Best Platforms To Sell Plastic Model Kits

where to sell plastic model kits

If you're looking to sell plastic model kits, there are several options available to you. Online retailers such as oldmodelkits.com buy plastic model kits and collections, including vacuform, wood, and metal models. They accept kits from various manufacturers and offer different payment methods, including PayPal and business checks. Alternatively, you can sell your kits on eBay to reach a wider audience and gauge market demand. Building an online presence through platforms like Patreon, YouTube, and personal websites can also help generate interest and establish your brand.

Characteristics Values
Platforms oldmodelkits.com, eBay
Types of kits Plastic, Vacuform, wood, or metal
Kit themes Airplane, ship, car, armor
Kit status Built or unbuilt
Payment methods PayPal, business check

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Online marketplaces like eBay

EBay offers a continuous flow of motivated customers and easy ways to integrate eBay as an additional sales channel for your online store. You can sell anything on eBay, from everyday items to vintage products.

When selling on eBay, it's important to consider the fees associated with the platform. eBay charges a non-refundable listing fee for each product and an insertion fee if you list the same item in two different categories. PayPal is a common payment processor used on eBay, but it charges a small fee of usually 3.5%.

Before listing your plastic model kits on eBay, it's a good idea to research the platform and your competitors. Buying something from a competitor can educate you on the purchase journey and customer service process. You can then compare the experience of buying directly from competitors' websites versus purchasing from them on eBay. This will help you understand their marketing strategy, pricing, and more.

Additionally, when selling on eBay, consider the following:

  • Shipping methods and rates: eBay sellers typically have access to various shipping carriers and can select the shipping price and method that works best for them.
  • Product description and images: Experiment with improving your product descriptions and images to make your listings more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Marketing plan: Develop a solid marketing plan that covers how you'll present your products and services to target customers and measure your progress.
  • Customer engagement: Watch customer engagement closely, especially during the initial weeks of your listing, and make adjustments as needed to optimize your listing's performance.
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Specialist buyers such as OldModelKits.com

If you're looking to sell plastic model kits, one specialist buyer to consider is OldModelKits.com. This website buys plastic model kits, as well as wood, metal, and vacuform kits, from single kits to collections of thousands. They stock a range of model kits, including airplane, ship, car, and armour models, and they are always updating their inventory of old, vintage plastic model kits.

To sell your kits to OldModelKits.com, you can email photos or a list of the kits you have for sale to [email protected]. Photos are preferred as you can include multiple kits in one photo, and the buyer can zoom in to read kit details. If you have asking prices, you should include them. Otherwise, OldModelKits.com will price the kits according to what they have paid for those exact kits in the past.

Once a price has been agreed upon, you can ship the kits. OldModelKits.com will pay via business check or PayPal, depending on your preference. If you choose PayPal, there is usually a small fee of around 3.5%. It's important to include your zip code when asking for a quote so that shipping costs can be calculated accurately.

OldModelKits.com has a large inventory of kits and has been in business since 2003. They ship kits worldwide and update their website regularly, particularly on Mondays. The website also features detailed descriptions of the kits they sell, including information on the manufacturer, condition, and any unique features.

Overall, OldModelKits.com is a reputable and experienced buyer of plastic model kits, offering a convenient platform for sellers to offload their collections with flexible payment options.

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Local hobby shops

First, do some research on the shops in your area that specialise in models or plastic kits. Give them a call or pay them a visit to understand the types of kits they are interested in buying and any conditions the kits need to be in. Some shops may have specific criteria, such as accepting only new and unopened kits, while others may accept built kits as well. Understanding their requirements will help you determine if your kits are a good fit for their store.

When approaching local hobby shops, it is beneficial to have a clear idea of the quantity and quality of your kits. Providing a detailed list or clear photos of your kits will allow the shop owner to assess their value accurately. If you have a large collection, consider creating an inventory list with kit numbers, names, scales, and any other relevant information. This will help streamline the selling process and demonstrate your professionalism.

It is also important to discuss pricing expectations with the shop owner. They may offer to buy the kits directly from you at a price you set or negotiate a selling price that works for both parties. Be prepared to negotiate and consider the costs from the shop owner's perspective, including any overhead or display costs they may incur.

Lastly, don't be afraid to negotiate and ask for feedback. If you have rare or unique kits, you may be able to command a higher price. The shop owner may also provide valuable insights into the local market and guide you on improving your kits' presentation or setting competitive prices. Remember that building relationships with local hobby shops can be beneficial, especially if you plan to sell kits regularly or are part of a local modelling community.

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Social media platforms

Facebook

Facebook Groups can be a great way to connect with potential buyers. Search for groups dedicated to scale modelling or plastic model kit building and join these communities. You can then post about the kits you have for sale, including photos and descriptions. Facebook Marketplace is another option, where you can list your items for sale to the general public.

Instagram

Instagram is a highly visual platform, making it ideal for showcasing your plastic model kits. Consider investing in an airbrush and acrylic model paints to make your kits more aesthetically appealing to potential buyers. Use relevant hashtags to increase the visibility of your posts and attract a wider audience. You can also scroll through Instagram to find inspiration and connect with other builders.

Reddit

The r/modelmakers subreddit is a dedicated community for plastic model kit enthusiasts. Here, you can swap tips and techniques, showcase your latest builds, and discuss the latest kits. While the subreddit does not host sales, it can be a great place to connect with potential buyers and promote your kits. You can also direct interested buyers to message you for further details.

YouTube and Patreon

While not traditional social media platforms, YouTube and Patreon can be powerful tools for selling plastic model kits. Consider creating a YouTube channel to showcase your building process, techniques, and completed models. You can build a following and potentially generate income through YouTube's monetisation options. Patreon is another way to monetise your content by offering exclusive content and perks to subscribers.

Remember to exercise caution when selling online and always follow the guidelines and policies of each platform.

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Direct sales to individuals or businesses

If you're looking to sell plastic model kits directly to individuals or businesses, there are several options available to you. One option is to sell your kits online through websites such as OldModelKits.com, which buys plastic model kits of any quantity, manufacturer, or type (including vacuform, wood, or metal). They accept kits from major brands such as Revell, Monogram, Aurora, Tamiya, and Hasegawa. To sell your kits, you can email photos or a list of the kits to [email protected]. Include any asking prices, or they can price the kits based on their previous purchases. Another similar website is ModelsForSale.com, which also buys plastic model kits, but they usually prefer larger quantities (100+ kits) or rare items. You can send them a list or photos of the kits, along with your estimated price, and they will respond within 1 to 2 working days.

Another direct sales option is to sell your kits through an online retailer like Factory Direct Hobbies. They offer a wide variety of pre-order options for plastic scale model kits, and you can sell your kits directly to customers through their website. However, they have specific policies regarding payments and returns that you should be aware of before listing your kits.

Additionally, you can explore direct sales to individuals by attending shows and events where model kit enthusiasts gather. Models For Sale Ltd. offers the option to collect orders from various shows, providing flexibility for customers. Attending such events can be a great opportunity to connect with potential buyers and sell your kits directly to individuals who share your passion for modelling.

Lastly, you can also consider selling your kits directly to local hobby shops or specialty stores. These businesses often cater to a niche market and may be interested in purchasing your plastic model kits to resell to their customers. It is worth contacting or visiting such stores in your area to inquire about their purchasing process and any specific requirements they may have.

Frequently asked questions

You can sell plastic model kits on websites such as eBay or OldModelKits.com. OldModelKits.com buys plastic model kits from any manufacturer, including wood, metal, and vacuform kits.

You can email photos or a list of the kits you want to sell to [email protected]. Include your zip code and asking price, if you have one, so that they can calculate shipping costs. If you do not have an asking price, they will price the kits according to what they have paid for those kits in the past.

The majority of sellers use the "On Approval" method. If the quote is accepted, the kits are sent, and upon inspection and meeting the quote terms and conditions, the quote is paid via business check. Alternatively, you can accept a 1/2 deposit via PayPal before sending the kits. PayPal will charge a small fee for this option.

If you are well-known for print and/or video work, you may be able to ask for higher prices for your kits. However, if you are just starting out, it may be a good idea to sell your kits on eBay to get a feel for the market.

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