Can You Sell Tools At a Pawn Shop?

Do you have unused power tools lying around collecting dust? Maybe you bought them for a particular project, picked them up at a garage sale, or inherited them from a relative. They can also help you get much-needed cash at your local pawn shop.

Start with research

Even if you have extensive experience buying and selling tools, keeping up with current prices and trends is still important. While tool prices don’t generally fluctuate much, the market is heavily influenced by technology upgrades, supply, and customer demand.

If possible, visit a few local retail stores in person or online to see how your tools compare to current inventory. Are there better features or accessories available? How does the current price compare to the condition and value of your tools? What about added safety features or capacity? Buyers want to get the right tool for the job—at the right price—without sacrificing performance, reliability, and durability.

The best brands earn more

Like any other industry, certain brands are known and trusted for consistently producing high-quality tools that stand up well over time. Popular brand-name tools practically fly off a pawn shop’s shelves, so pawnbrokers always look for opportunities to buy and sell tools from well-respected brands, especially if they are in great working condition.

If you’ve got some gently used tools from top-quality brands like Bosch, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Stihl, or Snap-On hanging out in your garage, you’re much more likely to earn the most from your tools, especially if they’re still in great condition but you can probably earn top dollar if you’re looking to sell anything from these highly sought-after brands.

Tools from other popular brands such as Rigid, Stanley, Craftsman, Ryobi, or Dremel will likely not earn as much, as customer demand is generally not as high. However, the tool’s working condition plays a big factor. For example, you’re more likely to earn more selling a Stihl power tool in excellent condition than a similar Milwaukee tool that’s heavily damaged.

The type of tool you’re trying to sell is also key. Different types of tools could earn you drastically more. For instance, consider a table saw and a cordless drill. The table saw takes up much more space in your garage, but you don’t use it often. The drill, however, gets used a lot and only takes up a small fraction of your workspace. If you want to clear out space and earn a little more, maybe selling the table saw and keeping the cordless drill makes more sense. Table saws and large power tools generally retail from $500 to $1,500, whereas the cordless drill averages about $150 brand new.

Sell in-season

Pawn shops are in an excellent position to offer more money at certain times of the year. Or when demand is higher for your item. For example, in early spring, power tools, especially those for yard maintenance, will likely sell quickly at a premium since homeowners and professionals alike will be preparing for the busy spring and summer seasons.

How to prepare your tools to sell to a pawn shop

Before you take your items in to sell, consider the following tips to ensure you get the most out of your used tools at your local pawn shop:

Make sure it works

A pawnbroker or potential customer first wants to see how well your item works. Check out the battery pack and wires for electric tools to ensure there’s no corrosion or fraying. The cord should be secure and in good shape without obvious nicks or cuts that could affect performance. Charge up your tools before taking them to the pawn shop if possible.

Examine it

Carefully make sure all moving parts are free of dirt, rust, or residue and appear in good working order. Look for any significant damage to motors or vital parts. All well-loved tools will show some wear and tear. However, some damage may significantly shorten your tool’s lifespan or usefulness.

Clean it

Most tools could likely use some spiffing up before being offered for sale. Use a fabric rag and non-abrasive de-greaser to make your tools shine. Bringing your pawnbroker clean tools will make it easier for them to resell, which may help you get a better price.

Package it

If you still have the original packaging, user manuals, drill bits, carrying cases, adaptors, or other accessories, don’t leave them behind. Sometimes, small parts may go missing or wander off over time. That affects the overall value, but most parts can be easily replaced without breaking the budget. The more complete the set, the easier it will be for your pawnbroker to sell quickly.

If you have expensive tools that you no longer use or need? Selling them for cash can be an intelligent decision. This can help you declutter your space and make some quick cash while helping someone add an affordable, much-needed tool to their toolbox. When you sell your gently used tools at a pawn shop, you also give them an extended life and keep them out of the trash or a landfill.

If you want to pawn or sell your well-loved power or hand tools, Gene’s Jewelry & Pawn is ready to help! For more than 30 years, we have provided our customers with the high level of service they deserve. Visit one of our locations in North Charleston, Moncks Corner, or Goose Creek, SC, today and see how we can help you. You can also visit us online to get a free estimate for your items or shop our outstanding selection from the convenience of your couch!