Is Whatnot Legit? A Comprehensive Review of the Online Marketplace

Are you wondering if Whatnot is a legit marketplace for buying and selling collectibles? You’re not alone. With the rise of online shopping and live selling apps, it’s important to know if a platform is trustworthy before making a purchase. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Whatnot and answer the question: is Whatnot legit?

Whatnot is a fairly new startup, having officially launched in December 2019. However, in just two years, it has grown rapidly and become a popular platform for buying and selling collectibles. But with any new platform, there are concerns about its legitimacy and safety. In the next few paragraphs, we’ll explore the safety measures Whatnot has in place and what customers have to say about their experiences with the platform.

What is Whatnot

If you’re someone who loves to collect and buy unique items, you may have heard of Whatnot. Whatnot is a live auction marketplace that allows you to buy and sell a variety of items, from Funko Pop collectibles to cards, comics, and vintage items. The platform was founded in 2019 by Logan Head and Grant Lafontaine, who wanted to create a community marketplace for collectors and sellers.

Whatnot is a mobile app that you can download for free on the App Store or Google Play. It is a startup company that has quickly gained popularity among collectors and sellers alike. The company is headquartered in Marina Del Rey, California, and has a team of experts who work hard to ensure that the platform is safe, secure, and easy to use.

One of the unique features of Whatnot is that it is a live auction marketplace. This means that buyers can bid on items in real-time, just like in a traditional auction. Sellers can also list their items for auction and set a reserve price. The platform offers a variety of payment options, including credit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay.

Overall, Whatnot is a legitimate platform that offers a unique and exciting way to buy and sell items. The company has a strong community of collectors and sellers who are passionate about their hobbies. If you’re looking for a new way to buy and sell items, Whatnot may be worth checking out.

How Whatnot Works

If you’re curious about how Whatnot works, the app is a virtual live auction marketplace that allows you to buy and sell a variety of items, including trading cards, clothing, sneakers, NFTs, and more. Originally created for buying and selling Funko Pops, Whatnot has now expanded into sports slabs, Yu-Gi-Oh cards, and various other categories.

As a buyer, you can browse through the app’s offerings and place bids on items that interest you. Whatnot offers a pop-up shop experience, so you can find unique items that you may not be able to find elsewhere. You can also participate in live video auctions, where you can bid on items in real-time.

As a seller, you can create your own listings and set your own prices. You can also participate in live video auctions, where you can showcase your items and answer questions from potential buyers. Whatnot also offers training sessions to help you become a successful seller on the app.

When you buy an item on Whatnot, the seller is not paid until the item is shipped. This helps ensure that you receive the item you paid for before the seller receives payment.

It’s important to note that Whatnot takes a commission on all transactions, so keep that in mind when setting your prices as a seller. Additionally, Whatnot recommends that you only buy and sell with trusted members to avoid any potential issues.

Overall, Whatnot provides a unique and fun way to buy and sell items online. Whether you’re a collector or just looking for something new, the app offers a variety of options to explore.

Products on Whatnot

If you are looking for a wide variety of products, Whatnot is a great platform to explore. Whatnot offers a range of products from sneakers, sports cards, clothing, fashion, movies, Funko, collectibles, trading card games, NFTs, Funko Pops, Pokemon, toys, comics, books, video games, and miscellaneous items.

One of the most popular categories on Whatnot is Funko Pops. Whatnot was originally created for buying and selling Funko Pops, and it has now expanded into other categories. You can find a vast selection of Funko Pops on Whatnot, including rare and exclusive ones. If you are a Funko Pop collector, you will definitely find something that catches your eye.

Another popular category on Whatnot is sports cards. You can find a variety of sports cards on Whatnot, including basketball, football, baseball, and more. Whatnot offers both graded and ungraded cards, so you can find something that fits your collection and budget.

If you are into fashion and clothing, you can find a range of items on Whatnot as well. From streetwear to high-end fashion, Whatnot has it all. You can find both new and used clothing items, so you can save some money while still looking stylish.

Whatnot also offers a range of toys and collectibles. You can find items from popular franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, and DC Comics. Whatnot also offers a range of trading card games, including Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh, and Magic: The Gathering.

In addition to the above categories, Whatnot also offers a range of miscellaneous items. You can find items like books, movies, video games, and more. Whatnot is a great platform to explore if you are looking for something unique and hard to find.

Overall, Whatnot offers a wide variety of products for all kinds of collectors and enthusiasts. Whether you are into Funko Pops, sports cards, fashion, or toys, you will definitely find something that catches your eye on Whatnot.

Is Whatnot Legitimate

When it comes to buying and selling collectibles, you want to make sure you are using a legitimate platform. So, is Whatnot legit? The short answer is yes, Whatnot is a legitimate business.

Whatnot is a marketplace for buying and selling collectibles. The company is based in the United States and has been around since 2019. What sets Whatnot apart from other online marketplaces is its live selling feature. This allows sellers to showcase their items in real-time, giving buyers a chance to interact with the seller and ask questions about the product.

Whatnot takes the issue of scams seriously and has a verification process for both buyers and sellers. To become a verified seller, you must provide government-issued ID and go through a background check. To become a verified buyer, you can either provide government-issued ID or have a good number of legitimate buying history on the app.

If you are concerned about the safety of your personal and financial information, Whatnot has measures in place to protect you from phishing scams. They provide tips on how to recognize phishing attacks and protect your information.

While Whatnot is a legitimate business, it is important to do your own research before making any purchases. Read customer reviews and do a price comparison to ensure you are getting a fair deal. It is also important to note that Whatnot is a business and, like any business, their policies and fees are subject to change.

Overall, Whatnot is a legitimate platform for buying and selling collectibles. With their verification process and measures to protect against scams, you can trust that you are using a safe and secure platform.

Buying and Selling on Whatnot

If you’re considering buying or selling collectibles on Whatnot, here’s what you need to know. Whatnot is a live selling platform that allows sellers to showcase their products through live video streams, and buyers to bid and buy items in real-time. While it’s relatively new in the United States, live selling has been around for years in other parts of the world.

One of the advantages of buying on Whatnot is that you can find unique and rare items that you may not be able to find elsewhere. From Pokemon cards to sports slabs and Yu-Gi-Oh cards, Whatnot has a wide variety of collectibles available for purchase. You can also find items at prices that are often lower than what you would find on other online marketplaces like eBay or Poshmark.

As a seller, Whatnot can be a great platform to sell your inventory quickly and efficiently. With live video streams, you can showcase your products in a fun and engaging way, which can help increase sales. Whatnot also provides a streamlined process for shipping and handling, which can save you time and hassle.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to buying and selling on Whatnot. One of the biggest concerns for buyers is the risk of purchasing counterfeit items. While Whatnot has community guidelines in place to prevent the sale of counterfeit goods, it’s still important to do your own research and be cautious when buying items.

For sellers, one potential downside is that Whatnot only supports live selling, which may not be ideal for everyone. If you prefer to sell items through a traditional online marketplace, Whatnot may not be the best option for you.

Overall, Whatnot can be a great platform for buying and selling collectibles, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before getting started. If you’re a buyer, make sure to do your research and be cautious when making purchases. And if you’re a seller, consider whether live selling is the right fit for your business.

Shipping and Returns

When shopping on Whatnot, it is important to understand the shipping and returns policy to ensure a smooth transaction.

Shipping times may vary depending on the seller and the item being shipped. Once an item is purchased, the seller has up to 3 business days to ship it out. After that, the estimated delivery time will depend on the shipping method chosen at checkout. Some sellers may offer expedited shipping for an additional fee.

If you encounter any issues with your shipment, such as a delay or damage during transit, you can request a refund or replacement through the Whatnot platform. To be eligible for a refund, you must submit your request within the timeframe outlined in the policy.

Returns are also possible on Whatnot, but the policy varies depending on the reason for the return. If the item is damaged or significantly different from the description, you may be eligible for a return and refund. However, if you simply changed your mind or no longer want the item, the seller may not accept a return.

It is important to carefully review the item description and seller policies before making a purchase to avoid any issues with shipping or returns. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the seller or Whatnot support for assistance.

Overall, Whatnot strives to provide a positive shopping experience for both buyers and sellers, and the shipping and returns policy is designed to protect both parties and ensure a fair transaction.

Customer Service and Reviews

When it comes to online marketplaces, customer service and reviews are crucial factors in determining whether a platform is trustworthy or not. In the case of Whatnot, the reviews and customer service experiences are mixed.

A quick search on Trustpilot reveals a significant number of negative reviews, with many customers complaining about poor customer service and difficulty getting refunds. Some customers have also reported receiving faulty or damaged items, with no option for returns or exchanges.

However, it’s worth noting that not all reviews are negative. Some customers have praised Whatnot for its user-friendly interface and the quality of items sold on the platform. In addition, Whatnot has responded to some of the negative reviews on Trustpilot, offering to help resolve the issues raised by customers.

Overall, while there are certainly some concerns regarding customer service and reviews, it’s important to keep in mind that no platform is perfect. It’s always a good idea to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase on any online marketplace.

Whatnot in Different Countries

If you’re wondering if Whatnot is legit in different countries, the answer is yes! Whatnot is available in the United States, Canada, and Australia. However, there are some differences in how the app works in each country.

In the United States, Whatnot is a popular app for buying and selling collectibles, including Funko Pops, sports cards, and NFTs. The app is easy to use, and you can find a wide variety of items for sale. Whatnot is also known for its live auctions, where you can bid on items in real-time.

In Canada, Whatnot is a newer app, but it’s gaining popularity quickly. The app works similarly to the United States version, but there are some differences in the items available for sale. Canadian sellers often list items that are popular in Canada, such as hockey cards and Canadian-exclusive Funko Pops.

In Australia, Whatnot is also a newer app. However, it’s quickly becoming a popular platform for buying and selling collectibles. The app works similarly to the United States and Canadian versions, but there are some differences in the items available for sale. Australian sellers often list items that are popular in Australia, such as cricket cards and Australian-exclusive Funko Pops.

Overall, Whatnot is a legit app in all three countries. However, it’s important to be cautious when buying and selling on the platform. Make sure to read seller reviews and descriptions carefully, and only buy from trusted sellers. With a little caution, you can enjoy buying and selling collectibles on Whatnot in different countries.

Whatnot on Social Media

If you’re wondering whether Whatnot is legit, checking out their social media presence can be a good way to get a sense of the company and its community.

You can find Whatnot on Instagram, where they share posts about new products, upcoming events, and community highlights. They also use Instagram to promote their live auctions and answer questions from followers.

On YouTube, Whatnot has a channel where they post videos related to their community, including interviews with collectors and behind-the-scenes looks at their live auctions. They also occasionally post tutorials and other educational content.

Overall, Whatnot’s social media presence seems friendly and engaged with their community. They have a decent following on both platforms, and their posts and videos seem to get good engagement.

However, it’s worth noting that social media can be a tricky place to judge a company’s legitimacy. It’s always possible for scammers to create fake accounts and pose as legitimate companies. So while checking out Whatnot’s social media can be a helpful step in your research, it’s important to take a holistic approach and consider other factors as well.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Whatnot appears to be a legitimate platform for buying and selling various items, including sports cards, sneakers, luxury handbags, and vintage items. However, as with any online marketplace, it is important to exercise caution and do your research before making a purchase or listing an item for sale.

If you are a visitor to the site, it is important to carefully read the product descriptions and seller ratings before making a purchase. Additionally, you may want to consider using a payment method that offers buyer protection, such as PayPal.

If you are considering selling items on Whatnot, it is important to understand the fees and policies of the platform. While Whatnot does charge a commission on sales, it may be worth it for the exposure and potential sales that the platform can provide.

It is also worth noting that while some users have expressed skepticism about the platform, particularly with regards to the live auction format, there are many positive reviews and success stories from both buyers and sellers.

In the end, whether or not Whatnot is the right platform for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, with its growing user base and expanding range of product categories, it is certainly worth considering as a potential option for buying and selling items online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Whatnot a trustworthy platform?

Yes, Whatnot is a legitimate and trustworthy platform for buying and selling collectibles and other items. The company has been around since 2019 and has gained a positive reputation among buyers and sellers alike. Whatnot also has measures in place to prevent fraud and ensure safe transactions, such as requiring government-issued ID for verified buyers and sellers.

Are there any safety concerns with using the Whatnot app?

As with any online marketplace, there is always a risk of scams or fraudulent activity. However, Whatnot has taken steps to minimize these risks, including verifying the identities of buyers and sellers and providing secure payment options. It is important to always be cautious when buying or selling online and to report any suspicious activity to Whatnot’s support team.

What are some reviews from Whatnot sellers?

Reviews from Whatnot sellers are generally positive, with many praising the platform’s ease of use and supportive community. Some sellers have reported making significant profits through Whatnot, while others appreciate the ability to connect with buyers who share their interests. However, as with any marketplace, there are also some negative reviews from sellers who have had issues with fees or customer support.

How does Whatnot compare to other online marketplaces?

Whatnot is a unique platform that focuses specifically on collectibles and other niche items. While it may not have the same level of traffic as larger marketplaces like eBay or Amazon, it offers a more targeted audience and a community of buyers and sellers who share similar interests. Whatnot also has a lower fee structure than many other marketplaces, which can be appealing to sellers.

Can you make a sustainable income selling on Whatnot?

While there is no guarantee of income on any online marketplace, many sellers have reported making a sustainable income through Whatnot. Success on the platform depends on a variety of factors, including the quality and rarity of the items being sold, the seller’s marketing efforts, and the demand from buyers. However, Whatnot’s lower fees and supportive community can make it an attractive option for sellers looking to turn their hobby into a business.

What is the general consensus on Whatnot’s employee experience?

As a user of the platform, you may not have direct experience with Whatnot’s employee experience. However, the company has been recognized as a great place to work by Glassdoor and other employee review sites. Whatnot has a strong focus on company culture and values, as well as a commitment to diversity and inclusion.