How to sell power tools for cash (DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch)

Power tools are bought for one job and then live in the shed. Maybe you've switched battery platforms, finished a renovation, or inherited a garage full of kit. Good tools from well-known brands keep their usefulness for years, which means there's always someone who'll put them back to work.

Which tools sell best

• Cordless platforms — DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch (both blue professional and green DIY ranges), Ryobi and Festool.
• Drills and drivers — combi drills and impact drivers are the most common and most in demand.
• Saws — circular saws, mitre saws, jigsaws, multi-tools and plunge saws.
• Sanders, routers and planers.
• Batteries and chargers — these hold value on their own.
• Measuring kit — laser levels and detectors.

Sets in their original cases, with batteries and chargers, are the easiest to sell. "Bare" tools (body only) are still very sellable to people already on that battery platform.

Batteries: what to know

Lithium-ion tool batteries are fine to post when they're attached to or packed with the tool they belong to, and in good condition. Damaged, swollen or leaking batteries are hazardous and must not be posted — take those to a battery recycling point instead. Loose spare batteries on their own are something we can't accept, so pack them with the tool or charger they go with and tell us how many you're including.

Prepare your tools

1. Test each tool. Every function: forward, reverse, speed settings, clutch, light, brake.
2. Charge the batteries and check they hold charge.
3. Clean them. Blow dust out of vents, wipe off grime, and remove plaster or paint where you can.
4. Remove blades and bits you want to keep, or include them and say so. Sharp blades must be removed or properly guarded.
5. Find the cases. Hard cases protect tools in the post and make them more appealing.

Mains tools

Corded tools are still very useful and welcome. Check the cable and plug for damage — any nicks in the cable insulation mean it isn't safe and isn't one we can accept.

How to sell

Selling tools locally often attracts people looking for a bargain and haggling hard, and you're inviting strangers round to test them. Online auctions are an option if you're happy to deal with listings and postage.

The simpler route: describe your tools, batteries and chargers on SendForCash and get an instant cash offer. Accept and we'll send a free postage label. We pay the same day we inspect, by bank transfer or PayPal. Offers are valid for five days after you accept.

Packing tools

Use the hard case if you have one, and put that inside a cardboard outer box. Without a case, wrap each tool individually, separate batteries from the tool body with padding, and fill any empty space. Guard any blade edges. Heavier items like mitre saws need a sturdy double-walled box and must stay within the 30kg limit.

FAQ

Do you buy tools without batteries?

Yes — bare tools are fine. Just tell us they're body only.

Can I send just batteries and a charger?

Please pack batteries with a charger or tool they fit, and describe them. Loose batteries posted on their own aren't something we can accept.

Do you buy petrol tools?

No. Petrol tools contain fuel residue and count as hazardous for posting. Cordless and corded electric tools are welcome.

What about hand tools?

Quality hand tool sets, socket sets and tool chests within the size and weight limits can be offered on. Describe what you have and you'll get an instant answer.