📺 Whatnot Selling

Platform Overview

Seller Fees	8% + payment processing (~2.9%)
Shipping	Seller pays, combine orders saves cost
Categories	Cards, Funko, vintage, clothing, collectibles
Audience	Collectors, deal seekers, community-focused
Best For	Moving volume, building community, breaks

Getting Approved to Sell

Whatnot requires seller approval. To increase your chances:

• Build social presence: Active Instagram/TikTok with collector content
• Document experience: eBay feedback, existing reselling business
• Niche focus: Show expertise in specific category
• Quality inventory: They want sellers who can deliver value
• Apply multiple times: Rejections happen—keep applying

Running a Successful Show

Before the Show

• Schedule ahead: Give followers notice, build anticipation
• Prep inventory: Organize items, set starting bids, know your minimums
• Test tech: Camera, lighting, internet connection, audio
• Create graphics: Thumbnails, overlays, giveaway announcements

During the Show

• Energy is everything: Be engaging, enthusiastic, entertaining
• Interact with chat: Call out bidders by name, answer questions
• Mix high/low value: Anchor with good items, fill with volume
• Giveaways: Free items bring viewers, viewers bring bidders
• Consistent pacing: Don't rush, but keep momentum

Show Types

• Auction shows: Classic format, items sell to highest bidder
• Buy-it-now shows: Fixed prices, first to claim wins
• Breaks: Open sealed product live, buyers claim hits
• Mystery shows: Blind items, grab bags, surprise value

Building Your Audience

• Go live consistently: Same days/times builds habit
• Cross-promote: Share clips on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube
• Follow community: Watch other sellers, engage in chat
• Offer value: Fair prices, giveaways, entertainment
• Build relationships: Remember regulars, thank buyers

Pricing & Strategy

• Start low: Low starting bids attract bidders, competition drives price up
• Know your floor: Never go below break-even; skip items that won't sell
• Bundle strategically: Combine slow sellers with desirable items
• Volume matters: More items = more chances for sales
• Combine shipping: Encourage multiple wins for combined shipping savings

Technical Setup

• Camera: Phone works, but webcam/DSLR is better
• Lighting: Ring light or softbox, no harsh shadows
• Background: Clean, branded, not distracting
• Internet: Wired connection if possible, minimum 10mbps up
• Audio: External mic improves quality significantly
• Display stands: Card stands, mannequins for clothing