How To Sell Old Records

Remember that box of dusty vinyl lurking in your attic? Or maybe you've finally decided to declutter your overflowing record shelves. The truth is, your old records could be worth more than you think! With the resurgence of vinyl's popularity, a thriving market exists for used records, offering you a chance to declutter your space and potentially pocket some extra cash. But where do you even begin to navigate the world of record selling? It's more than just slapping a price tag on them; it involves understanding their value, knowing where to sell, and presenting them in a way that attracts buyers.

Selling old records effectively can be a rewarding experience, but it's crucial to approach it with the right knowledge. Pricing too high can lead to your records gathering dust, while underselling means missing out on potential profits. Knowing how to properly grade the condition of your records, identify rare or sought-after pressings, and choose the right selling platform are all essential steps. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting to explore the value of your vinyl collection, understanding the ins and outs of record selling can unlock a hidden treasure trove.

So, how do I actually sell these records?

What's the best way to determine the value of my old records?

The most accurate way to determine the value of your old records is to research comparable sales data using online resources like Discogs, Popsike, and eBay completed listings. By comparing the condition of your records to similar copies that have recently sold, you can get a realistic estimate of their market value.

To elaborate, condition is king when it comes to record values. A pristine, unplayed record will fetch significantly more than a scratched or warped copy. When researching, pay close attention to the grading system used by the platform (usually based on Goldmine grading standards) and honestly assess the condition of your records. Examine the vinyl itself for scratches, scuffs, and warping. Check the cover for ring wear, seam splits, writing, or other damage. Any of these flaws will negatively affect the price. Beyond condition, rarity and demand also play crucial roles. First pressings, limited editions, and records by popular artists are often more valuable. Check the record label and matrix numbers etched into the vinyl near the center to identify the specific pressing. If you have records that seem particularly rare or valuable based on your initial research, it might be worth consulting a record store specializing in vintage vinyl or a professional appraiser for a more expert opinion. This is especially important if you believe you have a truly rare or desirable item, as online sales data may not always reflect the true value in a niche market.

Where are the best places to sell my vinyl records online?

The best places to sell vinyl records online are Discogs, eBay, and specialized record dealer websites. Discogs is ideal for its record-specific database, built-in marketplace, and community of collectors. eBay offers broader exposure but requires more effort in creating listings. Specialized dealer sites can provide expertise and potentially better prices for rare or valuable records, but often involve a more formal consignment or purchase process.

Discogs stands out due to its meticulously cataloged database. This means you can easily find the exact pressing of your record, eliminating guesswork in pricing and description. Buyers on Discogs are generally knowledgeable collectors, willing to pay fair market value, especially for well-graded and sought-after items. The platform handles payments and provides seller ratings, building trust within the community. However, transaction fees apply. eBay's massive reach gives your records visibility to a much wider audience. While this can increase the chance of a sale, it also means facing more competition and potentially dealing with less informed buyers. Accurate grading and detailed descriptions are crucial on eBay to avoid disputes. Carefully consider shipping costs and return policies to protect yourself. For particularly valuable or rare records, consider contacting specialized record dealers. Many have online storefronts or offer appraisal services. While you might receive a slightly lower price compared to selling directly, you benefit from their expertise in grading, authentication, and reaching serious collectors who are willing to pay top dollar for specific records. They also handle the complexities of shipping and insurance for high-value items.

How do I properly grade the condition of my records?

Accurately grading your records is crucial for fair pricing and maintaining buyer trust. Use the Goldmine Standard, a widely accepted system, to assess both the record's vinyl and the sleeve/cover. Be conservative in your grading; it's better to under-promise and over-deliver than to disappoint a buyer with a lower-than-expected quality.

The Goldmine Standard uses grades like Mint (M), Near Mint (NM), Very Good Plus (VG+), Very Good (VG), Good (G), Fair (F), and Poor (P). Mint records are sealed or demonstrably unplayed. Near Mint records show virtually no signs of wear. VG+ records will have minor imperfections that don’t significantly affect the listening experience, such as light surface marks. VG records exhibit more noticeable wear, including light scratches and surface noise, but still play without skipping. Below VG, sound quality degrades significantly with more prominent scratches, surface noise, and potential skips. Covers and sleeves are graded similarly, considering wear like ring wear, seam splits, writing, and corner damage. When inspecting your records, play them on a good turntable to accurately assess sound quality. Visually inspect the vinyl under bright light, looking for scratches, scuffs, and other imperfections. Examine the cover and inner sleeve for any damage. It's helpful to clean your records before grading, as dust and fingerprints can obscure visual flaws. Be detailed in your descriptions when listing your records, mentioning specific flaws to provide transparency to potential buyers. Honesty is paramount in establishing a good reputation as a seller.

What are the costs involved in selling old records (shipping, fees, etc.)?

Selling old records involves several potential costs that can significantly impact your profit margin. These costs primarily fall into three categories: platform fees (if selling through a marketplace), shipping expenses (including packaging materials), and potential record cleaning/grading supplies.

Platform fees are charged by online marketplaces like eBay, Discogs, or Reverb and are usually a percentage of the final sale price. These fees can range from a few percent to over ten percent, depending on the platform's policies and any promotional offers. Some platforms also charge listing fees, regardless of whether the record sells. Understanding these fees beforehand is critical for accurately pricing your records and determining profitability.

Shipping costs encompass not just postage but also the materials necessary to safely package the records. This includes sturdy record mailers, cardboard stiffeners, bubble wrap or other protective cushioning, tape, and potentially fragile stickers. International shipping is considerably more expensive than domestic, and factors like weight and dimensions significantly affect pricing. If you offer free shipping to attract buyers, remember to factor that cost into your listed price. Cleaning and grading supplies, such as record cleaning solution, microfiber cloths, and a magnifying glass, are more of an upfront investment. Accurate grading is crucial for customer satisfaction and avoiding returns, while cleaning can improve the condition and value of the record.

How can I clean my records to increase their selling price?

Cleaning your records is essential to maximizing their resale value. A clean record not only looks better but, more importantly, plays better, reducing pops, crackles, and skips that significantly detract from the listening experience and therefore the price a buyer is willing to pay. The goal is to remove dust, dirt, fingerprints, and any other contaminants that have accumulated over time.

Effective record cleaning starts with the right tools and techniques. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the vinyl. A soft, lint-free microfiber cloth is crucial. Use a dedicated record cleaning solution, either commercially available or a homemade solution of distilled water and a few drops of mild dish soap (ensure it's residue-free). For light cleaning, gently wipe the record surface in a circular motion, following the grooves. For more stubborn dirt, consider using a record cleaning brush or a record cleaning machine. These machines offer a deeper clean by agitating the cleaning solution and vacuuming it away, leaving the record pristine. Finally, always let the record air dry completely before playing or storing it. Storing clean records in new inner sleeves will also protect them from future dust and scratches, further enhancing their appeal to potential buyers. Showing that you've taken care of your records signals that they've been treated well, and this can translate to higher offers.

What kind of packaging is recommended for shipping records safely?

The best packaging for shipping vinyl records involves a combination of specialized materials and techniques to prevent damage during transit. This includes using a sturdy record mailer specifically designed for LPs, padding the record inside with cardboard stiffeners and bubble wrap or similar cushioning, and clearly marking the package as fragile.

Firstly, never ship a record in just a standard envelope. Invest in proper record mailers. These are typically made of corrugated cardboard and are sized to snugly fit an LP. Crucially, remove the record from its outer sleeve (to prevent seam splits) and place it in a new, clean inner sleeve. Then, sandwich the sleeved record between two cardboard stiffeners that are slightly larger than the record itself. This creates a rigid barrier against bending or warping. Adding a layer of bubble wrap or foam padding around the stiffeners provides additional impact protection. Using “fragile” tape and stickers helps, but is not a replacement for proper packing.

Finally, when packing, ensure there's no empty space within the mailer. Excess space allows the record to shift during transit, increasing the risk of damage. If necessary, use extra bubble wrap or packing peanuts to fill any gaps. Seal the mailer securely with strong packing tape, reinforcing the edges and corners. After sealing, gently shake the package; you should hear minimal or no movement inside. Doing all of this greatly reduces the chance of records arriving damaged and keeps buyers coming back!

How do I handle pricing and negotiating with potential buyers?

Pricing your old records requires research, objectivity, and flexibility. Begin by researching comparable sales using sites like Discogs, eBay (completed listings), and Popsike to gauge current market value. Price competitively, considering condition, rarity, and demand. When negotiating, be polite, firm on your bottom line, and willing to compromise slightly. Clearly communicate the record's condition and any flaws to avoid disputes later.

Expanding on pricing, remember that condition is king. A mint condition record commands a significantly higher price than a record with scratches or wear. Be honest and accurate in your condition assessments, using established grading scales (Mint, Near Mint, Very Good Plus, etc.). Consider bundling records for a discounted price to attract buyers and move inventory faster. Also, factor in any costs you've incurred, such as cleaning supplies or storage, but understand the market ultimately dictates the price. Don't be afraid to initially price slightly higher than your target price to allow for negotiation. Negotiation is a dance. Start by understanding the buyer's perspective. Are they a collector looking for a specific pressing? A dealer hoping to resell? Tailor your approach accordingly. Be prepared to justify your price based on your research. If a buyer offers a lower price, counteroffer reasonably, explaining why you value the record at its price point. Be willing to walk away if the offer is too low, especially if you believe the record is worth more to someone else. Building rapport can often lead to a successful negotiation. Here's a helpful breakdown of factors to consider during pricing:

So there you have it! Hopefully, you're now feeling prepped and ready to turn those old records into cash. Thanks for reading, and good luck with your selling adventures! Come back and visit us again soon for more tips and tricks on all things vintage.