When a user searches for an item on Depop we show them the most relevant search results, this means matching the search term with the listings that sellers have created, along with the filters chosen. Depop’s search algorithm prioritises relevant, clear listings from sellers who follow our guidelines and provide a positive experience to buyers.
Here's an example of relevant items from a buyer’s search result and filters:
Depop’s recent buyer search behaviour shows that over half of buyers have at least two filters applied to their search query, which means search is narrowed down to show the most relevant items that match both the query and the filters. When buyers apply filters to their searches it increases the chance of a successful sale, therefore it’s important that your listings have accurate descriptions and relevant attributes so that they’re displayed to the right buyers.
Recency is a small component of various attributes which determine your item’s ranking in search and will have a significantly lower effect on a listing’s ranking than relevance has. This applies even to the ‘recent’ sort (which also takes relevance into account). Buyers are more likely to locate items they purchase by using specific search queries (including reformulations, i.e. adding or removing more words to the search) and/or applying search filters post-search.
How can I improve my search visibility?
Having high quality listings and a well maintained shop you can improve your chances of being more visible in search on Depop. Here are a few things you can do to optimise your search ranking and help buyers find your items.
- Create accurate and complete listings
- Follow the rules.
- Keep a positive selling record
- Always ship your item quickly, using a tracked shipping method.
- Follow Depop’s rules and selling guidelines
The more info you include about your item, the better we can match it to buyer searches.
How can I make my listing stand out?
- Use high-quality photos. High quality photos can be a factor in whether a buyer clicks on your item from the search results page. Upload 4 photos taken from several angles, making sure to show any flaws or clear signs of wear.
- Write accurate descriptions. Start with a headline that summarises your item, then add any relevant item information including the material, measurements and item condition, making sure to include details of any flaws or signs of wear. If you want to add any reasons to buy from you – like bundle discounts, offers or shipping methods – make sure you add these at the end of your description.
- Get specific. Relevant information helps display your items to the right buyers, so make sure you get specific (where relevant) with your listings, adding information such as:
- Categories and subcategories
- Colours
- Condition
- Tags
- Brand, Source, Age, and style - Provide a positive buyer experience
By ensuring you follow the above steps you can make sure your buyers have a positive experience which will encourage them to leave a good review and get them coming back to your shop.
What should I not do?
- Don’t include irrelevant or repetitive keywords, hashtags, brands or tags in your item description.
- Never accept or make out-of-app payments.
- Never list counterfeit items.
Here are some examples of accurate and complete listings:
FAQs
Does how much I sell affect how my items rank?
No, the number of items you list or sell has no influence on how your items rank.
What about the length of the item description?
The most important thing is that the description describes the item as clearly and accurately as possible, including measurements and signs of wear if applicable.
Which hashtags should I use in a listing?
Use hashtags that accurately describe your item. For example, if you were listing a Nike ‘Swoosh’ sweatshirt, you might use hashtags such as #nike #swoosh and #sweatshirt. If you were listing a vintage Levi’s denim jacket, you might try #levis #denim and #vintage.
Why am I not seeing my items in search results?
There are a couple of reasons your item might not show up, or rank highly for a particular search:
- The search has a lot of results e.g. ‘Nike’, so there are a lot of items competing for the top places in search results.
- The search has filters applied to it (e.g. colour, condition), so your item will only show up if its listing information matches what the buyer is searching for e.g. ‘black’ or ‘brand new’. This is why it’s so important to create accurate and complete listings.
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Please note that in most cases your items will appear in search within a few minutes (if not seconds) however in some instances this could take up to 24 hours.
I get a lot of messages from buyers. Does my response time affect how my items rank in search results?
No, your response time to messages doesn’t directly affect how your items rank.
It’s worth bearing in mind though, that sellers who respond quickly to buyers are more likely to sell their items and receive positive feedback, which are factors that play a part in optimising how their items rank in search results.
What happens if I go on holiday or can’t check my Depop for a while?
The best thing to do is to be as honest as possible with buyers, so you can manage their expectations and lessen your chance of receiving negative feedback.
Let buyers know in your bio or item description(s) that you’re away at the moment and unable to respond to messages quickly and/or can’t ship item(s), and if possible, let them know when you will be able to ship.
Why can’t I see the ‘Items from the rest of the world’ section in search results?
To protect our UK/EU buyers and sellers, we’ve had to temporarily change which items are visible in search results.
For now, if you’re searching in the UK you’ll only see items located in the UK, which means you won’t see the ‘Items from the rest of the world’ section. If you're in the EU, you won't see items located outside of the EU.
If you’re searching outside of the UK or EU, there won’t be any changes to your search experience.
OK, why are you doing this?
We’re doing this to prevent UK/EU buyers and sellers experiencing any negative impact that could arise from new Brexit and European Union shipping laws and border restrictions.
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Getting your description right