It’s no secret that you can resell items on Amazon. But did you know you can sell used items, too? 

Learning how to sell used items on Amazon can be a great way to generate cash flow. Granted, stricter rules apply than on other selling platforms (here’s looking at you, eBay and Facebook Marketplace). However, in the right condition, Amazon does allow the sale of used items across many of its categories. Sure, it’s a quieter corner of the market. But it can be an incredibly lucrative space for savvy sellers.

Want to know more? Then strap in and get ready for a full lowdown on used item categories, condition guidelines, and a step-by-step guide on how to sell used items on Amazon. 

What categories of used items can I sell on Amazon?

We’ll level with you. While selling used items is permitted, Amazon is a classy broad, and she has standards. You can’t just go raiding the attic and post random listings to boost your budget for that last-minute spa break or your latest kitchen gadget obsession. So, no, that old toaster with the temperamental cord and those scratched-up DVDs from your college days aren’t going to make the cut. 

Before we get down to the nitty-gritty of used product classifications and how to sell a used item on Amazon, let’s outline the list of categories across which selling used items is permitted: 

• Amazon Device Accessories
• Amazon Kindle
• Books
• Camera & Photo
• Cell Phones & Accessories
• Consumer Electronics
• Home & Garden
• Industrial & Scientific
• Kindle Accessories and Amazon Fire TV Accessories
• Major Appliances
• Music
• Musical Instruments
• Office Products
• Outdoors
• Personal Computers
• Pet Supplies
• Software
• Sports
• Tools & Home Improvement
• Video, DVD, and Blu-Ray
• Video Games

What do Amazon’s used condition guidelines say?

Amazon’s Marketplace Condition Guidelines serve as the roadmap for sellers, providing a standardized framework to ensure transparency and consistency across product listings. So, if you’re to master how to sell used items on Amazon, you’ll need to examine them carefully. 

Here’s an overview of Amazon’s generic condition guidelines. However, do bear in mind that some categories have additional or alternative specifications. Hence, attention to detail is essential (but don’t worry—we’ll dive into those in the next section!).

New: A pre-owned but brand-new item with its original packaging intact that has never been opened or used. For example, a new smartphone in its original box with all accessories and protective wrapping.

Used – Like New: An item in perfect working condition with minimal signs of wear. While the original protective wrapping may be missing, the item remains intact and in good condition. For example, a like-new book may have minor cosmetic defects on the cover, but the pages will be clean and unmarked.

Used – Very Good: These items have seen limited use and remain in good working condition. However, while still functional, they may show some telltale signs of wear or packaging damage and may be missing some accessories. Think items like a video game with minor scratches on the case but a pristine disc inside.

Used – Good: Despite showing wear and minor cosmetic damage from consistent use, items in this category function correctly and remain in decent condition. A prime example is a piece of furniture that, while structurally sound, has some scratches or marks on the upholstery.

Used – Acceptable: Items that are functional but fairly worn with more advanced signs of wear from previous use. Some parts or accessories may be missing, and the item may have been repackaged, but remains usable. Take the example of a laptop with a few dents and scratches that comes without a mouse or USB cable.

Category-specific condition guidelines

The following categories have specific condition guidelines that should be used in addition to – or in place of – the general condition guidelines above:

• Amazon Devices
• Books – New and Used
• Books – Collectable
• Music – New and Used
• Music – Collectable
• Rentals
• Software and Computer Games
• Toys and Games – Collectable
• Video, DVD, & Blu-ray Discs – New and Used
• Video, DVD, & Blu-ray Discs – Collectable
• Video Games
• Watches

As you can see, collectable items, in particular, have additional criteria. Let’s take a walk through the nuances of collectable and non-collectable categories to explain how to sell a used item on Amazon in the event the general conditions are not enough to ensure transparency.

Collectibles

Books – Collectable books are unique in a way that increases their value. This might mean they are first editions, signed, or out-of-print, etc. The specific conditions of ‘Like New’ through ‘Very Good’ and ‘Good’ to ‘Acceptable’ relate to the presence of the dust jacket and the quality of the cover, pages, corners, and spine. 

Music – Unique characteristics that qualify music items as collectable include signatures, scarcity, special pressings, limited edition packaging, or unusual aesthetics – like colored vinyl, for example. Seller comments must include information about unique characteristics and details outlining the item’s condition and packaging.

Toys and games – Uniqueness in this category is based on items being rare, exclusive, one-of-a-kind, etc. The standard condition definitions do not apply. Instead, the condition is expressed as ‘Like New,’ ‘Very Good,’ or ‘Good’ based on details like level of wear and tear and presence of the original packaging and instructions. 

Video, DVD, and Blu-ray discs – Unique characteristics that qualify these items as collectable include scarcity, signatures, inscriptions, or some other kind of personalization. Seller comments must include information about unique characteristics and details about the item’s condition and packaging.

Non-collectable category-specific guidelines

Most non-collectable category-specific guidelines adhere to similar condition specifications as the general guidelines – with a few subtle nuances:

• Additional direction is provided regarding what classifies as ‘New,’ ‘Like New,’ ‘Very Good,’ ‘Good,’ and ‘Acceptable’.
• Some categories, such as Amazon Devices and Watches, have stand-alone criteria in addition to the general condition guidelines. 
• Categories like Software & Computer Games have additional classifications to cover conditions like ‘Open Box – Acceptable.’

Where can I source used items to sell on Amazon?

Ready to unleash your inner treasure hunter? When it comes to sourcing used items for resale on Amazon, creativity and resourcefulness are your best allies. 

By exploring diverse sources, you can build a robust inventory of used items catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Here are some avenues you might explore:

• Other online retail platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace
• Thrift stores
• Garage sales
• Estate sales
• Flea markets
• Online auction platforms like ShopGoodwill and GovDeals.

How to list used items on Amazon: A step-by-step guide

Working out how to sell a used item on Amazon can feel daunting at first. But don’t sweat it! With a bit of know-how and some savvy strategies, you’ll be navigating the listing process like a pro in no time! Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Set the correct product condition

The first step in selling used items on Amazon is to accurately assess their condition. Remember, honesty is critical to building trust with buyers. So, be sure to retrieve your metaphorical magnifying glass and scrutinize the relevant condition guidelines before selecting the classification that best describes the state of your item. 

2. Utilize the condition note feature

Transparency and customer satisfaction go hand in hand, so using the Condition Note feature should be a no-brainer. This is your opportunity to provide additional details about each item and disclose any specific imperfections or issues not captured by the standard condition categories. 

3. Invest in high-quality photography

Clear, well-lit images can make a world of difference when it comes to attracting buyers and accurately showcasing your item’s condition. Best practices include capturing photos of each item from multiple angles and providing close-up shots of any imperfections mentioned in the condition note.

4. Price competitively

Start by researching similar listings for used items in the same category to gauge market prices. However, always keep in mind that there’s no hard-and-fast rule for determining the perfect price. Chances are some little trial and error and a little tweaking may be needed to hit the sweet spot based on factors like condition, unique qualities, rarity, and demand.

5. Keyword Optimize 

In addition to details about brand, model, size, and color, you should include relevant keywords to improve your item’s visibility in Amazon’s search results. Dedicated keyword research software like ahrefs and Semrush can help – as can putting yourself in a buyer’s shoes for a few minutes to anticipate the terms they might use in a search. 

6. Manage Inventory Efficiently

If you’re using Amazon FBA, try to minimize fees by adopting a Just-in-time (JIT) inventory system so you’re not whittling away potential profits on unnecessary storage costs. Also, be proactive in keeping track of inventory levels and updating listings promptly to avoid the pitfalls of overselling. 

7. Provide Next-Level Customer Service

Consumer reviews have the power to make or break your online business. Positive seller feedback boosts your reputation, attracting more buyers in the long run. To assure yourself a steady stream of five-star reviews, you’ll need to provide speedy responses to buyer inquiries, address any issues or concerns promptly, and ensure timely shipping and delivery. 

8. Explore Social Media Marketing

Amplify your visibility, attract new customers, and boost sales by leveraging the selling power of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X (formerly known as Twitter). Sharing captivating photos, videos, and reels can do wonders, helping you reach new markets, create a buzz, and keep consumers engaged. 

What is Amazon Renewed?

This wouldn’t be a complete guide to how to sell used items on Amazon without delving into the intricacies of Amazon Renewed. 

So, what’s it all about? 

In a nutshell, Amazon Renewed items are refurbished, pre-owned, or open-box products that have been inspected and tested by an Amazon-qualified supplier to ensure they work and look like new. Oh, and the kicker – they come with a 90-day Amazon Renewed Guarantee. 

The list of most commonly sold refurbished items on Amazon includes:

• Smartphones

• Laptops
• Tablet
• Electronic
• Home Appliances
• Tools

Pros and cons of selling on Amazon Renewed

Before you get too excited about jumping aboard the Amazon Renewed Express, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons carefully to assess whether it’s the right option. Here’s a quick overview of the primary considerations.

Pros

• Access to a wider audience – More specifically, buyers looking for reduced-priced bargains
• Higher profit margins – Refurbished items often yield higher profit margins than new products.
• Consumer confidence – Used products backed by Amazon represent a less risky purchase. 
• Streamlined process – Listing, selling, and fulfilling refurbished orders on Amazon may be quicker and more efficient than selling independently. 

Cons

• Eligibility requirements – Sellers must meet specific criteria to qualify, which may limit access for some.
• Stringent quality standards – Meeting Amazon’s rigorous quality testing criteria may require additional investment.
• Competitive marketplace – The renewed marketplace is highly competitive, meaning sellers must differentiate their products and pricing strategies to stand out.
• Potential returns – Refurbished products will always carry a higher risk of return and customer dissatisfaction, both of which impact your seller ratings and profitability.

How do I qualify to sell on Amazon Renewed?

First things first. Amazon Renewed isn’t for newbie sellers. You’ll need to prove you’ve sold at least $50,000 in refurbished items in the previous 90 days. So, if you’re just starting out as a refurbished seller, it’s not an option for you (yet, hang on in there!). 

For those already trailblazing their way past the 50K criteria and looking to set up an Amazon Refurbished seller account, you’ll need to submit an application form and meet the following requirements:

1. Have an order defect rate (ODR) of less than 0.8% over the previous 90 days.
2. Provide at least 8 images of a sample unit if you want to sell factory refurbished items without a warranty.
3. Back every refurbished item with the Amazon Renewed Guarantee and accept responsibility for all claims.

Sell more used and renewed items with Linnworks

Having a firm grasp of the basics is all well and good. But learning how to sell used items on Amazon like a Rockstar? That usually takes a little outside expertise and technological assistance. 

Linnworks’ user-friendly and intuitive Amazon integration simplifies the process of selling used and reburbished items. Plus, we offer seamless integration with a broad range of other secondhand marketplaces like eBay, Back Market, etc. 

The result? A global audience and effortless multichannel sales capability for all of your items, allowing you to list in one place and sell everywhere. 

Request a demo today to get going and keep growing with Linnworks.