15 Best Places to Sell Used Fine China Dishes

It’s Springtime, and you know what that means; it’s time to clean our homes and get rid of all the stuff we no longer need or use. 

This is especially important when dealing with items like fine China dishes, which can be quite expensive if you purchased them new. Selling used Fine China dishes can help you make some extra cash while cleaning up your home — plus give someone else the chance to enjoy something special.

So, I decided to take a look at the 15 Best Places to Sell Used Fine China Dishes. I’ll also give some tips on how to properly package and research the value of your dishes before listing them for sale. 

Let’s get started! 

What is Fine China? 

Before I dive into where to sell your dishes, let’s take a moment to define exactly what it means. Fine China is a type of porcelain that is made from the highest quality materials, such as kaolin and feldspathic rock. 

This porcelain is then fired at temperatures of up to 1450°C, resulting in a durable and translucent material that is perfect for making dishes. Fine China is often adorned with intricate patterns and designs, which can range from traditional florals to contemporary abstracts.

Why Is It Worth Selling? 

Fine China dishes can be quite expensive, so why is it worth selling them? Well, if you purchased the dishes new and they are still in good condition, they may retain some of their resale value. Additionally, many people like to buy used fine China dishes because they appreciate having something unique and special that isn’t available in stores anymore. 

15 Best Places to Sell Used Fine China Dishes

Selling online is an easy way to reach potential buyers all over the world. Here are some online platforms you can use to sell your fine China dishes: 

eBay

When it comes to selling your fine China, there are many online platforms available, but few are as well-known and established as eBay. As the world’s largest online marketplace, eBay provides easy access to millions of potential buyers worldwide, making it an ideal platform for selling high-end items like fine China. 

Whether you’re a seasoned eBay seller or a first-timer, the process is simple and straightforward. You can list your items for sale for free, and eBay will only charge you a small insertion fee (starting at $0.35 per listing) if you exceed 250 listings per month.

A great site to use with low fees…

Plus, eBay’s final value fee (which is based on the sale price) typically ranges from 12.9% or lower, with an additional $0.30 per order fee. So, if you’re eager to declutter your home and make some extra money, eBay is definitely worth considering.

Etsy

Etsy is a marketplace platform that allows individuals to sell handmade, vintage, or unique items to buyers around the world. Unlike many other online marketplaces, Etsy allows you to showcase your one-of-a-kind items to a targeted market of customers who appreciate artisanal and unique finds. 

While there is a small fee to list items for sale on Etsy, the transaction fee is only charged when your item sells. So, you can rest assured that you’re only paying for the service you actually use. Plus, considering that there are over 81 million active buyers on Etsy, it’s a great platform for anyone looking to sell their fine China collection online.

Chairish

Fine China is not only a beautiful decorative choice for homes, but it can also hold significant value as an investment. If you’re looking to sell your pieces, it’s essential to find a reliable and trustworthy platform. That’s where Chairish comes in – one of the most reputable online marketplaces for vintage and high-end home furnishings. 

With a team of experts, Chairish ensures a streamlined process for selling your fine China, including pricing and listings. You can rest assured that your elegant dishware will be seen by a wide audience of potential buyers, and you’ll receive the best possible value for your investment. What’s more, membership is free if you are selling less than nine pieces at a time.

Replacements, Ltd.

When it comes to selling fine China, Replacements, Ltd. is definitely a company to consider. Not only can you sell your items online through their website, but they also offer in-person appointments for items that meet certain criteria. 

The catch? Your items must either be sterling silver or exceed $250 in total expected payment. If you meet these requirements, it may be worth scheduling an appointment and seeing if Replacements, Ltd. is interested in purchasing your pieces. With over 11 million pieces in its inventory and over 450,000 patterns available, it’s clear that this company is well-established in the industry.

Ruby Lane

Founded in 1998, Ruby Lane is an online marketplace that specializes in high-end vintage and antique items, including China and other tableware. With over ten thousand independent shops and dealers, Ruby Lane offers a wide selection of unique and one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find anywhere else. 

And the best part? Listing your items on Ruby Lane is easy and straightforward. Simply sign up for a shop account, upload your photos and descriptions, and wait for the buyers to come to you. 

Brick and Mortar Stores for Selling Used Fine China Dishes

For the purists out there, some people may still prefer to sell their fine China the old-fashioned way – using brick-and-mortar stores. Here are five great options for those who wish to go down this route:

Antique Shops

Antique shops are the most obvious place to start when selling your fine China collection. From small, mom-and-pop stores to larger, reputable dealerships, antique shops provide a great platform for your items to be seen and appreciated by buyers in person. Depending on the shop, you may even receive a better price for your items since antique shops are known to be competitive when it comes to pricing.

Consignment Stores

If you’re looking for a more convenient way to sell your fine China, consignment stores may be a great option. These stores take items on commission and then pay you once they’ve sold the items. 

The commission rate is usually around 50%, but it can vary depending on the store and its policies. However, you should be aware that they may take several weeks to sell your items, so this option is best suited for those who don’t need immediate cash.

Flea Markets

If you don’t mind getting up early on the weekends, flea markets are a great option for selling your items. They attract a wide range of buyers, and the atmosphere is generally relaxed, making it a great platform for conversation and negotiation. The downside is that you’ll need to do your own packing and transportation to the market, so be sure to factor in this cost when setting your prices.

Estate Sales

For those who are looking for a more organized way to sell, estate sales may be a good option. They are usually held by professional companies and typically include multiple items from one person or family. Although the commission rate is typically higher than other options (often around 25%), estate sales offer a fantastic way to quickly and easily sell your items in one go.

Auction Houses

Lastly, if you have a particularly valuable item or collection, it may be worth considering auction houses. They often attract high-end buyers looking for rare and unique items, so if you have a piece that falls into this category, it may be worth the time to contact an auction house for a free appraisal.

Social Media and Community-Based Platforms 

These days, social media and community-based platforms have become incredibly popular for selling used fine China dishes. There are a number of online options available for those who want to quickly and easily list their items for sale; here are my top 5!

Facebook Marketplace

Looking for a hassle-free way to sell your fine China online? Facebook Marketplace might be the perfect solution for you! This platform offers a convenient way to connect with potential buyers in your local area, enabling easy pick-up or drop-off arrangements. 

Additionally, there are no selling fees for local sales, making it a great option for sellers who want to keep things simple. However, if you wish to ship your items to buyers outside your area, you will need to sell them as a shop and pay a small fee. Nevertheless, Facebook Marketplace offers an expansive audience of potential buyers, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to sell online.

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is a neighborhood-based social network and online marketplace, making it an ideal option for those who prefer to sell their fine china locally. It’s a great way to connect with buyers within your own community, as well as those nearby. Furthermore, Nextdoor offers an efficient and secure payment system for buyers and sellers, meaning you can be sure to receive your money promptly.

Craigslist

Craigslist is one of the oldest and most popular online classifieds sites, and it’s a great option for those looking to sell their China dishes. It’s free to use, and the site attracts a wide range of buyers. However, it’s important to be aware that there are potential safety risks associated with this platform, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions when meeting up with buyers.

Letgo

Letgo is a popular online marketplace that has been gaining momentum over the past few years. It was founded in 2015 by three entrepreneurs, Alec Oxenford, Jordi Castello, and Enrique Linares, who were determined to create a simple and user-friendly platform for buying and selling secondhand goods. 

Letgo is available as a mobile app and website, and it has gained a reputation for being easy to use and quick to sell items. Simply take a few good-quality photos of your item, write a description, and set your price.

You can sell directly…

Buyers can message you directly through Letgo, and you can negotiate a sale without any hassle. With this platform, you can reach a wider audience than you would through traditional classifieds, and you can rest assured that your items will end up with someone who will cherish them just as much as you did.

OfferUp

OfferUp is another popular community-based platform that’s great for selling used items. It was founded in 2011 by two Seattle entrepreneurs, Nick Huzar and Arean Van Veelen. 

The app was created to make it easy for people to buy and sell items locally without having to go through the hassle of traditional classifieds. To list your item on OfferUp, simply take some photos and write a description, then set your asking price. Buyers can message you directly through the app, and payment is secure and safe.

Tips For Selling Used Fine China Dishes

Selling used China can be a lucrative way to make some extra cash, but it requires careful consideration and preparation. Here are some tips to help you sell yours effectively:

Research the Value of the Dishes

 Before you list your fine China dishes for sale, it’s essential to research their value to ensure that you’re pricing them appropriately. You can use online resources, such as auction sites and vintage collectible websites, to get an idea of how much similar items are selling for. Be sure to take into account the age, condition, and rarity of your dishes when determining their value.

Properly Package and Ship the Dishes

 To ensure that your dishes arrive at their destination in excellent condition, it’s essential to pack them properly. Wrap each dish in bubble wrap and place them in a sturdy box with plenty of cushioning material. If you’re shipping multiple dishes, be sure to separate them with cardboard dividers. Also, consider insuring the package in case of damage during shipping.

Maintain the Condition of the Dishes

To get the best possible price for your fine China, it’s crucial to maintain them in excellent condition. Store them in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from moisture and temperature changes. Clean them regularly but avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the surface.

Set Reasonable Prices

When setting prices, consider their condition, rarity, and age. Avoid setting prices that are too high or too low. Too high, and you might not get any offers; too low, and you might not get the full value of your dishes. Research the market and be willing to negotiate with potential buyers to ensure that you get a fair price.

Looking To Start An Online Business?

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Final Thoughts

Selling your cherished china dishes can be a tough decision, but finding the right place to do so can make all the difference. Based on the research, it’s clear that each platform has its pros and cons depending on your needs.

 Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy sale, a specialty marketplace, or a platform with lower fees, there’s an option out there for you. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal preferences and goals for selling. No matter where you decide to sell, with a little time and effort, you can turn your unused fine China into cash and make someone else’s table setting complete.

Happy Selling!