How to Sell Used Items on Amazon in 2023

Introduction

If you want to get rid of some clutter and make some extra cash, you might wonder where to sell used items. Maybe it’s time you consider selling used items on Amazon.

Selling products on Amazon can be a great way to make some extra money, especially if you’re willing to get creative. If marketed properly, you can get cash for your used goods while also giving somebody a great deal on something they need.

Before you start selling used items, it’s important to understand how to sell used items on Amazon. While used item sales are allowed, there are certain used items you are not allowed to sell on Amazon. It’s also important to understand how Amazon classifies used items based on their condition. Want to learn how to sell secondhand on Amazon? Here’s everything you need to know.

Can You Sell Used Items on Amazon?

The bottom line is that selling used items on Amazon is allowed. While this may be true, Amazon also has restrictions in place that keep you from selling certain items. If you’re not sure if your used items can be sold on Amazon, the lists below will be one of your best Amazon seller resources.

Is Amazon a Good Place to Sell Used Items?

Absolutely, Amazon is an excellent platform for selling used items. While you might consider a place like Facebook marketplace or Ebay as popular alternatives, there is truly no platform like Amazon with as large of a customer base and extensive reach where your transactions are protected.

Amazon provides a prime marketplace for pre-owned goods. The platform’s credibility and reputation for reliable transactions make it a trusted choice for both buyers and sellers. Amazon’s user-friendly interface, secure payment systems, and efficient shipping and fulfillment options further enhance the experience, making it a top choice for individuals and businesses looking to sell used items in 2023.

Of course, if you are interested in exploring the differences between platforms, check out this article here.

Is Selling Used Items on Amazon Worth It?

Selling used items on Amazon in 2023 is undeniably worth it for numerous reasons. The platform’s expansive customer base and robust infrastructure offer a significant advantage. It provides a ready-made marketplace, eliminating the need for an extensive customer outreach strategy. Additionally, the potential for profit is substantial, especially when leveraging Amazon’s powerful tools and services to optimize your listings and reach a broader audience. The relatively low startup costs and the ability to scale your business make selling used items on Amazon a lucrative venture, making it undoubtedly worth considering for aspiring and experienced sellers alike.

How Are Used Items Classified on Amazon?

When you’re selling a used item on Amazon, that item must be classified based on its condition. The better condition an item is in, the more likely it is to sell (and to sell for more!) Amazon uses strict guidelines to determine what condition a product is in, so follow these guidelines to make sure you’re listing used items properly. Here’s a quick breakdown of how Amazon determines what condition a used item is in.

Used – Like New/Open Box

“Like New/Open Box” items are the best of the best when it comes to used products on Amazon. In order for an item to be considered “Like New/Open Box,” it must work the way it was intended to and have its original packaging. This original packaging must also include any instructions you may have received with the product when you originally bought it. However, you don’t need to keep the original protective wrapping on the product or the box in order to sell it as “Like New/Open Box.”

Used – Very Good

Used items that have seen a little bit of wear but are still in great shape are considered “Used – Very Good” by Amazon. This could be an item that you’ve had for a while and used a handful of times but that’s still in relatively great shape. For example, you may have an old computer monitor that only has a few minor scratches on the plastic bezel. For “Used – Very Good” classification, you can have damaged original packaging or your item could be repackaged altogether. There can be missing accessories, but you’ll need to disclose any missing accessories in the listing.

Used – Good

When it comes to understanding how to sell used items on Amazon, you should know about the “Used – Good” category, as it’s one of the most popular. Many items end up falling into this category because they’re not quite in good enough shape to be “Used – Very Good,” but not bad enough to be “Used – Acceptable.” “Used – Good” items are in solid condition and work as intended, but have clear signs of use. A “Used – Good” product can be repackaged or shipped in damaged original packaging. You can also classify an item as “Used – Good” even if it has missing parts, accessories, and instructions.

Used – Acceptable

Items that aren’t quite in good enough shape to be considered “Used – Good” are considered “Used – Acceptable.” “Used – Acceptable” is the lowest classification of used items that Amazon allows you to sell, and for good reason. An item may be classified as “Used – Acceptable” if it’s still in working condition but has serious cosmetic damage. These items may have dents, dings, scratches, intentional markings from the original owner, and more.

“Used – Acceptable” items are typically repackaged but can also be shipped in their original packaging. These items may also be missing parts, accessories, or instructions.

Unacceptable

Amazon is very forgiving when it comes to allowing you to sell used goods, but there are some things you can’t sell on Amazon. While some of these items can’t be sold because of the category they’re in, sometimes selling used items on Amazon isn’t allowed because of the poor condition of the item. When this is the case, Amazon will classify an item as “Unacceptable.”

There are several reasons Amazon may classify used goods as “Unacceptable,” including:

• Items that obviously aren’t clean, including used goods with heavy staining, mold growth, corrosion, and similar issues
• Items that are damaged to the point that they’re no longer functional
• Items missing parts that are essential to the operation of that item
• Products that need to be fixed before they can be used
• Items that are a counterfeit or a replica of another name-brand product
• Items that were created for promotional purposes, such as demo discs and advanced copies of books
• Items that are expired, close to expiring (including “use by” and “sell by” dates) or don’t have an expiration date
• Items that the manufacturer deems unsellable

This is one of the biggest differences between selling on Amazon vs. eBay. Because Amazon has a reputation to uphold and a loyal customer base, they’re a lot stricter about what kind of used items you can list for sale.

Which Used Items Can You Sell on Amazon?

To help make sure you’re not selling the wrong used items, Amazon provides a list of which items can be sold in used condition. Here’s a list of some of the used items that you’re allowed to sell on Amazon:

• Amazon Device Accessories
• Amazon Kindle
• Automotive & Powersports
• Books
• Camera & Photo
• Cell Phones & Accessories
• Consumer Electronics
• Home & Garden
• Industrial & Scientific
• Kindle Accessories and Amazon Fire TV Accessories
• Major Appliances
• Music
• Musical Instruments
• Office Products
• Outdoors
• Personal Computers
• Pet Supplies
• Software
• Sports
• Tools & Home Improvement
• Video, DVD & Blu-Ray
• Video Games

In addition to providing a list of the items you can sell on Amazon, Amazon also provides a clear list of the categories that you’re not allowed to sell used. Here are some of the item categories that you CAN’T sell used on Amazon:

• Baby Products (excluding apparel)
• Beauty
• Clothing
• Collectible Coins
• Entertainment Collectibles
• Fine Art
• Grocery & Gourmet Food
• Health & Personal Care
• Independent Design
• Jewelry
• Shoes & Handbags
• Sports Collectibles
• Toys & Games
• Watches

What is Amazon Renewed?

Amazon Renewed stands as one of Amazon’s recent endeavors, affording sellers the opportunity to market items in a “like new” condition. This initiative encompasses three distinct product categories, namely:

Refurbished: This category pertains to products that have been utilized but were subsequently returned, either due to a fault or simply because the customer no longer desired them.

Pre-owned: Comparable to refurbished items, pre-owned products have seen previous use but exhibit superior condition compared to their refurbished counterparts upon return.

Open-box: Open-box items refer to products that have been unpackaged but remain unused by the customer.

In adherence to Amazon Renewed’s rigorous standards, all products undergo meticulous inspection, testing, and thorough cleaning, administered by qualified Amazon Renewed sellers. This meticulous process ensures that the items regain their original functionality and appearance, rendering them nearly indistinguishable from brand-new counterparts.

While Amazon Renewed products may not arrive in their original packaging and could possess minor physical imperfections like scratches or marks, they consistently deliver on their promise of a “like new” performance. This nearly seamless resemblance between Renewed products and brand-new alternatives makes distinguishing between them a challenging task for most consumers.

And all Amazon Renewed products come accompanied by the Amazon Renewed Guarantee, a limited warranty ensuring that the renewed product functions impeccably for up to 90 days following purchase. In the event of any performance issues within this period, customers retain the option to pursue a free refund or product replacement, reinforcing the trustworthiness of Amazon Renewed’s offerings.

Caveats to Selling with Amazon Renewed

The only caveats are you need to qualify to sell on Amazon Renewed and please note that not all product categories are eligible and therefore, you should check in or their requirements if you plan to sell via Amazon Renewed. Here are some things you can sell:

Here’s what to do if you want to sell used books instead.

How do I Qualify to Sell with Amazon Renewed?

As for how to qualify, Amazon requires some details of your experience selling such products.

To gain eligibility as a seller on Amazon Renewed, you must fulfill the following criteria:

1. Present supply invoices indicating a minimum total value of $50,000 in qualifying refurbished purchases within the previous 90 days from the date of your application. Please note that for sellers intending to offer products related to Home, Tools, Lawn & Garden, or Kitchen, the minimum qualifying purchase value within the previous 180 days is also $50,000.
2. Existing Amazon sellers must maintain an Order Defect Rate (ODR) of 0.8% or less during the trailing 90 days.
3. If you wish to list factory-refurbished items without a manufacturer warranty, you are required to submit a minimum of 8 images showcasing a sample unit for a comprehensive product and packaging review. This includes images of the shipping box, interior packaging, product from various angles, and product from all sides.
4. Your company must stand behind the Amazon Renewed Guarantee, assuming responsibility for all claims made under this guarantee.
5. For approval to list Apple brand products in Consumer Electronics categories, you must provide invoices dated within the trailing 90 days, reflecting a total value of $2.5 million in Apple refurbished products.

Once you are approved, you can start selling by listing your refurbished and pre-owned products. Fulfill on your own or through FBA as you see fit.

How Do I Setup Amazon Renewed?

To set up Amazon Renewed and sell certified pre-owned used items and certified refurbished items in 2023, you need to be a registered Amazon seller. If you are new to selling on Amazon, you will need a utility bill and bank statement in your name alongside proper identification information.

Once you have your Amazon Seller Central account open, start by navigating to your dashboard. Locate the “Manage Inventory” tab and click on “Add a Product.”

Search for the item you want to sell and select the appropriate category. Choose the condition of your item, opting for “Used – Like New,” “Used – Very Good,” or other relevant options.

Provide accurate product details, including images and a compelling product description that highlights the item’s condition, features, and benefits. Set a competitive price and determine your shipping options, ensuring a seamless customer experience. Finally, click “Save and finish” to list your used item on Amazon Renewed for potential buyers to discover and purchase.

You may end up needing to “Request Approval” for certain products.

Where Can I Source Used Items to Sell on Amazon?

Thrift Stores and Garage Sales

Thrift stores and garage sales remain classic and reliable sources for finding used items to sell on Amazon. Thrift stores feature a wide variety of items, including clothing, furniture, books, and more. Meanwhile, garage sales hosted by individuals or families often yield unique finds like antiques and collectibles. Regularly visiting these establishments and honing your thrifting skills can help you unearth profitable items with resale potential on Amazon. Building a network of thrift store owners and garage sale hosts can further enhance your sourcing opportunities.

Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp offer a digital platform for individuals to buy and sell used items. These platforms enable you to peruse listings, negotiate prices, and arrange pickups or deliveries. By regularly monitoring these marketplaces, you can uncover various products, from furniture and appliances to electronics and collectibles, for potential resale on Amazon.

Flea Markets and Swap Meets

Flea markets and swap meets are bustling marketplaces where vendors gather to sell a diverse range of used items. These venues provide ample opportunities to discover hidden gems, including antiques, vintage goods, and one-of-a-kind items. Building relationships with regular vendors can lead to insider knowledge about upcoming merchandise and potentially discounted rates, enhancing your ability to find profitable items for resale on Amazon.

Wholesale Suppliers

Some wholesalers and liquidation companies offer pallets or lots of customer returns and overstock items that you can purchase in bulk and then resell on Amazon. You can also find wholesale products directly on Amazon to resell as well though you should be extremely mindful of profit discrepancies. They can really sneak up on you!

Closeout and Clearance Sales

Closeout and clearance sales from various retailers and wholesalers can be an excellent source of used items to sell on Amazon. These sales often feature discounted items, end-of-season merchandise, or items with minor imperfections. Retailers are eager to clear their inventory, making these products available at competitive prices for resellers. Keep an eye on your local stores or explore online options for clearance sales. You can find a wide range of products, from clothing and electronics to home goods, all of which may have resale potential on Amazon.

Networking and Existing Relationships

Networking with other sellers, collectors, or individuals within the resale community can be a valuable way to source used items. Building and nurturing relationships with people in the industry can lead to opportunities for buying items directly. Experienced sellers often have insights into where to find the best deals and may even offer items for sale or trade. Leveraging these connections can help you access unique or hard-to-find products to resell on Amazon.

Local Buy and Sell Groups

Many local communities have online buy and sell groups on platforms like Facebook or community forums. These groups can be a goldmine for finding used items, as local residents frequently list items they want to sell, often at reasonable prices. This is an excellent option for sourcing items locally, saving on shipping costs, and building trust with repeat customers within your community.

Craigslist Free Section

Craigslist, a popular online classifieds platform, often has a “free” section where people give away items they no longer need. While these items may not always be in pristine condition, they can still be valuable for resale, especially if you possess the skills to refurbish or repair them. Scouring the Craigslist free section can lead to cost-effective sourcing opportunities, as you can acquire items at no cost, minimizing your initial investment.

Retail Store Returns and Overstock

Retail store returns and overstock items can be an excellent source for used items in like-new condition. Many retailers offer these products through liquidation or pallet sales. Returns often consist of items that customers used briefly but then returned for various reasons. Overstock items are surplus inventory that retailers need to clear. These items can range from electronics to clothing, offering a wide variety for potential resale on Amazon. Be sure to inspect these items to ensure they meet Amazon’s quality standards before listing them.

Local and Online Auctions

Attend local or online auctions where you can bid on items, including antiques, collectibles, and used goods. Online auctions, such as eBay and various specialized auction platforms, are convenient sources for procuring used items for resale on Amazon. These auctions feature a wide array of products, from collectibles and vintage items to electronics and antiques. Bidding in online auctions can be an exciting way to secure unique or hard-to-find items. Be mindful of bidding strategies and research the market to ensure you acquire items at favorable prices, allowing for profitable resale on Amazon.

How Do I Put Used Items on Amazon?

Now that you know the basics, you’re ready to sell my used items on Amazon! The good news is, listing an item on Amazon is a simple 10-step process, even if that item is used. Simply follow these steps to post a new product listing through your Amazon seller account:

Conclusion

Do you want to start your own Amazon business and start earning more money? The good news is, getting started with Amazon is easier than ever thanks to all the great resources you have at your disposal. Helium 10 is dedicated to providing you with all the tools and information you need to succeed as an Amazon seller, whether you’re selling used goods or opening a Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA) store. We’ve even got a community forum where you can chat with other Amazon sellers and get helpful advice. If you want to get started as an Amazon seller today, check out Helium 10 to get the help you need to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions