Amazon Resale Explained: Is “Used or Like New” Worth It?

If you've ever scrolled past the main price on an Amazon product page, you might have noticed a section called "New & Used from..." with significantly lower prices. Often, these items are sold by Amazon Resale (formerly known as Amazon Warehouse). The most tempting label of them all is "Used – Like New."

It sounds almost too good to be true. You get the same product you wanted, but for 15% to 50% less, just because someone else opened the box. But is it actually "like new," or are you just buying someone else's headache? Let's dive into what goes on with Amazon Resale and whether you should hit that "Add to Cart" button.

What Exactly Is Amazon Resale?

Amazon Resale is the place where all those millions of customer returns go to get a second chance. When a customer sends an item back because they changed their mind or the box arrived dented, Amazon cannot sell it as "New" anymore.

Instead of throwing it away, Amazon puts the item through a 20 point inspection. They check if it works, look for scratches, and see if all the parts are in the box. Based on what they find, they give it a grade:

• Used – Like New: The best of the bunch.
• Used – Very Good: Minimal wear, maybe a small scratch.
• Used – Good: Visible wear but still works.
• Used – Acceptable: Dents and scratches, but the item functions.

If you are looking for even more ways to save without buying used, check out What Are Amazon Promo Codes? to see how to get discounts on brand new items.

The Truth About "Used – Like New"

According to Amazon's own guidelines, a Used – Like New item is in perfect working condition. Usually, the only thing "wrong" with it is that the original plastic wrap is missing or the cardboard box has a small rip. In many cases, the item was never even taken out of the packaging.

Why it is a great deal:

• Gift Quality: Amazon says these items are usually good enough to be given as a gift.
• Huge Savings: You can often find high-end electronics or kitchen gear for a fraction of the original price.
• The Return Policy: This is the best part. Amazon Resale items come with the same 30 day return policy as new items. If it arrives and looks "Used – Very Bad" instead of "Like New," you can just send it back.

Before you buy, it is always smart to see if the "new" price has dropped recently. You can learn how to do this in our guide: Amazon Price History Explained.

The Risk: It is a Bit of a Gamble

While Amazon has a strict inspection process, they process millions of items. A previous customer might have swapped a brand new pair of headphones with their old, broken ones before returning them. This is why we recommend checking the Amazon Help & Customer Service page to understand how to handle a return if your resale deal isn't what you expected.

What to Look for in the Description

When you click on the "Used" options, Amazon provides a small blurb of "Condition Notes." Always read these!

• If it says "Item will come in original packaging," you are likely getting a simple return.
• If it says "Item will come in a generic box," it might have been used more than the "Like New" label suggests.

To avoid wasting time on items that aren't worth it, you can also learn How to Shop Smarter on Amazon Without Spending More Time.

How to Find the Best Resale Deals

Finding these deals can be a bit like a scavenger hunt. Here are three ways to do it:

1. The Direct Link: You can go straight to Amazon Resale to browse categories like Electronics, Home & Kitchen, and Toys.
2. The Search Bar: Type what you are looking for, then use the filter on the left side of the screen to select "Used" as the condition.
3. The Product Page: Look right below the "Buy Now" button for the "Save with Used" link.

If you find a great resale deal, remember that you usually cannot use promo codes on them. If you want to compare a used price to a discounted new price, check out How to Find Hidden Amazon Deals.

Is it Worth It? Our Verdict

For most items, yes, Used – Like New is absolutely worth it. It is the best way to get a premium product at a budget price.

Best things to buy used:

• Kitchen Appliances: Air fryers and blenders are often returned just because they were too big for the counter.
• Home Decor: Rugs and lamps are hard to "break" during a quick return.
• Books: A "Like New" book usually just has a tiny dent on the cover.

Things to be careful with:

• High-End Electronics: Items like tablets or laptops can have hidden battery issues. Always test these thoroughly during your 30 day return window.
• Personal Care: Anything that touches your skin (like razors or makeup) should generally be bought new for safety.

If you are worried about the quality of the product you are looking at, don't forget to use our tips on How to Spot Fake Amazon Reviews. Even for resale items, the original reviews can tell you if a product is prone to breaking.

Summary for the Savvy Shopper

• Used – Like New usually means the box was opened, but the item is perfect.
• Always read the condition notes to see if original packaging or accessories are missing.
• Test your item immediately so you can return it within the 30 day window if it's not right.
• Check DealSeek to see if a brand new version is currently on sale with a promo code, sometimes "New" with a code is cheaper than "Used!"

Amazon resale is a goldmine for anyone who wants to shop smarter. By understanding the grading system and knowing your rights as a buyer, you can save hundreds of dollars a year on the same products everyone else is paying full price for.

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