Trade-in

Cotopaxi has collaborated with ThredUp to create a program that makes it easy for individuals to give their gently used clothing a second life while earning credit toward future purchases. The initiative encourages participants to engage in more sustainable fashion practices by keeping garments in circulation instead of contributing to landfill waste. By extending the lifespan of clothing, the program promotes environmentally conscious habits and offers a tangible reward in the form of store credit, linking responsible behavior with a practical benefit for users.

The process is designed to be simple and user-friendly. Participants can either use a provided shipping bag with a prepaid label or request a label to attach to their own packaging. Once the bag or box is prepared, it can be filled with wearable clothing from any brand and sent through UPS or another designated carrier. This streamlined approach removes barriers to participation, making it accessible for a wide audience and eliminating additional shipping costs or logistical complications.

After arrival at the processing facility, each item is assessed for quality and resale potential. Clothing that meets the platform’s standards is listed for sale, and participants earn store credit if their items sell within a designated timeframe. The credit awarded depends on factors such as brand popularity, condition, and current demand. This setup not only helps garments maintain value but also creates a system where high-quality items are incentivized to remain in use rather than discarded.

Participants are encouraged to select items carefully to maximize acceptance and potential returns. Pieces that align with seasonal trends—like jackets, outerwear, sweaters, denim, sneakers, and dresses—are more likely to be sold. Clothing should be freshly laundered, odor-free, and free from visible damage or excessive wear, especially in areas like seams, collars, and underarms. Emptying pockets of personal items is essential to avoid processing issues and ensure a smooth experience.

The program establishes clear guidelines regarding acceptable items. Garments with holes, stains, heavy wear, missing parts, or significant alterations may be rejected, as these do not meet resale standards. Understanding these rules helps participants prepare submissions that are more likely to be accepted, streamlining the process and increasing the likelihood of earning credit.

Store credit amounts vary according to brand, item quality, and consumer demand. Well-known or high-demand brands typically earn higher percentages of the resale value, while lower-value or lesser-known items may yield smaller returns. Occasionally, limited-time promotions may increase the store credit awarded, providing additional motivation for participation.

Overall, this partnership provides a practical, sustainable solution for managing clothing that is no longer needed. By reselling rather than discarding garments, participants actively reduce waste and contribute to a more circular fashion system. Simultaneously, the program offers financial incentives through store credit, creating a mutually beneficial cycle that supports sustainability, encourages mindful consumption, and allows clothing to continue serving a purpose rather than being wasted.