Owning and collecting Lego® sets is one of the best past times for anyone into building and create worlds to play and display. But what if you have thousands of bricks and minifigures you want to do away with?
Are you investing in Lego or looking to turn your Lego bricks into cash? Selling Lego by pound might be the solution you're looking for. Whether you're a collector looking to downsize your collection or a reseller looking to make a profit, selling Lego by weight can be lucrative.
What does selling Lego® by pound mean?
Selling Lego® by weight is a straightforward idea. Instead of offering Lego pieces in specific sets or as individual items, the seller gathers a mix of second-hand Lego pieces, categorizes them by type and color, and then measures them by weight. A price per pound is established, allowing buyers to purchase any desired amount. This method of selling Lego isn’t restricted to any particular set or theme, providing buyers with a diverse selection of pieces to choose from.
Offering Lego by the pound can be a lucrative business model. The expense of obtaining used Lego pieces tends to be relatively low, and selling them by weight can yield substantial profit margins. By setting a competitive price per pound, sellers can provide good value to customers while still making a profit.
The value of a pound of Lego®
The worth of a pound of Lego® lies in its adaptability. With over 63,000 unique pieces and more than 110 color options, the creative possibilities with Lego are nearly endless. Whether you're designing expansive cityscapes or constructing detailed sculptures, a single pound of Lego bricks can be the foundation for countless projects. However, the value of Lego by the pound can fluctuate depending on the selling location.
Prices can range significantly based on market conditions and demand. Some buyers might pay between $5 and $12 per pound, while others might offer as low as $1. To accurately assess the value of your Lego collection, it's essential to consider the market price of specific sets or individual parts. Minifigures, in particular, can greatly enhance the value of a Lego lot, with certain rare figures potentially boosting the worth by as much as $100 per pound.
Several websites provide insights into recent sales trends, while online platforms like eBay can reveal current asking prices for comparable Lego sets. It's crucial to factor in the condition of your Lego pieces since damaged bricks or counterfeit items can reduce the amount you earn. Additionally, rare or highly sought-after sets tend to fetch higher prices in the market.
So many Lego® bricks equal 1 pound
The quantity of bricks in a pound may differ based on the dimensions and type of the bricks. Typically, a pound of 2x4 Lego® bricks contains about 200 to 300 pieces. However, if the pound consists of a variety of sizes, it might include around 400 pieces. For instance, if the pound is filled with larger Lego pieces, the count will be lower compared to when it contains only smaller pieces.
How many Lego® minifigures are in a pound?
A minifigure in its most basic form (head, torso assembly, and leg assembly) weighs about 3 grams, approximately 0.11 ounces. A small hairpiece or cap will add about 0.3-0.4 grams, while a large hairpiece or headgear can add about 0.9-1.0 grams. Other sources like Reddit and Brickset also confirm that a Lego® minifigure weighs around 3-5 grams, approximately 0.11-0.18 ounces depending on the accessories.
Therefore, there are approximately 72-160 Lego minifigures in a pound, depending on their weight and accessories. Note that this estimate is based on the weight of a single minifigure and may not be entirely accurate due to variations in weight between different minifigures and accessories.
Understanding the value of Lego® bricks
Collectors highly value Lego® bricks due to different reasons. Lego has been around since the 1930s and its values have only increased over the decades. You can check different Brickfact other marketplaces and communities to compare and research. But what factors contribute to their value?
- Value
- Condition
- Rarity
- Contact an appraiser
The value of Lego bricks is more related to their function rather than their material worth, which makes them less likely to lose their value over time.
However, the condition of a brick can significantly impact its value. Therefore, well-maintained bricks can retain their value for generations. Additionally, the rarity and scarcity of particular bricks or sets can increase their value in the market.
To estimate the worth of a collection, one can check similar pieces or End of Line (EOL) sets sold here on Brickfact, eBay, or Bricklink. For further insight, contacting a Lego appraiser or joining a Lego collecting community can be valuable. Check out the Lego investment experiences from the Brickfact Community to give you more idea on how to invest in Lego.
Selling Lego® by pound: Checklist
Sellers and buyers are very particular in making sure they are not investing in trash or clutter. But before you start selling, there are a few things you should consider to ensure that you’re getting the best possible return on your investment. Make sure to follow these four simple checklists before you clear out your Lego® lot.
- Check the Lego condition
- Clean your Lego
- Remove any broken or fake pieces
- Ensure top-notch condition
Check out the step by step guide for cleaning your Lego.
Separating bricks by categories
To optimize your sales, it's a good idea to categorize your Lego® before putting it up for sale. Instead of offering a messy mix, consider dividing your Lego into smaller, more specific collections.
For instance, sand green, sand blue, and medium nougat are rare colors that could sell for a higher price per pound than more common colors. By selling these colors separately, you can potentially increase your profits.
Separating the Minifigures
Several Lego® minifigures are exclusive to certain sets and can be sold for a reasonable price. Doing your research is essential as most minifigures will only be worth $5-20 each.
However, separating them from your regular bricks may earn you more money. Complete figures will generally be worth more than incomplete ones. Here are the coolest Lego Minifigures of all time that can give you extra bucks.
Best practices to follow when selling or buying Lego® bricks
It's always exciting to see your sets displayed and played with. But what happens when you find yourself with excess pieces you don't need? Before you start putting your pieces up for sale, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Dos:
- Separate your Lego into categories to make it easier for buyers to find what they want.
- Clean your Lego bricks before selling them to make them more appealing to buyers.
- Be honest about the condition of the bricks you are selling.
- Research the value of your Lego before setting a price.
- Provide clear pictures of the Lego you are selling.
Donts:
- Sell broken or inauthentic Lego bricks.
- Overprice your Lego bricks.
- Be dishonest about the condition of the bricks you are selling.
- Misrepresent the contents of your Lego lot.
Where to buy and sell?
There are numerous options for selling your Lego® online or in person, including recycling sites, marketplaces, and online communities willing to pay for your random bricks and collections. When looking to purchase Lego by the pound, there are several popular marketplaces to consider. Here are some details about each of the marketplaces listed.
eBay
eBay is a popular online marketplace where individuals and businesses can buy and sell various goods, including Lego®, by the pound. You can find new and used Lego sets and bricks for sale on the site.
Bricklink
Bricklink is a marketplace designed explicitly for Lego enthusiasts. You can find a wide variety of Lego sets, bricks, and minifigures for sale on the site, including bulk Lego by the pound.
Brick Owl
Brick Owl is another marketplace that specializes in Lego products. It offers many new and used Lego sets, mini-figures, and bricks, including bulk Lego by the pound.
StockX
StockX is an online marketplace primarily focused on sneakers and streetwear but also offers Lego products for sale. The site operates like a stock market, with buyers and sellers trading goods at fluctuating prices.
The Plastic Brick
The Plastic Brick is a family-owned and operated business that buys and sells new and used Lego® sets and bricks. They offer a wide selection of Lego products, including bulk Lego by the pound.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a free platform where individuals and businesses can buy and sell goods, including Lego, by the pound. It is available through the Facebook app and website.
Mercari
Mercari is another online marketplace where you can buy and sell goods, including bulk Lego by the pound. It offers a variety of products from individual sellers and small businesses.
You can also check our article - Where to sell Lego? to help you get more information on the best marketplaces for your excess sets and minifigures.
Storing and shipping Lego® bricks and figures
Lego® bricks and figures are more than just toys – they're works of art that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. And if you're looking to sell your Lego by pound, it's important to properly store and ship them to ensure their safety and longevity. Proper storage and shipping of Lego bricks can help ensure that they arrive in good condition:
- Store your bricks and mini figures in a dry, cool place to prevent warping or discoloration before selling them.
- Use plastic storage containers or bags to keep your Lego protected.
- When shipping Lego, pack them securely to avoid damage in transit.
Here's a guide for the best Lego storage boxes.
Selling Lego® by pound: FAQ
Selling Lego by the pound can be a profitable business venture for individuals or businesses. Many buyers are interested in purchasing Lego in bulk to use for building projects or to add to their existing Lego collections. Here are some frequently asked questions about selling Lego by the pound to help you better understand how it works and if it's the right option for you.
1. Are there any legal restrictions on reselling Lego?
Lego bricks and sets are considered private property, and once purchased, individuals have the right to do what they want with them, including reselling them. However, it's important to note that there are restrictions on the use of Lego's trademarked images and logos, so resellers cannot use them in their advertising or product packaging without permission from Lego.
2. What kind of Lego bricks are sold by the pound?
All kinds of Lego bricks can be sold by pound in the market. This includes standard bricks, specialty pieces, and even minifigures. The assortment of bricks may vary depending on the seller, but typically pre-sorted bags of bricks are organized by color and type, to ensure that customers receive a good mix of bricks for their needs.
3. Is selling Lego by the pound a good option for resellers?
Selling Lego by the pound can be a great option for resellers who are looking for a cost-effective way to sell Lego pieces individually or as part of sets. Selling Lego by the pound can provide a steady stream of inventory for resellers. However, it's important for resellers to carefully consider the condition of the Lego bricks they are selling. It's also important for resellers to do their research and understand the market for used Lego bricks to ensure that they are pricing their bricks competitively.
4. Is there a minimum or maximum weight requirement for selling Lego by the pound?
There is no specific minimum or maximum weight standard for selling Lego by the pound, as it varies from seller to seller. Some may provide small bags or containers containing just a few ounces, while others might offer significantly larger amounts, ranging from several pounds to even dozens of pounds.
However, sellers should take into account the logistics of shipping and managing larger volumes of Lego by weight. Heavier quantities might demand extra packaging materials, which could raise shipping expenses. Moreover, handling and transporting larger amounts could be more challenging, increasing the potential for damage or loss during delivery.
In conclusion
Selling Lego® by pound can be profitable if you follow the proper guidelines. You can get the most money per pound of Lego by separating your bricks into categories, preparing them properly, and selling them through the proper channels.
Remember to research the value of your Lego pieces and mini-figures, and always practice good etiquette when dealing with potential buyers. As the Lego resale market grows, there is a bright future for those looking to turn their old Lego sets into profit.
If you’re considering doing investments with your collection and selling excess units by pound, our Lego set investment analysis guide can help get started.
Ready to sell your Lego collection by the pound? Download the free Brickfact app for iOS and Android to easily manage your collection and discover thousands of sets at the best price.
