Households earning £400 a month through 'easy side hustle' that anyone can start

A survey of 2,000 adults revealed fashion items, hobby products, and home and garden ware were the most popular items to buy and sell. One fifth consider selling second-hand goods online as their 'side hustle', earning more than £400 per month, while nearly one in ten have made it their full-time job.

For 80 per cent of sellers, maintaining a high overall rating on their profile is vital. To achieve this, 48 per cent ensure fast package shipping and 43 per cent respond to queries within an hour, reports MirrorOnline.

Sellers are aware that nearly half of buyers are put off by poor reviews and 40 per cent won't make a purchase until they've scrutinised them. Neill O'Sullivan, managing director of parcels and mails at Post Office, which commissioned the study, said: "It's incredible to see how many people are not only decluttering through online marketplaces but also turning it into a significant income stream."

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The surge in online marketplaces could be attributed to people's love for the range of products available (62 per cent), while 58 per cent said it was more convenient being able to shop from home. Almost half (48 per cent) say it gives them the ability to compare prices easily and 39 per cent love the opportunity of selling their unwanted items for extra cash. However 53 per cent have been deterred from buying from an online seller due to high shipping costs.

Alison De Lara, founder of Mamma Duck Company, who has been selling her popular wooden ducks online since 2013, said: "While being an online seller has been brilliant at allowing me to grow my business and build loyal, returning customers, it comes with its challenges." Affordable delivery options, convenient drop-off locations, and reliable tracking are important aspects which make sending items a positive experience. Tracking, in particular, gives my customers peace of mind."

Neill added: "With Christmas on the horizon, shoppers are more likely to spend with sellers who can offer a choice of delivery options and provide tracking, matching the service from big brands. A variety of delivery carriers means online sellers can make the most of the Christmas rush, without the stress, as Postmasters can advise on the most suitable posting options."