Craigslist was founded over two decades ago as an email distribution list. Since then, the platform has steadfastly refused to change its minimalist design and easy-to-use posting system. For many people, Craigslist remains a favorite marketplace to buy and sell items locally.
But this is not your only local buy-and-sell website option. There are plenty of other free sites where you can post classified ads, sell used stuff, or buy second-second products. Some don't even require a user account.
Let's look at some of the most popular options online when you have things to sell (or buy).
1. Oodle Marketplace
Oodle has pretty much the same features as Craigslist but also serves as a social network. The basic concept of posting online classifieds is the same. What makes this website a standout is the ability to add friends to your network and see other users' Facebook profiles.
The platform uses the same technology that powers Facebook Marketplace. You don't need a Facebook account to browse, but an active one is necessary to post new ads. It can also build trust and ensure legitimacy to a degree.
The interface is easy to use, even for those lacking computer skills. Use the sidebar on the left to browse the different marketplaces on Oodle. But set your location first and the range you want the search to cover. Consider setting up alert email subscriptions to grab good bargains.
You can not only post used things for sale but also use the platform to find jobs nearby. You can also use the classifieds to find people offering services, which range from tutors to housesitters and babysitters. This site seems to provide better geographically relevant results than many competitors, and there is support for several countries besides the United States. The site operates in Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
2. Geebo
Here's another veteran of the buy-and-sell industry. Geebo has never obtained the household name status of companies like Craigslist and eBay but has remained relevant for anyone looking for an alternative classified site. The site has dedicated sections for finding part-time gigs, other jobs, services, rentals, or real estate deals.
Like other buy-and-sell sites, its interface is clean and easy to navigate. It's a little more colorful and modern than Craigslist but not as noisy as eBay. Users can post classifieds for free, along with relevant photos and additional information, such as the price, location, and product category.
Geebo uses the tagline “safe community classifieds” and claims to have a more personal approach than the competition. Its blog does spend a lot of time bashing the competition for sketchy practices, but otherwise, the site isn't any safer than other online marketplaces where scams abound.
3. Facebook Marketplace
There are Facebook Groups to buy and sell stuff, but the Marketplace makes it more organized. Think of it as a more specialized corner where you can perform localized searches for stuff you want to buy or sell. You might even find people listing things like clothes for free.
Snap a photo and publish it to sell your stuff. To buy things, type the keywords and filter by location, category, and price or through a map. The community powers the marketplace, but you should know the pros and cons of using Facebook Marketplace.
Ensure the listings and the Facebook profiles behind them are safe. Ideally, only buy from users with verified profiles. You can contact the seller using Facebook Messenger to negotiate a final price and close the sale. If you spot a red flag, be careful of the details you give out.
Marketplace is available in the Facebook app and on desktops and tablets. Look for the Shop icon at the bottom of the app on iOS or at the top of the app on Android.
4. ClassifiedAds.com
ClassifiedAds.com, one of the oldest buy-and-sell sites, features thousands of listings in every category. There are used cars, appliances, toys, home gym machines, mobile phones, second-hand mattresses, and other goods. The free classified site is based in many U.S. cities and has locations in Canada, India, Mexico, and Australia.
There is also the option to filter the results by location. Most listings are basic, resembling the classified ads you'd see in a newspaper. Depending on your preferences, you can browse by category or use the search bar to find used stuff, local services, or rental properties. According to the site, you can post, browse, and answer ads for free. There are no hidden fees or commissions.
5. Locanto
Locanto is a more streamlined version of Craigslist. Users can post free classified ads in nearly 60 countries worldwide, including the U.S., China, Canada, Vietnam, Ireland, etc.
Think of this platform as a one-stop shop for used stuff, local events, jobs, cars, and real estate. There's also a Community section where you can find babysitters, musicians, tutors, and other service providers. The website accepts paid ads from local and national retailers, making it easier to find what you need when you need it. If, say, you want to buy home gym equipment, you can get it from a private seller or look for stores in your area.
Locanto also allows you to follow or ignore users, contact advertisers, or make an offer. You can also sign up for a Premium account with additional benefits like ad-free surfing, contacting online users, instant response to your alerts, etc.
6. eBay Classifieds
eBay is one of the oldest and most popular places to buy used second-hand stuff. You can buy directly from sellers and bid on auctions smartly. Use the Advanced Search filter and select Used to narrow down the used items for sale. Also, use the Location filters to find great deals near your home.
eBay has a classified ads format, allowing you to use it as a local buy-and-sell website. The support article on eBay describes the ad listing process. Do note that the feature is available only for select categories, and finding it in the category you want is cumbersome.
More Online Flea Markets to Buy and Sell Stuff
Several Craigslist alternatives have found a home in mobile apps because it's easier to click, upload, and list the stuff you want to sell online. So, pick one that reaches the largest audience or has a thriving community. Even selling internationally is no longer difficult.
More Ways to Take Advantage of Craigslist
There are a lot of sites like Craigslist, but these were picked because of their strong user communities. A classified site is useless if no one ever visits it.
In this mobile-first era, you can take your pick from social shopping apps and many niche apps that list just a few categories, such as used cars or electronics. Whether you want to buy used stuff, sell your old gadgets, or find local contractors, everything you need is one click away.
