Furniture consignment is becoming an increasingly popular way to declutter your space, make some extra cash, and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. If you’re new to the concept, you may wonder, “How does furniture consignment work?” This guide will break down the process, explain its benefits, and help you decide if this is the right route for selling your used furniture.
What Is Furniture Consignment?
Furniture consignment is a business model where you, the consignor, provide furniture to a store (the consignee) to sell on your behalf. The store takes care of pricing, marketing, and selling your items. Once the piece is sold, the store retains a percentage of the sale price as a commission, and you get the rest. This arrangement is ideal for people looking to sell high-quality, gently used furniture without the hassle of managing the sales process themselves.
How Does Furniture Consignment Work?
The process is straightforward and typically involves the following steps:
1. Research and Choose a Consignment Store
Start by finding reputable consignment furniture stores in your area or online. Look for stores that align with the style and quality of your furniture. Some specialize in modern designs, antiques, or luxury brands.
Tip: Research reviews and visit stores in person to evaluate their customer traffic and sales success.
2. Evaluate Your Furniture
Not all items qualify for consignment. Most stores look for gently used, high-quality furniture that is free from major damage like stains, tears, or structural issues. If your furniture meets these standards, it has a better chance of being accepted and sold quickly.
3. Provide Photos and Details
Many consignment stores require you to submit photos and descriptions of your furniture before bringing it in. Include dimensions, brand details, and any unique features. This helps the store determine if your items fit their inventory.
4. Set the Terms with a Consignment Agreement
Once accepted, the store will provide a consignment agreement outlining:
- Pricing: The initial selling price and potential markdowns if the item doesn’t sell quickly.
- Commission Rates: Consignment stores typically take 30-60% of the sale price.
- Timeframe: Most agreements last 60-90 days, during which the store will market your furniture.
- Ownership: You retain ownership until the item is sold.
5. Prepare Your Furniture
Clean and repair your furniture to make it as appealing as possible to buyers. A well-maintained piece is more likely to sell and fetch a higher price.
6. Delivery to the Store
Once the agreement is in place, you’ll need to deliver your furniture to the store. Some stores offer pickup services for an additional fee, which is convenient for large or heavy items.
7. Wait for the Sale
The store will display your furniture both in-store and online, handle inquiries, and negotiate with buyers.
8. Collect Your Earnings
When your furniture sells, you’ll receive your portion of the sale price, minus the store’s commission.
Benefits of Selling Furniture on Consignment
1. Hassle-Free Selling
Consignment stores handle pricing, marketing, and negotiating, saving you time and effort.
2. Access to a Ready-Made Audience
Consignment shops attract buyers specifically looking for high-quality, secondhand furniture, increasing the likelihood of a sale.
3. Environmentally Friendly
By consigning furniture, you’re promoting sustainability by giving items a second life and keeping them out of landfills.
4. Extra Income
Turn unused furniture into cash without having to navigate online marketplaces or haggle with buyers.
5. Professional Presentation
Stores often stage furniture professionally, showcasing it in the best light to attract potential buyers.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Furniture Consignment
1. Overpricing Your Items
While sentimental value might lead you to believe your furniture is worth more, it’s crucial to set realistic prices based on market demand.
2. Ignoring Fine Print
Carefully review the consignment agreement to understand the store’s commission rates, markdown policies, and consignment period.
3. Poor Item Preparation
Dirty or damaged furniture is less likely to sell. Clean, repair, and polish your items before delivering them to the store.
4. Choosing the Wrong Store
Partnering with a store that doesn’t cater to your furniture’s style or quality can lead to slow sales or no sales at all.
FAQs About Furniture Consignment
What percentage do consignment stores take?
Consignment stores typically charge a commission of 30-60% of the selling price.
What happens if my furniture doesn’t sell?
If your furniture doesn’t sell within the agreed timeframe, you can either extend the consignment period, lower the price, or reclaim your items.
Can I consign any type of furniture?
Most consignment stores accept gently used furniture in good condition. Items with significant wear and tear or outdated designs may not be accepted.
Do consignment stores handle delivery?
Some stores offer pickup services for an additional fee. Be sure to ask about this when finalizing your consignment agreement.
How long does it take to sell furniture on consignment?
The timeframe varies depending on factors like the store’s traffic, the price, and the demand for your furniture. Most items sell within 60-90 days.
Alternatives to Furniture Consignment
If consignment doesn’t feel like the right fit, consider these options:
- Online Marketplaces: Sell directly through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
- Donation: Give your furniture to charity and enjoy a potential tax deduction.
- Trade-In Programs: Some retailers offer trade-in discounts for new furniture purchases.
Is Furniture Consignment Right for You?
Furniture consignment is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to sell high-quality, gently used furniture while reaching a targeted audience. By partnering with the right consignment shop, you can earn extra income, reduce waste, and simplify your life—all without lifting a finger once the process is underway.
Ready to declutter and consign your furniture? Start researching local consignment stores or explore online options to begin your journey today.