Consignment Sale

"Marketable" includes still-in-style good quality clothing and jewelry; all children's clothing; decorating accessories; better quality kitchen implements, dishes, cookware; drapes, curtains, bedspreads; toys; small working appliances and furniture. Everything must be clean and not in need of any repair; nothing should be broken or faded and colors should be contemporary. Nothing is more embarrassing than having a consignment intake person reject your offerings because of spots and rips, or because it's faded and avocado green.

Consignment stores vary in the percentage they charge so it pays to call first and compare the pricing procedures and other policies. In addition to the consignment charge, check for intake/outtake fees, length of time at regular price, additional intervals of markdown prices. Determine if you can reclaim your merchandise after a specified period and what's done with it if you do not reclaim it. Most shops need the space for fresher goods and will donate old inventory to charitable organizations--you still get the charitable deduction.

Inquire how selling price is determined. Some stores make suggestions, others insist on pricing themselves. Many will negotiate with you on what they see as reasonable. It's wise to heed their suggestions because they know what sells quickly and what price range is the most attractive. Ask how often they pay and if they'll mail the checks or if you are expected to pick them up. In the case of the latter, take some self-addressed stamped envelopes with you unless you particularly want to return to the store. Make an appointment to take your things in and allow plenty of time.

One last word about consignment stores. Choose with care. In larger cities, location can mean everything. Urban areas also have shops that verge on the chic, such as the one run by the Junior League in Georgetown (Washington, DC). If you're fortunate to have the type of cast-offs they resell, your rewards can be much higher.

Once you've consigned your goods, you're free. You can wait for your checks to start coming. If a few things don't sell, you'll usually have the option of reclaiming or donating.

You'll note I don't include books or audiotapes in my list of marketable items. These I recycle through used bookstores. There's no cash involved but most stores allow half-credit on trades toward purchases. For instance, you need to trade in four tape cassettes to receive two. Paperback books are traded at half their cover price. Hardcover books are usually not accepted. Consider the latter for libraries, hospitals or charitable book sales depending on age, condition and general appeal. Again, advance calls to used bookstores will give you the various policies each work by.