Buying from Amazon is easy, but if you need a large item that can’t be easily shipped or have something to sell, there are better options available. Websites and apps like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and VarageSale are great options for buying and selling locally.
eBay
EBay is the go-to site for selling and shipping items across the world, but if you’re trying to buy something in person, some sellers offer items for local pickup as an option.
To find such listings, refine your searches by typing the name of the item and including the words “pickup only,” as in “leather sofa pickup only.” Or drill down with the categories listed on the left side of the page on the web. Under Item Locations, click the checkbox for Within, then type your ZIP code and specify how far you’re willing to travel to pick up an item. On mobile, select Filter > Local Pickup > Max Distance.
If you’re selling a large item that you don’t want to ship, you need to set up a few options in your eBay listing. In the field for Additional checkout instructions, click the More link. You can now choose to accept PayPal and/or receive payment upon pickup. Under Shipping details, click the drop-down list for Shipping and select No shipping: Local pickup only.
Craigslist
Craigslist is probably the best-known site if you want to buy or sell locally. As a buyer, you can simply browse the listings or search for specific items. You’re able to specify your location by city, region, or state, allowing you to shop as nearby as you wish. Once you find an item you want, contact the seller directly to work out the details of the sale.
As a seller, you’re able to post a listing on Craigslist with the necessary information regarding the item and then wait for buyers to contact you. Just click Create a posting on the homepage in your area and fill out all the necessary info.
Be warned: Craigslist has become fertile ground for scammers, so don’t be surprised if you get several messages from con artists trying to cheat you out of your money. Unlike eBay, Craigslist has no safeguards in place to reimburse you if you’re scammed.
To protect yourself against the bad guys, never accept payment by check, money order, or even PayPal. Always insist on cash only and local pickup only. Assuming you can transport the item in your car, you may want to meet the buyer in a public place rather than having them come to your home. For more tips, you can check out Craigslist’s own advice on how to avoid scams.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook users can buy or sell items on the social network through Marketplace, where you can shop by category, price, and location; or find items by name or keyword and opt to be notified if an item becomes available. If you find something that interests you, click it to see more information. You can message the seller directly through Facebook Messenger to if you have any questions. Items can also be saved or shared on Facebook.
If you have an item to sell, open Marketplace and click Create new listing (desktop) or Sell (mobile). Select the type of item you’re selling. Fill out the item details, including category, name, price, location, description, and photos. Then post and wait for potential buyers to contact you.
OfferUp
OfferUp offers itself up as both a website and a mobile app. If you decide to search for something to buy, the site uses your current location by default, though that can be changed. To narrow down the field, you can adjust additional search specifications, such as newest listings, closest locations, and price. Once you find the right item, make an offer, ask questions, or save the listing for later.
To sell an item on OfferUp, create an account on the site. You’ll then need to use the mobile app to post items for sale. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and then click the Selling icon at the bottom of the screen. Add photos and a title, select a category, set conditions and location, add a description, and enter a price before posting.
VarageSale
VarageSale attempts to create a virtual version of the garage sale concept. To buy or sell here, first enter your location to join your closest community. You then connect with Facebook or through a texted code to verify your identity and must be approved by an administrator to gain access to the site. Once you’re approved, you can then buy and sell items with other verified people in your area.
To check out the items for sale, browse the listings in your community or type a specific item in the search field. If you find an item that interests you, contact the seller with any questions. From there, you can work out the details and agree on a place to meet to pick up the item.
To sell something on VarageSale, start by posting a photo of the item. Enter a title and description and then submit your listing. You can also buy and sell items using the VarageSale app for iOS/iPadOS or Android.
