Consignment vs Immediate buyback : Which to Choose When Selling?
Selling a luxury item can be done in two main ways: consignment, where an intermediary sells on your behalf, or immediate buyback, where you receive instant payment. Each option has its advantages.
| Criterion | Consignment | Immediate buyback | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Variable (1 week to 3 months) | 24 to 48 hours | B |
| Price received | Market price (75-85% after commission) | Firm offer (60-75% of market) | A |
| Risk | Risk of not selling | Zero risk | B |
| Effort | Minimal (expert handles everything) | None (single interaction) | B |
| Price control | You set the minimum price | Non-negotiable offer | A |
| Fees | 15 to 25% commission | No additional fees | B |
| Security | Item insured with the consignee | Payment guaranteed by bank transfer | = |
| Payment timeframe | After the actual sale | Within 24 to 48 hours | B |
Consignment
Consignment involves entrusting your item to a professional who handles selling it on your behalf. You agree on a price with the expert and receive a percentage of the final sale price (usually 75 to 85%). The item remains your property until sold.
Pros
- Potentially higher selling price (market price)
- Control over the minimum selling price
- The item remains your property until the transaction
Cons
- Uncertain selling timeframe (a few days to several months)
- Commission deducted from the sale price (15 to 25%)
- Risk of not selling if the price is too high
Immediate buyback
Immediate buyback means selling your item directly to a professional who makes you a firm offer. Once accepted, payment is made within 24 to 48 hours by bank transfer. No waiting, no uncertainty.
Pros
- Fast guaranteed payment within 24 to 48 hours
- Zero risk: the sale is certain
- Simple process, no effort on your part
Cons
- Lower price than consignment (10 to 30% less)
- No control over the final price
- Take-it-or-leave-it offer
Our verdict
Immediate buyback is ideal if you need cash quickly or do not want to take any risk. Consignment is preferable if you can wait and want to maximise the selling price. At HAUTANE, we offer both options to suit every situation.
The question of consignment vs immediate buyback arises for every luxury item seller. Both models serve different needs and there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Premium consignment is the most profitable option if you are not in a hurry. At HAUTANE, our consignment sellers receive up to 85% of the final sale price. For an Hermès Birkin valued at 15,000 EUR, that represents up to 12,750 EUR net, compared to approximately 10,500 EUR with immediate buyback.
Immediate buyback appeals through its absolute simplicity. You send photos, receive an offer within 4 hours, and if you accept, payment lands in your account within 24 to 48 hours. No surprises, no waiting.
Selling speed in consignment depends heavily on the item. A Birkin in excellent condition can sell in 3 days, while a bag from a less sought-after brand may take several weeks. Our experts will give you a realistic estimate of the selling timeframe.
An often-overlooked aspect is security. With consignment at HAUTANE, your item is insured at its estimated value for the entire consignment period. With immediate buyback, the risk is zero since you receive payment before we have even resold the item.
Our recommendation at HAUTANE: if your item is a highly sought-after model (Hermès Birkin, Rolex Submariner, Chanel Classic Flap), consignment will earn you more because the sale will be quick. For less common items or if you need speed, immediate buyback is the best option.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to sell on consignment?
At HAUTANE, 80% of items sell in under 30 days. Highly sought-after pieces (Hermès, Rolex, Chanel) often sell in under a week. The timeframe depends on the brand, model, and asking price.
What is the price difference between consignment and buyback?
On average, consignment earns 10 to 30% more than immediate buyback. For example, for a bag valued at 5,000 EUR, you would receive approximately 4,250 EUR on consignment (85%) versus approximately 3,500 EUR with immediate buyback.
Is my item insured during consignment?
Yes, at HAUTANE, every consignment item is insured at its estimated value for the entire consignment period. You can also retrieve your item at any time if you change your mind.
Can I switch from consignment to immediate buyback?
Yes, if your consigned item does not sell within your desired timeframe, you can opt for immediate buyback at any time. The buyback offer will be re-evaluated at the time of the request.
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