Selling used board games can be a rewarding side gig, but requires diligence in evaluating condition, photography, and marketplace selection. Establish fair pricing based on game state – from pristine ‘New’ to ‘Acceptable’ – and highlight unique vintage or rare editions. High-quality, organized photos are key to attracting buyers on platforms like BoardGameGeek, eBay, Amazon, and Mercari. Optimize packaging and shipping to protect items in transit, and build connections within gaming communities for insider tips on in-demand titles. Mastering these strategies reveals the true earning potential of your board game collection.
Evaluating Game Condition and Value
Accurately evaluating the condition of a board game is essential when attempting to resell it, as the game’s state can significantly impact its market value. Game conditions are categorized as New, Like New, Very Good, Good, Acceptable, and Unacceptable, with only unopened games qualifying as New and games in Like New condition showing minimal use.
Evaluating the condition accurately is vital, as games in Very Good condition may sell for 25-50% less than new, while those in Acceptable condition might be valued at even lower percentages.
To determine the true value of a game, it is essential to research similar listings on platforms like BoardGameGeek or eBay, comparing prices based on condition and rarity. Vintage and out-of-print games typically command higher prices, with some rare editions selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on their condition and demand.
Tools like Board Game Oracle can help track retail prices and adjust selling prices accordingly, ensuring you remain competitive in the ever-evolving board game resale market.
Photographing Games for Listing Success
Moving beyond the importance of accurately evaluating a game’s condition, the next step in successfully reselling board games involves carefully photographing the items to showcase their state and attract potential buyers.
High-quality images considerably increase the likelihood of a sale, as listings with photos sell faster and convey the condition of the game more effectively. Essential photo types include the box cover, inside components, player boards, and the rulebook, which provide a thorough view of what buyers can expect.
To achieve the best results, use a solid colored surface and bright lighting to guarantee clear, well-organized photos that highlight the game’s details without distractions.
Additionally, uploading images in reverse order when listing guarantees the most appealing photo is displayed prominently. Including detailed images of any damage or wear helps build buyer trust and reduces the chances of disputes after the sale, further contributing to a successful online selling experience for board games.
Navigating Popular Selling Platforms
Selecting the most suitable selling platform for reselling board games requires careful consideration of the unique features and fee structures offered by various online marketplaces. It’s essential to evaluate each platform’s audience, ease of use, and the percentage they take from each transaction. While some marketplaces provide niche communities of dedicated buyers, others offer more exposure but at a higher cost. For example, if you’re looking to sell games to GameStop, you may benefit from the convenience and trade-in offers, though resale values might not be as high as independent platforms.
For selling used or rare board games, the BoardGameGeek Geek Market provides an ideal platform, with its low 3% commission and a dedicated community of knowledgeable enthusiasts. In contrast, eBay, while offering a vast customer base, charges a higher 12.35% fee, potentially impacting overall profitability.
For sellers of new board games, Amazon FBA may be the preferred choice, with its straightforward $0.99 per-sale fee, though it may not be as well-suited for used or vintage titles due to strict inventory requirements.
The user-friendly Mercari platform, with its 10% fee and quick direct deposit payments, can be an appealing option for those seeking a hassle-free selling experience.
Optimizing Packaging and Shipping
With the selling platforms secured, the focus now shifts to optimizing the packaging and shipping processes to guarantee the safe delivery of board games to customers.
Choosing sturdy, bubble-wrapped boxes is essential to protect the integrity of board games during transit. Proper packaging can prevent damage and enhance buyer satisfaction, which is vital for building a positive reputation and encouraging repeat business.
When calculating shipping costs, leveraging reliable carriers like USPS, which offers Priority Mail with tracking and insurance, can provide cost-effective solutions. For smaller, heavier packages, services like PirateShip offer discounted rates through Priority Mail Cubic.
Securely sealing all sides of the game box with packing tape guarantees the integrity of the shipment and prevents accidental openings during the shipping process.
Communicating shipping details, including tracking information, with buyers post-sale builds trust and encourages positive reviews, further solidifying the brand’s reputation in the competitive board game resale market.
Leveraging Community Connections
Beyond relying solely on online marketplaces, savvy board game resellers can leverage their local and online communities to facilitate efficient transactions and capitalize on unique sales opportunities.
Engaging with local buy/sell/trade groups on platforms like Facebook can connect sellers with interested buyers, eliminating the hassles of shipping.
Participating in community events, such as flea markets or board game conventions, allows sellers to showcase their games directly to potential customers, increasing visibility and sales.
In addition, local game stores often host gaming nights, providing a platform for sellers to network with other enthusiasts and gauge the demand for specific titles within the community.
Building relationships with fellow gamers and collectors can also lead to valuable insights about trends and desirable games, enhancing sourcing strategies and resale potential.
Leveraging social media to join niche board game community groups can provide access to specialized markets and facilitate the sale of rare or collectible games that may not be easily found on larger platforms, optimizing transaction efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Board Games Sell Well on Facebook Marketplace?
Board games do generally sell well on Facebook Marketplace due to the platform’s local focus and diverse audience of casual gamers and collectors, allowing sellers to connect directly with interested buyers without shipping complications.
What Is Unique Selling Point for Board Games?
The unique selling point for board games lies in their rarity, craftsmanship, and nostalgic appeal. Limited editions, intricate designs, and classic titles can command premium prices from collectors and casual gamers alike, driven by scarcity and cross-over thematic appeal.
What Is the Most Profitable Board Game of All Time?
The most profitable board game of all time is widely considered to be ‘Magic: The Gathering,’ which has generated over $1 billion in sales since its launch in 1993 due to its collectible card format and ongoing expansions.
Do Pawn Shops Buy Board Games?
Yes, pawn shops generally do buy board games, though the offers are often considerably lower than the games’ retail value as pawn shops aim to resell items for profit. The condition of the games is essential for their acceptance and valuation.