Buying and selling online is a great way to make a little extra money and pick up some brilliant bargains. Children’s bits and pieces are always popular — everything from clothes, toys and books to buggies and other baby equipment. Here are our top tips for buying and selling on eBay and other online sites.
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#1. Never Share Your Personal Information Online
Addresses and contact numbers should be exchanged through the platform’s private messaging facility, never posted on an open forum or listing.
Bank account and card details should never be shared directly with buyers or sellers. Only pay through the platform’s official checkout or a trusted, secure payment method.
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#2. Where Possible, Try to Collect Items
Meeting in person to collect an item avoids postage costs and delays, and lets you check it over before you pay. Choose a public place if you’re meeting someone you don’t know.
If collection isn’t possible, use the platform’s built-in payment protection, or a secure payment service if one is offered. Avoid sending cash in the post — a traceable payment method is always safer for both buyer and seller.
#3. Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate
As a buyer, it’s in your interest to make an offer. Many sellers price items expecting a little back-and-forth, so a polite, reasonable offer rarely does any harm.
#4. Take a Look Around Your Home
You’ll be surprised how many unwanted bits and pieces you have lying around — and just because you don’t use something anymore doesn’t mean someone else won’t.
Buggies, books, certain toys and kids’ clothes — especially unusual or hard-to-find items — tend to sell particularly well.
You may also enjoy: 10 Simple Ways to Declutter Your Home
#5. Be Realistic with Your Pricing
Buyers on eBay and similar sites are looking for a bargain, so price accordingly. A helpful rule of thumb: for something new and unused, aim for around half the original price; for something used, aim for around a third.
If an item isn’t selling, don’t be afraid to lower the price.
#6. Get Visual
A good, clear photograph makes a real difference to your chances of a sale. Use natural light where possible, photograph the item from a few angles, and show any marks or wear honestly so there are no surprises for the buyer.
If you’re listing several items, most selling platforms let you upload multiple photos per listing directly, so there’s no need for a separate photo-hosting site.
#7. Check Your Postage Costs
Postage costs can put buyers off if they’re too high, but you don’t want to lose out by undercharging either. Weigh the item on kitchen scales and check current postage rates online before you set your price — for heavier items, it’s worth comparing local courier options too, as this can sometimes work out cheaper than standard post.
Think green where you can: envelopes, mailing bags and boxes can often be reused for packaging.
#8. Check the Selling Condition
Make sure items are freshly washed and clean before you list them. If a listing involves multiple pieces — a toy set or a bundle of clothes, for example — double-check that everything is included before you post it or hand it over.
#9. Post in a Timely Manner
It may seem obvious, but don’t post an item until you’ve received payment. Once you’ve been paid, dispatch it as quickly as you can — buyers appreciate a prompt seller, and it helps your reputation on the platform.
#10. Offer Items for Free if They’re Not Selling
Not everything will sell. If you’ve items you simply want gone, consider offering them free to other parents in a local group, or donating them to a charity shop.
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Article written by Deborah, mum and experienced online buyer and seller.
Do you have any tips for other parents looking to start buying or selling online? Leave a comment below — we’d love to hear from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to buy and sell children’s items on eBay and other online sites?
Yes, as long as you follow some basic precautions: keep personal details private, use secure payment methods, and meet in public places for collections. Most established platforms also offer buyer and seller protection if something goes wrong.
What’s a fair price for second-hand children’s items?
A useful starting point is around half the original price for new, unused items, and around a third of the original price for used items — then adjust based on condition, demand and how quickly you want it sold.
What’s the safest way to get paid when selling online?
Use the payment method built into the platform you’re selling on, or another secure, traceable payment option. Avoid accepting cash sent by post.
Do I need a separate photo-hosting website to list several items?
No — most modern selling platforms allow you to upload multiple photos directly to each listing, so a separate photo-hosting site isn’t needed.
Related Articles
- Posting Images & How to Stay Safe Online
- 10 Simple Ways to Declutter Your Home
- Don’t Miss These Internet Safety Tips While Shopping Online
Save These Ideas for Later
Buying and selling second-hand is a brilliant way to save money on the things kids need most. Browse more of our family money-saving ideas, or save this article to come back to next time you’re having a clear-out.
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