The RealReal Consignment Guide 2026: How to Sell Luxury Items

The RealReal is the largest authenticated luxury consignment platform. Here’s whether consigning with them makes sense—and when you’re better off selling yourself.

Quick Stats: The RealReal 2026

• Annual GMV (Gross Merchandise Value): $1.8+ billion
• Average consignor payout: 55% of sale price
• Authentication accuracy: 99%+ (industry-leading)
• Average time to sale: 30-60 days for desirable items
• Commission range: 40-85% (you keep) depending on price
• Items processed annually: 5+ million

Step-by-Step: Consigning with The RealReal

Step 1: Evaluate Your Items

Use this checklist before consigning:

Accepted Brands (Partial List):

• Always accepted: Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Dior, Cartier, Rolex, Van Cleef & Arpels
• Usually accepted: Burberry, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Celine, Fendi, Saint Laurent, Valentino
• Condition-dependent: Coach, Kate Spade, Tory Burch, Michael Kors (pristine only)

Step 2: Request Consignment

Online Submission:

1. Create account at therealreal.com/consign
2. Upload photos of items
3. Provide brand, size, condition details
4. Submit for review
5. Wait for acceptance email (1-3 days)

Phone Scheduling:

1. Call 855-435-5893
2. Describe items to representative
3. Schedule consultation if valuable items
4. Get preliminary acceptance

In-Person (Luxury Consignment Office):

• Locations in major cities (NYC, LA, SF, Chicago, Dallas, etc.)
• Walk in or schedule appointment
• Immediate evaluation
• Higher acceptance rate for borderline items
• Can negotiate commission on high-value pieces

Step 3: Ship or Drop Off

Free Shipping Option:

1. Receive prepaid shipping label via email
2. Pack items securely (they provide guidelines)
3. Drop at UPS location
4. Track package to their warehouse

In-Home Pickup (Select Markets):

• Available in major metros
• Appointments needed
• Good for large collections
• White-glove handling

Office Drop-Off:

• Fastest processing
• Immediate receipt
• Can ask questions directly
• Best for high-value items

Step 4: Authentication & Processing

What happens at their warehouse:

Authentication Process:

• Teams organized by brand specialty
• Trained on serial numbers, hardware, materials
• Use proprietary databases and tools
• Authentication certificate provided to buyers

Step 5: Pricing & Sale

How they set prices:

1. Review comparable sales on TRR and market
2. Factor condition, demand, season
3. Set initial price at market rate
4. Automatic markdowns if not sold (typically 10-20% every 2-3 weeks)

Price adjustment options:

• You can set a reserve (minimum price)
• Reserve may delay or prevent sale
• Can request price review via account dashboard

Step 6: Get Paid

Payment Timeline:

Payment Methods:

• Direct deposit (fastest)
• Check (adds 5-7 days)
• Site credit (immediate, +10% bonus often available)

How The RealReal Works

You send luxury items → They authenticate, photograph, list, sell → You get paid commission.

The appeal: No work beyond shipping items. Professional authentication builds buyer trust.

The catch: Commission rates mean you keep only 40-85% of sale price.

Commission Structure 2026

Example Calculations:

Key Insight: Commission structure favors high-value items. The Birkin consignor keeps 85%, while the Coach bag consignor keeps only 40%.

Real Numbers Case Study: 6-Month Luxury Consignment Journey

Seller Profile: LuxuryClosetClean

• Longtime collector cleaning out closet
• Mix of designer fashion and accessories
• Goals: Maximize return, minimal effort

Items Consigned

The RealReal Results

TRR Fees Paid: $4,975 (20.3% average)

Self-Selling Results

Effective Hourly Rate for Self-Selling: ~$98/hr (vs. TRR payout)

Analysis: When TRR Made Sense

Birkin ($16,500 sale):

• TRR payout: $14,025
• Self-sell estimate (Vestiaire): $14,850 after 12% fees
• Difference: $825 more self-selling
• BUT: Authentication peace of mind for buyer, no fraud risk, no time investment
• Verdict: TRR worth it for items where authentication is critical

Chanel Flap ($6,800 sale):

• TRR payout: $4,760
• Self-sell estimate (eBay Authenticity): ~$5,780 after fees
• Difference: $1,020 more self-selling
• Time saved: 5-8 hours
• Verdict: TRR reasonable, but could have done better self-selling

Analysis: When Self-Selling Won

Gucci Marmont ($1,050 sale):

• eBay payout: $913
• TRR would have paid: $578 (55% commission at $1,050)
• You saved: $335 by self-selling
• Verdict: Clear win for self-selling on sub-$1,500 items

Key Takeaway: The RealReal’s value proposition is strongest for items over $5,000 where authentication matters most. For items under $2,000, self-selling often provides 30-50% more payout.

8 Common Mistakes That Cost Consignors Money

Mistake #1: Consigning Low-Value Items

The Problem: Sending a $150 Coach bag expecting meaningful return.

The Reality: At $150 sale × 40% commission = $60 payout. After shipping your item, waiting 45+ days, you saved zero time and made very little.

The Fix: Only consign items with $500+ expected sale price. Below that, self-sell or donate.

Mistake #2: Not Negotiating Commission

The Problem: Assuming commission rates are fixed for everyone.

The Reality: The RealReal negotiates with:

• High-volume consignors (10+ items)
• High-value consignors ($10K+ in items)
• Repeat customers with good history
• In-person at Luxury Consignment Offices

The Fix: Ask for better rates. The worst they can say is no. Try: “I have several items to consign. Is there flexibility on commission rates for this volume?”

Mistake #3: Poor Item Presentation

The Problem: Sending wrinkled, dirty, or poorly packaged items.

The Reality: Condition affects pricing. A dirty bag gets graded lower, priced lower, and sells slower.

The Fix: Before shipping:

• Clean items thoroughly
• Use appropriate storage (dust bags, stuffing)
• Package carefully to prevent damage
• Include all original accessories

Mistake #4: Missing Documentation

The Problem: Not including receipts, authenticity cards, or original packaging.

The Reality: Documentation can increase sale price 10-20% and speed up sale.

The Fix: Include everything you have:

• Original receipt (most valuable)
• Authenticity cards
• Dust bags
• Original boxes
• Care booklets
• Repair documentation

Mistake #5: Wrong Timing

The Problem: Consigning winter coats in May.

The Reality: Seasonal items sell better in-season. Off-season items get markdown faster.

The Fix: Time your consignments:

Mistake #6: Setting Unrealistic Reserves

The Problem: Setting a $5,000 reserve on an item worth $4,000 market.

The Reality: If reserve is never met, item sits unsold. Eventually returned to you (you pay shipping) or donated.

The Fix: Set reserves slightly below market value if you must. Or skip reserves and trust their pricing—items priced to market sell faster.

Mistake #7: Not Monitoring Your Account

The Problem: Consigning and forgetting about it.

The Reality: Prices drop automatically. Items may sell for less than you’d accept. Items approaching 90 days may be donated.

The Fix:

• Check account weekly
• Review price reductions
• Request returns before 90-day donation threshold
• Adjust strategy based on what sells/doesn’t

Mistake #8: Ignoring the Break-Even Analysis

The Problem: Not calculating whether TRR or self-selling makes more sense.

The Reality: For many items, you lose $200-500 by using TRR vs. self-selling.

The Fix: Use this quick formula:

• TRR estimated payout = Sale price × Commission rate
• Self-sell payout = Sale price × 0.85 (after fees)
• If self-sell payout > TRR payout + value of your time, self-sell

Pro Tips from Experienced RealReal Consignors

Tip #1: The “First Look” Strategy

“I only consign items in the first month after a major fashion event (Met Gala, Fashion Week). Buyers are energized and willing to pay premium. My average sale price is 15% higher during these windows.”

Implementation:

• Track fashion calendar
• Consign 2-3 weeks before major events
• Items are listed during peak interest
• Higher prices, faster sales

Tip #2: The “Volume Negotiation” Play

“I bundled a closet cleanout—15 items totaling $8,000 estimated value. Called and asked for better rates. Got bumped to 65% on items in the $500-2,000 range instead of 60%. That’s $150 extra in my pocket.”

What to say: “I have [X] items with an estimated total value of [$X]. As a bulk consignment, is there any flexibility on commission rates?”

Tip #3: The “In-Person Advantage”

“I only use the Manhattan Luxury Consignment Office. I’ve built a relationship with one authenticator. She flags underpriced items, gives me realistic estimates, and once held a sought-after item for a specific buyer willing to pay more.”

Benefits of In-Person:

• Higher acceptance rate on borderline items
• Better initial pricing
• Relationship building
• Immediate answers to questions
• Can negotiate in real-time

Tip #4: The “Strategic Reserve” Method

“For items I’m not desperate to sell, I set a reserve 10% above what I’d accept. If it sells, great. If not, I get it back and self-sell at the price I wanted anyway.”

Implementation:

1. Determine your absolute minimum acceptable price
2. Set reserve 10% above that
3. If sells above reserve: success
4. If doesn’t sell: retrieval for self-selling

Tip #5: The “Site Credit Maximizer”

“They often offer 10% bonus for taking site credit instead of cash. If I’m going to buy something from TRR anyway, that’s free money. I’ve earned $400+ in bonus credits this year.”

When to use site credit:

• Planning to purchase from TRR
• Bonus rate is 10%+ (they vary promotions)
• Get credit faster than cash payout
• Stack with site sales for maximum value

What They Accept

Always Accepted:

• Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermès, Gucci, Prada
• Rolex, Cartier, Omega watches
• Fine jewelry (gold, diamonds, designer)
• Premium contemporary (Theory, Vince, Rag & Bone)
• High-end home decor

Sometimes Accepted:

• Coach, Kate Spade, Tory Burch (only pristine condition)
• Vintage designer (depends on condition)
• Men’s designer clothing
• High-end athletic (Lululemon only in excellent condition)

Rarely/Never Accepted:

• Fast fashion (Zara, H&M, etc.)
• Mall brands (Banana Republic, J.Crew basics)
• Damaged items (even designer)
• Counterfeit or suspected counterfeit
• Items without clear brand identification

The RealReal vs. Self-Selling

Example comparison:

$1,000 Chanel item:

• The RealReal: $600 payout (60%)
• Self-selling (eBay): $850 payout after fees
• Difference: $250 more self-selling

$5,000 Hermès item:

• The RealReal: $4,000 payout (80%)
• Self-selling: $4,250 payout after fees
• Difference: $250 more self-selling (but higher risk)

Complete Comparison: Where to Sell Luxury Items

Platform Decision Matrix

Monthly Luxury Consignment Checklist

Weekly Tasks

• [ ] Log into TRR account and check item status
• [ ] Review any price reductions—acceptable?
• [ ] Check for sold items and pending payments
• [ ] Monitor items approaching 90-day limit

Monthly Tasks

• [ ] Evaluate items sitting 60+ days—request return or accept markdown?
• [ ] Calculate total payout vs. items consigned
• [ ] Assess which categories/brands sold fastest
• [ ] Review new items considered for consignment
• [ ] Compare TRR performance to self-selling alternatives

Quarterly Tasks

• [ ] Full audit of consignment performance
• [ ] Negotiate commission rates if volume justifies
• [ ] Plan seasonal consignment timing
• [ ] Update inventory of items to potentially consign
• [ ] Research alternative platforms for comparison

Tips for Maximizing Payouts

1. Negotiate Commission

For high-value items ($5,000+) or repeat consignors, they sometimes offer better rates. Ask.

2. Time Your Consignments

• Spring: Sell winter luxury items before season ends
• Fall: Consign summer items, prepare for holiday buyers
• Holiday season (Nov-Dec): Highest buyer activity

3. Provide Documentation

• Original receipts increase sale price
• Keep dust bags, boxes, authentication cards
• Previous appraisals help with fine jewelry

4. Know Your Reserve Options

You can set a minimum price (reserve), though this may limit sales.

5. Consider In-Store Drop-Off

• Faster processing than shipping
• Immediate feedback on acceptability
• Can negotiate better for premium items

Alternatives to The RealReal

Red Flags & Complaints

Common consignor complaints:

• Prices set lower than expected
• Automatic markdowns without notice
• Slow sale timelines
• Items occasionally “lost”
• Customer service can be slow

How to protect yourself:

• Document everything before shipping
• Take photos with serial numbers visible
• Keep shipping receipts
• Monitor your account regularly

Understanding Luxury Resale Market Dynamics

Why Certain Brands Hold Value Better

Factors That Affect Resale Value

Increases Value:

• Original receipt/documentation (+10-20%)
• Complete set (box, dust bag, cards) (+5-15%)
• Rare colorway or limited edition (+20-50%)
• Excellent condition (+10-20% vs. good)
• Celebrity association (+10-30%)
• Discontinued model (+10-40%)

Decreases Value:

• Missing accessories (-10-20%)
• Visible wear (-15-40%)
• Repairs/alterations (-20-50%)
• Out-of-season (-15-30%)
• Heavily discounted retail originally (-10-30%)
• Over-saturated market (-10-25%)

Seasonal Trends in Luxury Resale

Building a Luxury Consignment Strategy

For Collectors Cleaning Closets

One-Time Large Consignment Strategy:

1. Audit inventory - List all items to potentially consign
2. Grade condition - Honest assessment of each piece
3. Research values - Check recent sales on TRR, Vestiaire, eBay
4. Calculate break-even - TRR payout vs. self-sell for each
5. Batch appropriately:
   • Items $3,000+: TRR (authentication value)
   • Items $500-3,000: Either TRR or self-sell based on effort tolerance
   • Items under $500: Self-sell only
6. Time consignment - Align with season for fastest sale

For Regular Turnover Resellers

Ongoing Consignment Strategy:

1. Build TRR relationship - Consistent volume = better rates
2. Reserve TRR for specific items:
   • Ultra-high-value ($5K+)
   • Authentication-critical brands
   • Items requiring professional photography
3. Self-sell everything else - Capture extra margin
4. Track performance - Monthly review of TRR vs. self-sell results
5. Negotiate annually - Use track record for better rates

Authenticity Concerns: When TRR’s Value Shines

High-Counterfeit Risk Categories:

• Hermès (especially Birkin, Kelly)
• Chanel (especially classic flap, boy bag)
• Louis Vuitton (vintage pieces, limited editions)
• Rolex and luxury watches
• Designer sneakers (Yeezy, Off-White, etc.)

For these categories, TRR’s authentication provides:

• Buyer confidence (faster sale, higher price)
• Fraud protection for you
• No authentication disputes
• Professional condition grading

Working with Luxury Consignment Offices

Locations (2026)

In-Person Advantages

Worth the trip if:

• Items valued $5,000+
• Authentication is borderline (vintage, rare)
• You have 10+ items to consign
• You want to negotiate commission
• Item has condition concerns you need evaluated

What to bring:

• All documentation (receipts, cards, tags)
• Items in clean, presentable condition
• Government ID
• Banking information for direct deposit
• List of items with your estimated values

Tax Considerations for Luxury Consignment

Reporting Consignment Income

What to report:

• 1099 from The RealReal if $600+ annually
• All income even without 1099
• Report as self-employment or hobby income

Deductible Expenses:

• Original purchase price (cost basis)
• Shipping costs
• Cleaning/repair before consignment
• Mileage to drop-off locations
• Storage costs

Example Tax Calculation:

Item: Chanel Classic Flap
Original purchase: $6,000
Sold for: $5,500
TRR Commission: -$1,650 (70% to you)
Your payout: $3,850

Tax Situation:
Payout: $3,850
Cost basis: $6,000
Net: -$2,150 (loss)

Result: No taxable gain (loss may be deductible for business sellers)

Important: Consult a tax professional for your specific situation. Rules differ for hobby sellers vs. business sellers.

FAQ

How long does it take for items to sell on The RealReal?

Typical: 4-8 weeks for desirable items. Some items take months. Seasonal items may take longer.

Can I get my items back if they don’t sell?

Yes, but you pay return shipping. Items consigned for 90+ days may be donated if not retrieved.

Does The RealReal buy items outright?

Sometimes, for high-demand items. They’ll offer an upfront price (lower than consignment potential).

How do I know my item is authenticated properly?

They have teams of experts including gemologists and brand specialists. Authentication is their core value proposition.

What if my item sells and the buyer returns it?

Returns are processed within the 15-day hold period. Your payout is adjusted accordingly.

Can I set my own price?

You can set a reserve (minimum acceptable price), but not the listing price. They control pricing based on market data.

How do I track my consigned items?

Log into your account at therealreal.com. Dashboard shows status of all items: Processing, Listed, Sold, or Returned.

What happens to items that don’t sell?

After automatic markdowns, items unsold at 90 days may be donated (you’re notified first and can request return).

Is The RealReal safe for buyers?

Yes—100% authentication guarantee. If buyer receives counterfeit, full refund. This is why some consignors prefer TRR despite lower payout.

Do they accept men’s items?

Yes, men’s designer clothing, accessories, and watches. Men’s generally sells slower than women’s.

How do I contact customer service?

Email consignment@therealreal.com or call 855-435-5893. Response time varies (1-5 business days).

What’s the minimum value item they accept?

Officially no minimum, but under $100 items are rarely accepted unless pristine condition from top brands.

Conclusion

The RealReal makes sense when convenience outweighs the commission hit. For items over $500 where authentication matters, the professional handling can be worth 30-40% of sale price. For items under $300 or easily authenticatable pieces, you’re almost always better off selling yourself.

The RealReal ROI Formula:

• If (Value of your time) + (Authentication value) > (TRR commission) → Use TRR
• If (Value of your time) + (Authentication value) < (TRR commission) → Self-sell

Next Steps:

1. Inventory luxury items you want to sell
2. Estimate value using our ROI Calculator
3. For items over $2,000: Consider The RealReal
4. For items under $1,000: Self-sell on eBay/Poshmark
5. For items $1,000-$2,000: Calculate both options and decide

Related Tools:

• Platform Fee Calculator
• ROI Calculator
• Profit Margin Calculator

Related Guides:

• Where to Sell Online 2026
• How to Authenticate Designer Items
• eBay Listing Optimization Guide
• Best Things to Flip for Profit
• Reseller Taxes Guide