If you sell LEGO pieces parted out from a set, be sure to factor in extra time and labor needed to sort and inspect the pieces for defects.
There are benefits and drawbacks of selling LEGO sets versus selling LEGO pieces. Here are six factors to consider when deciding between selling sets and pieces.
1. Sorting and Counting
LEGO Sets: No sorting required–you’re selling the set!
LEGO Pieces: If you sell pieces, get ready to roll up your sleeves to sort and count pieces. There are three main purchasing routes for selling pieces: buying pieces in bulk on BrickLink or from LEGO stores, buying sets and sorting the pieces (i.e. parting out the set), buying used lots from place like Craigslist, thrift stores, garages sales, etc.
2. Condition
LEGO Sets: Any dents, dings, shelf ware or any other damage to the LEGO box must be noted in your description when you sell a set. Some buyers will only purchase sets in pristine boxes.
LEGO Pieces: Whether you part out a set or buy new pieces, you’ll need to inspect the pieces to make sure they are in new condition. Sometimes pieces can get scuffed up in storage or from shifting around inside the box.
3. Storage Space
LEGO Sets: Sets occupy significant shelf space, since LEGO sets, like potato chip bags, are filled with lots of air and extra space.
LEGO Pieces: Once pieces are sorted they typically require less storage space than bulky LEGO set boxes.
4. Buying Bulk Quantities Same Item
LEGO Sets: Buying high quantities of LEGO sets can be a challenge. Most major online retailers restrict set purchases from between 2 to 5 of the same set per customer. Occasionally you may be able to find high quantities of LEGO sets on clearance in brick and mortar stores like Target or Walmart.
LEGO Pieces: Some LEGO pieces are easy to buy in bulk. Some pieces are hard to buy in bulk. Your best resources for buying LEGO pieces in bulk are: BrickLink, BrickOwl and the Pick A Brick (PAB) walls inside LEGO stores.
5. Packing Materials
LEGO Sets: Boxed LEGO sets must be shipped to the buyer in corrugated cardboard boxes, padded with air pockets, bubble wrap, packing peanuts or other material to prevent damage to the set during shipping. Polybag sets can be shipped in bubble mailers.
LEGO Pieces: Most LEGO pieces can be safely packed inside bubble mailers. Some fragile pieces should be shipped in a box in order to prevent damage.
6. Shipping
LEGO Sets: Mosts LEGO sets will weigh over 13oz and thus must be shipped with USPS Priority Mail or Parcel Select.
LEGO Pieces: Low quantities and light pieces will weigh less than 13oz and can be shipped with the economical USPS First Class method.