The costs of college continue to rise, and one expense that many students don’t anticipate is the price of textbooks. College textbooks are not cheap, and many students are surprised to find that they spend hundreds of dollars on books alone each semester.
If you’ve ever found yourself shocked and dismayed by the price of textbooks, then you may be in for a pleasant surprise. Many websites will pay you cash to take those used books off your hands once the semester is over.
Of course, you won’t recoup your full initial investment. But selling your textbooks online allows you to get those used books off your bookshelf and put a little money back in your pocket.
10 Best Platforms for Selling Textbooks Online
If you have used textbooks you’re looking to get rid of, there are plenty of options available. Here are the best places to sell your textbooks for cash:
1. Decluttr
You can use Decluttr to sell various items, including textbooks. After you download the app, you’ll use it to scan the book’s barcode. Then, within minutes, Decluttr will let you know how much they’ll pay you for the textbook.
Once you’ve agreed to the price, you’ll print off a mailing label and mail your items in. You’ll receive the money after Decluttr receives your books.
The site does reserve the right to pay less if the items are not in the condition you described. However, there’s really no downside to using Decluttr. It’s a great way to get paid to get rid of items you didn’t need anymore, and shipping is free.
2. BookScouter
BookScouter gives you the option to buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the right price. You can sell your used textbooks directly on the site or by downloading the company’s mobile app.
To get started, you’ll enter the book’s ISBN, and BookScouter will connect you to companies that are buying used textbooks.
Once you have a list of companies that are buying textbooks, you can view their vendor ratings and find the pricing that’s right for you.
One of the advantages of using BookScouter is that shipping is free, and you’ll often get paid the same day your books are received. That makes it one of the best options on this list.
3. FacultyBooks
Crediful’s rating
FacultyBooks will pay for college textbooks, instructor editions, and study guides. To get started, you’ll enter the ISBN and receive a quote on the FacultyBooks site.
If you agree with the quoted price, you’ll ship your books to the company for free. You can even request the company to send you free boxes and packing material. Once your books are received, you’ll be paid via check, PayPal, or direct deposit.
4. Cash4Books
Cash4Books will pay cash for used college textbooks. Like several other sites on this list, you’ll get started by searching for your book, receiving a quote, and then shipping the books for free.
The company will pay you by check or through PayPal, and Cash4Books is even willing to pay the PayPal fees for you.
Most payments are issued within 13 days of the day you mail in your books, but you may receive the payment faster if you live on the West Coast.
5. eCampus
Like many other companies, eCampus lets customers buy, sell, or rent used textbooks. What differentiates eCampus from other sites is that the company allows sellers to list their books and choose their own prices.
This makes it easier for you to earn the full value of the books you’re selling. However, you will have to pay for a portion of the shipping, and the company takes a 15% commission from every book sold.
6. Valore
Crediful’s rating
Valore has a similar business model to many of the other sites on this list. After searching for the ISBN, you’ll receive a quote that you can either accept or reject. Once you’ve accepted the offer, you’ll print off the mailing label and mail in your books.
There is a minimum $15 order required, so you will likely need multiple books to qualify. Once the books are received, you’ll be paid by check or through PayPal.
7. TextbookRush
You can use TextbookRush to sell textbooks either by visiting the site online or by downloading the company’s app. Once you’ve accepted the company’s offer for your books, you’ll print off the prepaid shipping label and mail them in for free.
One of the unique things about TextbookRush is that in addition to payment, they give you the option to receive store credit. If you choose the store credit option, you’ll receive an additional 5%.
If you’re still in college and planning ahead for upcoming semesters, this may not be a bad option.
8. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a versatile platform that allows you to buy and sell a wide range of items, including textbooks. One of the key advantages of using Facebook Marketplace is the ability to connect with local buyers, which can save you on shipping costs and allow for quick transactions.
To sell your textbooks on Facebook Marketplace, create a listing with clear, high-quality photos and a detailed description, including the book’s title, edition, ISBN, and condition.
Once your listing is live, you’ll start receiving inquiries from potential buyers. You can arrange to meet buyers in person, which eliminates shipping costs and allows for immediate payment. This platform offers the convenience of local transactions and a broad audience, increasing your chances of a successful sale.
9. BooksRun
You can either sell textbooks directly to BooksRun or choose from another vendor. After you search for your books, you’ll be shown multiple offers directly within the site.
Once you’ve selected an offer and printed off your mailing label, you have five days to mail in your books. Once your books are received and evaluated by BooksRun, you’ll receive a payment within four business days.
The site will pay you via check or PayPal.
10. BookFinder
BookFinder is similar to BookScouter in that it shows you multiple vendors that are willing to purchase your books. Once you’ve searched for the ISBN, BookFinder pulls from popular sites like Amazon and BooksRun.
BookFinder’s textbook buyback partners provide you with a free shipping label, so you don’t have to worry about shipping costs. This convenience, combined with the ability to compare offers from different vendors, makes BookFinder a practical option for selling your textbooks and maximizing your return.
Tips for Selling Textbooks Online
Before jumping into selling your textbooks, it’s helpful to be aware of a few strategies and tips to ensure you get the best possible return. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:
- Timing is key: Sell your textbooks as soon as your semester ends. Textbook buyback prices can fluctuate based on demand, and you’ll get the best prices when other students are looking to buy textbooks for their upcoming classes.
- Clean and presentable: Ensure your textbooks are clean and in good condition. Remove any loose papers, erase pencil marks, and avoid excessive highlighting. Books in better condition fetch higher prices.
- Detailed listings: When selling online, provide detailed and accurate descriptions. Mention the edition, condition, and any accompanying materials like CDs or online access codes. High-quality photos can also make your listing more attractive.
- Consider local options: Apart from selling online, check out local options like your college bookstore. Most college bookstores offer buyback programs where you can sell books directly on campus, which can be convenient and sometimes more profitable.
- Compare prices: Use comparison tools regularly to keep an eye on the textbook buyback prices. Websites like BookScouter and BookFinder can help you monitor which platforms offer the best prices over time.
- Bundle sales: If you have multiple books, consider bundling them together. Some online marketplaces offer better deals for bulk sales, and it can save on shipping costs.
- Negotiate with buyers: If you’re selling textbooks directlyto other students, be open to negotiation. Being flexible with pricing can help you close deals faster.
By following these additional tips, you can enhance your experience when you sell books, ensuring you get the most value for your books and a smooth transaction process.
Bottom Line
Selling textbooks online is a great way to clear out some space in your home and earn a little extra money at the same time. After all, when you’re paying your way through school, every dollar counts.
Make sure you consider multiple options on this list and see which site offers you the best buyback prices for your items. You may have to sell your textbooks on multiple sites to get the most money back, but it’s worth the time and effort.
And make sure you don’t wait too long to sell your used textbooks, since many sites won’t accept textbooks once they become too dated. Ideally, you should sell your textbooks as soon as the semester is over.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sell my textbooks online?
To sell textbooks online, you will need to find a platform or website that allows you to list your books for sale. You will need to create an account on the platform and follow the prompts to list your book for sale, including providing details about the condition of the book and the price you are asking.
Is it worth selling old textbooks?
Absolutely! Especially if you no longer need them and can make some money in the process. To maximize the value of your hard copy textbooks, it’s best to sell them as soon as possible after you no longer need them. This can help you recoup as much of their remaining value as possible.
How much can I expect to get for my used textbook?
The amount you can expect to get for your used textbook depends on several factors, including the demand for the book, its condition, and the going market rate. If you purchased the book brand new, and it is still in good condition, you can typically expect to sell it for around 75% of the original list value. If you bought it used, you can generally sell it for around 75% of the price you paid for it.
What is the best way to ship my textbook to the buyer?
The best way to ship your textbook to the buyer depends on the size and weight of the book, as well as your personal preferences. If the book is small and lightweight, you may be able to ship it in a padded envelope through the mail.
For larger or heavier books, you may want to consider using a box and shipping via a carrier such as USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Be sure to package the book carefully to ensure it arrives in good condition.
How do I determine the condition of my textbook?
To determine the condition of your textbook, consider its overall appearance and any visible wear or damage. Some common terms used to describe the condition of a textbook include “like new,” “very good,” “good,” and “fair.” Be honest and accurate in your description of the condition of the book. This will help you attract buyers and avoid any issues with returns or complaints.
Can I sell my textbook if it has writing or highlighting in it?
A used book is generally considered to be in good condition if it contains highlighting, notes, or other markings. However, the book should be free of torn or missing pages and have a cover that is in good condition. In general, a used book should be clean in appearance.
If it has a lot of writing or highlighting, make sure you let potential buyers know that and consider offering the book at a lower price.
Will Amazon buy my textbooks?
Yes, Amazon does have a program called Amazon Trade-In. It allows you to sell your textbooks and other items, including electronics, books, video games, and more, in exchange for an Amazon gift card.
To sell your textbooks through the Amazon Trade-In program, you’ll need to search for the textbook on the Amazon website and see if it is eligible for trade-in. If it is, you can follow the prompts to complete the trade-in process.
It typically involves providing information about the condition of the book and printing a prepaid shipping label. Once Amazon receives and processes your trade-in, you will receive an Amazon gift card for the value of the book.
