Whether you’re looking to clear out your bookshelves, make some extra cash, or simply find a new home for your beloved books, selling used books is a great option. In today’s digital age, there are numerous platforms available that make it easier than ever to sell your books online. However, there are also traditional in-person methods that still offer a personal touch. In this article, I will guide you through the best ways to sell used books, both online and in person, and provide you with valuable tips to maximize your selling success.
Key Takeaways:
- Explore online platforms like Amazon, Decluttr, BookScouter, AbeBooks, and Powell’s Books to reach a wider audience and sell your used books with ease.
- Consider in-person options such as local bookstores, Half Price Books, Facebook Marketplace, and garage sales for a personal selling experience.
- Accurately describe the condition of your books and set reasonable prices to attract potential buyers.
- Securely pack your books for shipping to ensure they arrive in good condition.
- Adopting these tips will help you successfully sell your used books and turn them into cash.
Amazon
Amazon is a top choice for many used sellers, offering a wide range of customers to reach. While there may be a few more steps involved in selling books on Amazon compared to other platforms, it remains one of the best places to sell used books. To get started, you’ll need to open an Amazon seller account, which offers two registration options: individual or professional seller.
Individual sellers: This plan allows you to pay-as-you-go, giving you access to basic listing and order management tools. You won’t be charged any fees unless you make a sale.
Professional sellers: As a professional seller, you gain access to advanced selling tools for a monthly subscription fee. This plan also includes inventory tools that make it easier to upload batches of books.
Most sellers start with the individual plan and upgrade to the professional plan when they are ready.
Next, you’ll need to decide how you’ll fulfill orders, with two options available:
- Fulfillment by Seller (FBS): With this method, you handle the inventory, packing, and shipping of books independently. It is the most active and involved method among the choices.
- Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): When using FBA, you ship your books to an Amazon Fulfillment center. Amazon takes care of storage, packing, shipping, customer service, and returns. Additionally, books fulfilled by Amazon may qualify for the Prime badge, which is an attractive perk for many customers.
Fees for selling used books on Amazon vary depending on the selling method you choose:
| Individual Plan | Professional Plan |
|---|---|
| $0.99 per unit sold (you only pay when something sells) | $39.99 per month (pay whether you sell books that month or not) |
Additional fees include a referral fee of 15% + $1.80 for each item sold, and fulfillment fees which vary depending on the size of the book and whether you use FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) or FBM (Fulfillment by Seller).
As a seller on Amazon, you have the flexibility to set your own prices for the books you sell. Researching what other booksellers are asking for similar books can help you determine competitive prices. You can also adjust your prices as needed.
While selling books on Amazon may seem slightly more complicated than other platforms, Amazon provides a wealth of tools and online resources to help you along the way. There are numerous tutorials available, created by experienced used booksellers, that walk you through each step of the selling process. With robust selling tools and a massive global reach, Amazon offers a valuable opportunity for selling used books.
Decluttr
Decluttr is a convenient platform that allows you to sell a variety of items, including used books, cell phones, tech devices, CDs, DVDs, and even games. While it offers an easy-to-use interface, it’s important to note that you may not receive top dollar for your books on this platform.
To begin selling your books on Decluttr, simply visit their website and click on the “Sell Books” option. You can then enter the barcode of your book or use the free Decluttr app to scan it. Instantly, you’ll see the price that Decluttr is willing to pay for your book. If you decide to sell, Decluttr will provide you with a prepaid shipping label, allowing you to ship your book to them free of charge.
After Decluttr receives your book, you will receive your payment via PayPal or direct deposit on the following day. It’s worth noting that Decluttr has specific requirements for book condition, such as no visible damage or discoloration, no substantial damage to the cover or spine, and no missing or damaged pages. Hardback books must also have their cover or dust jacket intact in order to be accepted.
Decluttr is ideal for individuals looking to sell a few books at a time, rather than serious side hustlers aiming to regularly sell books for profit. Selling books on Decluttr is hassle-free, and the platform covers shipping costs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it may not offer the highest payout for your books, and they have strict criteria for book condition, as well as control over the selling price.
| Platform | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Decluttr | – Easy-to-use interface – Free shipping |
– Lower payouts – Strict book condition requirements |
| AbeBooks | – Global platform for rare books and collectibles – Wider international reach |
– Steeper selling fees – Minimum membership fees |
Note 1: Shipping costs are covered by Decluttr.
Note 2: Selling fees on AbeBooks include a monthly membership fee, commission, and credit card processing fee.
The image above visualizes the process of selling books on Decluttr, an easy-to-use platform, while highlighting its key characteristics.
BookScouter
If you want to make money selling used textbooks, BookScouter is a solid and easy option. It’s a top pick with college students who are ready to offload last semester’s coursebooks, but side hustlers who have a lead on used textbooks enjoy its simple selling process.
Search for your book: Enter the ISBN number of your used book and Bookscouter will search more than 30 different buyback vendors.
Compare prices: You get to see what each vendor is willing to pay for your book, compare feedback, and choose who you want to sell to.
Ship your book: Shipping is free, and you get paid within 1-3 days of receiving and checking your shipment.
Bookscouter has a mobile app that lets you quickly scan the ISBNs of a bunch of books at once. There’s also a subscription service called BookScouter Pro that’s $29.99/month and gives you access to even more selling features, like bulk searching and historical pricing trends. Besides textbooks, you can also sell regular books on BookScouter, specifically cookbooks or older books.
Great platform for selling textbooks with easy-to-use features. Even though you can sell regular books on BookScouter, it’s best for textbooks.
AbeBooks
AbeBooks is a global platform that offers individuals the opportunity to sell a wide range of books, including rare editions, textbooks, fine art, collectibles, maps, comics, and paper collectibles. It is particularly popular among those who want to sell first editions, antique books, vintage magazines, and other unique items.
When it comes to selling on AbeBooks, there is a membership fee involved. Sellers are required to pay a minimum monthly fee of $25, which covers the listing of 0-500 books on the site. The membership fee varies depending on the number of books listed, with the highest tier being $500 per month for over 50,000 books in the system.
One of the advantages of selling on AbeBooks is the freedom to describe, store, and ship items independently. Sellers can also set their own shipping rates and speeds. Additionally, all listings on AbeBooks automatically appear on their six international platforms, maximizing the visibility and reach of your books.
If you only have a few books to sell, such as rare books passed down from a family member or textbooks from the previous semester, AbeBooks offers a convenient buyback program. For textbooks, they collaborate with TextbookRush, while Ziffit handles other types of books.
Despite its appeal, one challenge of selling on AbeBooks is the higher selling fees compared to other platforms. Sellers should take note of the following fees: a monthly membership fee of $25 or more, an 8% commission, and a 5.5% credit card processing fee.
On the upside, listing your books on AbeBooks allows you to tap into a customer base that specifically seeks rare, vintage, or collectible books. Additionally, your listings are automatically shared on the platform’s six international sites at no extra charge. These factors contribute to the possibility of listing your books at higher prices compared to other sites.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Monthly membership fee | $25+ |
| Commission | 8% |
| Credit card processing fee | 5.5% |
Overall, AbeBooks offers a robust platform for selling rare and collectible books, providing international exposure for your listings. However, it’s important to consider the selling fees involved before deciding to sell on this platform.
Powell’s Books
If you’re looking for a reliable platform to sell your used books, look no further than Powell’s Books. As the world’s largest independent bookstore, Powell’s offers both a physical presence in Portland, OR and a robust online marketplace.
When selling your books on Powell’s Books, simply head to their website and click on the “Sell Books” button. You’ll be prompted to enter the ISBN number of your book. In no time, you’ll receive an offer that you can either accept or decline.
If you choose to accept the offer, Powell’s will provide you with a prepaid shipping label, making it convenient and hassle-free to send your books. Payment can be received either in-store credit to Powell’s Books or through PayPal.
Powell’s Books: Where your used books find a new home.
While Powell’s Books offers a fantastic platform for selling used books, it’s important to note that they have strict guidelines regarding book condition. Books must be in good to excellent used condition to be accepted, and Powell’s does not accept book club editions, old library books, or any items marked as “not for resale.”
It’s worth mentioning that Powell’s Books requires a minimum of 7 books per sale or reaching $8.99 in store credit, making it less suitable for those looking to sell just one or two books at a time. If you have a smaller collection, you may find platforms like Decluttr to be a better fit.
Despite these considerations, Powell’s Books offers the advantage of being an independently owned bookstore and covers the cost of shipping. So, if you have a collection of books in excellent condition and are looking for a reputable destination to sell them, Powell’s Books is a top choice.
| Powell’s Books | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Advantages |
|
|
Where to Sell Used Books In-Person
Not everyone wants to sell their used books online, so check out these in-person options if you want something local:
- Local Bookstores: Visit your nearby independent bookstores and inquire about their buyback or consignment programs. They often support local sellers and can offer fair prices for your used books.
- Half Price Books: Half Price Books is a popular chain of stores that buys and sells used books, CDs, DVDs, and more. They have locations across the country, allowing you to personally sell your books and browse their extensive collection.
- Facebook Marketplace: Utilize the power of social media by listing your used books on the Facebook Marketplace. You can reach local buyers who are specifically searching for books in your area.
- Garage Sale: Organize a garage sale and include your used books as part of the items for sale. This can attract book lovers in your neighborhood and give you an opportunity to sell your books face-to-face.
- Used Book Stores: Research and visit used bookstores within your locality. These specialized stores are dedicated to selling and buying used books, making them an ideal place to connect with avid readers interested in purchasing second-hand books.
By exploring these in-person options, you can engage with local buyers and potentially generate more interest and sales for your used books.
# Provide a table summarizing the in-person options for selling used books
In-Person Options for Selling Used Books
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Local Bookstores | Independent bookstores that offer buyback or consignment programs. |
| Half Price Books | A chain of stores that buys and sells used books, CDs, DVDs, and more. |
| Facebook Marketplace | An online platform where you can list and sell your used books locally. |
| Garage Sale | A personal sale event where you can include your used books for interested buyers. |
| Used Book Stores | Specialized stores dedicated to buying and selling used books. |
These in-person options provide a convenient way to sell your used books locally and connect with book enthusiasts in your area.
Tips for Selling Used Books
If you want to make money selling books or become a reliable bookseller, here are some essential tips:
- Research book prices: Before listing your used books for sale, research the market to determine their value. Check prices on different platforms and consider factors such as the book’s condition, edition, and rarity.
- Accurately describe book condition: Be honest and thorough when describing the condition of your books. Note any damage, highlighting, or markings to manage buyer expectations and avoid returns or disputes.
- Set competitive prices: Price your books competitively to attract buyers. Consider factors such as the book’s age, popularity, and demand. Adjust prices if necessary to stay competitive in the market.
- Pack books securely: Ensure your books are well-protected during shipping to prevent damage. Use proper packaging materials like bubble wrap or padded envelopes to keep them safe during transit.
- Offer various shipping options: Provide different shipping methods to cater to your buyers’ preferences. Offer options like standard shipping, expedited shipping, or local pickup if feasible.
- Build your reputation: Prioritize customer satisfaction to build a positive reputation as a bookseller. Provide excellent customer service, promptly respond to inquiries, and ship orders in a timely manner.
- Bundle books: Consider bundling related books together to increase their value and attract buyers looking for a complete set or series. This strategy can help you sell multiple books in one transaction.
- Promote your listings: Utilize social media platforms, online forums, or book-related communities to promote your listings. Share engaging content, like book recommendations or reviews, to attract potential buyers.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of selling used books successfully and establish yourself as a trusted bookseller in the market.
| Platform | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Massive global reach, access to robust selling tools | Complicated process, fees for individual and professional plans |
| Decluttr | Easy-to-use platform, prepaid shipping label provided | Lower payouts, strict book condition requirements |
| BookScouter | Specialized in textbooks, easy comparison of buyback prices | Primary focus on textbooks, limited market for other books |
| AbeBooks | Global platform for rare, vintage, and collectible books | High selling fees, membership fee required |
| Powell’s Books | World’s largest independent book store, covers shipping costs | Selective about book condition, requires minimum book quantity |
Remember, each platform has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best aligns with your goals and book offerings.
The Final Word on How to Sell Used Books
Selling used books can be a profitable side hustle or a way to declutter your space. With various online platforms such as Amazon, Decluttr, BookScouter, AbeBooks, and Powell’s Books, you have multiple opportunities to sell your books and make money. Each platform has its own advantages and disadvantages, including fees, shipping methods, and market reach.
In addition to online options, there are also in-person alternatives for those who prefer local selling. Half Price Books, Facebook Marketplace, garage sales, and used book stores are great options to explore. These options provide convenience and give you the chance to connect with local book lovers.
When selling used books, it is crucial to accurately describe the condition of each book and set reasonable prices. Honesty is key to building trust with buyers and ensuring customer satisfaction. Remember to pack your books securely for shipping to ensure they arrive in good condition. By following these tips, you can successfully sell your used books, make some extra cash, and contribute to the circular economy of books.
FAQ
How do I sell used books on Amazon?
To sell used books on Amazon, you need to open an Amazon seller account and decide between an individual or professional selling plan. You can fulfill orders yourself or use Amazon’s fulfillment service. The fees for selling used books on Amazon vary depending on the plan and selling method you choose. Amazon offers tools and resources to help you learn the process.
How do I sell books on Decluttr?
To sell books on Decluttr, go to their website and click on “Sell Books.” Enter the barcode or scan it using the Decluttr app to get an instant price offer. If you want to sell, Decluttr provides a prepaid shipping label. Once Decluttr receives your book, you will receive payment via PayPal or direct deposit. Note that Decluttr is best for selling a few books at a time and has specific requirements for book condition.
How do I sell used textbooks on BookScouter?
To sell used textbooks on BookScouter, search for your book by entering the ISBN number. BookScouter will search various buyback vendors and display their prices. Compare the prices, feedback, and choose your preferred buyer. Ship your book for free and receive payment within 1-3 days. BookScouter also has a mobile app for easy scanning and a subscription service called BookScouter Pro for additional features.
How can I sell books on AbeBooks?
To sell books on AbeBooks, you need to sign up for a membership and pay a monthly fee. You describe, store, and ship the items yourself and set your own shipping rates. AbeBooks provides exposure to a global market, especially for rare books, first editions, and collectibles. There are selling fees associated with AbeBooks, but you can list your books on their international platforms at no extra cost.
How do I sell books to Powell’s Books?
To sell books to Powell’s Books, visit their website and click on the “Sell Books” button. Enter the ISBN number of your book and receive an immediate offer. If you accept the offer, Powell’s will provide a prepaid shipping label. Payment is in-store credit or via PayPal. Powell’s has specific requirements for book condition and minimum quantity or value for selling.
Where can I sell used books in-person?
You can sell used books in-person at places like local bookstores, Half Price Books, Facebook Marketplace, garage sales, and used book stores. These options allow you to interact with buyers directly and offer a more local selling experience.
What are some tips for selling used books?
When selling used books, accurately describe the book’s condition and set reasonable prices by researching similar listings. Pack the books securely for shipping to ensure they arrive in good condition. Consider factors like book condition, pricing, and shipping when determining the selling success of your used books.
Any final tips for selling used books?
To successfully sell used books, ensure you accurately describe the condition, set reasonable prices, and explore different online platforms or local options. Additionally, pay attention to packaging and shipping to ensure customer satisfaction. With these tips, you can turn your used books into cash effectively.
Our Friends
- https://www.bookdeal.com/blog/what-to-do-with-old-textbooks/
- https://www.x-cart.com/blog/how-to-sell-books-on-amazon.html
- https://millennialmoneyman.com/how-to-sell-used-books/
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