Whatnot Selling Guide

Whatnot is the live auction platform taking reselling by storm. Learn how to build an audience, run shows, and maximize sales through live 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

💡 Pro Tip: Your first shows will be small. That's normal. Focus on delivering great experience to the few viewers you have—they'll become your core community and bring friends.

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