So far we completed two steps in selling our glass:
- We know what we have.
- We know about what similar glass is selling for by comparing price guides, selling prices on eBay or Ruby Lane and Replacements.
You probably saw a wide range of prices, different information, good photos and bad photos. You also saw that selling glass is not the path to instant riches! That’s good because now you need to decide how you want to sell your glass. You can sell online, locally or just donate it.
This post will share my opinions on selling online vs. selling locally; Part 4 will give you ideas of online venues and Part 5 will suggest local methods.
Selling Glass Online
Selling glass online lets you reach many more people than selling locally. If you use a site like eBay, or list on an antiques site like Ruby Lane, you will have a market of anyone in the world who wants your glass.
The downside of selling online is that you have to photograph your glass, write a good listing that accurately lists all faults, pay fees and then the worst part, wrap your glass and ship it safely to the buyer.
I choose to sell online and have developed skills in photographing and listing and shipping, but it is still time-consuming, and from a purely financial point of view, not very profitable.
The reality is that if you sell online you are more likely to sell your glass. More people are interested in glass from across the entire United States than are interested in your town. You still may not be successful finding a buyer, but if your glass is desirable and you price it right, you will eventually sell it.
Selling Glass Locally
Your local market is smaller than the entire United States. Most people will not venture more than 20-30 miles to buy your glass unless they really really want it. The downside is you may not be able to find a buyer. Or you may find buyers who are interested only in super bargains. (This happens online too. )
The advantage of selling locally is that you don’t have to wrap and ship; prospective customers can see and touch the glass themselves and you don’t have to scrutinize your glass for flaws to write a listing.
You should be aware that you are more likely to attract dealers, people buying glass for resale, when you sell locally vs. list online. Dealers rarely will pay more than a third of what they can sell the glass for. This means your sales revenue may be less than if you sell online; however, you offset that possibly lower price by easier selling and likely lower costs.
Donating Glass
This isn’t really selling, but you can donate your glass to your local Salvation Army, Goodwill or St. Vincent De Paul store. If your church or favorite charity has a rummage sale or auction you can donate glass. They will be glad to get it. If you itemize your taxes you can take a charitable deduction. Get a receipt and have them note what they usually charge for similar items.
The main advantage of donating is that you get rid of stuff. It’s fast and easy.
Come back in a few days for Part 4 that goes over some online venues.