Vintage and replacement china seller

Collectors, people replacing broken pieces from family sets, vintage-style hosts and gift buyers.

You buy pieces cheaply, clean and photograph them, and sell at a markup through your own site or marketplaces such as eBay, Etsy or Facebook Marketplace.

• Spotting patterns, makers and condition issues
• Photography and accurate listings
• Careful packing of fragile items

• Vintage china and glazes may contain lead, especially older pieces with decorated rims or bright colors. Read FDA guidance on lead in ceramicware, and in listings state clearly that the lead content is unknown and that the piece is not tested, rather than implying it is safe for food use. Consider lead test kits or lab testing for pieces you describe as food-safe, and consider selling doubtful pieces as display only
• Hidden chips, cracks and crazing, so inspect and describe condition carefully to avoid returns
• Breakage in shipping; use strong packaging and consider shipping insurance
• Sales tax and resale rules in your state, and income reporting to the IRS
• Home occupation rules or HOA and lease limits on storing stock at home

Estimated startup costs are typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your packing supplies and any lead test kits or lab testing you choose. Starting small keeps your cash risk lower.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on the pieces you find, your pricing and how many you sell. Returns from hidden chips or cracks can affect results, so describe condition carefully.

Check FDA guidance on lead in ceramicware, and state clearly in listings that lead content is unknown and untested. Also check sales tax and resale rules in your state, IRS income reporting, and any home occupation, HOA or lease limits on storing stock.