How to Sell Used Books in PDX (2023)

Turn your love for books into a lucrative side hustle by selling used books. Portland offers a thriving community of book enthusiasts, making it an ideal market to dive into the world of book reselling.

Whether you’re decluttering your own collection or sourcing books from thrift stores, garage sales, or estate sales, selling used books can be a rewarding venture. Plus, you’ll contribute to sustainability by giving pre-loved books new life.

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Selling Used Books

Turn your passion for books into profits.

Local business. Sell your used books. They offer cash, but you'll get more if you choose to be compensated in store credit.

Local business. Crooked House Books is focused primarily on buying antiquarian and collectible books, but they'll also consider a wide variety of books to purchase.

Local business. Arches Book House buys quality used books of any size and also offers house calls in the Pacific Northwest. They have a special interest in purchasing antiquarian books.

Local business. Downtown Brown Books buys rare books. Over 25 years of experience and knowledgeable about purchasing very large collections.

Local business. Montgomery Rare Books providing advice for selling rare books, evaluates your rare books, and may offer to purchase them. They have a bookstore cat named Tony.

Local. Help support Multnomah County Library by donating your used books. You can drop off up to two boxes of books at your local library.

Sell your new and used books online. You can also sell rare books and textbooks.

List your book for 3rd party sale or sell straight to Amazon for credit.

Set up an eBay store and auction off your used books to interested buyers. Tap into a global marketplace for potential sales.

Send your used books to ThriftBooks and earn money for each book they accept. They handle the selling process for you.

Use BookScouter to compare buyback prices from various online book buyers. Find the best offers for your used books.

Make sure to check out our huge list of even more ways to earn extra cash in PDX.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find used books to sell?

There are several places to source used books for resale. Thrift stores, garage sales, estate sales, and library book sales are excellent places to find books. You can also consider buying books in bulk online, attending book fairs, or networking with fellow book enthusiasts who might be looking to declutter their collections.

What types of books sell well?

Popular categories of books that tend to sell well include classic literature, bestsellers, collectible editions, textbooks, niche non-fiction, and books related to local interests or events. Unique or rare books can attract collectors willing to pay a premium.

How should I price my used books?

Pricing used books can be challenging, but you want to strike a balance between making a profit and attracting buyers. Research the market value of each book by checking online marketplaces and book reselling websites. Consider factors like book condition, edition, and demand when setting your prices.

Should I focus on selling books online or in-person?

Both online and in-person selling methods have their advantages. Selling online allows you to reach a broader audience and offers convenience, but you'll need to deal with shipping and potential fees. In-person selling, such as at local book fairs or stores like Powell's Books, allows for direct interaction with customers and immediate sales.

How can I attract more customers for my used books?

Promote your books through social media platforms, online marketplaces, or dedicated book selling groups. Engage with book-loving communities and consider creating eye-catching visuals or book bundles to entice potential buyers. Providing accurate book descriptions and highlighting unique features can also attract more interest.

What condition should the used books be in for selling?

Books in good condition generally sell better. Ensure your used books are clean, free of significant damage, and have intact covers. Minor wear and tear are acceptable, but extensive damage can lower the resale value. Take clear photos and accurately describe any flaws in your book listings.

Do I need to handle shipping for online sales?

If you're selling books online through platforms like Amazon or eBay, you'll likely need to handle shipping. Consider using shipping services with tracking to ensure smooth delivery. Some platforms offer shipping reimbursement or integrated shipping options to help streamline the process.

How do I manage taxes for my book reselling business?

As a book reseller, you're likely considered self-employed, and taxes are not automatically deducted from your earnings. Keep track of your book selling income and expenses throughout the year. You may need to file quarterly estimated taxes and report your earnings on your annual tax return. It's necessary to keep accurate records to ensure compliance with tax regulations. Most importantly, make sure to consult with a tax professional.

Next Steps

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2. Need more ideas for side hustles in Portland? Check out our giant list of side hustles.