Selling Vintage Fur: Long Island's Best Markets

If you're looking to sell a vintage fur coat on Long Island, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, it's important to identify the type of fur and assess its condition, as this will impact its resale value. You can then consider selling it directly to a specialist reseller, either online or at a physical store. Some popular online platforms for selling fur coats include eBay, Etsy, Depop, and specialist sites such as The Vintage HQ and Mano Swartz. If you're located near a big city, you may also want to try consigning it at a quality vintage clothing store or a resale furrier. When selling, it's important to provide detailed information and multiple photographs of the coat to potential buyers. Additionally, you may want to consider donating your fur coat to a charity or organisation that accepts fur donations, especially if it is in poor condition.

Local buyers in Long Island

If you're looking to sell vintage fur coats locally in Long Island, there are several options available to you. Here are some detailed suggestions and instructions to help you get started:

Syl-Lee Antiques:

Syl-Lee Antiques is a fur coat buyer that operates in Long Island and New York City. They buy various types of used or vintage furs, including mink, fox, and lamb, in the form of coats, jackets, and shawls. They offer free in-home visits for evaluations and immediate cash payments for your furs. You can contact them via phone or email to schedule an appointment. Their contact information is as follows:

• Address: 40 West 25th Street, Gallery 113, New York, NY 10010
• Phone: (212) 366-9466
• Email: [email protected]

Mano Swartz Furs:

Mano Swartz Furs is a well-known fur buyer with local and out-of-state buyers. They buy real fur, vintage furs, mink furs, and lynx furs, but the furs must be in excellent condition. You can sell your fur coat to them in four easy steps:

• Text photos of someone wearing the fur (front and back) along with the size and label (if available) to their number: 443-794-1501.
• If they are interested, you will receive an offer via text with a link for a free shipping label.
• Send your fur using the provided shipping label, ensuring you include your name, address, phone number, and email inside the box.
• Within 48 hours, you will receive payment through Venmo or a business check.
• Local Businesses in Long Island:

There are also several local businesses in Long Island that deal in used fur coats. Here are a few options to consider:

• Furs by Maria & Nick in Huntington Station, NY.
• Professional Design Fur Inc. in Huntington, NY.
• Furs by Franklyn in Locust Valley, NY, and Garden City, NY.
• L.I. Fur Factory Ltd. in Garden City, NY.
• Angelic Furriers in Garden City, NY.
• Dimitri Furs and Leather in East Northport, NY.
• Wilderness Fur Dressing Inc. in Ronkonkoma, NY.

When dealing with local businesses, it is recommended to contact them beforehand to inquire about their buying processes and any specific requirements they may have for the furs.

Online buyers

There are several online buyers for vintage fur coats, including specialist fur resellers and consignment platforms. Some of the platforms that can be used to sell vintage fur coats include eBay, Etsy, Depop, and specialist sites such as Mano Swartz Furs, VintageFurs, and The Vintage HQ.

When selling vintage fur coats online, it is important to provide detailed listings, including multiple high-quality photographs, measurements, and descriptions of the item's condition. It is also crucial to research the type of fur and its potential value to set a competitive price. Obtaining a professional appraisal from a furrier can help determine the current market value of the coat.

Some online buyers, such as Mano Swartz Furs and VintageFurs, offer a streamlined selling process. For example, Mano Swartz Furs allows sellers to text photos of their fur coats, and if the company is interested, they will send an offer and a free shipping label. VintageFurs operates similarly, with sellers emailing photos and agreeing on a price before receiving a complimentary shipping label.

It is worth noting that some online buyers may insist on performing their own appraisals, while others may provide estimates via email before purchasing the item. Additionally, certain platforms like eBay offer protections for sellers, such as buyer ratings, clear return policies, and standards on shipping costs.

When considering online buyers, it is essential to research the platform's reputation, reliability, and any fees or commissions associated with selling through them.

In-person vs. online selling

When it comes to selling vintage fur coats, there are two main options: in-person or online. Each has its own advantages and considerations, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific circumstances and preferences.

In-person selling offers the benefit of face-to-face interaction, which can be advantageous when it comes to negotiating a price and ensuring a fair deal. If you choose to sell in-person, you can try consignment shops, vintage clothing stores, or even costume rental companies or antique stores. However, it's important to note that some areas may have lower demand for vintage fur due to legal restrictions on selling new fur, as is the case in California and Cambridge, MA. Additionally, some stores may be more interested in modern furs than vintage ones.

On the other hand, online selling provides a convenient and often quicker option. You can list your vintage fur coat on websites like eBay or Etsy, ensuring your listing includes detailed measurements and multiple photographs. This option can be especially useful if you live in a remote or rural area or if fur is not popular in your local market. Online selling also allows you to reach a wider audience, potentially increasing your chances of finding a buyer. Websites like VintageFurs.com and BuyMyFur.com specialize in buying and selling pre-owned fur coats and offer straightforward processes for selling your items. However, it's important to carefully review the websites' policies and guidelines before proceeding.

Another aspect to consider is the condition of your vintage fur coat. If it is in poor condition, with issues such as torn lining or bald spots, you may want to consider donating it to organizations like Coats for Cubs or local animal rescue groups, where it can be made into comfortable beds for baby animals. Well-maintained furs in good to excellent condition will generally fetch a better price, and some online platforms may have specific requirements regarding the condition of the coats they accept.

Lastly, it's worth noting that the value of vintage fur coats has decreased over time due to changes in style and ethical concerns. Most vintage furs are worth less than $750 USD, with full-length mink coats ranging from $225 to $1000. The specific value will depend on factors such as the type of fur, its color, and its condition.

Preparing your coat for sale

Before selling your vintage fur coat, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Firstly, it is important to assess the condition of your coat. Look for any tears, stains, odours, or worn areas, and address them if possible. For example, you could get the coat professionally cleaned to remove any odours or stains. If there are any minor repairs needed, such as fixing a loose button or mending a small tear, consider having those done as well.

Next, identify the type of fur, its brand, measurements, lining fabric, and any unique features such as embroidery. This information will be important for potential buyers. If you are unsure about the type of fur, consider getting it appraised by a professional furrier, who can also help determine its current market value. This step is especially important if you plan to sell the coat directly to a buyer or through an online platform like eBay, as you will need to set a competitive price.

Additionally, take clear and well-lit photos of the coat from various angles, including close-ups of any distinctive details. Make sure to also photograph the label, if there is one, and include the size of the coat. These photos will be essential for online listings and can also be used to get estimates from online consignment stores.

If you are planning to sell the coat through a consignment store or online platform, research their specific requirements. Some may ask for additional information or have particular guidelines for packaging and shipping the coat. It is also a good idea to research the platform's fees and payment methods in advance, so you are fully informed before making your listing.

Finally, be prepared to provide an accurate description of the coat's condition and any other relevant information to potential buyers. Transparency is key, and providing detailed responses to buyer inquiries can increase the likelihood of a successful sale.

Shipping your coat

Now that you've found the perfect buyer for your vintage fur coat, it's time to pack and ship it safely and securely. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your coat arrives in pristine condition:

Step 1: Prepare the necessary materials

Start by gathering the supplies you'll need to package your coat securely. This includes:

• Tissue paper: You'll need several packs of tissue paper to line and protect your coat during shipping.
• Boxes: Get a sturdy white gift box that's big enough to accommodate your fur coat. You'll also need a larger cardboard box to place the gift box inside for added protection.
• Packing tape: Clear packing tape will help you securely seal the boxes.
• Scissors, markers, and labels: These will be useful for closing and labelling the boxes.

Step 2: Clean your coat

Before packing your fur coat, ensure it is clean and dry. You can opt for professional cleaning services or do it yourself gently. Sweat and dirt can damage your coat, so it's important to start with a clean garment.

Step 3: Pack your coat carefully

When you're ready to pack your coat, follow these steps:

• Lay out the tissue paper flat.
• Fold your coat neatly, being careful with any buttons or zippers that may catch on the fur.
• Place the folded coat inside the white gift box, lining it with 2-3 layers of tissue paper. You can also layer tissue paper between the folds of the coat for added protection.
• Cover and seal the white gift box, gently securing the top with clear packing tape.
• Place the sealed gift box inside the larger cardboard box and use newspaper or other soft padding to secure it and provide extra cushioning.
• Close and seal the larger cardboard box, and label it clearly.

Step 4: Choose a shipping carrier

Select a reputable shipping carrier that offers tracking services and, ideally, climate-controlled transportation. Heat and humidity are detrimental to fur, so it's important to minimise their impact during transit.

Step 5: Insure your shipment

Consider insuring your shipment, especially if your coat is particularly valuable. This will provide added peace of mind and financial protection in the event of loss or damage.

Step 6: Drop off your package

Take your labelled and sealed package to your chosen shipping carrier's drop-off location. Be sure to get a tracking number so you can monitor the progress of your shipment.

Step 7: Track your shipment

Use the tracking number provided by the shipping carrier to follow your package's journey. This will allow you to know when your coat is out for delivery and ensure it arrives safely at its destination.

By following these steps, you can confidently ship your vintage fur coat, knowing that it is well-protected and on its way to its new owner.

Frequently asked questions