Selling vintage postcards has become one of my favourite ways to earn extra money online. As someone who works from home, I’ve found it a practical, and enjoyable business venture. Here are the reasons I recommend it to others considering selling small collectables:
Takes Up Very Little Space
Unlike many products, postcards don’t require a large storage area. I store my collection in shoeboxes in drawers, which can hold thousands of cards. This makes it an excellent option if you don’t have space for bulky items or a dedicated warehouse.
Simple to Ship
Postcards are incredibly easy to post. All you need is a protective sleeve and envelope, a stamp or printed label, and they’re ready to go. This simplicity saves time and makes fulfilling orders stress-free.
A Way to Stay Active
Selling postcards isn’t just about sitting at a desk. Regular trips to the postbox keep me active, and walking to post orders helps me get my steps in each day. It’s a small but enjoyable perk of the job!
Good Profit Margins
Although I’m new to selling vintage postcards, I’ve already seen that they can be profitable. For example, I sold two cards for £15.62 and each card cost 18p. Even after deducting fees and postage, the profit margin is excellent.
Demand for Imperfect Items
One surprising aspect of this niche is that buyers will purchase postcards even with signs of wear, such as creases, postmarks, or writing. These flaws add to their charm and historical value, making them attractive to collectors and crafters alike.
Tips for Selling Vintage Postcards
If you’re thinking about selling postcards yourself, here are a few tips to get started:
Source Wisely
Look for postcards at charity shops, car boot sales, or online bundles. Always check for potential value before purchasing, as some cards can fetch surprisingly high prices. Use eBay’s sales history and sites like Avaluer and Google Lens to work out their value.
Use Good Quality Images for Your Listings
To successfully sell vintage postcards, you’ll need a way to display clear images of the items you’re listing online. Most sellers prefer to use a scanner rather than a camera, as it provides sharper and more detailed images of the postcards’ fronts and backs.
If you’re just starting and don’t have the money to invest in a photo scanner, the scanner on your printer will work perfectly fine. I’ve been using a HP All in one scanner. It may be a bit slower, but it’s a great option for creating high-quality scans without spending extra money upfront. As your business grows, you can consider upgrading to a dedicated photo scanner for faster and more efficient scanning, especially if you’re listing large batches of postcards regularly.
Using a scanner ensures that potential buyers can clearly see the details, including any flaws, postmarks, or writing, which adds to the charm and historical interest of vintage postcards. If you prefer to use a camera, make sure to photograph your cards in good lighting and with a plain background to highlight their features.
Selling vintage postcards is a rewarding business that combines history, creativity, and practicality. With minimal space requirements, straightforward shipping, and low startup costs, it’s an excellent option for anyone looking for a flexible way to earn extra income online. Whether you’re a collector downsizing or just starting a new side hustle, consider giving this niche market a try!
