So you finally finished that big woodworking or home renovation project. Now you‘re wondering what to do with the slightly used circular saw, drill, and other tools just gathering dust in your garage.
It would be nice to get some cash or credit for them towards new tools. And with Home Depot being one of the largest home improvement retailers, you may be curious – does Home Depot buy used tools from customers?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Home Depot does not buy back used power tools, hand tools, or other equipment directly from DIYers as of 2023.
But don‘t worry, you still have plenty of great options for selling used tools and buying discounted ones! In this detailed guide, we‘ll explore:
- Why Home Depot doesn‘t accept used tool trade-ins
- 6 places to sell your used tools for the best price
- How to negotiate at garage sales for major deals
- Where to buy discounted used and refurbished tools
- Risks of buying used tools and how to avoid them
- Alternatives like Home Depot‘s tool rental program
- What used items Home Depot does purchase from customers
Let‘s dive in and uncover the very best ways to unload your old tools and get the best deals on used ones in 2024!
Why Doesn‘t Home Depot Purchase Used Tools From Customers?
Before we look at where you can sell tools, let‘s understand why Home Depot chooses not to buy them back directly from DIYers and contractors.
The main reasons are:
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No quality control – When buying used tools from random customers, Home Depot can‘t verify the condition, maintenance history, defects etc.
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High costs – Evaluating, testing, repairing, cleaning, and reselling old tools requires significant labor and overhead. Margins are low.
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Inventory challenges – If Home Depot buys used tools, they have no control over the incoming brands, styles, quantities, and types. This makes inventory management difficult.
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Safety liability – If a customer‘s malfunctioning used tool injures someone, Home Depot could be legally responsible. They avoid this risk by only selling new and factory-refurbished products.
Essentially, accepting random used tool trade-ins doesn‘t fit Home Depot‘s business model. Tool manufacturers also heavily restrict who can resell their products to protect branding and profits.
While you can‘t swap your DeWalt circular saw for a new one at Home Depot, plenty of other great options exist…
6 Places To Sell Your Used Tools for Cash or Credit
If you have power tools, hand tools, or equipment in good condition sitting around, consider these places to sell them for the highest resale value:
1. Online Marketplaces
Popular platforms like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp make it simple to create listings for your used tools that buyers can browse and make offers on.
Pro Tip: Take high-quality photos and write detailed descriptions of your tools‘ specs, features, and condition. Be upfront about any wear, defects, or missing parts/accessories.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge buyer base | No sale guarantees |
| Low fees or free listings | You handle shipping/meetups |
| Convenient selling from home | Research fair pricing |
| Control your own asking prices | Scam risks |
eBay sold over $2 billion in home improvement and tools last year alone, so online marketplaces provide access to tons of eager buyers. [1]
2. Tool Manufacturers
Top brands like DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Bosch, etc. run trade-in and reconditioned tool programs. You can mail in your old tools to get credit towards new ones from that brand.
Offers vary based on tool model, age, and condition. Even broken tools often get some value!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Get credit even for broken tools | Typically less $ than selling yourself |
| Convenient mail-in process | Store credit only, no cash payout |
| Trade directly with brands | Limited to that brand‘s new tools |
For example, DeWalt‘s trade-in program offers up to 40% of a tool‘s original price as credit. [2] Explore your favorite brands‘ websites or contact them about trade-in values.
3. Local Tool Rental Companies
Construction equipment rental companies may buy your commercial grade or heavy duty tools – especially matching their rental fleet brands and types. This gives them inventory at lower cost.
4. Pawn Shops
Visit local pawn shops to see what they‘ll offer for your used tools. Their quotes tend to be lower than selling yourself but it‘s fast and convenient. Provide info upfront on brands, conditions, and values.
5. Hardware Stores and Tool Repair Shops
Smaller local hardware stores or tool repair/service shops sometimes purchase used inventory. Call around to ask if they buy tools from customers and what types they accept.
6. Classified Listings and Auctions
Try advertising tools for sale in classifieds in local newspapers, Pennysaver magazines, or community websites. You can also list smaller tools in online auctions.
How To Negotiate Killer Deals on Used Tools at Garage Sales
One great place to find discounted used tools is at garage, yard, estate, and moving sales in your community. Here are some tips to negotiate the best prices:
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Research values – Use eBay, Craigslist, and tool brands‘ websites to estimate fair prices for any tools that interest you. This gives you better bargaining power.
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Bundle items – Sellers may go lower if you offer to buy multiple tools together. "Would you take $X for this drill, saw, and nail gun as a package?"
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Mention defects – Politely point out any scratches, stains, missing accessories etc. and ask if they can adjust the price accordingly.
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Refer to listings – If they won‘t come down in price, show them active online listings for similar tools at lower prices.
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Pay in cash – Offer to pay in cash on the spot and avoid the hassle of using checks or electronic payments. This appeals to sellers.
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Make an offer – Don‘t be afraid to offer 25-50% below their asking price. Remember that any money they get is a bonus to them. See what counteroffer they make.
Following these tips can help you score amazing deals on used tools at yard sales! Just be respectful in your negotiations.
Where To Buy Discounted Used and Refurbished Tools
If you‘re looking to save money on tool purchases, here are some top places to find used and refurbished options:
Home Depot‘s Refurbished Selection
While Home Depot doesn‘t buy used tools, they do sell factory-refurbished power tools at a discount in stores and online.
Refurbs were lightly used, open box returns, or defective items repaired by the manufacturer. Home Depot checks their quality.
These discounted tools come with the standard 90-day return policy too. Search "refurbished tools" on their website to see available deals.
Amazon Warehouse Deals
Amazon Warehouse has thousands of open box, used, and refurbished tools sold at discounts. Items are rated from "Like New" down to "Acceptable" condition.
Tip: Stick to tools rated Very Good or better for best value and reliability. You still get Amazon‘s return protections too.
Direct From Tool Brands
Top brands like Makita, Milwaukee, DeWalt, Bosch, etc. sell factory reconditioned and used tools directly on their websites at reduced prices. These are professionally inspected and often come with warranties.
eBay and Craigslist
eBay and Craigslist always have tons of affordable used tool listings. Focus on highly rated sellers and request photos if needed to verify condition before purchasing.
Garage/Yard Sales
As mentioned above, garage and yard sales can have amazing used tool deals. Get there early for best selection. Bring cash and your smartphone to look up values.
Rental Companies
Tool rental shops sometimes sell off quality used tools once they retire them from rental fleets. Ask local rental companies if they have used tools for sale.
No matter where you shop, inspect used tools closely before purchasing. Test functionality, look for damage, and make sure accessories/parts are included.
Beware These Risks When Buying Used Tools
While used tools can save you big money, there are some risks to watch for:
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Wear and tear – Well-worn tools may fail or require repairs sooner. Examine closely for damage.
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Missing accessories – Used tools often don‘t include all original blades, bits, batteries, chargers, cases etc. Factor in replacement costs.
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Parts availability – For older or discontinued tool models, replacement parts may be hard to source.
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Voided warranties – Remaining factory warranties are voided on private party used tool sales. No coverage if issues arise.
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Safety issues – Defective wiring, damaged blade guards, triggers etc. present safety hazards. Carefully inspect and test all functions.
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No returns – Unless sold by a reputable reseller, you likely can‘t return a used tool if issues crop up after purchase.
The main takeaway is to thoroughly inspect and test any used tool before buying. Make sure it powers on, all controls/buttons function, no loose or vibrating parts, undamaged housing, etc. Know what you‘re getting into when buying used.
Consider Home Depot‘s Tool Rental Program
If you just need tools for a short DIY task or single job, consider tool rental from Home Depot. You pay a small fraction of the retail price to borrow tools for as little as 4 hours.
Home Depot rents common tools like:
- Drills, saws, sanders, grinders
- Ladders, scaffolding
- Flooring tools – nailers, tile cutters
- Pressure washers, carpet cleaner
- Air compressors, generators
- Surveying lasers, detectors
Rental rates range from around $15 per day for a miter saw up to $175 per day for a tractor loader. [3] Delivery is available for most equipment.
Benefits of tool rental include:
- Access to pro-grade tools the average DIYer wouldn‘t buy
- Pay only for the duration you need the tools
- Avoid maintenance and storage when not in use
- Home Depot handles repairs and maintenance
Downsides to note:
- Late fees apply if tools are returned past due
- May have some wear from past rentals
- Limited selection compared to buying
For infrequent jobs though, tool rental is a great money-saving alternative to buying tools.
What Does Home Depot Buy Back From Customers?
Now you know Home Depot doesn‘t purchase used power tools, but here are some things you can sell back to them:
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Unopened items – Get a full refund on most unopened products within 90 days of purchase.
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Defective merchandise – Return defective items within 90 days for an exchange or refund.
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Recalled products – Home Depot must accept returns on any recalled merchandise for safety reasons.
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Gift cards – Some stores refund gift card balances minus a service fee at customer service desks.
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Moving boxes – Select locations offer small refunds or store credit for unused moving boxes.
Aside from those categories, employees don‘t have authorization to buy used merchandise per company policy. Home Depot only restocks inventory through approved vendors.
The Bottom Line
While Home Depot won‘t take your dusty table saw as a trade-in, you have many excellent options for selling used tools and finding discounted replacements in 2024.
Your best bet is to use online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist for maximum selling prices. Or trade into tool manufacturers and local shops for convenience.
For deals on used tools, check out Amazon Warehouse Deals, factory refurbished options, and local listings. And consider affordable tool rental from Home Depot for occasional needs.
With this guide‘s tips, you can shop smart and save money both when selling old tools and acquiring new ones! Let me know if you have any other questions.
