What Is Consignment?

Consignment is an arrangement where you hand goods to a store that sells them for you and pays you a share only after they sell. You keep ownership until the sale; the store provides the shelf, the pricing and the customers.

How the consignment split works

Most shops split the sale price, with the consignor getting 40 to 60 percent. Higher-value items such as designer bags or solid furniture often earn a better percentage. Payment comes after the item sells, on the store’s schedule, usually monthly.

What happens to unsold consignment items

Each contract sets a consignment period, commonly 60 to 90 days. Prices drop in steps during that window. At the end, you collect what is left or the store donates it. Read that clause before you sign.

Consignment versus selling outright

A resale shop pays cash on the spot and keeps everything. Consignment pays more but later, and only if the item sells. If you want the most money and can wait, consign. If you want it gone today, sell outright or donate.

Finding a consignment shop

Browse consignment stores near you by state and city. Shops that take furniture are listed separately under furniture consignment stores, and children’s shops under kids consignment stores.