Where to Sell Used Books in the UK: The Ultimate Guide
Got old books gathering dust on your shelves? Turn them into cash! Whether you’re selling textbooks, rare editions, or just clearing out fiction, the UK offers many options to sell used books both online and locally.
This guide combines expert tips with practical advice to help you sell your books easily and for the most money.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the best online platforms like Amazon, eBay, and niche sites like AbeBooks for selling used books.
- Learn where to sell locally, from independent bookshops to community sales and Facebook Marketplace.
- Get tips on pricing your books based on condition and demand.
- Explore options to sell textbooks and academic books directly to students or through specialised platforms like WeBuyBooks and Ziffit.
Understanding the Used Book Market in the UK
The UK’s used book market is booming. With more than half of buyers preferring second-hand books, there’s a growing demand for affordable and sustainable reading options.
Market Trends
- Growth Rate: The market grows by 8–10% annually, led by platforms like World of Books, which stocks millions of titles.
- Online Sales Dominate: 63% of used book sales in the UK happen online, with local bookshops making up 20% of sales.
Where to Sell Books in the UK
Online Platforms
Selling books online is convenient and often yields better profits. Here are your best options:
- Amazon Marketplace
- Ideal for textbooks, popular fiction, and rare books.
- Choose between Individual (pay-per-sale fees) or Professional (£39.99/month) plans.
- Offers FBA (fulfilled by Amazon) for hassle-free shipping or FBM (fulfilled by Merchant) to manage shipping yourself.
- eBay
- Great for auctions or fixed-price sales.
- Perfect for selling rare or collectible books to an international audience.
- Tip: Use well-lit photos and detailed descriptions to attract buyers.
- WeBuyBooks
- Scan ISBNs for instant quotes.
- Free shipping and payment within five days.
- Best for bulk sales or quick cash.
- AbeBooks
- Specialised in rare, vintage, and academic books.
- Attracts collectors willing to pay premium prices.
- Facebook Marketplace
- Connect with local buyers for free.
- Create visually appealing listings with honest descriptions.
- Gumtree
- Perfect for selling locally.
- Avoid shipping costs by meeting buyers in person.
Local Selling Options
If you prefer in-person sales, try these options:
- Independent Bookstores
- Many offer cash or store credit for used books.
- Call ahead to check their policies.
- Community Sales
- Join car boot sales or local book fairs to sell directly to buyers.
- Promote your booth on Facebook or Google+ for more visibility.
- Charity Shops
- Donate books to Oxfam or local thrift stores.
- While not profitable, it’s a sustainable way to declutter.
What Books Sell Best?
Certain types of books sell better than others. Focus on:
- Textbooks and Academic Books: High demand during term starts.
- Rare and Collectible Books: Valuable to collectors.
- Fiction: Popular genres like thrillers and romance often sell quickly.
How to Sell Books for the Most Profit
Here are expert tips to maximise your earnings:
1. Price Based on Condition
- Use this table as a guide:
| Condition | Price Range (% of retail) |
|---|---|
| Like New | 80–90% |
| Very Good | 70–80% |
| Good | 50–70% |
| Acceptable | 30–50% |
2. Bundle for Higher Value
- Group similar books together (e.g., by genre or author) to attract bulk buyers.
3. List Effectively
- Include details like the book’s condition, ISBN, edition, and year of publication.
- Add clear, high-quality photos of the cover and spine.
Selling Textbooks in the UK
Textbooks hold their value well, especially for university students. Here’s how to sell them:
- Use Specialized Platforms
- Try WeBuyBooks or AbeBooks for academic titles.
- Scan ISBNs for instant quotes.
- Sell Directly to Students
- Use university-specific marketplaces or notice boards.
- Timing is crucial—sell just before a new term starts.
- Check Buyback Programs
- Many universities have buyback schemes for textbooks at the end of each term.
FAQs
Where can I sell my used books in the UK?
- Online platforms like Amazon Marketplace, eBay, and WeBuyBooks are top choices.
- Locally, try independent bookshops, charity shops, or Facebook Marketplace.
How do I determine the value of my books?
- The value depends on condition, demand, and rarity. Textbooks and rare editions typically fetch higher prices.
When is the best time to sell used books?
- Just before university terms or holidays, when demand is highest.
How do I sell used books locally?
- Visit independent bookshops or join car boot sales. Use platforms like Gumtree to connect with local buyers.