Are you looking for an easy, low-cost way to start a side hustle? Let me tell you about something you might not have considered—selling vintage postcards on eBay.
I know what you’re thinking: “Postcards? Really?”
But trust me, there’s a hidden market for postcards that most people overlook.
Collectors are constantly searching for unique, nostalgic finds, and you can turn that demand into profit with the right approach.
I’ve been working in internet marketing and e-commerce for over a decade, and I’ve explored many different product niches.
One of the most surprising success stories in my portfolio is selling postcards.
It’s a low-risk, high-reward business that almost anyone can start, no matter their experience.
In this post, I’m going to break down why selling postcards on eBay is one of the best side hustles you’ve probably never tried.
Low Cost, High Profit Potential
One of the best things about selling postcards is the incredibly low cost to get started.
You can pick up postcards for next to nothing at local thrift stores, flea markets, estate sales, and even yard sales.
In fact, I’ve found postcards for as little as 10p a piece, only to turn around and sell them for nearly £5 each.
What makes postcards even better is that you don’t need a large upfront investment like you would with other products.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can start small, sourcing just a handful of cards and gradually building your inventory.
The potential ROI (return on investment) is significant, especially once you understand the types of postcards that sell best.
What types of postcards sell?
Vintage and antique postcards:
Cards from the early 1900s are highly sought after, especially those featuring landmarks, cityscapes, or historical events.
Holiday-themed postcards: Christmas, Halloween, and Easter postcards often attract collectors.
Real photo postcards (RPPC): These feature real photographic images, often from small towns or rural areas. These cards can fetch high prices due to their unique, one-of-a-kind nature.
With a little research and knowledge, you can quickly identify cards that will sell for a good profit.
Super Easy to Ship
Another reason I love selling postcards is that they’re incredibly easy to ship.
Unlike larger, bulkier items that require expensive packaging and shipping, postcards are lightweight, flat, and can be shipped in simple envelopes with minimal postage.
This means you won’t have to worry about high shipping fees eating into your profits, nor will you need to invest in complicated packaging materials.
In my experience, the simplicity of shipping postcards has been a game changer.
You can even offer free shipping to entice more buyers without sacrificing your bottom line, as the cost is so low.
I’ve found that offering quick, low-cost shipping makes my listings more attractive to buyers, leading to faster sales.
In an e-commerce landscape where customers expect fast, hassle-free shipping, this is a major advantage.
Niche Market with Less Competition
While many sellers flock to saturated eBay categories like electronics, fashion, or home goods, the postcard market is a relatively untapped niche.
This means there’s less competition, and you can carve out a space for yourself much more easily.
What makes the postcard market so unique is that collectors are always on the lookout for specific cards that speak to their interests—whether it’s a rare view of a historic building, a beloved vacation spot, or a forgotten piece of history.
Because the audience is niche, it’s easier to stand out and build a loyal customer base.
How to stand out from the competition:
Focus on quality:
Postcards in excellent condition (sharp corners, no stains or tears) always sell for more. Be sure to describe the condition accurately in your listings.
Specialise in a theme:
Whether it’s vintage travel postcards, real photo postcards, or holiday cards, specialising can help you become the go-to seller for specific types of cards.
Offer exceptional service:
Clear communication, fast shipping, and secure packaging go a long way in building repeat business.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Started
If you’re intrigued but not sure how to start, don’t worry. Getting into postcard selling is easier than you think.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you hit the ground running:
Source your postcards:
Start by exploring local antique shops, thrift stores, and estate sales. Keep an eye out for boxes or albums of postcards—you’ll be amazed at what you can find.
Research your finds:
A quick search on eBay can give you an idea of what similar postcards are selling for. Look for cards that consistently fetch higher prices.
List them on eBay:
Create compelling listings with clear photos of the front and back of each card.
Be sure to mention key details like age, condition, and any unique features (like postmarks or handwriting).
Optimise for sales:
Use keywords in your title that collectors are likely to search for, such as “vintage,” “RPPC,” or “real photo.”
Ship promptly:
Package your postcards securely in a protective sleeve and send them out as quickly as possible to ensure positive feedback from buyers.
By following these steps, you can get your first batch of postcards listed and sold in no time.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Like any business, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for when starting with postcards. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them:
Not researching prices:
It’s tempting to assume that every old postcard is worth a fortune, but that’s not always the case.
Take the time to research similar listings before setting your price.
Ignoring condition:
Condition matters, and postcards with damage (like creases, tears, or stains) will sell for less. Always be honest about the condition in your listings.
Overpaying for stock:
When you’re first starting out, stick to buying postcards at a low cost.
As you gain experience, you’ll develop a better sense of what’s worth spending more on.
Want to Learn More? Join My Profit From Postcards Course
If you’re ready to turn postcards into profit, I’ve got just the thing for you.
In my Profit From Postcards course, I’ll teach you everything you need to know, from sourcing the right cards to building a successful eBay business.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow your existing eBay store, this course has something for you.
I’ll guide you through the process step by step, covering:
- How to find the best postcards for resale
- The secrets to pricing your cards for maximum profit
- How to create listings that attract buyers
- Shipping tips to save you time and money
Don’t waste time trying to figure it all out on your own.
Join my Profit From Postcards course and start making money today!
