Car boot sales can be the cheapest source of resale stock in the UK — prices are low, sellers want to clear things, and you can haggle. They can also be a fast way to fill your house with things that never sell. Here’s how to do it well.
Before you go
- Check the opening time and entry fee. Popular items go early, often while sellers are still unpacking.
- Take cash in small notes and coins.
- Charge your phone so you can check sold prices and scan items.
- Bring a bag (or a trolley for bigger sales).
What to look for
Car boots are especially good for non-clothing items that sell well on eBay:
- Video games and consoles — especially Nintendo and retro systems. Check discs and cartridges are present and genuine.
- LEGO — sets, minifigures and bulk bricks.
- Cameras and lenses — film cameras and branded lenses can be valuable.
- Vintage kitchenware — Le Creuset, Pyrex, Denby, branded glassware.
- Tools — quality branded hand and power tools.
- Vinyl records — check the condition of the disc, not just the sleeve.
- Branded clothing and shoes — the same brands as in charity shops.
How to haggle
- Be friendly and fair. A modest offer below the asking price is normal.
- Bundle items — “Would you take £10 for these three?” often works better than haggling over one item.
- Know your max buy price before you ask. The car boot profit calculator shows it.
- Late in the day, sellers are keener to clear stock — but the best items will be gone.
Check before you pay
- Test electrical items if the seller has power, or ask.
- Check games and DVDs have the right disc inside.
- Check sets and toys for missing pieces.
- Look out for fakes and reproductions, especially games and branded goods.
Don’t forget your costs
Entry fees, petrol and parking all count. If a car boot costs you £6 to attend and you buy six items, add £1 to each item’s costs when you calculate profit.
