How and what you need to sell at car boot markets in the UK -
A car boot sale is a type of flea market where individuals can sell items from the trunk of their car. The smaller car boot sellers can also accommodate professional market stalls while working from their car trunks, pace tables, and other medium to larger markets.
Car Boot Sales
These car boot sales are popular in the United Kingdom and offer an excellent opportunity for people to declutter their homes and earn extra cash. While traditionally, car boot sales were mainly at weekends or bank holidays, nowadays, you can find car boots every weekday across the United Kingdom. Bank holiday Mondays also allow car boots to have long weekend markets or fairs to be set up.
Car boots are also called markets, but not to get them confused with regular council markets. Car boot markets are casual setups, primarily private, although you can find certain umbrella firms running several car boots. In contrast, the traditional six to seven-day markets are mostly run by councils (local government) in town centres.
Most car boot markets run casually; therefore, you can turn up to pay a fee and participate in selling even though regular sellers will pay in advance and occupy the better plots. On the other hand, to participate in selling at a regular market, you will need to apply to the local council for a license, which can consist of a long waiting list to be accepted. Either way, whichever market you want to join as a seller in the UK is required to hold public liability insurance.
Car boot sales are also designed to be a great day out for visitors. You can find free parking, toilet facilities, a bouncy castle, ice cream vans, food and drink vans, and friendly staff on-site to entertain kids.
Sellers arrive early at the car park and at the entrance, assisted by staff to a pitch to sell from. They are charged by their vehicle size. The costs of cars, small vans, and large vans differ according to each car boot price list.
If you're interested in participating in a car boot sale, here's what you need to know:
Finding a car boot sale
Many car boot sales are held throughout the United Kingdom regularly. Some open-source websites, like Car Boot Junction, have a great list of popular UK car boot sales.
Best car boot sales
Some popular UK car boot markets include:
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The Newark Antiques and Collectors Fair is the largest outdoor antiques fair in Europe, held on the first Sunday of each month.
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The Birmingham Bullring Car Boot Sale: This sale is held every Sunday and is one of the largest in the UK.
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The Manchester Car Boot Sale: This sale is held every Sunday and is a popular destination for bargain hunters.
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The Leeds Kirkgate Market Car Boot Sale: This sale is held on Sundays and is a popular spot for vintage and antiques.
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The London Car Boot Sale: This sale is held on Sundays and is a great place to find unique and interesting items.
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Other popular car boots and markets around the UK: Romford Market, Bilston Market, Ridley Road Market, Shambles Market, Fleetwood Market, North Weald Market, Wembley Market, Brixton Village Market, New Spitalfields Market, Earlstown Market, London Bridge City, Bolton Market, Gloucester Green Market, Norwich Market, Kemton Market, Keswick Market, Penkridge Market, Skipton Market, Widnes Market, Bury Market, Northampton Town Centre Market, Warrington Market, Newport Market, Milton Keynes Market, Cambridge Market Square, Western International Market, Bovingdon Market, Vauxhall Market, Dagenham Market, Skegness Market, Edgware Road Market and many more...
How to Sell at car boot markets
Prepare your items
Before heading to the car boot sale, take some time to review your possessions and determine what you'd like to sell. Consider the condition of the items and whether they are in demand. Some popular items to sell at car boot sales include clothing, books, toys, and household items.
Set up your space
When you arrive at the car boot sale, you'll be given a designated space to set up your items. Bring a table or other surface to display your items and make them easily accessible to potential buyers. Consider bringing a folding chair or blanket to sit on during the sale.
Price your items
Determine how much you'd like to sell each item for, taking into account the condition and demand. It's a good idea to price your items slightly lower than what you'd find them for in a store, as car boot sales are known for offering bargains.
Be prepared to haggle
It's common for buyers at car boot sales to try and negotiate the price of items. Be ready to haggle, be open to negotiating, and be firm about your asking price.
Arrive early
To get the best spot and set up your space before the crowds arrive, it's a good idea to arrive at the car boot sale early. This will also give you time to unload your car and set up your display.
Bring plenty of change
It's a good idea to bring a variety of denominations of cash, as well as small coins, to make change for customers. Consider also getting a calculator to help with pricing and calculations.
Dress appropriately
Depending on the weather, you may want to dress in layers or bring a coat or umbrella. It's also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be standing for an extended period of time.
Being organized
To make it easy for customers to browse your items, try to arrange them in a logical and visually appealing way. Consider using small signs or labels to indicate the price of each item.
Take breaks
A car boot sale can be tiring, especially if you're standing for an extended period of time. Make sure to take breaks and hydrate frequently to avoid getting exhausted. You might also want to bring a snack or a packed lunch to keep your energy up.
We hope you enjoyed this article and hopefully, these steps will help ensure you a successful and enjoyable experience at any car boot sale market. Good luck!
Top Down Trading Team
