As sustainability becomes a driving force in the global fashion industry, the demand for wholesale second-hand clothing has surged. Whether you’re a new player in the second-hand clothing market or an experienced reseller looking to expand, understanding key industry terms, regional preferences, and different selling methods will help you succeed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the diverse terminologies used in the second-hand clothing market, regional buying practices, and market needs for bulk used apparel. This article will also highlight the different approaches to selling second-hand clothing, such as by container, by kg, or by pound, and provide tips on how to successfully navigate the wholesale second-hand clothing business.
What Are Second Hand Clothes Called
Navigating the world of second-hand clothing can be overwhelming with so many terms—thrifted, vintage, pre-loved, and more. This guide breaks down the most common expressions you’ll encounter in the second-hand fashion industry. Whether you’re a wholesale second hand clothing reseller, retailer, or conscious consumer, understanding these key terms will help you source smarter, shop sustainably, and speak the language of circular fashion with confidence.
1. Retro Clothing
Retro clothing refers to newly made garments that imitate the fashion trends of past decades, typically from the 1950s to 1990s. These clothes capture the colors, patterns, and silhouettes of their era while offering modern comfort and materials.
2. Thrifted Clothes
Thrifted clothes are second-hand garments purchased from thrift stores, donation centers, or resale platforms. They are valued for their affordability, variety, and potential for unique finds.
3. Pre-loved Fashion
Pre-loved fashion refers to gently used clothing that has been previously owned but remains in good condition. Common in luxury resale markets, this term conveys care, quality, and sustainability.
4. Vintage Garments
Vintage garments are authentic pieces typically 20 years or older that represent the style of a specific era. They are often prized for their uniqueness, craftsmanship, and cultural value.
5. Reclaimed Textiles
Reclaimed clothing or textiles are recovered from waste streams—such as factory leftovers or discarded garments—and repurposed into new fashion items. This practice reduces textile waste and supports sustainable production.
6. Untouched Donations (Credential Clothing)
Untouched donations, often called credential clothing in the industry, refer to second-hand garments collected directly from donation bins. These items are sold unsorted, often still in their original donation bags, and may include high-quality or branded pieces.
7. Consigned Fashion
Consigned fashion refers to second-hand clothing sold on behalf of the original owner. The seller retains ownership until the item is sold, sharing a portion of the sale with the store or platform. This model supports reuse while offering sellers a return.
Example: A consignment boutique selling lightly worn luxury dresses on behalf of clients.
Regional Variations in Second-Hand Clothing Terminology and Demand
Second-hand clothing markets differ greatly across regions, with unique terms, packaging styles, and consumer preferences. Understanding these variations is key to building a successful sourcing or resale strategy.
Africa: Mitumba (East & Central Africa)
- Term Origin:
“Mitumba” means “bundles” in Swahili, referring to large bales of second-hand clothing. - Sources:
Imported mainly from the U.S., U.K., Canada, and parts of Asia such as South Korea and Japan. - Packaging:
Large bales weighing between 150kg and 250kg, often sorted by gender, clothing type, or age group; some mixed bales exist. - Popular Items:
Durable denim jeans, branded sportswear (Nike, Adidas), jackets, T-shirts, and children’s apparel. - Market Insight:
Mitumba dominates urban markets in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Consumers prioritize affordability and brand recognition. The market continues to grow as second-hand clothing remains a cost-effective solution for many. - Trade Model:
Bulk imports via shipping containers, distributed locally through wholesale and retail channels.
Southeast Asia: Ukay-Ukay (Philippines)
- Term Origin:
The term Ukay-Ukay comes from the Filipino word “halukay,” meaning “to dig through.” It describes the activity of searching through piles or heaps of second-hand clothes, which is a popular shopping experience in the Philippines. - Sources:
Second-hand clothing sold in Ukay-Ukay shops primarily originates from countries like Japan, South Korea, the U.S., and Australia. - Packaging:
Clothing is usually packed in bales weighing between 100 to 200 kg, often sorted by item type such as jackets, shoes, or pants to facilitate resale. - Popular Items:
Commonly sought-after items include branded denim, vintage jackets, sneakers, and casual wear, especially favored by younger consumers who enjoy unique and affordable fashion finds. - Market Insight:
Ukay-Ukay culture thrives on the “treasure hunting” experience, attracting shoppers who enjoy browsing through diverse selections. Sellers have successfully leveraged social media platforms and live streaming to showcase their merchandise and boost sales. - Trade Model:
The Ukay-Ukay market includes both small-scale local sales and bulk imports shipped by container, creating a vibrant and dynamic resale ecosystem.
North America & Western Europe: Thrift Stores & Charity Shops
- Common Terms:
Thrifted, pre-loved, vintage, gently used. - Sources:
Mainly local donations to charity organizations such as Goodwill and Oxfam, along with retail returns and overstock items. - Packaging:
Bales typically weigh between 150kg and 300kg, sorted by clothing type, season, or mixed assortments. - Popular Items:
Outdoor and activewear brands like Patagonia and North Face, designer vintage pieces, and everyday casual wear. - Market Insight:
Growing eco-consciousness among Millennials and Gen Z fuels demand for sustainable and branded second-hand fashion. The rise of online resale platforms has broadened market access. - Sales Channels:
Second-hand clothing is sold through online marketplaces such as eBay, Depop, and Poshmark, as well as physical thrift stores and consignment boutiques.
Latin America: Ropa Americana
- Term Meaning:
Ropa Americana translates to “American clothing,” referring to second-hand clothes imported mainly from the United States. - Sources:
Primarily sourced from second-hand markets in the U.S. and Canada. - Packaging:
Sold in mixed bales weighing between 100kg and 200kg, often unsorted. - Popular Items:
Branded T-shirts, denim jeans, children’s clothing, and casual wear are especially popular. - Market Insight:
Open-air markets are the dominant sales venues. There is strong consumer demand for well-known American brands such as GAP and Old Navy, particularly among lower- to middle-income shoppers. - Trade Model:
Clothing is imported via sea containers and distributed through local wholesalers and street vendors.
South Asia: Landa Bazaar (Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh)
- Term Meaning:
Landa Bazaar refers to local flea markets famous for offering inexpensive second-hand clothing. - Sources:
Second-hand garments primarily come from the U.K., U.S., and Australia. - Packaging:
Smaller bales weighing between 80kg and 150kg, often sorted by fabric type or clothing category. - Popular Items:
Winterwear such as woolen sweaters and fleece jackets, school uniforms, and durable workwear. - Market Insight:
Seasonality plays a key role, with demand rising sharply during colder months. Pakistan acts as a regional hub for sorting and re-exporting garments to neighboring countries. - Trade Model:
Bulk imports are processed locally, then repackaged and distributed to various local markets and retailers.
Middle East & North Africa: European Second-Hand Clothing
- Common Description:
Often referred to as “imported European used clothing,” these garments are usually graded by quality to meet diverse market needs. - Sources:
Mainly imported from France, Germany, Italy, and the U.K.
- Packaging:
Packed in bales weighing between 100 and 200 kg, graded as Grade A (premium), B, or C based on quality. - Popular Items:
Demand focuses on modest fashion, lightweight casual wear, and children’s clothing suitable for regional climate and cultural preferences. - Market Insight:
Cultural and religious customs emphasize modest attire, while the region’s warm climate drives preference for lighter fabrics. - Trade Model:
Importers place strong emphasis on quality grading, ensuring premium items reach boutique stores and quality-conscious consumers.
Eastern Europe: Stokke / Second-Hand Fashion
- Terminology:
Uses quality grades such as “Cream” (top picks), Grade A, B, etc., to classify clothing by condition and desirability. - Sources:
Mainly imports from Germany, Scandinavia, the U.K., and the Netherlands. - Packaging:
Pre-sorted bales weighing between 100 to 250 kg, labeled clearly by clothing type and quality grade.
- Popular Items:
Branded casual wear, seasonal fashion pieces, and vintage apparel are especially popular. - Market Insight:
The market is well-organized and segmented, targeting young professionals and students who seek curated, quality second-hand clothing. - Sales Channels:
A mix of physical thrift shops and online resale platforms focus on authenticity, brand reputation, and quality control.
Selling Methods for Wholesale Second-Hand Clothing
The way you purchase and sell second-hand clothing will vary depending on your business model and customer needs. The most common selling methods in the wholesale second-hand clothing industry include buying by container, by kg, or by pound.
1. By Container
When buying second-hand clothing by container, you purchase a large shipment of clothing in a shipping container. This is an efficient method for businesses that want to buy large quantities of second-hand clothes at a competitive price.
Example: A wholesale buyer might purchase bulk used clothing by container, receiving a large shipment of mixed clothing bales, used shoes, and other items in a single order.
2. By Kilogram (Kg)
Buying used clothing wholesale by kg is another common method in the industry. The buyer pays for the weight of the clothing, and the clothing is typically sold in bulk. This method is especially common in regions like Africa, where pricing by weight helps to standardize costs.
Example: In African markets, used clothes bulk by kg is often used to purchase clothing bales that contain a mix of second-hand t-shirts, jackets, and jeans.
3. By Pound
When buying second-hand clothing wholesale by pound, businesses pay for the weight of the clothing. This is a flexible and cost-effective method that allows businesses to buy clothing in various quantities.
Example: Used clothing wholesale by pound can be an ideal choice for smaller-scale resellers who want to purchase used clothes for sale in bulk but are looking to test market demand before committing to large volumes.
Key Considerations When Sourcing Wholesale Second-Hand Clothing
Before making a purchase, businesses should consider several important factors to ensure they are getting the best value and quality:
1. Quality and Condition of the Clothing
When purchasing bulk second-hand clothing, it is essential to assess the condition of the items. Choose suppliers that offer quality-controlled garments, especially if you’re sourcing branded or vintage items.
2. Brand and Style Preferences
If your target market has a preference for specific brands or styles, such as Patagonia jackets, Nike sneakers, or Levi’s denim, it’s important to find suppliers that specialize in these items. Branded clothing is often easier to sell and carries a higher resale value.
3. Shipping and Documentation
Reliable shipping is crucial in the wholesale second-hand clothing business, especially when importing from other countries. Choose suppliers who provide clear documentation for customs and shipping processes, ensuring smooth international transactions.
4. Sorting and Grading
Sorting and grading the clothing is an important step when sourcing second-hand garments. Many suppliers will offer pre-sorted bales by size, brand, or clothing type, while others may offer mixed bales that require sorting after purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Second-Hand Clothing
1. What is second-hand clothing?
Second-hand clothing refers to garments that have been previously owned and worn by someone else before being resold, donated, or recycled. These clothes can range from everyday casual wear to vintage and designer pieces. Buying second-hand clothing supports sustainability by extending the life cycle of garments and reducing textile waste.
2. What are second-hand clothes called?
Second-hand clothes go by many names, including used clothing, pre-owned clothes, thrifted clothes, vintage garments, upcycled clothing, and recycled apparel. The exact term often depends on the clothing’s condition, age, and style. For example, “vintage” typically describes items 20 years or older, while “pre-owned” emphasizes quality and care.
3. Where does second-hand clothing come from?
Second-hand clothes come from various sources such as individual donations to charity shops, unsold retail inventory, returned merchandise, and clearance sales. They can be sourced domestically or imported from countries with established clothing donation systems like the U.S., the U.K., Japan, and parts of Europe. Large quantities often come as bales sorted by type, brand, or quality for resale.
4. How to sell second-hand clothing?
To sell second-hand clothing, start by curating quality garments suitable for your target market. You can sell through online marketplaces (e.g., eBay, Depop), consignment shops, thrift stores, pop-up markets, or your own e-commerce website. High-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and competitive pricing help attract buyers. Marketing through social media also boosts visibility.
5. Where to sell second-hand clothing?
Popular platforms include online resale sites like Depop, Poshmark, ThredUp, and eBay, as well as local thrift stores and consignment boutiques. Social media marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace and Instagram Shops are also effective channels. For bulk sellers, wholesale buyers or local markets may be suitable.
6. How to start your used clothing business?
Begin by researching your target customers and sourcing reliable second-hand inventory. Decide whether you want to operate online, offline, or both. Build supplier relationships and consider buying bulk bales for cost efficiency. Set up your sales channels (e.g., website, social platforms), develop a pricing strategy, and promote your business with marketing and community engagement.
7. How to start a second-hand store online?
Create an online store using platforms like Shopify, Etsy, or BigCommerce. Organize your inventory with clear, high-quality images and detailed product descriptions. Implement payment gateways and shipping solutions that suit your business scale. Promote your store through SEO, social media marketing, email campaigns, and collaborations with influencers or bloggers.
8. Where to buy second-hand clothes?
You can purchase second-hand clothing at thrift stores, charity shops, online resale websites, wholesale suppliers, and local flea markets. Wholesale buying often involves purchasing large bales sorted by clothing type or brand. Countries like the U.S., Canada, Japan, and parts of Europe are common sourcing locations.
9. What are the best used clothing websites?
Top online platforms for buying and selling used clothing include:
- eBay: A global marketplace for all kinds of used and vintage apparel.
- Depop: Popular with younger buyers for trendy and vintage fashion.
- Poshmark: Focuses on branded and designer second-hand clothes.
- ThredUp: Specializes in high-quality, curated second-hand items.
- Vinted: A European platform for peer-to-peer clothing sales.
10. Where to buy second-hand clothes in bulk?
Bulk second-hand clothing can be sourced from wholesalers, liquidation sales, clothing donation centers, and specialized online wholesale platforms. Wholesale lots are typically sold by weight (kilograms or pounds) or by container. Common types include mixed bales, brand-specific bales, and specialized categories like vintage or children’s clothing.
Conclusion
The wholesale second-hand clothing market offers a wealth of opportunities for businesses that want to cater to the growing demand for sustainable fashion. Understanding key terms like thrift clothing, consignment clothing, vintage bales, and branded clothing bales, as well as knowing the regional variations in demand, will help businesses source high-quality second-hand clothing effectively.
By considering different buying methods, such as by container, kg, or pound, and focusing on the needs of specific markets, you can create a profitable business selling second-hand clothing to environmentally conscious consumers worldwide. Whether you’re selling in mitumba markets in Africa or running an ukay-ukay store in the Philippines, the demand for affordable, sustainable, and branded second-hand clothes is only set to grow.
