Selling unwanted books is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to earn a little extra before Christmas.
With services like Amazon, World of Books, Ziffit, MusicMagpie, and independent second-hand bookshops, you can turn pre-loved reads into ready cash without much effort.
Here’s how to get started.
1. Sort Through Your Shelves
Begin with a good declutter. Go through your bookcases, cupboards, attic boxes, and even your bedside table stack. Look for:
Popular bestsellers in good condition
Textbooks
Classic literature
Hardbacks with dust jackets
Non-fiction titles from reputable publishers
Collectable editions
Anything torn, water-damaged, written in, or heavily worn is unlikely to sell.
2. Choose Where You Want to Sell
Amazon Marketplace
A favourite for selling books individually, especially if you have niche titles or academic works.
Pros:
You set your own price
Massive buyer audience
Cons:
Fees apply
You handle packing and posting
Ideal for higher-value books that are worth the effort.
World of Books (Sellback Service)
World of Books partners with Ziffit to buy books directly.
Pros:
Instant price offers
No need to list items
Free postage
Cons:
Lower prices than selling individually
Perfect for clearing out bulk items quickly.
Ziffit Now partnered with World of Books
MusicMagpie
Another easy “scan and sell” option.
Pros:
Quick payment
Free postage
Cons:
Valuations vary
A good choice for modern paperbacks, children’s books, and popular non-fiction.
Local Second-Hand Bookshops
Many independent shops buy books for cash or store credit.
Pros:
No postage
Supports local businesses
Cons:
They can be selective about what they take
Worth trying if you have vintage or literary titles.
3. Make Your Listings Attractive (if selling individually)
If you’re using Amazon or eBay:
Describe the book honestly (condition matters)
Include clear photos
Mention if it’s a first edition
Package securely to avoid damage
Books in “very good” or better condition sell fastest.
4. Time It Right
The run-up to Christmas is peak buying season for:
Revision guides and textbooks (January exams)
Giftable hardbacks
Cookbooks
Children’s books
Crafts and hobby titles
List them early to catch the wave of holiday buyers.
5. Keep Postage Costs in Mind
If you’re posting books yourself:
Reuse bubble envelopes and cardboard sleeves
Weigh your parcels before listing prices
Compare Royal Mail rates with courier options
Accurate pricing stops you losing money on postage.
6. Cash In and Reinvest for Christmas
Once the money starts to come in, you can:
Boost your Christmas food budget
Buy gifts without dipping into savings
Pay for festive days out
Top up your emergency fund for the season
It’s a simple, eco-friendly way to fund part of your festivities.
Final Book Selling Thoughts
Selling your spare books is an easy win in the hectic approach to Christmas. With so many platforms to choose from, you can declutter your home, recycle responsibly, and earn a little extra all at once. Whether you’re listing valuable titles on Amazon or sending off a stack to Ziffit, it all adds up to a merry bit of Christmas money.