College is expensive, and textbooks add a surprising burden to many students’ budgets. Each semester, it’s common to see students spending hundreds of dollars on books they’ll only need for a few months. Selling textbooks after you’re done with them can be a smart way to recoup some of those costs and keep your finances in check.
By selling used textbooks, you not only clear space but also offset a portion of your college expenses. For those aiming to reduce debt or better manage their finances, reselling textbooks is a practical, immediate way to free up some cash. Today’s market offers plenty of options for selling, including online platforms that allow you to ship books from anywhere, making the process as straightforward as possible.
Additionally, if you’re using digital textbooks, you may find that some platforms allow you to trade in access codes or sell e-books, a relevant choice as digital formats continue to grow in popularity
10 Best Platforms for Selling Textbooks Online
If you have used textbooks you’re looking to get rid of, there are plenty of options available. Here are the best places to sell your textbooks for cash:
1. Decluttr
You can use Decluttr to sell various items, including textbooks. After you download the app, you’ll use it to scan the book’s barcode. Then, within minutes, Decluttr will let you know how much they’ll pay you for the textbook.
Once you’ve agreed to the price, you’ll print off a mailing label and mail your items in. You’ll receive the money after Decluttr receives your books.
The site does reserve the right to pay less if the items are not in the condition you described. However, there’s really no downside to using Decluttr. It’s a great way to get paid to get rid of items you didn’t need anymore, and shipping is free.
2. BookScouter
BookScouter gives you the option to buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the right price. You can sell your used textbooks directly on the site or by downloading the company’s mobile app.
To get started, you’ll enter the book’s ISBN, and BookScouter will connect you to companies that are buying used textbooks.
Once you have a list of companies that are buying textbooks, you can view their vendor ratings and find the pricing that’s right for you.
One of the advantages of using BookScouter is that shipping is free, and you’ll often get paid the same day your books are received. That makes it one of the best options on this list.
3. FacultyBooks
FacultyBooks will pay for college textbooks, instructor editions, and study guides. To get started, you’ll enter the ISBN and receive a quote on the FacultyBooks site.
If you agree with the quoted price, you’ll ship your books to the company for free. You can even request the company to send you free boxes and packing material. Once your books are received, you’ll be paid via check, PayPal, or direct deposit.
4. eCampus
Like many other companies, eCampus lets customers buy, sell, or rent used textbooks. What differentiates eCampus from other sites is that the company allows sellers to list their books and choose their own prices.
This makes it easier for you to earn the full value of the books you’re selling. However, you will have to pay for a portion of the shipping, and the company takes a 15% commission from every book sold.
5. World of Books
World of Books will pay cash for used college textbooks. Like several other sites on this list, you’ll get started by searching for your book, receiving a quote, and then shipping the books for free.
The company will pay you by check or through PayPal, and World of Books is even willing to pay the PayPal fees for you.
Most payments are issued within 13 days of the day you mail in your books, but you may receive the payment faster if you live on the West Coast.
6. Valore
Valore has a similar business model to many of the other sites on this list. After searching for the ISBN, you’ll receive a quote that you can either accept or reject. Once you’ve accepted the offer, you’ll print off the mailing label and mail in your books.
There is a minimum $15 order required, so you will likely need multiple books to qualify. Once the books are received, you’ll be paid by check or through PayPal.
7. TextbookRush
You can use TextbookRush to sell textbooks either by visiting the site online or by downloading the company’s app. Once you’ve accepted the company’s offer for your books, you’ll print off the prepaid shipping label and mail them in for free.
One of the unique things about TextbookRush is that in addition to payment, they give you the option to receive store credit. If you choose the store credit option, you’ll receive an additional 5%.
If you’re still in college and planning ahead for upcoming semesters, this may not be a bad option.
8. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a versatile platform that allows you to buy and sell a wide range of items, including textbooks. One of the key advantages of using Facebook Marketplace is the ability to connect with local buyers, which can save you on shipping costs and allow for quick transactions.
To sell your textbooks on Facebook Marketplace, create a listing with clear, high-quality photos and a detailed description, including the book’s title, edition, ISBN, and condition.
Once your listing is live, you’ll start receiving inquiries from potential buyers. You can arrange to meet buyers in person, which eliminates shipping costs and allows for immediate payment.
9. BooksRun
You can either sell textbooks directly to BooksRun or choose from another vendor. After you search for your books, you’ll be shown multiple offers directly within the site.
Once you’ve selected an offer and printed off your mailing label, you have five days to mail in your books. Once your books are received and evaluated by BooksRun, you’ll receive a payment within four business days.
The site will pay you via check or PayPal.
10. BookFinder
BookFinder is similar to BookScouter in that it shows you multiple vendors that are willing to purchase your books. Once you’ve searched for the ISBN, BookFinder pulls from popular sites like Amazon and BooksRun.
BookFinder’s textbook buyback partners provide you with a free shipping label, so you don’t have to worry about shipping costs. This convenience, combined with the ability to compare offers from different vendors, makes BookFinder a practical option for selling your textbooks and maximizing your return.
Comparison of Top Textbook Selling Platforms
When it comes to selling textbooks online, each platform has its own perks and conditions. Below, we break down each platform to make it easier to see what they offer and how they stack up against each other.
| Platform | Payment Options | Average Payment Speed | Fees | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Decluttr | Cash, PayPal | 5-7 business days | None | Items must meet condition criteria |
| BookScouter | PayPal, Check | Same-day upon receipt | None | Must ship within specified timeframe |
| FacultyBooks | PayPal, Check, Direct Deposit | 3-5 business days | None | None |
| Cash4Books | PayPal, Check | 7-10 business days | None | Condition must match description |
| eCampus | Cash, Store Credit | 5-7 business days | 15% commission | Sellers set prices; portion of shipping is buyer’s responsibility |
| Valore | Check, PayPal | 5-10 business days | None | Minimum order of $15 |
| TextbookRush | Cash, Store Credit | 3-5 business days | None | 5% extra if paid in store credit |
| Facebook Marketplace | Cash (in-person) | Immediate (local) | None | Meet locally for best results |
| BooksRun | PayPal, Check | 4 business days | None | Ship within 5 days of offer |
| BookFinder | Cash, PayPal, Check | Varies by vendor | None | Vendors may have differing conditions |
Tips for Selling Textbooks Online
Before jumping into selling your textbooks, it’s helpful to be aware of a few strategies and tips to ensure you get the best possible return. Here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:
- Timing is key: Sell your textbooks as soon as your semester ends. Textbook buyback prices can fluctuate based on demand, and you’ll get the best prices when other students are looking to buy textbooks for their upcoming classes.
- Clean and presentable: Ensure your textbooks are clean and in good condition. Remove any loose papers, erase pencil marks, and avoid excessive highlighting. Books in better condition fetch higher prices.
- Detailed listings: When selling online, provide detailed and accurate descriptions. Mention the edition, condition, and any accompanying materials like CDs or online access codes. High-quality photos can also make your listing more attractive.
- Consider local options: Apart from selling online, check out local options like your college bookstore. Most college bookstores offer buyback programs where you can sell books directly on campus, which can be convenient and sometimes more profitable.
- Compare prices: Use comparison tools regularly to keep an eye on the textbook buyback prices. Websites like BookScouter and BookFinder can help you monitor which platforms offer the best prices over time.
- Bundle sales: If you have multiple books, consider bundling them together. Some online marketplaces offer better deals for bulk sales, and it can save on shipping costs.
- Negotiate with buyers: If you’re selling textbooks directly to other students, be open to negotiation. Being flexible with pricing can help you close deals faster.
By following these additional tips, you can enhance your experience when you sell books, ensuring you get the most value for your books and a smooth transaction process.
Bottom Line
Selling textbooks online is a great way to clear out some space in your home and earn a little extra money at the same time. After all, when you’re paying your way through school, every dollar counts.
Make sure you consider multiple options on this list and see which site offers you the best buyback prices for your items. You may have to sell your textbooks on multiple sites to get the most money back, but it’s worth the time and effort.
And make sure you don’t wait too long to sell your used textbooks, since many sites won’t accept textbooks once they become too dated. Ideally, you should sell your textbooks as soon as the semester is over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which platform is best for selling older textbooks?
For older textbooks, BookScouter and BookFinder are top choices because they connect you with multiple vendors, allowing you to see which ones will accept older editions and offer the best prices. TextbookRush and Decluttr may also accept older books, but prices can vary significantly based on demand. Comparing multiple offers across platforms can maximize your chances of finding a buyer for older editions.
How do platform fees impact my earnings?
Most platforms on this list do not charge direct fees for selling your textbooks, but some, like eCampus, take a percentage commission (15%) from each sale. For platforms with fees, factor this in when setting or accepting a price to ensure it aligns with your profit goals.
Generally, platforms without fees may have standardized pricing, which can be lower, while those with commission fees may allow you to set a higher price.
Will Amazon buy my textbooks?
Yes, Amazon does have a program called Amazon Trade-In. It allows you to sell your textbooks and other items, including electronics, books, video games, and more, in exchange for an Amazon gift card.
To sell your textbooks through the Amazon Trade-In program, you’ll need to search for the textbook on the Amazon website and see if it is eligible for trade-in. If it is, you can follow the prompts to complete the trade-in process.
It typically involves providing information about the condition of the book and printing a prepaid shipping label. Once Amazon receives and processes your trade-in, you will receive an Amazon gift card for the value of the book.
Can I sell or trade in digital textbooks and access codes?
Yes, a few platforms, such as Amazon Trade-In, support digital textbook trade-ins, where you can exchange access codes and e-books for an Amazon gift card. However, most platforms focus on physical textbooks, and digital textbook resales are less common due to licensing restrictions.
Some student marketplaces or campus-based sites may also allow digital code exchanges, so check these options if you’re looking to sell digital materials.
What is the best time to sell my textbooks?
The best time to sell textbooks is typically at the end of each semester or just before a new one starts when demand spikes among incoming students. Selling during these peak times can help you get better prices, as students search for affordable alternatives to buying new books.
