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If you have some used fine china lying around and you’re looking to sell it, there’s good news – plenty of people are interested in buying it. Fine china and tableware have become highly sought-after collection items in recent years, making it easier to sell your used items and earn some extra cash while decluttering your home at the same time.
You can sell fine china and anything from used furniture to old electronics such as laptops, smartphones, and everything in between. But if you want to sell your used china, glassware, or crystal, you might wonder where and how to get started.
Luckily, there are many places where you can sell your used fine china online and to buyers near you. Some platforms also allow you to sell other types of dinnerware, so keep that in mind if you have any other items you want to sell. With some research and effort, you can find the right platform to sell your used items and make extra money.
Where to sell used fine China online
Selling your used dishes can be a great way to earn extra cash. Online platforms have made finding potential buyers for your fine china easier than ever. Not only do you have access to a wider range of buyers than you would in your local area, but you can also reach people from all over the world.
This is particularly helpful if you live in a small town where few stores buy or sell used china. By selling online, you can get the best price for your items and find buyers interested in the specific patterns and brands you offer.
Here are some of the best online platforms for selling your used fine china and maximizing your earnings.
1. IADM
Did you know that an organization is dedicated solely to matching people with fine vintage china dishes? It’s called the International Association of Dinnerware Matchers (IADM), and it is an independent tableware dealer with extensive experience in this field. The IADM primarily helps people find and purchase fine china dishes by connecting sellers with buyers.
This makes it an excellent platform for selling your china, whether it’s fine china, bone china, or stoneware. Additionally, IADM offers matchmaking services for tableware such as crystal, depression glass, milk glass, barware, stainless, silverplate, and sterling flatware.
To get a quote from their member-dealers, you can provide details like pattern, color, number of pieces, etc. They have active buyers who are always looking for new additions to their collections and are willing to pay a fair price. So if you have any vintage tableware you want to sell, IADM is the perfect place to start.
2. Replacements, Ltd.
Replacements, Ltd. is a renowned company that purchases used fine china from individuals. If you have some fine china you no longer use or need, you can easily sell it to Replacements, Ltd. To do so, you can ship your china to the company using FedEx or the US Postal service.
If you are interested in selling your china to Replacements, Ltd., the company has a useful guide that provides detailed instructions on how to do so. This guide offers valuable insights into the selling process, including how to package your items, complete the purchase order, and calculate your payment.
Aside from selling online to Replacements, Ltd., the company also offers limited appointments for in-person drop-off or on-site visits. However, it is important to note that items in this instance must be sterling silver and/or exceed $250 in total expected payment based on Offer to Purchase pricing to qualify.
3. eBay
If you’re looking to sell your fine china, eBay is a great option to consider. With a large user base, you’ll have plenty of potential buyers to market your items.
One of the benefits of listing on eBay is that you can create listings for free. However, if you plan on listing more than 250 items per month, you will be charged a $0.35 insertion fee per listing.
Once your item sells, eBay will charge you a final value fee, which can vary based on the category of your item. For most categories, this fee is 12.9% of the sale price or lower, plus $0.30 per order. Overall, eBay provides a convenient and cost-effective platform for selling your fine china.
4. Mercari
If you have some fine china you no longer need and would like to sell it, Mercari is a great platform to consider. When you list your fine china for sale on Mercari, you can set your price, and once a buyer purchases it, your payment will be processed through Mercari.
Mercari charges a fee of 2.9% of the sale price plus a $0.30 payment processing fee, which will be deducted from your earnings. Overall, Mercari provides an easy and convenient way to sell your fine china online, and with its large user base, you may have a higher chance of finding a buyer quickly.
5. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is an online platform allowing you to sell your stuff locally and to nearby people. If you have some fine china that you want to sell, you can list it on Facebook Marketplace for free.
However, if you prefer to ship your items to buyers who live far away, you will need to sell as a shop. When you sell as a shop, you will need to pay a selling fee of 5% per shipment or a flat fee of $0.40 for shipments of $8 or less.
On the other hand, if you sell your stuff locally on Facebook Marketplace, you won’t have to pay any fees. This means you can keep all the money you make from selling your items.
6. Etsy
If you want to sell fine china, Etsy is a great platform to explore. The site features a wide range of home décor items and antiques, which are prominently displayed to attract potential buyers. However, since there are hundreds of listings for china dishware on Etsy, the competition can be high, so it’s essential to ensure your listing stands out.
One of the best ways to make your listing more attractive is to have plenty of quality photographs that showcase your fine china’s unique features and design. You should also ensure that your prices are competitive, which will help you gain an edge over your competitors.
It’s worth noting that listing items for sale on Etsy isn’t free, and you will be charged a listing fee of $0.20 for each item you list for sale on Etsy.com or Etsy’s mobile apps.
Additionally, when your item sells, Etsy will charge you a transaction fee of 6.5% of the price you display for each listing, along with the amount you charge for delivery and gift wrapping. Therefore, it’s essential to keep these costs in mind when setting your prices to ensure you make a decent profit from your sales.
7. eBid
If you’re looking to sell your fine China, you might want to consider using eBid as a platform. While it’s not as well known as eBay, it’s a great alternative.
One of the benefits of using eBid is that it offers a variety of membership levels to choose from. The Basic Seller account is free for those who are just starting as casual sellers. However, you will be charged a 5% final value fee once you sell your china.
If you want to avoid paying fees, you will need to choose a paid membership option. eBid offers a variety of paid membership options, each with its unique set of benefits. So, depending on your needs and goals, it may be worth exploring these options before deciding.
8. Sotheby’s
Sotheby’s is a globally renowned auction house that sells vintage and antique goods, including fine china, stamps, jewelry, watches, and even niche collectibles like old postcards. If you have any such items that you wish to sell, you can do so through one of Sotheby’s auctions, at a retail location, or even in a private sale, depending on the nature of what you are selling.
The selling process at Sotheby’s is fairly simple. It usually begins with filling out their online sale form to describe the item you wish to sell. The form allows you to upload photos of your item. Once you submit your application, Sotheby’s will evaluate your request to determine if they are interested in buying or auctioning off your item.
It’s important to note that not all items submitted to Sotheby’s are guaranteed to be sold, especially if they are not unique or have no significant historical value. However, if you’re not sure about the value of your item, Sotheby’s can help you evaluate it and establish a fair price for it.
Where to sell fine China near me
Selling fine china can be a great way to make some extra cash. While online selling offers convenience and a wider reach, selling locally has unique advantages. When you sell fine china locally, you don’t have to worry about shipping items anywhere, which can be time-consuming and costly. Additionally, local buyers are often willing to pay in cash on the spot, making the transaction quick and easy.
If you’re interested in selling your used fine china locally, there are several places you can consider.
9. Consignment stores
When you sell items through a consignment store, you bring your goods to the store, and an employee will assess them to determine their value and quote you a price. This assessment may include examining the condition of the items, checking for any damage or defects, and researching the market demand for your specific type of product.
If you agree with the price offered, you can decide to sell your items through the consignment store. The store will then display your china or other dishware for sale in their store, where potential buyers can browse and make purchases.
Once your items sell, the consignment store will pay you for the sale price minus their commission. The commission is typically a percentage of the sale price, which is agreed upon in advance.
Selling through a consignment store can be a great option for individuals who want to sell their items but may not have the time or resources to do so themselves. Consignment stores have the expertise and experience to price items accurately and attract potential buyers, which can help increase the chances of a sale. Additionally, consignment stores are motivated to sell your items since they make a profit by doing so.
Consignment stores can be a great option for selling your fine dishes, but it’s important to be aware of the downsides. While you may get a good price for your china, the commission consignment stores charge can vary widely, with some stores taking up to 40% or more of the sale price. Additionally, some stores may even charge you a fee if your dishes don’t sell.
It’s important to remember that each consignment store has its own rules and policies regarding accepting and selling items, so it’s a good idea to do some research and call around to a few local stores to find out more. Some stores may not accept dishware, while others may have specific requirements or restrictions on the types of dishes they sell.
When you call a consignment store, be sure to ask about their rules and commissions and any other fees or charges that may apply. It’s also a good idea to inquire how long your dishes will be on display and what happens if they don’t sell. By doing your homework and asking the right questions, you can find a consignment store to help you get the best price for your fine dishes while minimizing costs and risks.
10. OfferUp
Are you looking for a convenient and easy way to sell your used china tableware? If so, you may want to consider using OfferUp. OfferUp is an online marketplace that allows you to buy and sell items locally. This platform is ideal for finding local buyers interested in purchasing your fine china. Not only is the website user-friendly, but it also offers several benefits to sellers.
For instance, if you sell your items locally and don’t have to ship them, you won’t be charged any fees. This means that you can pocket the entire sale price. On the other hand, if you opt to ship your items to buyers, you will be charged a fee of at least $1.99 or 12.9% of the sale price. However, this fee is reasonable and is designed to cover the cost of shipping and handling.
Overall, OfferUp is a great website for people who want to sell their used china tableware locally. Whether you’re looking to downsize your collection or simply want to make some extra money, OfferUp is the perfect platform for you. So why not give it a try and see how easy it can be to sell your items online?
11. Pawn shops
If you’re considering selling your fine china, taking it to a pawn shop could be a viable option. However, it’s important to remember that not all pawn shops purchase fine china, so it’s advisable to call ahead and inquire about their policies. If you find a pawn shop willing to buy your fine china, it can be a convenient option as they usually pay you on the spot.
However, it’s worth noting that pawn shops typically don’t offer the best prices since they aim to make a profit. Therefore, it’s essential to have a realistic expectation of your items’ worth and be prepared to negotiate with the pawnbroker for the best possible price.
12. Thrift stores
If you’re looking to sell your dishware and don’t know where to start, you might want to consider checking out some thrift stores in your local area. Although not all stores will purchase your dishware, it’s worth calling a few local stores to ask if they would like to buy it. Thrift stores can be found in most towns and cities, so you will likely find one near you.
It’s important to know that thrift stores are known for their low prices, so they might not always offer you the best prices for your items. However, the upside is that they often pay you on the spot, which can be a convenient option if you need cash quickly.
When considering selling your dishware at a thrift store, it’s a good idea to do some research first. Look for stores that specialize in selling dishware or other similar items. These stores will likely be more interested in purchasing your dishware and may offer you a better price.
Additionally, before selling your dishware, ensure it’s in good condition. Thrift stores are looking for items that are in good shape and will sell quickly. It may not be accepted if your dishware has any chips, cracks, or other damage.
13. 5miles
Are you looking for a platform to sell your fine china to local buyers? You might want to consider using 5miles. This platform offers a convenient and free way to list your items for sale without hidden fees or commissions.
One of the best features of 5miles is that you can set your prices. This means you can price your fine china to reflect its true value and negotiate with potential buyers for the best deal. Plus, since 5miles is a local marketplace, you can rest assured that you’ll be dealing with buyers in your area, which makes the selling process much safer and more convenient.
So, what are you waiting for? List your fine china on 5miles today and connect with local buyers eager to purchase your items.
14. VarageSale
VarageSale is an online platform that allows you to sell your items to people near you. It’s like having a virtual garage sale!
One of the best things about VarageSale is that listing items for sale there is completely free. You can post pictures of your items, along with a description and the asking price, and interested buyers can contact you directly through the site.
VarageSale also has a feature that allows you to join local buy and sell groups to connect with other sellers and buyers in your area. With VarageSale, you can declutter your home and make extra cash without leaving your neighborhood.
15. Local auction houses
If you have a particularly valuable collection of fine china dishware, such as antique or rare pieces, you may want to consider selling it through a local auction house. Auction houses can provide a great platform for selling your high-end dishware through public auctions, where buyers can bid on your items competitively.
Auction houses typically charge a commission fee for their services, usually a percentage of the final sale price. However, this fee is generally well worth it, as auction houses can help you get the best value for your dishware by reaching a wider audience of potential buyers.
Additionally, auction houses often have specialized knowledge and expertise when it comes to valuing and marketing high-end collectibles, which can further increase the chances of a successful sale. If you have valuable fine china dishware you want to sell, a local auction house can be an excellent option.
16. Craigslist
Despite numerous apps and websites for buying and selling used items, Craigslist remains one of the most popular platforms for conducting local sales transactions.
The process is simple and straightforward; all you need to do is create a free listing for your item with an attention-grabbing title, include some high-quality pictures, and provide a detailed description.
It’s worth noting that Craigslist is especially popular among those searching for good deals on used China. So, if you have some pieces you want to sell, it’s worth listing them on the site to see if you can find any interested buyers.
Tips for selling used China for cash
Finding the right place to sell your used china can be daunting. However, once you’ve found a suitable platform, there are some tips that can help you get the most out of your sale.
Clean your China
When selling china sets, it’s important to ensure they are in good condition and clean before putting them up for sale. If you have a set that has been in storage for a while, it’s advisable to dust it off and examine it carefully to ensure that it’s in good condition.
This is also an excellent opportunity to take stock of your inventory and determine how many pieces and different items you have for sale. By doing this, you can plan your sales strategy better and make informed decisions about pricing and marketing your china. So, don’t forget to clean your china and take an inventory before selling it.
Do your homework
If you are trying to price your china dishes in a competitive market, it is important to do some research first. Start by looking at what other people are selling similar collections for. This will give you a general idea of the price range you should aim for.
Next, take a closer look at your dishes and see if there are any markings that indicate the manufacturer. This information can be incredibly helpful, as certain brands and manufacturers may be more valuable than others.
Additionally, make note of any patterns or designs on the dishes. Some patterns may be more rare or desirable than others, which can affect the price.
With all this information in hand, you can do further research online to determine the value of your dishes. Many resources are available for researching the value of china and other collectibles, so take advantage of them to ensure that you are pricing your dishes fairly and competitively.
Take great photos
When it comes to selling used china online, having high-quality images is crucial. To achieve this, it is recommended to take a lot of pictures, capturing different angles and close-ups of the items. It is important to ensure that the pictures are well-lit and the colors are accurately represented.
Additionally, to maintain transparency with potential buyers, it is advisable to take photos of any minor chips, cracks, or fading that the pieces may have. This will allow buyers to make an informed decision and help you establish trust and credibility in your online selling ventures.
Factor in costs
When selling your china, it’s important to remember that various fees may be involved depending on how you go about the process. These fees could include listing fees, which are the charges associated with posting your item for sale on certain platforms or websites. You may also be subject to seller fees, typically a percentage of the selling price the platform or website charges for facilitating the sale.
Additionally, you’ll need to consider shipping costs if you plan to sell your china online and ship it to the buyer. It’s important to factor in all of these costs before setting a price for your china to ensure you’re not surprised by unexpected expenses later on.
The bottom line
If you have some used fine china you no longer need, you might be wondering where to sell it for the best price. Fortunately, there are several options available to you both online and in your local area. Online platforms such as eBay, Etsy, and Replacements, Ltd. offer various options for selling used china to potential buyers worldwide. You can also consider selling your items through local antique shops, consignment stores, or garage sales.
However, remember that the price you receive for your used china can vary widely depending on the condition, rarity, and demand for your particular pieces. Researching and comparing prices across different outlets’s always a good idea before deciding. Give the options on our list a try and see which works best for you to get the most cash for your used fine china.