How To Sell Finished Plastic Model Kits

Sometimes we build a model and it didn’t turn out how we wanted it to or there are times we have completed a kit and we don’t have a place to display it or would just like to sell it. Some of the models we have completed over the years may no longer be available to purchase new and someone may be willing to pay us for them.

You can sell your finished models on your own website or you can make a store on Shopify.There are Facebook groups and sites like eBay, Craigslist or Etsy. There are numerous model forums that have for sale sections. Some towns still have hobby shops that will let you display them and have them for sale.

To learn more read on as we take a look at how to buy and sell finished models.

Why Do People Sell Their Models?

Models may be sold for a lot of different reasons, sometimes as a collection of models or it may be one at a time. It could be that a family member has died that was a model builder or a collector. They may be for sale by a person who now has different interests in life and no longer builds or collects models.

If you have been building models for a lifetime you may be out of room or you have hundreds in your collection. This leads to display and storing issues that can be solved by selling off some of them. It would be sad to have some great rare collector models stored away in a box and no one enjoying them.

Some older models that have been out of production for a number of years can be highly sought after and very valuable. I recently was searching for a certain model Plymouth Roadrunner and the only options I could find were completed models in the $400 range. This kit may be sitting in a box in a basement or storage gathering dust and mold.

Where Would I Sell My Models?

The most popular place to sell will always be eBay as they drive the most traffic. You never have to worry about if your model will be seen. There are many other places to sell such as Etsy, lots of Facebook groups, Craigslist, Amazon or you can build your own store with a site like Shopify.

First you need to find a place that is already selling or buying what you have to sell. This proves there’s a good opportunity to market your models and people ready to buy.

There are lots of model forums where people buy, sell or trade model parts or whole completed models. There are many other places to sell such as Etsy, lots of Facebook groups, Craigslist, Amazon or you can build your own store with a site like Shopify. Your own store will work if you have numerous models to sell and you can also sell modeling supplies to support your habit.

There are also model kit conventions and shows that will have areas set up for those wanting to sell some pieces. It’s like a car show where you see some on display with for sale signs or an area set aside just for those wanting to sell.

Another good place to sell is Deanshobbystop.com If you have some to sell it would be worth giving checking his site.

How Do I Describe My Models To Sell?

A good way to look at selling something is asking yourself what would you like to know and see about the model you’re considering purchasing. Its best to always give information such as what kit was used, the scale size of the model, and any other features it may have. Always try to describe your model in realistic terms.

First and foremost you will need to decide what the model is worth to you. How much time and materials do you have in it? If its a common model that can be easily purchased and not too difficult to build there wont be much of a market for it. If its rare or very difficult to build like a ship or airplane with hundreds of parts you can ask a much higher price.

You may need to search the internet to see if you can find any sales in the last few years that may be comparable to yours.

Remember to try to describe your model in realistic terms. If there are any smudges in the paint or other problems, it is best to let them know. It’s always good to have photos from every angle so buyers know exactly what they are looking at.

So write good truthful information about the model with good pictures from every angle, list all the features and show the flaws if there are any.

How To Ship Finished Models

Fill a bag part way with fiber fill, insert the model into the bag then finish filling with fiber fill. Put the bag into the shipping box and pack all the empty space with more fiber fill. This will keep the model stable during shipping and if any part gets broken or shaken off it will be in the bag.

Everything is shipped everywhere around the world and if it is packed right it can survive a lot of bumpy rides. Here is an idea on how to pack a model to ship from Jonbius.com

“A few years ago, a client asked if I could ship his model in fiber fill, with no rigid framework. I was hesitant at first, but as he insisted, I went ahead and obliged. I first put a small amount of the fiber fill in a plastic grocery bag, put the model in, and added more fiber fill. This would contain any broken parts within the bag. I then added more fiber fill in the box, placed the bagged model inside, and finished filling it up.
I was pleasantly surprised with the results. My breakage rate went down from 5% to less than 1%. And clients loved the method. To top it off, I could pack a model in about 10 minutes.”

You can also include unpacking instructions just inside the box, so the new owner can retrieve his model from the packing material without damaging it in the process. It would be in your best interest to insist on shipping insurance, in case anything should happen.

What Is a Good Price For a Finished Model?

You can find finished models on eBay anywhere from $5 into the hundreds depending on what it is. If it’s a vintage model that is no longer in production try to find a model for sale to compare it to. If your uncertain of a price use the auction side of eBay or contact a model site like Model Round Up for an opinion.

This is a hard question to answer as some of us just like to build a model and sell it to finance their next kit. Some models we build may have sentimental value that there is no way to put a price on.

If you aren’t able to come up with a listing price you can always go the auction route on eBay. You need to study it out or ask a friend who has some experience with the auction selling so you don’t sell your $500 model for $10.

Final Thoughts

Whether selling or buying finished models there are a number of places to do so. After careful study pick the model and selling site that you are comfortable with. Try not to sell to cheap and try not to pay too much. Good Luck.

Happy Modeling!