Charity shop reselling: the quick check
Before you head to the till, run through three questions:
- What does it actually sell for? Check sold listings, not asking prices. The scanner above gives a fast estimate.
- Is the profit worth the effort? Aim for at least £10 profit and to double your money. Use the "max buy price" figure as your walk-away price.
- Is it in sellable condition? Check armpits, cuffs, zips, linings, stains and smells. Damage that's easy to miss in the shop is obvious to buyers.
Charity shop prices have gone up — so be choosier
Many UK charity shops now price recognisable brands higher than they used to, and some sell their best donations online themselves. That doesn't mean there's no profit — it means the margin is in knowing which items still sell for much more than the tag. Our charity shop sourcing guide covers what to look for.
Don't forget the hidden costs
Washing, de-bobbling, repairs, packaging, and the bus or petrol to get to the shops all come out of your profit. Add a rough figure to "Other costs" — even £1–£2 per item makes the numbers more honest.
Remember that charity shops exist to raise money for good causes. Buying to resell is legal and common, but most resellers are happy to leave things priced fairly and focus on true bargains.
