Types of Resale & Consignment Stores Explained

An Overview of Consignment and Resale Store Types

Consignment shops and resale stores offer unique shopping and selling experiences that are quite different from regular retail or thrift. But not all consignment outlets are the same! On this page, you’ll get a plain-English breakdown of the most popular types of consignment and resale stores what they sell, how they operate, who they serve, and how to decide which one suits your needs. If you’re new to secondhand or want to start your own shop, this overview is the perfect place to begin.

Main Types of Consignment & Resale Shops

1. Clothing Consignment Stores
   What they are: These are the most common consignment shops, focusing on gently used adult or children’s apparel, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Some are broad, while others focus on specific age groups (like women’s, men’s, teens, or kids).
   How they operate: Consignors (individual sellers) bring items in good condition. The shop displays, sells, and splits the profit typically 40-60% goes to the consignor.
   Who they serve: Bargain hunters, eco- and budget-conscious shoppers, fashionistas, and anyone looking to clean out their closet for cash.
2. Children’s Consignment Stores
   What they are: Specialize in baby and children’s clothes, shoes, toys, strollers, cribs, and gear.
   How they operate: Often stricter about the cleanliness and safety of items. Some accept only seasonal clothing, some take toys and books, all require items to meet safety standards.
   Who they serve: Parents looking for deals on fast-growing kids’ items, and families earning extra cash as kids outgrow clothes and gear.
3. Furniture & Home Decor Consignment Shops
   What they are: Focus on selling gently used furniture: sofas, tables, dressers, lighting, rugs, and sometimes art, wall decor, kitchen goods, and housewares.
   How they operate: Consignors must often arrange their own delivery. Items may be displayed for up to 90 days, with price reductions over time to encourage sales.
   Who they serve: New homeowners, budget decorators, downsizers, and eco-friendly shoppers.
4. Luxury & Designer Consignment Stores
   What they are: Specialize in authenticated high-end fashion, handbags, shoes, jewelry, watches, art, or collectibles (think Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Rolex).
   How they operate: Items undergo intense quality and authenticity checks. Commission splits are higher for consignors; sellers may need to meet minimum value rules.
   Who they serve: Designer enthusiasts, collectors, and shoppers seeking verified luxury for less.
5. Sports, Gear & Specialty Consignment
   What they are: Focused on equipment and clothing for specific activities sports stores (skis, bikes, bats), musical instrument shops, wedding/formal consignment, etc.
   How they operate: Items often must be current, safe, and in excellent shape. Some niche stores offer rentals as well.
   Who they serve: Hobbyists, families, and those with specialized gear to buy or sell.
6. Consignment Boutiques
   What they are: Smaller, curated shops often focused on unique, stylish, or vintage finds. They often have a boutique feel, higher-end fittings, and select inventory.
   How they operate: Accept fewer items, usually by appointment or selective review. Higher prices but more personalized service.
   Who they serve: Shoppers wanting personal recommendations or truly special pieces.
7. Online Consignment & Resale Stores
   What they are: Digital platforms where people can consign or sell their items (like The RealReal, ThredUp, Poshmark, eBay consignment, and Facebook resale groups).
   How they operate: Sellers mail in or ship items, platforms do listing and customer service, payouts occur after buyer receipt.
   Who they serve: People wanting to reach a wider audience, or those without a local shop nearby.
8. Pawn Shops & Hybrid Resale Stores
   What they are: Pawn shops offer loans using items as collateral, then resell unclaimed items. Some shops combine consignment, thrift, or resale models for even greater variety.
   How they operate: Mixed models allow for more flexible buying or selling, but sellers may be paid differently (outright, after sale, or after loan default).
   Who they serve: Those looking for quick cash, rare collectibles, or unusual finds.

Thrift Store vs. Consignment: How Are They Different?

Thrift stores (like Goodwill or Salvation Army) operate mainly on donations and generally benefit charities. They own everything they sell and offer very low prices, but sellers receive no payment in return.
Consignment shops act as selling agents for items still owned by you, splitting proceeds only after each sale so they tend to be more selective about what they accept and display.

Key Features: What Makes Each Resale Store Type Unique?

• Variety: Clothing stores are often the most diverse, but specialty stores may attract more targeted buyers.
• Community: Kids, sports, and local boutiques often become neighborhood hubs.
• Profit Model: Luxury and designer shops offer higher payouts; online platforms offer wider reach but often charge higher commissions or fees.
• Convenience: Online consignment stores allow remote participation great if you lack good local options.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Consignment Store Types

Summary Table: Types of Consignment Stores at a Glance

Ready to Dive In?

Choosing the right type of resale or consignment shop is the key to success as a shopper, seller, or aspiring store owner. Explore more guides in our Consignment Shop Blog Directory for help deciding, setting up, or selling smarter!