Tips and Tricks for Selling on Consignment

I’ve been busy recently down-sizing and trying to get rid of excess “stuff.” (Don’t we all have too much stuff anyway?)  I found a box in my closet filled with handbags– many of which I hadn’t carried in more than a year. So…. I decided the best way to get rid of them was consignment. Especially since they were in good condition and name brand items. True, it was hard to part with my old favorite Coach bag– but since it was just hanging out in a box I decided to sell.

Getting rid of clothes and accessories has been an emotional experience at times. This box of stuff for consignment sat in my car trunk for close to a week (yikes).  Anyway, the stuff is gone now and I’m now waiting for my money!  The good news is- the place I’m using has been successful for me in the past. I had close to $100 on my account. Which means now I can shop for FREE!

Are you ready to clean out your closets filled with outdated clothes and accessories? Here are some tips to get started:

1. Find a Specialty Store. You’ll make more money if you zone in on a specialty store for your goods. For instance, a sports equipment store will pay more for your used football pads than a general consignment shop. When I wanted to sell my stuff, I focused on a store specifically for women’s clothing and accessories to help me score a better price on my handbags. General shops are better for knick-knacks and stuff that can’t be categorized.
2. Know What Sells. Consignment shops specifically look for stuff that sells quickly and easily. A nearly unworn pair of designer jeans or clean shoes? Perfect.  Before you take your stuff over, consider whether you’d buy the same item used or not.
3. Clean Your Items. You’ll get more money for each of your items if they’re in good shape and freshly washed.  If you’re missing buttons, parts, laces and pieces, it’s best to donate instead. Check over your items for stains and other marks, since consignment shops will probably decline worn-looking items. (There were a couple of my things that were consignment rejects- these go to Goodwill)
4. Read the Contract. If you decide to sell using the profit-sharing method, you’ll receive a contract. The contract gives you information about the percentage for sharing, how the items are priced, how long your items will sit on store shelves, and when you can arrive to collect your money. It’s important to know the details so you aren’t disappointed.