So, you’ve decided it’s time to say goodbye to your trusty old drone, huh? Well, you’re not alone. With the drone market buzzing like never before, keeping up with the latest technology and features is all the rage. But before you rush into the upgrade, let’s talk about how to make some quick cash off your soon-to-be retired quadcopter.
Why Sell Your Old Drone?
That old drone collecting dust in the closet is doing you no favors, especially when you consider their price tags. Selling it not only clears up some space but also puts some extra cash in your pocket for that shiny new drone you’ve been eyeing.
Where To Sell Your Old Drone
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of how to sell your old drone and get the best deal.
6 Steps To Get Your Drone Ready For Sale:
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Remove FAA Registration
If your drone is registered under Part 107, you need to make sure it’s unregistered before you sell it. The last thing you want is for someone else to fly your drone illegally and it tracing back to you.
To unregister, log in to your FAA account, head to Manage SUAS Inventory, locate your drone, and click “Cancel.”
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Save Your Photos and Footage
Before you wipe your drone’s memory clean, save all your precious photos and footage stored on its internal memory and SD card. Once you’ve backed them up, you can format the SD card without worry.
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Clear the Cache on the Drone
To clear the cache, connect your drone to a mobile device, open your drone app, and follow the instructions to delete all media and reset the gimbal back to factory settings.
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Include All Accessories and Packaging
Don’t forget to throw in any accessories you’ve got, like extra batteries or propeller guards. Including these extras, along with the original packaging, can fetch you a higher price for your quad. Plus, they probably won’t work with your new drone anyway.
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Take Great Photos
When you’re creating your listing, make sure to snap some clear photos of your drone. Avoid using stock photos. Include at least 5-10 detailed shots from various angles. The more photos, the better.
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Write a Detailed Listing
In your listing, describe your drone in detail. Mention any scratches or wear, provide information on flight time, list included accessories, and note if any warranty is still valid. The more detailed your listing, the more trustworthy you’ll appear to potential buyers.
Best Places To Sell Your Drone: Where To Sell My Drone?
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BuyBackWorld (Most Convenient)
If you’re in a hurry for a quick and hassle-free cash-out and don’t want to deal with potential buyers, BuyBackWorld is a great option. They offer fair prices and have a stellar reputation on Trust Pilot, boasting 4.4 stars.
However, keep in mind that they primarily purchase DJI drones and may not pay extra for accessories. Also, anything can happen in shipping, so it’s not without its drawbacks.
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Sell Locally on Traditional Online Marketplaces (Most Profitable)
Selling your used quad locally is your best bet for making the most money. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist let you meet buyers in person and exchange cash for your drone. It’s a win-win, as buyers can see the drone in action, and you get your money on the spot.
But remember, not everyone is comfortable meeting strangers in person.
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Sell on Drone Enthusiast Groups
While listing on Facebook Marketplace, consider promoting your listing in drone enthusiast groups. Targeting your audience can lead to a quicker sale, and it connects you with potential buyers who are genuinely interested in drones.
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Drone Trader
If you want to expand your reach, list your drone on Drone Trader, a free drone classified listing service for the USA and Canada. This way, you can target a broader audience of drone enthusiasts.
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Sell on eBay
eBay can attract worldwide buyers, but it comes with some costs, such as listing fees and the potential for returns. To determine a fair price, search for your drone model and check sold listings. When selling on eBay, be mindful of the various fees involved, so your final earnings are satisfactory.
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Donate Your Drone for a Tax Write-Off
If you want to do some good while making a profit, consider donating your drone to a charity, school, or non-profit organization. You may be eligible for a tax write-off, and it’s a hassle-free way to part with your drone.
So there you have it, a step-by-step guide on how to sell your old drone and get the most cash in your pocket. Whether you opt for convenience or profit, there’s a method that suits you. Happy selling!