Ever thought about starting a side hustle that’s fun, involves fashion, and can actually make you some serious cash? Say hello to dropshipping on Depop! If you love clothes, styling, and smart business moves, this could be your dream gig. But here’s the trick—you want to do it legally and profitably. We’ll break it down step-by-step and keep it super simple and super fun.
What Is Dropshipping?
Let’s start with the basics. Dropshipping means you sell a product without keeping it in stock. You list the item online, someone buys it, and then you order it from a supplier who ships it directly to the buyer. That’s it. No inventory. No shipping hassles. Just pure hustle.
Can You Dropship on Depop?
Yes! But it’s not officially supported by Depop’s policies. So, if you want to dropship on Depop legally and ethically, you have to be super transparent and careful.
Let’s go over the golden rules first:
- Be transparent with your buyers.
- Don’t use copyrighted photos from suppliers.
- Include all shipping details upfront.
- Only work with reliable suppliers.
- Offer great customer service—always.
Stick to these, and you’ll stay out of trouble and ahead of the game.
Step-by-Step: How to Dropship on Depop
Step 1: Choose Your Niche
Depop is fashion-forward. It’s not Amazon. So think trendy, vintage, aesthetic. Your niche has to fit the platform. For example:
- Y2K outfits
- Grunge & streetwear
- Sustainable fashion
- Upcycled vintage finds
Pick something you’re interested in. That’ll make it way more fun (and easier) to post and sell.
Step 2: Find a Reliable Supplier
You can’t dropship without a supplier. So where do you find good ones?
- AliExpress
- CJ Dropshipping
- Spocket
- Zendrop
The key here is to test samples before listing. Buy the item yourself first. You want to make sure it looks exactly like the photos, feels good, and ships fast.
Step 3: Create a Killer Depop Shop
Your Depop profile is your storefront. Make it pop. Here’s how:
- Use a catchy username.
- Write a fun, honest bio. Include shipping times!
- Add a logo or clear profile pic.
- List consistent sizing info in your items.
Oh, and always write your own product descriptions. Don’t copy from websites. Use your own style and voice!
Step 4: Upload Product Listings
Here’s where things get real legal. DO 👏 NOT 👏 use the supplier’s photos. Take your own or order samples and model them yourself. People love real pics—they sell better too!
In your descriptions, be honest about shipping times and your process. Say something like:
“Ships in 1–2 weeks. Ethically sourced from international partners. Message me for size help!”
Honesty builds trust. Trust = sales.
Step 5: Set Your Prices (and Profit)
This is where the money happens! When pricing your items, remember:
- Include what you pay the supplier.
- Add shipping costs (if any).
- Include Depop’s 10% fee.
- Add your profit margin—aim for at least 30–50%.
So if the item costs $10 from your supplier, and shipping is another $5, then $15 is your base.
Add 10% for Depop = $16.5. Now tack on your margin. Selling for $25–$30 is fair and profitable.
Step 6: Process Orders Quickly
Once you get a sale, don’t waste time. Go to your supplier’s site, and order the item with your customer’s shipping info.
Communicate every step of the way:
- Confirm the order.
- Send tracking details (if available).
- Let them know it’s in progress.
Communication = happy buyers = good reviews.
Step 7: Keep Track of Everything
Use a spreadsheet or simple tool to track profits, costs, shipping dates, and reviews. Don’t just wing it!
Tips to Maximize Profits
1. Bundle deals!
Offer discounts for buying multiple items. People love deals.
2. Run flash sales
Do 24-hour promos to boost traffic.
3. Respond fast
Depop shows response times. Be quick—it builds trust!
4. Use hashtags smartly
Use keywords that match your brand. Examples:
- #Y2Kstyle
- #vintagelooks
- #aestheticwear
- #grungegirl
5. Encourage reviews and reposts
Happy buyers = free marketing. Ask them to tag or leave comments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bad photos: Always use your own visuals. Blurry or copied images kill trust.
- Not disclosing dropshipping: If your packages come with foreign labels or take weeks, say so in advance.
- Slow replies: Time is money! Be responsive or risk bad reviews.
- No clear return policy: State your return/refund stance in your bio.
Legal Stuff to Know
Dropshipping is legal, but each platform (yes, even Depop) has its own terms. Depop prefers sellers to handle and ship their own inventory. That doesn’t mean you can’t dropship—it means you need to be transparent.
Include the following in your bio to stay clear:
“Some items are dispatched by partners I work with globally. Please allow extra shipping time (1–2 weeks).”
Also, never lie about where your items are located. If it’s coming from overseas, say that.
As for business licenses and taxes, check your local laws. In some countries or U.S. states, you may need to register a business if you’re making consistent profits.
Can You Really Make Big Money?
Yes! Some Depop dropshippers make hundreds or even thousands per month. But they treat it like a real business. They commit to customer service. They focus on branding. They’re consistent.
If you post cool stuff that fits Depop’s vibe and keep buyers happy, then the sky’s the limit 💸
Final Thoughts
Dropshipping on Depop is totally doable—even if it’s not officially encouraged. But as long as you stay legal, honest, and on-brand, you’ve got nothing to worry about.
Take time to create listings that connect, invest in your aesthetic, and talk to your buyers like real people. That’s what wins on Depop. That—and knowing how to work the fashion hustle like a pro.
So grab your laptop, pick your niche, and start styling your online empire. You’ve got this!