Manuals = Money
Friday, June 25, 2010
By: Michelle Wiginton

As I become a seasoned consignment “seller” (I’ve always been a seasoned shopper), I have paid particular attention to what sells best and how to sell it. With that said, manuals and original packaging can significantly increase the value of an item…particularly those items that are electronic in nature, or that have to be put together, or that have accessories.

Take, for example, a Bumbo…there are a dozen on the table to be purchased…which do you think sells the fastest? You guessed it, the one in the box. It might look the same as all of the others, but the BOX sells…even if the item is few dollars more than the others. There is a feeling of security and confidence when something LOOKS new.

When you consider electronic games, think of how confused you are when you see all of the new-fad products your kids breeze through and you have trouble turning on. Manuals are also helpful to KNOW you have all of the pieces something is supposed to have and where to go if the item needs repairs or replacement in the future.

Did you know you can’t sell a car seat without a manual? And, don’t even get me started about how much fun you can have trying to put together a crib without directions and illustrations.

So, here is what I do…when I purchase an item, I have a “warranty and manuals” file folder that I use for everything we purchase…toasters…vSmiles…strollers…board games. One place for all manuals…so I go back there anytime I sell, donate or give-away an item. How easy is that?

If I purchase something that I know will have a short lifespan, I also will break down the box and put it in the closet. Then, I have it to repackage the item with when it’s time to find a new home. Again, easy and not a big space is required for short-term storage.

Too, if you have an item that is part of a recall, make sure to print off the information and include the “fix” or parts that make the item safe to resell. Otherwise, you might be keeping an item that is now safe...but not documented.

These are not rocket science ideas, but they are worth the time and effort it takes to do them…after all, an extra $5 in your pocket means a special day a the dollar movies, a relaxing cup of coffee and gourmet cookie, or just a warm fuzzy in the collection plate at church!

Comments

this is some really good advice. i also keep all the tags from my childs good clothing that he rare wears with details on washing the item for reference. Like that suit your child wore once to a wedding and didnt wear again.

Brittany, Wednesday, June 30, 2010

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There are also some web pages where you can print out manuals. Especially if you bought it a a previous JBF sale and want to resell it, this is very helpful! http://www.consignmentsalequeen.com/2010/05/small-effort-to-incress-value-of-your.html

Steph, Tuesday, July 13, 2010

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