If you sometimes wonder over the economics of your time spent clipping coupons, you are certain to wonder whether it is worth your time to consign your kids’ clothes in one of the upcoming sales.
It’s a shame that the perfectly good smocked dress or jon-jon is outgrown already, and it would be nice to recoup a portion of the fortune you paid for it. But by the time you’ve laundered, scrubbed, ironed, tagged, and waited to drop off, is it worth the trouble?
Here are some factors to consider from busy moms who have consigned:
- Most consignment sales allow consignors to shop earlier than the general public. If you will be shopping, choose a sale that typically has merchandise you like. If you are more interested in selling than purchasing, you may want to opt for a sale with the most convenient location for you.
- A well-run operation is a must, and most sales that have been ongoing for years (such as those produced regularly by a church or a recurrent sale by the same operators) have gotten the practice down to a science. This means less confusion and less of your time.
- You’ll need a minimum number of items to be able to consign. If you have several premium brands or baby gear that is in excellent condition, you can probably do well. Be aware that most consignment sales will not accept discount brands unless they are appliqued or monogrammed with a single initial and thus have added value.
- You must register in advance with the seller to be able to consign. Upon registration, you’ll receive instructions on how to hang and label your items. Start saving wire hangers from the dry cleaner a few weeks ahead so you’re ready.
- Toys and baby gear in excellent condition sells very well and may be easier to prepare for a sale than clothing, provided you have enough items (it certainly helps clear space at home).
- If you have a friend who is already consigning, she might be willing to include your items for a generous split of the proceeds. It might be little additional trouble for her to add your items. Consider pledging your portion of the proceeds for a mom’s night out that you can both enjoy later.
- You’ll have a designated drop-off time, and waiting here can be the most painful part of the process. If you have selected carefully and prepped the items well, intake will go quickly.
Going forward, reserve an area of your kids’ closet for giveaway items. Keep index cards, safety pins, and markers on hand and you can tag your item as soon as you decide it’s time to pass it on. Future consigning will be a snap.
The better your own system for consignment prep, the more likely you will recoup your investment of time.
For a list of metro area sales, visit the Birmingham Consignment Sale Calendar