I came across someone selling bales of clothing for R750 on TikTok the other day. It made me think about how big this market is. Where can it be best sold? For example, at Saturday morning markets, online, and so forth. I myself have bought from the sellers of bales of clothing at the Budamark in Bloemfontein. I was able to get a beautiful German jacket at a reasonable price.
In these times, almost everyone in the country is looking for a side hustle. In fact, side hustles are keeping many afloat in this tough economy—stagnant economic growth, job losses, and an increasing number of one-income households. Many families are in a situation where the male breadwinner can no longer find work, but the female partner has a stable job. Still, she needs to start a side hustle to supplement the household income. I meet people like this all the time—like the woman whose 60-year-old husband is no longer employable, so she has started selling meat products at Saturday markets.
So, let’s get on with it. If you’ve been wondering about selling bales of clothing in South Africa, here’s some information to help you decide.
The Market for Clothing Bales in South Africa
While there is no exact data available on the size of the clothing bales market in 2025, the overall South African apparel market is set to grow significantly. By 2029, the market is expected to reach a value of US$1,152 million, with a growth rate of 11.43% from 2025 to 2029. The broader fashion market is projected to hit US$1,522 million by 2029, growing at 10.42% during the same period.
This strong growth suggests that there is increasing demand for clothing, and second-hand clothing, including bales, is becoming a popular niche. People are constantly looking for affordable, quality fashion, and buying in bulk allows sellers to make a profit while keeping prices low for customers.
Where to Buy Bales of Clothing in South Africa
If you’re interested in starting this business, you need to find reliable suppliers. Here are some of the major wholesalers of clothing bales in South Africa:
Top Suppliers of Clothing Bales
• Clothing Bales SA (Germiston) – Offers a variety of bales, including winter jackets.
• London Bales (Cape Town) – Known for high returns on investment.
• SA Bulk Bales & Cheapside Wholesale (Johannesburg) – Among the top suppliers in the city.
Pricing Example
• A 40kg kiddies’ bale costs approximately R3,600.
Prices vary based on the supplier, type of clothing, and quality.
Best Places to Sell Clothing Bales in South Africa
Once you’ve got your bales, where do you sell them? The good thing about this business is that it can work both offline and online.
1. Saturday Morning & Flea Markets
Markets are a great place to sell because people come looking for bargains. Some of the best markets to consider include:
Johannesburg & Bloemfontein Markets
• Budamark (Bloemfontein) – A well-known second-hand goods market.
• Pan Africa Market (Johannesburg) – A hub for affordable clothing.
• Randburg Flea Market – Popular for vintage and budget-friendly finds.
Cape Town Markets
Cape Town has a thriving market scene, offering excellent opportunities for selling clothing bales. Here are some of the best options:
• Milnerton Flea Market – Located along Marine Drive, this open-air market is ideal for second-hand clothing sales.
• Greenmarket Square – A historic market in the heart of Cape Town, attracting both locals and tourists.
• Thrift Fest Events – Organized thrift markets across Cape Town that connect sellers with second-hand fashion buyers.
• Bay Harbour Market (Hout Bay) – A lively weekend market with a mix of food, crafts, and clothing stalls.
• Church Street Antique Market – Specializes in vintage and second-hand fashion, operating Monday to Saturday.
2. Online Platforms & Social Media
Social media and e-commerce platforms can help you reach more buyers. Consider selling on:
• Facebook Marketplace – Many South Africans buy second-hand clothes here.
• WhatsApp Groups – Create a business profile and sell directly to interested buyers.
• Instagram & TikTok – Showcase your best items through photos and short videos.
• Takealot & Gumtree – Great for listing your items to a larger audience.
Is Selling Clothing Bales Profitable?
The answer is yes, but it depends on how you approach it. Here are a few reasons why this can be a profitable side hustle:
• Low Cost, High Markup: Buying in bulk means you get clothes at a low price. If you sell each item individually, you can double or triple your investment.
• Constant Demand: People always need clothes, and second-hand clothing is affordable and sustainable.
• Scalability: You can start small and grow. If you see demand increasing, you can buy more bales and expand your business.
• Multiple Sales Channels: You can sell both offline (markets) and online (social media), giving you more opportunities to reach customers.
Tips for Success
1. Choose the Right Supplier – Test different suppliers and check the quality before committing to bulk purchases.
2. Sort & Clean the Clothing – Some bales may contain damaged clothes. Sort them, clean the good ones, and price them accordingly.
3. Be Competitive with Pricing – Research other sellers and set prices that attract customers while still making a profit.
4. Leverage Social Media – Use platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram to showcase your stock and attract buyers.
5. Offer Delivery Options – Many customers prefer buying online, so consider affordable courier services.
Final Thoughts
Selling clothing bales in South Africa in 2025 can be a profitable and sustainable side hustle if done right. The market is growing, and second-hand fashion remains in demand. Whether you choose to sell at markets, online, or through social media, there are plenty of opportunities to make money.
If you’re thinking of starting this business, now is the time. Do your research, find a good supplier, and start small. You might just find that selling bales of clothing is not just a side hustle—but a full-time business opportunity waiting to grow.
Would you try selling clothing bales? Let me know in the comments!
