Selling used books: the best apps and sites

Do you have a bookcase full of books you have already read? Those stacks do not just take up space, they also represent value. Whether it is novels, textbooks or nonfiction, there are countless ways to give your books a new life and earn money from them. In this article you will discover the best apps and websites for selling used books in the Netherlands.

Why sell used books?

Books are perfect for reuse. Unlike many other products, books last a long time and hardly lose value through use. A novel that has been read is just as good as new for the next reader. By selling your books, you give them a second life, free up space at home and earn some nice extra income.

Selling used books is also sustainable. Producing new books uses paper, water and energy. By feeding the secondhand market, you reduce demand for new production and contribute to a circular economy.

Platforms for used books

Boekwinkeltjes.nl

Boekwinkeltjes.nl is the largest platform for used books in the Netherlands. You can create an account for free and list books. The platform charges a small commission per sale. You set the price and shipping method yourself.

A big advantage of Boekwinkeltjes is its focus on books: buyers come here specifically for literature and know what they are looking for. You can add your books easily by entering the ISBN, after which the book information is filled in automatically.

Bol.com (selling as a private individual)

On Bol.com you can sell used books as a private individual. You indicate which book you are offering, what condition it is in and at what price. Your book then appears next to the new copy, so buyers can choose. You arrange shipping yourself.

Bol.com has an enormous reach, which increases your chances of a sale. The platform does charge a commission on your sale and sets requirements for shipping speed and customer service.

Marktplaats

On Marktplaats you can sell books to local buyers. This is ideal for larger lots or when you want to avoid shipping costs. Buyers can come by to pick up the books and pay in cash.

The advantage of Marktplaats is flexibility: you decide everything yourself, from price to handling. The downside is that you attract less targeted buyers than on a platform dedicated to books.

Vinted

Vinted is best known for clothing, but you can also sell books there. The platform offers an integrated shipping and payment system with buyer protection. Popular titles, children's books and series in particular do well on Vinted.

StudyStore and study-specific platforms

For textbooks there are specialized platforms such as StudyStore. Here you can sell old textbooks to other students. Because textbooks are often expensive to buy, there is a lively secondhand market. Keep in mind: textbooks become outdated when new editions come out, so sell them soon after you finish your studies.

Facebook groups

Facebook has countless groups dedicated to buying and selling books. Search for groups such as 'Tweedehands boeken Nederland' (Used books Netherlands) or more specific groups for, say, fantasy, thrillers or children's books. The advantage is a targeted audience of readers with the same interests.

Selling directly to buyers

Some companies buy books directly at a fixed price. You enter the ISBN, get a price offer and can send in the book. This is handy for large numbers of books and gives you certainty about the proceeds. Prices are lower than with private sales, though.

Well-known buyers include BookSpot (formerly Bol.com secondhand) and various online antiquarian booksellers. Some libraries and thrift stores also take in books, although you often get little or no payment there.

Tips for selling successfully

Set the right price

Look at what comparable copies sell for. A popular novel is widely available and often fetches only a few euros. Rarer books, first editions or signed copies can be worth considerably more. Textbooks from recent editions often fetch 50 to 70% of the new price.

Describe the condition accurately

Be honest about the condition of your books. Standard terms are: new, like new, very good, good, fair and poor. Mention specific defects such as stains, inscriptions, loose pages or damaged covers. This prevents disappointed buyers and negative reviews.

Take good photos

On platforms that allow photos, take clear shots of the front and back, the spine and any damage. A good photo gives the buyer confidence and sets your listing apart from the competition.

Bundle for higher value

Single books from a series often fetch little, but a complete series is more valuable. Offer series, themed bundles or large lots at an attractive total price. This is also appealing to buyers who want to save on shipping costs.

Shipping and packaging

Shipping books is relatively easy and cheap. PostNL and other carriers offer special rates for book shipments. Pack your books well to prevent damage: use a sturdy envelope or box and add bubble wrap or cardboard for protection if needed.

For heavy books or large lots, pickup by the buyer can be cheaper. With local sales on Marktplaats, this is a fine option. Agree to meet in a public place or let the buyer come by at a convenient time.

Special categories

Antiquarian and rare books

Old or rare books can be worth considerably more than you think. First editions by well-known authors, books with historical value or limited editions are collectibles. For books like these, you can turn to specialized antiquarian booksellers or auction houses.

Children's books

Children's books are popular on the secondhand market. Parents like to buy affordable books for their children, and classics such as Miffy (Nijntje), Jip en Janneke or the books of Roald Dahl always find buyers. Complete series or themed packages do especially well.

Textbooks

Textbooks are often expensive to buy, which keeps the secondhand market lively. Sell your textbooks as soon as possible after use, because new editions quickly make old ones worthless. Platforms such as StudyStore or Facebook groups for students are ideal.

Alternatives to selling

If your books fetch little or you do not want to put in the effort, there are alternatives. Give books away through platforms such as 'Te goed voor de kliko' (too good for the trash) or put them in a book exchange box in your neighborhood. Libraries and schools sometimes accept donations. You can also organize a book swap with friends or through local swap groups.

Frequently asked questions

Which used books are worth the most?

Textbooks from recent editions, first editions by well-known authors, signed copies and complete series usually fetch the most. Popular novels are often worth less because of the large supply.

What is the best platform for selling books?

Boekwinkeltjes.nl specializes in books and has a targeted audience. Bol.com has the largest reach. For textbooks, platforms such as StudyStore are ideal. Compare options for the best results.

How much can I earn with used books?

This varies widely. Popular novels often fetch 2 to 5 euros, textbooks up to 70% of the new price. Rare or antiquarian books can be worth hundreds of euros. Bundles and series earn more than single titles.

Where can I sell old textbooks?

Specialized platforms such as StudyStore, Facebook groups for students, or general platforms such as Marktplaats are suitable. Sell soon after your studies end, because new editions quickly make older versions unsellable.