Summary:
Gone.com raises $6.3M to revolutionize the secondhand goods market with free pickups and AI-driven logistics
Founded by ex-Amazon leader Yash Wagh and OfferUp co-founders Nick Huzar and Arean van Veelen
Leverages AI to optimize pickups, pricing, and resale across multiple platforms
Averages 20-25 pickups weekly, with plans to expand beyond Seattle
Focuses on sustainability and reducing emissions through circular consumption
From Trash to Treasure: Gone.com's Innovative Marketplace
Pulling into the parking lot of Gone.com's headquarters, it's clear this isn't your average startup. The Seattle-based company, led by CEO Yash Wagh, is redefining the secondhand goods economy with a logistics-driven marketplace that turns unwanted items into valuable assets.
The Vision Behind Gone.com
Wagh, a former Amazon supply chain leader, teamed up with OfferUp co-founders Nick Huzar and Arean van Veelen to launch Gone. The startup recently emerged from stealth, securing a $6.3 million seed round led by FUSE, with participation from Breakwater Ventures, Evergreen Gavekal, and others.
Couches, dining tables, and even hand sanitizer dispensers from a WeWork office are some of the items for sale at Gone’s store in Renton, Wash.
How It Works
Gone offers free pickups of reusable goods, using its own trucks and third-party partners. Leveraging AI, the company determines which products to collect, optimizes logistics, and prices items for resale through its online shop, physical storefront, and platforms like OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist.
"Our concept is to unlock the value that is sitting in people’s homes," Wagh said.
Competitive Edge
Unlike traditional junk haulers or thrift stores, Gone's free pickup service and automation technology give it a unique advantage. Huzar notes that while OfferUp excels for individual items, Gone is the "easy button" for clearing large spaces quickly.
Gone’s headquarters doubles as office space for employees and a warehouse for used goods.
Growth and Future Plans
Currently averaging 20-25 pickups weekly, Gone is focusing on driving foot traffic and e-commerce sales. The startup is also exploring partnerships with movers, real estate agents, and office liquidators. Seattle serves as a testing ground before expansion to other cities.
Sustainability Mission
At the heart of Gone is a commitment to sustainability and circular consumption. Wagh emphasizes the environmental impact of buying new and aims to shift consumer habits toward more eco-friendly choices.
"Buying new can feel psychologically good," he said. "But it’s not good for the planet."
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