Guide to selling used musical gear

There is no single correct price independent of time.

If you are not in a hurry, you may choose the upper part of the market range and wait for the right buyer. If you want a faster sale, a more competitive price can increase the chance of enquiries.

Also consider any applicable costs:

• fees;
• packaging;
• shipping when included;
• insurance;
• minor work required before handover.

Separating the value of the item from the selling strategy helps explain why two sellers may choose different asking prices despite starting from a similar valuation.

Before handing the parcel to the carrier, verify that the packaging is suitable for the specific item.

Guitars, amplifiers, synths, cymbals, rack equipment and electronic devices have different weak points. Secure or protect parts that may move and avoid empty space that allows the item to shift freely inside the package.

Also check weight, dimensions, label and the agreed delivery method.

This guide identifies the required checkpoint in the sales process; materials, double boxing, protection and specific procedures belong in the dedicated Muviber musical instrument shipping guide.

Before publishing, check everything that will actually be included with the item.

This may include:

• gig bag, case or flight case;
• power supply;
• proprietary cables;
• manuals;
• certificates;
• receipt or available documentation;
• original parts removed after a modification;
• specific accessories;
• original packaging.

Do not describe an item as “complete” unless you know what was originally supplied. Instead, explicitly list what the buyer will receive.

Original parts retained after a modification can be important to buyers who may want to restore the factory configuration and can influence the negotiation.

If the item has been modified, explain what was changed and, when known, who performed the work.

Specify:

• the original component that was replaced;
• the installed component;
• whether the change is reversible or permanent;
• whether the original parts are still available;
• any drilling, soldering or structural work;
• significant repairs.

Do not automatically describe every modification as an “upgrade”. A component may suit your needs better while being less desirable to another buyer.

For vintage or collectible gear, originality can have particular importance, making accurate disclosure even more important.

Once the sale has actually been completed, update the listing status using the platform’s available functions.

Avoid leaving an already sold item active, especially if you do not have another unit available.

Keep useful transaction information separately: the published description, photos, essential conversation, final price and delivery documentation.

This record can help with later questions and can also serve as a reference for future sales.

Before publishing, decide which delivery methods you are prepared to handle.

Where relevant, state:

• local collection;
• whether shipping is available;
• geographic area;
• any limits for very heavy or fragile equipment;
• what is included in the price;
• included accessories;
• special terms that must be agreed.

You do not need to describe every packaging detail in the listing, but the buyer should know whether shipping is possible and what forms part of the sale.

Technical details about packing, carriers and protecting the instrument belong in the dedicated shipping guide.