Consignment sales allow individuals to sell unwanted items without the hassle of hosting a garage sell or trying to sell items themselves. You can tap into this desire to make money from used items by organizing a seasonal consignment sale. These events require less commitment and time than a traditional consignment store, but you should be prepared to spend significant time organizing the details. Successful seasonal consignment sales rely on receiving sufficient high-quality goods and high customer traffic to make the event beneficial for your consignees, buyers and your bottom line.

Determine the sales categories. While you can host a general sale, focusing your event around items for children, furniture, women's clothing or toys provides a marketing edge to your sale. Selecting specific categories also helps with on-location organization.

Establish a date and location for your event. Scout out facilities that feature sufficient parking, an enclosed or covered location and large open spaces to house the consignment goods. You can select a weekend sale, a sale that runs for a week, or multiple dates during a season.

Rent or purchase display racks and tables. Ensure the types of items you plan to feature at your sale will be displayed for easy viewing by customers.

Set the rules for your consignment sale. Determine the percentage return the consignee can receive for their goods, who prices items and how to handle items that are not purchased. Create specific times and requirements for the delivery of consignment goods to prevent confusion and streamline the pricing and organization of goods.

Create an organizational system for tracking goods and sales. You can opt to purchase software specifically designed for seasonal consignment sales, use standard productivity software or use a manual system. The system must have a coding system for tracking goods, physical tags and an easy way to calculate the amount of money owed to each consignee.

Market your event. Use a variety of marketing channels to reach potential consignees and customers. Options include a website, print media, social media marketing, online consignment sale listings and physical flyers. If you plan to have recurring seasonal sales, offer an e-mail sign up list to attendees to make marketing easier for your next event.

Set up employee schedules. You will need individuals to help price goods, organize the facility, assist customers the day of the sale and clean up after the event.

Tip

Consider offering consignees an additional percentage on their sale items and preview shopping hours if they work during your event.

Warning

Avoid scheduling your seasonal sale during holidays or other large events in your area.

Investigate how sales taxes should be calculated on the items at your sale based on local regulations.