Manage your post with these essential tips

Buying and selling second-hand items on platforms like Vinted, eBay, Depop is a great way for you to earn or save money, but handling those parcels correctly is vital for a successful side hustle. Here are some top tips:

Campus and city

• Timing: Avoid busy hours at the post office to ensure smoother service. This is usually around mid-morning, so go later in the day to avoid the queues.
• Use parcel lockers: An easy and convenient way to pick up and drop off parcels. The only catch is they are exclusive to certain services and delivers e.g. Amazon lockers and InPost lockers. So check first to see what options are available in your area
• Campus: You'll find Amazon lockers on campus and a post office in the Fresh shop.
• City: You have more options in the city centre, use your postcode to search for the nearest to your accommodation.

Buying

1. Confirm seller reputation: Check ratings and reviews to ensure reliability. Usually it's a quick way of telling whether they are reliable or not.
2. Use secure payment methods: Only pay through the platform's secure system for buyer protection.
3. Track your parcel: If the seller offers tracking, use it to monitor your item’s journey (but try not to check every 5 minutes as this will make it seem like your package is taking forever to arrive).

Selling

1. Pack carefully: Use bubble wrap or protective materials to ensure items arrive undamaged. You don't need to go crazy, just consider what certain items might need to remain unaffected by the delivery process.
2. Label clearly: Include both “to” and “from” addresses and ensure they’re legible.
3. Choose reliable shipping services: Opt for tracking and insurance, especially for valuable items. Always keep a hold of any receipts/proof of sending too just in case.

Sustainability tips

1. Choose eco-friendly packaging: Reuse boxes, envelopes, and packing materials where possible to reduce waste. Avoid excess plastic and opt for recyclable materials.
2. Bundle shipments: If you're buying multiple items from the same seller or selling several items to one buyer, try to bundle them into a single shipment to reduce carbon emissions.
3. Select local buyers/sellers: Choosing sellers or buyers within Bath or nearby can reduce the shipping distance, lowering the environmental impact.

These tips will help you navigate buying and selling online while ensuring items are safely sent and received!