Online Marketplaces:
eBay – eBay is one of the largest and most popular online marketplaces for collecting selling cards of all types. With millions of active buyers, eBay gives you access to a huge potential audience. Listing is free and eBay only charges final value fees only if the item actually sells. You’ll want to take good photos of the cards, accurately describe condition and include measurements. Be prepared to ship cards safely and quickly.
COMC (Cardboard Connection) – Formerly called “Collectors Universe,” COMC allows you to sell individual cards or bulk lots. They offer grading services and will also sell cards on eBay on your behalf for a commission fee. One benefit is they handle all shipping and customer service so you don’t have to. They do take a larger cut of the sale compared to selling directly on eBay yourself.
Sportscardforum.com – This is a busy online marketplace and forum specifically for sports cards. You can create want lists, make offers to buyers, and sell individual cards or lots. The fees are lower than eBay but the audience is smaller as well. Be sure to read all selling and shipping guidelines before posting listings.
Local Card Shops:
Search online directories or ask other collectors to find local card shops in your area. Many specialize in buylists where they will make offers to purchase collections outright or take cards on consignment. Consignment means the shop sells the cards for you and you split the profits, usually 60% for you. This allows you to bypass upfront fees but the shop takes a larger cut.
Show up during busy hours and bring well-organized cards sleeved and sorted by sport and player. Be prepared to negotiate and understand recent sold prices on platforms like eBay to know what is fair. Cards shops are handy for unloading lots of lower-value cards all at once.
Card Shows and Conventions:
Use event websites like SportsCardsShows.com to find regularly scheduled card shows within driving distance. These are trade shows where individual sellers rent tables to display thousands of cards for sale. Browse the entire show before deciding on table pricing, which can range from $30-100 depending on the size of the show.
Set up your inventory neatly organized and priced. It’s best to accept all major credit cards throughSquare, Clover, or similar portable card readers for ease of transactions. Bring small supplies like toploaders, sleeves to protect cards during sales. Be prepared for negotiating and expect sales to be slower than online platforms.
Facebook Groups:
Search Facebook for groups dedicated to buying and selling sports cards for specific teams, players, or years. Some of the most active have 10,000+ members. Post clear photos of your items with detailed descriptions and reasonable “or best offer” pricing to stimulate interest. Buyers may contact you directly to arrange payment and shipping.
Use PayPal Goods & Services or Venmo Goods & Services to protect yourself, don’t accept payments without tracking orsignture confirmation. Meet buyers locally if possible in a public place for cash transactions. Read all group rules carefully before posting to avoid scammers.
EBay and Instagram are great for broad exposure but take larger cuts. COMC and consignment shops simplify the work for a portion of profits. Local shows and groups provide face-to-face selling opportunities while card shops are handy for quick bulk transactions. Research the options and use a combination that fits your collection size, time commitment and selling goals. With diligence, you can earn solid returns by capitalizing on today’s active pop culture collectibles market.
