[Official Guide] Second-Hand Trading in China: Safe Buying & Selling for Expats

Kurokun

Stay2CN Official Guide | Services & Classifieds | May 2026

Buying and selling used items in China is common, but the platforms and etiquette differ from Western markets. Here's how to do it safely.

Major Platforms

Xianyu (闲鱼) — Alibaba's second-hand platform:
• Largest user base
• Requires Alipay verification
• Mostly Chinese interface
• Best for: furniture, electronics, clothes

WeChat Groups:
• City-specific expat buy/sell groups
• No fees, direct communication
• Best for: quick sales, furniture when moving out

This Forum (Services & Classifieds):
• English-speaking buyers
• Trusted community
• Best for: items other expats specifically need

Pricing Guidelines

• Electronics: 50–70% of original price if <1 year old
• Furniture: 30–50% if good condition
• Appliances: 40–60% depending on brand
• Clothes: 20–40% (fast fashion sells poorly; brands sell better)

Safety Rules for Sellers

• Meet in public places (cafe lobby, building entrance)
• Accept payment via mobile transfer BEFORE handing over the item
• Take photos/videos of the item working before the meeting
• Write a simple receipt (even a WeChat message confirmation)
• Never share your home address publicly

Safety Rules for Buyers

• Test electronics before paying
• Check for hidden damage (water damage on phones, cracks on furniture)
• Ask for original receipts if available
• Meet in person — never pay in advance for items you haven't seen
• For large items, bring a friend to help carry and assess

Scams to Watch For

❌ "Send me a deposit to reserve it" — never pay before seeing
❌ "I'll ship it after payment" — high risk on personal sales
❌ Prices way below market — probably broken or stolen
❌ Seller refuses to meet in person
❌ No photos or only stock images

When Leaving China: The Fire Sale

If you're moving out:
• Start selling 4–6 weeks before departure
• Price aggressively for quick sales in the final 2 weeks
• Donate unsold clothes to charity bins
• Contact your building management — they sometimes buy furniture for furnished apartments

What are you currently looking to buy or sell? Post it here.

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