Here's a statistic that might surprise you: the global second-hand goods market is expected to reach a staggering $479 billion in 2025. That's not just a number—it's a testament to how dramatically our shopping habits are changing. If you're like most Americans trying to stretch your dollar further while being more environmentally conscious, you're probably wondering how to tap into this massive marketplace of deals.

The good news? Finding incredible second-hand bargains has never been easier, thanks to a growing ecosystem of user-friendly apps that connect buyers and sellers nationwide. Whether you're hunting for designer clothes at a fraction of retail price, furniture for your new apartment, or electronics that won't break the bank, there's likely an app that's perfect for your needs.

Let me walk you through the five best apps that can transform you from a casual browser into a savvy second-hand shopper, along with insider tips to help you score the deals you've been dreaming of.

Why Second-Hand Shopping Is Having Its Moment

Before diving into the apps, let's talk about why thrifting has exploded in popularity. The numbers tell a compelling story: U.S. online apparel resale alone surged in 2024 and is projected to hit $40 billion by 2029. That's not just about saving money (though that's a big part of it)—over half of Americans say they'll buy secondhand if tariffs raise new-goods prices.

But it's not all about economics. Younger shoppers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are driving this trend with sustainability in mind. They're planning to spend nearly half of their apparel budget on secondhand items, making thrift shopping a lifestyle choice rather than just a budget necessity.

The Top 5 Apps for Finding Second-Hand Deals

1. Facebook Marketplace: The Social Shopping Giant

Facebook Marketplace feels like shopping in your neighborhood, but with the convenience of browsing from your couch. Since it's built right into Facebook, you don't need to download a separate app or create another account—you're probably already set up.

What makes Facebook Marketplace particularly appealing is the trust factor. You can check out a buyer's or seller's Facebook profile before making a deal, which gives you a sense of who you're dealing with. The platform handles both local meetups and nationwide shipping, so you're not limited to what's available in your immediate area.

Pros I've noticed:

  • Massive user base means tons of listings
  • No separate signup required
  • Easy listing process—just upload photos
  • Built-in rating system for added security
  • Both local and shipping options available

Cons to watch out for:

  • Can feel cluttered due to the open nature
  • Occasional scams (always verify and meet in public)
  • Quality of listings varies significantly

2. OfferUp: The Negotiator's Paradise

OfferUp strikes a nice balance between local and national sales. What sets it apart is its negotiation-friendly environment—buyers can make offers on almost any listing, which often leads to better deals than asking price.

The app lets you choose between "Local" and "National" when posting, and for sellers, there's an optional "Promote" feature that boosts your listing's visibility for a small fee. This actually works in buyers' favor too, since promoted listings often mean sellers are motivated to move items quickly.

Pros that stand out:

  • Broad categories from electronics to furniture
  • Built-in chat system for easy communication
  • Flexible local pickup or shipping options
  • Offer system encourages negotiation

Cons to consider:

  • Response quality can be inconsistent
  • Promoted listings create a two-tier system
  • Some geographic areas have limited inventory

3. Mercari: The Shipping-Made-Simple Solution

If you prefer the convenience of online shopping without the hassle of meeting strangers, Mercari is your best bet. Everything ships through their partnership with UPS using prepaid labels, which eliminates the awkwardness of coordinating meetups.

The app makes listing incredibly easy—you can scan barcodes or simply upload images. However, keep in mind that Mercari takes a 10% commission plus payment processing fees on each sale, which can affect pricing.

Pros that make it appealing:

  • No face-to-face meetings required
  • Simple listing process with barcode scanning
  • Wide variety of categories
  • UPS partnership handles all shipping logistics

Cons to factor in:

  • Fees can add up (10% plus payment processing)
  • Shipping time means no instant gratification
  • Less room for negotiation compared to local apps

4. Poshmark: The Fashion Lover's Paradise

For fashion-focused shoppers, Poshmark is in a league of its own. The platform specializes in name-brand apparel, shoes, and accessories, with a community that's passionate about style and deals.

What's particularly clever about Poshmark is their bundle feature—sellers can offer discounts when you buy multiple items, which encourages larger purchases and better per-item deals. For luxury items, they even provide authentication services, so you can shop high-end brands with confidence.

Pros for fashion enthusiasts:

  • Large community of fashion-savvy sellers
  • Bundle discounts for multiple purchases
  • Authentication for luxury items
  • Prepaid shipping labels included

Cons to keep in mind:

  • High commission rates (20% on sales over $15)
  • Limited to clothing and accessories only
  • Can be competitive for popular items

5. eBay: The Everything Store

eBay might seem old-school, but don't underestimate this marketplace veteran. Through their mobile app, you can access both auction-style listings and "Buy It Now" fixed prices, often with "Make Offer" options for negotiation.

The sheer variety on eBay is unmatched—from vintage collectibles to everyday household items. The global reach means you'll find items that might not be available locally, though this also means more competition.

Pros of the classic:

  • Huge global audience and inventory
  • Both auction and fixed-price options
  • Comprehensive seller feedback system
  • Discounted shipping labels for sellers (often passed to buyers)

Cons to navigate:

  • Can be overwhelming due to massive selection
  • Fees apply to each sale
  • Stiff competition on popular items
  • Auctions are less common now in the U.S.

Expert Tips for Scoring the Best Deals

After exploring these platforms extensively, here are my top strategies for maximizing your second-hand shopping success:

Safety First: Always check seller ratings and use in-app payment systems when available. For local meetups, stick to public places—many apps now suggest safe meeting spots specifically for this purpose.

Timing Matters: Monitor your favorite categories regularly. The best deals often go fast, especially on popular items like electronics and designer clothing.

Don't Be Afraid to Make Offers: Especially on OfferUp and eBay, sellers often price items with negotiation in mind. A polite offer that's 10-20% below asking price is usually reasonable.

Bundle When Possible: On platforms like Poshmark, buying multiple items from the same seller often unlocks significant discounts and saves on shipping.

Read Descriptions Carefully: Pay attention to condition details, measurements, and return policies. When in doubt, ask questions before buying.

The Future of Second-Hand Shopping

The trend toward second-hand shopping shows no signs of slowing down. With inflation concerns and growing environmental awareness, more Americans are discovering that buying used doesn't mean compromising on quality—it means being smarter with your money.

The apps I've covered represent the best of what's currently available, each with its own strengths depending on what you're shopping for. Whether you're furnishing your first apartment, updating your wardrobe, or hunting for that perfect vintage find, there's an app that can help you score amazing deals.

Ready to Start Your Second-Hand Shopping Journey?

The world of second-hand deals is vast and full of opportunities—you just need to know where to look. Start with one or two of these apps that match your shopping style, and don't be discouraged if you don't find the perfect item right away. Like any skill, becoming a savvy second-hand shopper takes practice.

Sources: The Business Research Company, ThredUp Newsroom, Visa USA, WTOP