OfferUp helps sellers ship items that they sell via the OfferUp marketplace. While not all items can be shipped, most can as long as they follow OfferUp’s Shipping Policies. “Shipping Policies” include this article, How to Ship with OfferUp, and 2-Day Purchase Protection Claims. As a seller, you are responsible for reviewing and complying with the Shipping Policies.
When your item is ready to be shipped, make sure to package it securely and use the mailing label provided by OfferUp. The label will be in your email and also available in the app.
The following guidance on how to package an item will help get the items to your buyer on time.
1. Use the right box size and packaging tape.
- Packages are only sent via USPS. Please don't use boxes marked specifically for other carriers (UPS, FedEx, etc.). USPS may not accept them and your package may be unable to be delivered.
- Choose a plain, sturdy box big enough for the item and use sufficient padding to protect the item during shipping. Small items may fit into a padded envelope.
- You should use the smallest package possible since empty space can cause damage if the contents inside get jostled around.
- Don’t confuse packaging tape and storage tape. Use packaging tape! It’s sturdier than storage tape.
- Make sure that the actual package size is the same or smaller than the package size selected for the shipping label, or the carrier may charge more.
- Extra Small (up to 8 ounces): Good for earbuds, small cosmetics or toiletries, wristwatches, other small items (with padding).
- Small (approximately 9” x 6” x 3”): Hardback or paperback books, sunglasses, mobile phones or other small electronics (with padding).
- Medium (approximately 12” x 9” x 6”): Shoes, purses, game controllers, etc. (with padding).
- Large (approximately 14” x 10” x 6”): Countertop kitchen gadgets or hand tools (with padding), larger pieces of clothing (sweaters, coats).
2. Don’t over/under pack your box.
- Don’t overpack the package, or it could burst in transit. If your package is close to the size of your item, pick a bigger box and add extra padding.
Make sure to account for this when selecting a package when you post the item. - Make all items as secure as possible — the more they move, the more likely they are to break.
- Give the box a shake: does the item move? If so, use more padding! Keep the item from touching the outer box by using padding like crumpled newspaper, packing peanuts, grocery bags, or bubble wrap.
- Make sure the box won't come open by sealing it with 2-inch wide packaging tape.
3. Use your OfferUp label.
- The label helps you track your item, from the carrier to your buyer’s doorstep. As soon as you accept a shipping offer, you get the label you need. And you do need it--you won’t get paid without it.
If you have not received a label or run into other problems, reach out using the Contact Us button below to get further assistance. - Attach the provided shipping label by taping down each edge with clear packaging tape.
4. Label packages that include batteries and hazardous materials.
- Packages containing batteries (including lithium batteries) MUST be correctly labeled using black permanent marker with the following text: “Restricted Electronic Device” and “Surface Transportation Only”.
- Items identified as hazardous material by USPS, or any other carrier, MUST be packaged and shipped in their own box. Never include hazardous material in a box with non-hazardous material. All boxes containing hazardous material MUST be labeled using black permanent marker with the following text: “Surface Transportation Only”.
For more information about eligible items, fees, and restrictions, see our How to Ship with OfferUp page.
5. Reduce, reuse, recycle!
If you decide to use an old box or packing material, make sure all old markings are removed or covered, including barcodes, addresses, or hazardous materials signs.
