How To

How to Find Used Books to Sell Online for Profit

Member
By blinblue
User-Submitted Article
(1 Ratings)
Books
Books

Buying and selling used books can be a great way to make a few extra bucks. In this article you will learn where to find used books for cheap that you can later sell online for money

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Nearby thrift store
  1. Step 1

    First, find the nearest thrift store to your location. If you do not know where one is, see my article on how to find thrift stores in your area.

  2. Step 2

    Go to the book section of your thrift store.

  3. Step 3

    Look for textbooks and other technical writings. If the price is cheap (say no more than $1) go ahead and buy any books that are fairly recent and in halfway decent condition.

  4. Step 4

    If the books are more expensive than a couple bucks, you want to make sure that you can make a profit on it before you spend money. If you have access to the internet, go ahead and check on Amazon.com or half.com to get an idea if the book is worth anything. If you do not have access to the internet, write down the ISBN for any book you are unsure of. Return home and check the price

  5. Step 5

    After you have bought your books, return home and list them on your favorite book selling website. Amazon.com and Half.com are good places to start selling.

  6. Step 6

    Profit!

Tips & Warnings
  • Check out a number of thrift stores in your area to find one with the best book selection
  • Textbooks are not the only books with good profit margins. Collectible items also can fetch a high price, but it is often harder to spot them
  • When listing a textbook, always put the edition number in the description, this will reassure students who need a certain edition
  • Avoid online book selling sites that require any substantial listing fee
Resources

Comments  

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on 3/12/2009 I did this and also frequented a bookstore called Half Priced Books. Be sure to check and make sure the books are worth something before you buy. When I got out of the business, I ended up with 1500 books and donated them and took them off my taxes. I made a little money at it. Also mailed them with stamps.com.

Flag This Comment

on 3/12/2009 I did this and also frequented a bookstore called Half Priced Books. Be sure to check and make sure the books are worth something before you buy. When I got out of the business, I ended up with 1500 books and donated them and took them off my taxes. I made a little money at it. Also mailed them with stamps.com. 5 stars and a recommend

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