Clothes Consignment 101

Clothes Consignment 101

So you’ve completed your annual? bi-annual? closet clean out and you’ve got a pile of clothes you want to donate or consign. After you thank them for their service, here’s some quick tips to getting the most value from consigning your clothes:

1. Check the website

Most consignment stores will have a list of brands or clothing types they don’t accept so do your research on consignment stores you are considering. For instance, the May Court Nearly New Shop has a list of (mostly) fast fashion brands we don’t accept, as well as guidelines around seasonal items (we don’t have storage so we can only accept what can go on the floor immediately.)

2. Ask all the questions

Call the consignment store to ask any questions and set up an appointment. Most stores appreciate the pre-consignment conversation to ensure a fast and successful consignment appointment. They may be able to offer insights into what is selling best in the store, any trends they’ve noticed, and what pieces are in greatest demand right now.

3. Check expiry policies
Many consignment stores only display items for a specific period (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days). If your items don’t sell within that time frame, find out if you’ll need to pick them up or if the store donates unsold pieces. At The Nearly New Shop, items are displayed for 30 days at full price and then are deemed to have been donated and moved to our ½ price sale section. (There are some exceptions to the rule - ask us for more details!)
4. Understand the payout structure
Consignment stores vary in how they compensate for sold items. Some offer a percentage of the sale price, while others might provide store credit. Research and compare to ensure you’re comfortable with the terms before consigning. At The Nearly New Shop, we split the sales price of an item 50/50 with our consignors during the 30 day period but most consignment stores range between 25-40% payout to the consignors.

5. Be realistic about pricing
Items in consignment stores are typically priced at a fraction of their original cost, and you’ll receive a percentage of that. While designer items may fetch higher prices, be prepared for modest returns on everyday brands.

6. Be detail-oriented

Look closely at the condition of the items you want to consign - most, if not all, consignment stores will reject items with stains, rips or excessive wash wear. Clothes should be in good condition and look Nearly New (see what I did there…)

7. Also check the look and feel of the garments

Do they need to be washed/steamed/ironed before bringing them into the consignment store? Clean, crisp looking clothes sell faster and sell first. If you can, bringing items in on hangers keeps them looking their best for the consignment appointment. (May Court always returns all hangers to you during the consignment appointment)

8. Don’t forget shoes and accessories

Shoes, handbags, belts, scarves, and jewelry. Accessories are often sought-after in consignment stores and can add diversity to your consignment batch.

9. Group similar items together
Organize your items by type or category before your appointment. For example, group all tops, dresses, or accessories together. This makes it easier for consignment store staff to assess your items quickly and efficiently.

10. Feel good about consigning your clothes

You are contributing to a more sustainable world, giving someone else the opportunity to love a new-to-them item, and getting some cash to spend on yourself in return.