worked example: pricing vintage

Kai has a 1990s sports jacket. Similar jackets have sold for 35 to 45 pounds. He lists at 42 pounds and receives an offer of 36 pounds. He counters at 39 pounds, which the buyer accepts. Under the UK model for standard listings, Kai receives 39 pounds and the buyer pays postage and fees on top. If he had boosted the listing with an 8 percent fee on 39 pounds, he would pay 3.12 pounds. The percentage calculator on this site helps check fees.

Step 10: choose shipping

Choose Depop's integrated shipping for prepaid labels or set your own postage if shipping yourself. Select the right parcel size.

Step 11: answer messages and offers

Reply quickly and politely. Accept, decline or counter offers. Offer bundle discounts to encourage multiple purchases.

Step 12: post quickly

Pack items neatly and post within the timeframe expected. Keep proof of postage and tracking.

Step 13: collect reviews

Good reviews build trust. Fast posting, careful packing and a short thank-you message help.

Step 14: buy safely

Pay only through the app, check seller reviews and report problems promptly.

Step 15: list regularly

Depop's feed and search favour fresh listings, and followers see new items you post. Listing a few items several times a week tends to keep your shop more visible than uploading everything at once and then going quiet for a month. Many sellers set aside an evening to photograph a batch of items, then publish a few each day. Consistency also signals to buyers that your shop is active and that you are likely to post quickly.

Step 16: refresh older listings

If an item has not sold after a few weeks, review it. Retake the main photo in better light or styled differently, add measurements if missing, check the tags and consider a small price drop. Buyers who liked the item may be notified when the price changes. Some sellers also delete and relist items, but check the current rules and avoid creating duplicate listings, which can be treated as spam.

Step 17: understand boosting

Boosted listings show items to more potential buyers, with a fee charged only if a boosted item sells within a set period. Boosting can help higher-value items move faster, but it reduces what you receive. Test it on a few items and compare results before using it widely.

Step 18: build a consistent style

Shops with a clear theme, such as 1990s sportswear, cottagecore dresses or vintage denim, attract followers who return for new drops. Use consistent photo backgrounds and lighting, so your shop looks cohesive when buyers scroll through it. This matters more on Depop than on many other selling apps because buyers often browse by shop.

Step 19: handle returns and disputes calmly

Private sellers can set their own returns policy, but buyers may still raise an issue if an item is significantly not as described. If a buyer contacts you about a problem, ask for photos, respond politely and follow the help centre process. Clear photos and descriptions in your listing are your best evidence.

Step 20: pack with care

Fold items neatly, use clean packaging and protect delicate pieces with tissue or bubble wrap. Some sellers add a small thank-you note or sticker, which buyers often mention in reviews. Weigh parcels so you choose the right size and avoid extra charges.

Step 21: track your sales

Keep a simple record of what you sell, the sale price, postage and any fees. If you begin buying items to resell, also record what you paid. This shows your real profit and helps if HMRC asks about your selling.

Step 22: grow steadily

Once you are comfortable, you might source vintage items from charity shops, car boot sales or kilo sales. Start small, learn which brands and styles sell in your shop, and reinvest gradually rather than buying large amounts of stock at once.

Common beginner mistakes

Dark or cluttered photos, missing measurements, overpricing, slow replies, late posting and agreeing to deals outside the app are the most common mistakes new sellers make.

Step 23: use social features

Depop works partly like a social network. Follow shops whose style you like, and some may follow you back. Share your listings or shop link on your own social channels if you are comfortable, and let friends know when you add a new batch. Likes and follows help your items appear to more people, and repeat buyers often come from followers who enjoy your style.

Step 24: know what not to sell

Depop prohibits counterfeit goods, and listings using brand names for items that are not genuine can be removed. Some categories, such as used cosmetics, weapons and certain other items, are restricted. Check the prohibited items list in the help centre before listing anything unusual, and keep receipts or proof of authenticity for designer pieces.

Step 25: plan for seasons and trends

Trends move fast on Depop. Watch what is popular in the explore section and on social media, but avoid buying lots of stock to chase a trend that may fade quickly. List seasonal items, such as coats or festival outfits, a few weeks before demand peaks.

Step 26: protect your account

Turn on two-step verification, use a unique password and keep your email account secure, because access to your email can be used to reset your Depop password. Never share login codes with anyone, including people claiming to work for Depop. Check your payment settings occasionally to make sure your bank details have not been changed.

Step 27: set posting days

Tell buyers in your bio which days you post, such as Tuesdays and Fridays, so expectations are clear and you can batch trips to the drop-off point.

Stay safe

Never accept payment outside the app or click links in messages claiming to be from Depop.

Tax note

Selling your own belongings is usually not trading. Platforms report some seller data to HMRC when thresholds are passed.

Reader questions

Questions about selling online? Send them through the Ask page on this site.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not tax advice. Rules change; check the official help centre.

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