The best question is the one that resolves a decision you cannot make from the listing. Read the description and photographs first, then ask for the missing evidence in one short message. You do not need to interrogate every seller or request information that is already clearly shown.
This is a message-writing guide: how to turn “Is it nice?” into something a seller can actually answer. For detailed measuring instructions, use our online fit comparison guide.
Match the question to the uncertainty
| What you cannot tell | Ask this | A useful answer contains |
|---|---|---|
| Whether the photographs show today's item | “Are these photos of the item you're selling now?” | Confirmation, or a new actual-item photo |
| Whether the fit suits you | “Could you send the underarm width and length, measured flat in cm?” | Clear start/end points, ideally shown with a tape |
| How serious a visible mark is | “Could you show the mark close up and in a full-item photo?” | Its location, extent and whether it remains after normal care |
| Whether something works | “Does the zip open and close fully, and are any teeth missing?” | A direct answer about the fastening, not just “good condition” |
| Whether the item was changed | “Have the hems, waist, buttons or lining been altered or repaired?” | What changed and photographs of that area |
| Whether it suits your care routine | “Could you add a clear care-label and fabric-label photo?” | Legible labels, or an honest statement that they are missing |
These requests are consistent with Depop's own buying guidance, which advises checking the actual photos, understanding flaws and asking for measurements. Depop's payment and protection rules are separate from VaKoop's; they are not transferred by this comparison.
Write a message the seller can answer in one go
Suggested message—not a real transaction:
Hi, I'm interested in the jacket. I've read the description. Before buying, could you confirm the underarm width when zipped, whether the zip works all the way, and whether there are any repairs or lining tears? A close-up of the cuffs and the care label would help. Thanks!
This works because it names the item, identifies a few unanswered points and requests observable facts. “Is it original, perfect and worth it?” combines three difficult questions and invites an unhelpful yes.
For a deadline, ask “When can you dispatch?” rather than “Will this definitely arrive by Friday?” A seller's dispatch intention is not a courier delivery guarantee. Check the available delivery choice and estimate on the actual order before relying on it for an event.
How to interpret the reply
An honest “I don't know” can be more useful than a confident claim without supporting detail. It lets you decide whether the remaining uncertainty is acceptable. A missing fabric label, for example, is relevant if you need a particular material; the seller's best guess should not be treated as a verified composition.
A quick reply is convenient, but not proof of condition or authenticity. A slow reply is not proof of a scam. Judge the information you receive, whether it answers your question and whether it agrees with the listing.
If a reply changes a material detail—such as revealing a repair—keep the conversation with the transaction and ask for the listing to reflect that detail. Avoid relying on a disappearing message or a verbal assurance you cannot refer back to.
What not to request
Do not ask for identity documents, banking passwords, one-time codes or personal photographs unrelated to the item. You need evidence about the product, not unnecessary private information about its owner. If the conversation turns into pressure to move payment away from the platform, consult our separate marketplace-scam guide.
A simple stopping rule
Before sending another message, ask: “Would either possible answer change my decision?” If not, the question probably is not necessary. If yes, and the seller cannot provide the evidence, wait or choose another item. Do not let a limited-time discount replace an answer about a fault that matters to you.