Many websites, apps, and local stores specialize in buying and selling used tools. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular options available to help you find the best place to sell your used tools and get the most money for them.
Online platforms are the go-to choice for most people who want to sell some of their belongings they no longer need, including tools.
1. eBay
eBay is an online marketplace that allows buyers and sellers to trade new and used items, including electronics, fashion, collectibles, and even tools. It was founded in 1995 and has since become one of the world’s biggest online marketplaces, with over 185 million active buyers globally.
eBay operates on a bidding system where buyers can bid on an item, and the highest bidder wins the auction. Alternatively, sellers can set a fixed price for their items, allowing buyers to purchase them immediately.
| Website | www.ebay.com |
| Cost | 10% of the final sale price |
| Payout options | via PayPal or direct deposit |
| Delivery options | shipping options are up to the seller |
2. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a free online platform where Facebook users can buy and sell items in their area. Since its launch in 2016, it has become a popular alternative to traditional classified websites, mainly because it doesn’t come with any additional costs.
Facebook Marketplace allows users to browse and search for items in categories, such as clothing, furniture, electronics, and tools.
Buyers and sellers can communicate directly through Facebook Messenger to arrange transactions, and Facebook does not charge any fees for using the Marketplace.
3. Craigslist
Craigslist is a classified advertisement website that allows users to post and browse listings for a wide range of goods and services, such as jobs, housing, items for sale, community events, and, of course, tools.
Craigslist operates in cities across the United States and many other countries. Users can access the website for free and don’t need to create an account to browse or post listings.
Craigslist allows for anonymous communication between buyers and sellers, which can be both the platform’s strength and weakness. While it can provide a level of privacy and security, it can also make it difficult to verify the identity and legitimacy of other users.
| Website | www.craigslist.org |
| Cost | free of charge |
| Payout options | payment options are up to the seller |
| Delivery options | in-person transactions only |
4. OfferUp
OfferUp is another outstanding online marketplace that allows people to buy and sell goods locally. The platform was founded in 2011, and you can access it via its website or mobile app available in the United States and Canada.
The platform enables users to sell a wide range of items, including furniture, electronics, clothing, tools, and cars. Buyers can browse through items in their local area, and sellers can create listings and communicate with potential buyers through the app’s messaging system.
With user profiles featuring ratings and reviews and secure payment options, OfferUp has everything you might need to sell your used tools for cash.
| Website | www.offerup.com |
| Cost | 12.9% of the price for shipping |
| Payout options | OfferUp’s payment system or in-person |
| Delivery options | shipping or in-person transactions |
5. Nextdoor
Nextdoor is another platform that allows you to buy and sell items locally and connect with other people from your neighborhood.
Nextdoor enables users to create and browse listings for items in their local area. It uses location-based technology to show users items for sale nearby and allows for secure communication between buyers and sellers.
In addition, Nextdoor offers various safety features, such as user verification, fraud detection, and the ability to report suspicious activity or listings. You can rest assured that you’ll be safe when using this platform.
| Website | www.nextdoor.com |
| Cost | free of charge |
| Payout options | payment options are up to the seller |
| Delivery options | shipping or in-person transactions |
Besides online platforms and marketplaces, there are plenty of places where people sell used tools locally. While most websites mentioned above allow you to offer your used goods to a local audience, some prefer selling their items in person. If that’s the case, these places are an excellent way to sell used tools locally.
6. Local Pawn Shops
Local pawn shops provide short-term loans to individuals who offer collateral, such as jewelry, electronics, or tools. Pawn shops are often used by people who need quick cash but cannot access traditional loans or credit.
With that in mind, many local pawn shops buy and sell used tools. You can visit a pawn shop in your area and see if they want to purchase your gear.
7. Garage Sales
A garage sale is where people sell used or unwanted items from their homes. It’s often held in a garage or front yard, hence its name. Garage sales can also be called yard, tag, or rummage sales, depending on the region.
Naturally, you can also sell your used tools at a garage sale. You can advertise your sale in your local community and invite people to come and browse your items.
8. Flea Markets
Flea markets are typically outdoor markets where vendors sell various used, vintage, or handmade goods. Flea markets can sell anything from clothing, accessories, and jewelry to antiques, furniture, and collectibles. They often have a more laid-back atmosphere than traditional retail stores and can be a great place to find unique items at affordable prices.
As such, flea markets are another option for selling used tools in person. You can rent a booth at a local flea market and display your tools for sale.
9. Local Tool or Equipment Rental Stores
Local tool or equipment rental stores typically rent out tools and equipment to individuals and businesses on a short-term basis. These stores carry a variety of tools and equipment for various purposes, such as construction, home improvement, landscaping, and automotive repairs.
Some local tool or equipment rental stores may be interested in acquiring used tools to add to their inventory. You can contact these stores to see if they want to buy something from you.
10. Local Classified Ads
Finally, you can place a classified ad in your local newspaper or community bulletin boards, such as in grocery stores or community centers. That will allow you to reach people in your local area who might be interested in purchasing your used tools.
Tips for Selling
Creating an ad in under two minutes and uploading it online won’t yield incredible results. If you want to sell your used tools at the highest possible price, you must make an effort. Follow these tips, and you’ll find new owners for your tools in no time.
- 🧽️ Clean and Organize Your Tools – Before you list your tools for sale, you need to clean and organize them. It will make them look more appealing to potential buyers and help them see the value in the things you offer. You can use a cleaning solution to remove dirt or grease and a wire brush to remove any rust. You can also organize your items by type and size to make them easier to browse for buyers.
- 📸 Take Good Photos – When creating a listing for your used tools, take high-quality photos that show the details and condition of the tools. You want to ensure potential buyers can see the tool’s condition clearly. Take pictures from different angles, including close-up shots of any damage. That way, you’ll avoid any uncomfortable situations with buyers asking for refunds.
- 😇 Be Honest About the Condition Of Your Tools – It’s essential to be honest about the condition of your tools when listing them for sale. If there’s any damage or missing parts, include that information in your listing. Buyers appreciate transparency, and being honest about the condition of your stuff will help build trust with potential buyers.
- 💵 Price Your Tools Competitively – Always do some research and see what similar items are selling for in your area before pricing your gear. It will help you set a fair price and attract buyers. Pricing your inventory too high may turn off potential buyers, while pricing them too low may not give you the value you deserve. Balance is the key, and researching the market will ensure you find the perfect middle ground.
- 📳 Be Responsive to Inquiries – If someone contacts you about your tools, respond to their inquiries promptly. If you take too long to respond, a potential buyer may lose interest and move on to another seller. Answer the questions and provide any additional information the buyers might need to make a decision. Being helpful, informative, and polite always pays off.
- 🏬 Meet in a Safe, Public Location – When arranging to meet with potential buyers, choose a safe, public location, such as a coffee shop or parking lot. It will help ensure your safety and prevent any potential scams. Don’t agree to meet in a private location, such as your home, and be wary of any buyers who ask for personal information or ask you to wire money.
Conclusion
Selling used tools for cash can be a great way to make some extra money while clearing out your workshop or garage. There are various options available for selling your used tools, ranging from online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist to specialized tool resale websites and local pawn shops.
Why not take a look at your collection of tools and see if there are any that you no longer use? You may just be surprised at how much they are worth.
