One of the first things we learn as moms is just how quickly the time goes and how fast our children grow before our eyes. Replacing wardrobes, clothing, and gear every few months adds up quickly, and so do the piles. If you are on the hunt for a deal while helping save the planet, the consignment sale is for you!
Consignment sales are one best way to save on gently used items, giving them new life, as well as turning your old items into cash back in your pocket. With local sales scheduled twice annually, it is never too early to start prepping for the next sale!
Use our guide to help you prep months in advance and as the next sale date approaches.
Know the Rules
Most sales have common rules and etiquette, however each sale operates independently so rules may vary. Familiarize yourself with the rules specific to the sale you will be consigning with; these can be found on their website. Most sales also have a social media presence, including private groups for sellers aimed at answering questions and assisting in preparing for the sale.
Plan in Advance
The weeks or months leading up to the sale are a great time to sort, organize, and store items. During this process, you will want to closely inspect for stains, holes, and overall quality of your items. Anything that is not in good to excellent quality is typically not appropriate for resell. Think about the quality of items you would want to purchase for your own child.
Gather Supplies
To save time when you are busy entering and preparing items, it can be helpful to gather supplies in advance. While not all these items are necessary, they can be helpful to have on hand. Most of these items can be found inexpensively, and they may even last you a few sales.
- Cardstock
- Printer and black ink
- Scissors or paper cutter
- Hole punch
- Zip ties of various sizes
- Ziploc bags of various sizes
- Saran wrap
- Hangers
- Safety Pins
Additionally, a computer, tablet, or phone will be necessary for item entry and tag printing. I prefer to use a laptop when entering new items, and my phone to manage inventory on the go.
Accepted Items
Children’s consignment sales accept most items needed to care for, clothe, teach, and entertain ages preemie through adolescence. The following is a non-conclusive list of items appropriate for most consignment sales. Be familiar with specific items and quantities accepted at your sale; there may be limits or stipulations.
- Clothing, shoes, & accessories
- Baby equipment & accessories
- Nursery & children’s bedroom décor, furniture, & bedding
- Toys, Books, games, sports equipment, & electronics
- Maternity, post-partum, & breastfeeding clothing & accessories
- Infant & toddler feeding supplies
- Diapers & toileting accessories
- Infant & toddler safety items
- Infant bathing supplies
Start Preparation
Storing items sorted and labeled by gender and size will help you stay organized and efficient. I prefer to use large plastic totes that stack easily, but diaper boxes also work great! Some sales cater to the current or upcoming season, while others do all season sales. If you will be consigning a seasonal sale, it is best to store items by season, making it easier to pull appropriate items out as you prepare for each sale.
Item Entry
As you start to enter items in the system, I recommend entering larger items first because these can often get overlooked, and you risk not getting them entered in time. Your sale may have a discount option, consider this when pricing. A simple Excel spreadsheet helps for quickly referencing asking price with take home profit. Sorting items by gender, type, and size will assist in ease of item entry; this is good time to inspect once more for quality. Price reasonably; consider new cost, condition, and a price point that you would pay for a similar item for your child. Keep sentiment out of it, no one is going to pay more for your memories.
Consider Donation
Donation of unsold items may be an option at your sale. This is an easy way to get items out of your house for good.
Tagging
Once all items are entered, print and cut tags, then secure to each item. Tagging guns work great for clothing; these can be purchased online inexpensively. Alternatively, safety pins are a popular choice. Ziploc bags are a good option for pajamas, accessories, or items with multiple pieces. Zip ties work well for shoes. Clear packing tape works well on books and toys. As you tag, you will find what works for you.
Item Drop Off
In the days immediately prior to the sale, load items into your vehicle and drop off at a designated time. Consult the rules for your sale on how this process works; some sales may help put away items, some will even tag items for a fee. Allow ample time to drop off and put away items.
Shop the Sale
In addition to a commission, most sales offer other seller perks such as the ability to shop early. This may also apply to discounted hours, if offered. This is a great way to save money on the next size or current interest. Other consignment shopping tips here!
Post Sale
Unsold items not being donated can be picked up at the conclusion of the sale. These items can be stored and saved for the next sale if applicable, and the tags can typically be reused.
A sales report will be made available to you within a few days after the sale. Earnings will then be sent in whatever format your sale offers.
Enjoy your profits, deals scored and start planning for the next sale!
