If you’ve been collecting for a while, you know the feeling. You have a stack of cards lying around that you no longer need or you want to make room for new acquisitions. But how do you sell Pokémon cards smartly and effectively? Let’s talk about the best platforms, exchanges, and strategies. Because believe me, there is a lot of money to be made, if you do it right.
1. Where Should You Sell Pokemon Cards?
There are tons of options, but not every site is equally profitable. I’ve tested several platforms over the years. Here are the top choices, each with their own pros and cons:
1.1 Cardmarket – The European Market Leader
If you are active in Europe, Cardmarket is definitely the place to start. Here you can see what other sellers are asking for the same card. This helps you to set your prices sharp.
My experience?
Most collectors know what they want to pay. So if your prices are too high, you won't sell anything. But if you price too low, you're practically giving cards away. My tip: Look at the last 10 cards of the same type that have been sold. That will give you a realistic idea of what you can ask.
Advantages:
- Wide European reach
- Prices per card clearly visible
- Possibility to sell entire sets
Disadvantages:
- Payouts can sometimes take weeks
- Some buyers are located abroad, so higher shipping costs
- Customer service is slow to respond to problems
1.2 eBay – Reaching Global Buyers
eBay is still one of the largest platforms for selling Pokémon cards. Here you can offer both single cards and complete sets. But what makes eBay really interesting are the auctions .
My advice?
Look at what similar cards will fetch in auction form. Sometimes you can make a surprising amount if multiple buyers bid at the same time.
Advantages:
- Worldwide reach
- Auction options can drive up prices
- Review system creates trust
Disadvantages:
- High commission, especially for expensive tickets
- Competition can drive down prices
1.3 RareCards.nl – Fast and Reliable Sales
If you want to sell your cards quickly without too much hassle, RareCards.nl is ideal. They focus entirely on Pokémon cards and TCG products . You can offer single cards or complete collections.
My opinion?
You may not get the highest price, but you do have the certainty of a quick payout. Especially handy if you need cash fast.
Advantages:
- Targeted audience of Pokémon collectors
- Fast payout
- No hassle with foreign buyers
Disadvantages:
-
Bid may be lower than on Cardmarket or eBay
1.4 Getcollectr.com – The Smartest Starting Place
If you have no idea what your cards are worth, Getcollectr.com is a must. Here you enter the name and set of your card and you will immediately get an overview of the current market value.
Tip:
Use this site not only for price information, but also to see which cards are currently being searched for. You can play smart on this by bundling certain cards and offering them as a set.
Advantages:
- Quick overview of market prices
- Direct links to sales platforms
- Easy to use
Disadvantages:
-
No direct sales option
My advice?
Always use a secure payment method such as PayPal or bank transfer . And be clear about the condition of the cards. Buyers can sometimes be extremely critical here.
2. Selling Pokémon Cards at Fairs
Not everyone thinks about it, but fairs and events are perfect places to sell your cards. They are where collectors, players and investors come together. And they often have cash on them.
2.1 Comic Cons and Anime Conventions
These events attract thousands of visitors, many of whom are collectors or players looking for specific cards.
What should you bring?
- Your most valuable cards in sturdy toploaders
- A price list with realistic prices
- A story behind your cards – why do you sell them? What makes them special?
2.3 Pokémon Tournaments and Pre-Releases
This is where the players are. They are looking for specific cards for their decks. If you have playable cards like trainer cards, energies, and popular EX or V cards , you can sell them quickly here.
Tip:
Sell during the breaks. Then players have time to look and buy.
3. How to Prepare for Your Sale?
Being well prepared can make the difference between a quick sale or months of waiting.
- Check Market Value: Use Getcollectr.com to see current prices.
- Pack Cards Safely: Use sleeves and toploaders for valuable cards.
- Clear Photos: Make sure potential buyers see exactly what they're getting.
- Be Honest About Condition: Damaged cards will sell for less, but being honest will help you avoid hassles later.
My Experience with Selling
Over the years I have tested several methods . What have I learned? Spread your chances. Put some of your cards on Cardmarket for steady sales, use eBay for rare cards and go to fairs for quick deals.
And most importantly, be patient . Some cards take time to sell, but in the end, that can actually make you more money.
My advice
Start with Getcollectr.com to determine the market value. List your valuable cards on eBay or Cardmarket and use RareCards.nl for bulk sales. And don't forget the fairs. There you can not only sell cards, but also connect with other collectors.