How Preloved works

Preloved is a classifieds marketplace: buyers and sellers deal with each other directly, without bidding wars or checkout queues. Here is how it all works, whether you are here to find something special or to pass something on.

Buying on Preloved

Start by searching or browsing the categories — you can filter by area so you only see things you can actually go and collect. When something catches your eye, open the advert, read the description carefully and check the photos. If you have questions, message the seller through Preloved: good sellers expect questions about condition, measurements and history.

A typical purchase looks like this:

• Find an item you like and read the full advert.
• Message the seller with any questions through Preloved.
• Agree a price and arrange where and when to meet or how it will be delivered.
• Inspect the item before you hand over any money.

Selling on Preloved

Listing an advert is free. Take a few clear photos in good light, write an honest description with measurements and any flaws, and set a fair price — looking at what similar items have sold for is the quickest way to land on one. Once your advert is live, interested buyers will message you to ask questions and arrange collection.

Membership

Basic membership is free and always will be — free to join, free to list, free to reply. Paid tiers add extras for keener buyers and sellers, such as early access to the newest listings and boosted visibility for your adverts. You can compare the tiers on the membership page whenever you are ready; there is no obligation to upgrade.

Messaging and staying safe

Keep your conversations on Preloved. Our messaging keeps a record of what was agreed, protects your personal contact details and lets our safety tools spot suspicious behaviour. Be wary of anyone who wants to move the chat to email or a messaging app straight away, or who asks for payment before you have seen the item — both are classic signs of a scam.

Ready to start?

Have a browse, or read the safety centre first for our full guidance on meeting, paying and reporting. And if you are wondering who is behind all this, that story is over on About Preloved.