How to start selling on Whatnot

Selling on Whatnot lets you share your items with shoppers, answer questions in real time, and connect with people who love the same things you do.

Whether you're new to selling or already sell elsewhere, this guide walks you through getting started, from creating an account to getting paid after your first show.

How selling works

During a live show, you can showcase your items, describe their condition, and answer shoppers' questions from the chat. 

There are two ways to sell items: 

• Auctions: Set a starting price and let shoppers bid.
• Buy It Now: Set a fixed price so shoppers can purchase items directly.

Once an item sells, you'll pack and ship the order. Whatnot gives you tools to create shipping labels, manage orders, and track your earnings.

Before you start

Here are a few things to know before you start selling:

• Seller fees: Whatnot deducts commission and payment processing fees from your sales. Review Whatnot's Seller fees.
• Shipping: You'll generally need to ship orders within two business days of a sale. Have packing supplies, a scale, and a printer ready. Check out the shipping checklist for new Sellers and Whatnot's Shipping Policy.
• Getting paid: Your earnings usually become available for payout after delivery is confirmed. Exact timing depends on your location, shipping method, and Early Payout eligibility. Learn when you'll get paid.

Step 1: Create an account and apply to sell

Whether you're brand-new to selling or already have experience, you can apply to become a Whatnot Seller.

1. Create a Whatnot account.
2. Open the Whatnot app and tap + Sell.
3. Follow the prompts to complete your seller application.

Many sellers get access within minutes. If your application needs additional review, we'll email you with next steps.

Learn more about applying to sell.

Step 2: Schedule your first show

Once you're approved to sell, follow the in-app checklist to schedule your first show. Choose a date and time that gives you enough time to prepare.

When setting up your show:

• Choose your show's main category.
• Add a descriptive title that tells shoppers what you're selling.
• Upload a thumbnail that highlights the items you plan to sell. 

Step 3: Prepare for your first show

A little preparation goes a long way. Here's how to get ready before you go live.

Watch a few shows

Explore shows in your category to see how other sellers connect with viewers. Pay attention to how they present items, describe their condition, and answer questions.

Choose your items and set your prices

Start with a few items you know well and feel comfortable talking about.

As you choose what to sell:

• Check each item's condition, including any wear, damage, or missing parts.
• Find out whether your category or selling format requires additional approval.
• Factor in what you paid for each item, seller fees, and packing costs when setting prices.
• If you're running an auction, choose a starting price you'd be comfortable accepting, even if only one person bids.

Create your listings

Get your listings ready before your Show. Include clear photos, accurate descriptions, item condition, and shipping details, including weight.

Decide whether to sell each item through an auction or at a fixed Buy It Now price.

Learn how to create listings.

Set up your space

Keep your items within reach and organize them so you can easily match each one to its listing. Set aside a space for sold items to make packing orders easier.

Position your camera so viewers can clearly see your items. Check your lighting and sound before going live.

Practice presenting your items

Pick an item and practice describing it out loud. Share what it is, its condition, and any details shoppers should know. Try holding it up to the camera and showing any wear or damage.

Use Rehearsal Mode or private shows to get comfortable presenting before going live. 

Complete seller verification

Before going live, you'll also need to complete seller verification. Follow the prompts to verify your information.

Step 4: Go live and sell

When it's time for your show, welcome viewers, introduce what you're selling, and start showcasing your items.

As you go live:

• Show each item clearly and highlight what makes it interesting.
• Describe its condition, including any wear or damage.
• Answer viewers' questions in real time.
• Run auctions or offer items at fixed Buy It Now prices.

Most importantly, be yourself. Live selling is about more than the items you're sharing. It's a way to connect with people who enjoy the same things you do.

Step 5: Ship your orders and get paid

After your show, it's time to get your orders ready.

1. Review your shipments and confirm package weights and dimensions.
2. Create and print your shipping labels.
3. Pack and ship your orders by the required deadline.
4. Add a payout method and request a payout once your earnings are available.