The 7 Best Items to Resell for Profit in 2026

The secondary market is filled with opportunities, but success depends on knowing what to buy and where to sell. This guide cuts through the noise to identify high-margin categories with consistent, proven demand. We’ll explore the specific items that successful flippers target, providing actionable data on sourcing, pricing, and selling strategies. A critical first step in building your reseller's blueprint is learning how to find winning products that will generate reliable profit. This resource will help you identify opportunities before you even spend a dollar.

Our goal is to give you a clear roadmap. Instead of generic advice, you'll find a detailed breakdown of the best items to resell for profit, from modern Apple devices and limited-edition sneakers to premium baby gear and pro-grade power tools. Each entry includes specific model recommendations, sourcing tips, and realistic profit margins to expect.

Whether you're a seasoned professional scaling your operation or a newcomer looking for your first profitable flip, this breakdown reveals the products that offer the most potential. Let's dive into the items that can maximize your return on investment.

Flipping modern Apple hardware is a reliable way to generate profit due to the brand's exceptional value retention and a massive, always-on buyer market. While many electronics depreciate rapidly, iPhones, MacBooks, and even Apple Watches maintain a high percentage of their original value, making them some of the best items to resell for profit. The key to this category is understanding the built-in pricing floor provided by Apple's own trade-in program.

This program gives you an instant, no-haggle baseline for what a device is worth in good condition. Your goal is to acquire devices for less than this trade-in value and sell them on peer-to-peer marketplaces like eBay or Swappa, where they often fetch 10-40% more. For a deeper dive into this specific niche, this ultimate guide to phone flipping offers detailed strategies for sourcing and selling.

The most profitable flips are typically iPhones that are 2-4 years old, M-series MacBooks, and recent-generation Apple Watches. Look for carrier-unlocked models with higher storage, as these command a premium. Always verify a device’s status before purchasing. Use a free online IMEI checker to confirm it isn't blacklisted and ensure the seller has turned off "Find My" to remove the Activation Lock. A locked device is essentially a paperweight.

Pro Tip: When negotiating a purchase, ask for the battery health percentage. On iPhones, anything below 80% will likely require a replacement, which you can use as a powerful negotiation point to lower your acquisition cost.

By focusing on these specifics and using Apple's trade-in site as your pricing guide, you can create a predictable and profitable resale business centered on some of the world's most in-demand electronics.

Visit Apple's Trade-In Program to benchmark current device values.

The secondary market for limited-edition sneakers and streetwear is a fast-paced, data-rich environment perfect for resellers who can act quickly. High-demand collaborations from brands like Nike, Jordan, and even running silhouettes like ASICS can generate significant profit, making them some of the best items to resell for profit. The key to success is using platforms like StockX, which function like a stock market for physical goods, providing transparent pricing data and authentication services.

These marketplaces remove much of the guesswork and fraud risk common in other categories. You can see historical sales data, current bids (what buyers are willing to pay), and asks (what sellers are willing to accept). Your goal is to acquire hyped items at retail price during a "drop" and immediately list them on the secondary market, capturing the spread between retail and resale value before the hype cools.

The most profitable items are almost always limited collaborations or retro releases of iconic models like the Air Jordan 1. Success depends on your ability to secure these items at retail, which often involves participating in raffles on apps like Nike SNKRS or being ready for online drops at specific times. Speed is critical; the highest margins are typically realized within the first few days or weeks after a release. Always factor in platform fees (which can be 9-10%) and payment processing fees when calculating your potential profit.

Pro Tip: Focus on acquiring the most common men's sizes (US 8-12), as they generally have the highest demand and liquidity. Smaller or larger sizes can be profitable but often have a smaller pool of potential buyers, leading to slower sales.

By monitoring release calendars and understanding market dynamics on platforms like StockX, you can turn fleeting cultural moments into substantial and repeatable profits.

Visit StockX to browse current market prices and sales data.

Investing in retired LEGO sets can be a remarkably profitable venture, turning a popular toy into a tangible asset. The value of specific sets, particularly those that are sealed and in mint condition, often appreciates significantly after LEGO ceases production. This makes them one of the best items to resell for profit, driven by strong collector demand. The official LEGO website is the starting point for this strategy, as it announces set retirements and offers last-chance purchase opportunities.

The core principle is simple: buy popular sets before or as they retire and hold them until scarcity drives up their market price. Sets from themes like Star Wars Ultimate Collector Series (UCS), Architecture, and Icons are prime candidates due to their adult fanbases and display-worthy designs. The key is patience, as the most significant value increases often occur 1-3 years post-retirement.

Focus on sets with unique minifigures, licensed intellectual property (like Star Wars or Harry Potter), or those part of a collectible series (like Modular Buildings). Box condition is paramount; any dents, creases, or tears can substantially lower the final sale value. Savvy resellers often source inventory during retail clearance events or by finding mispriced local listings. For tips on finding such local deals, this guide on mastering Facebook Marketplace searches can give you a significant advantage.

Pro Tip: Track upcoming retirement dates listed on LEGO fan sites and forums. Purchasing high-demand sets just before they disappear from shelves allows you to acquire inventory at retail price, maximizing your potential profit margin.

By treating LEGO sets as a long-term investment and carefully selecting which products to acquire, you can build a profitable resale business based on one of the world's most beloved brands.

Visit LEGO's official website to see currently available and retiring soon sets.

Flipping professional-grade power tools is a consistently profitable venture due to their high initial cost, durable construction, and constant demand from contractors and DIY enthusiasts. Unlike generic brands, names like Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita retain a significant portion of their value, making them some of the best items to resell for profit. The market for these tools is evergreen, with a broad buyer base always looking for a good deal on reliable equipment.

The key to maximizing profit is sourcing complete kits and understanding market pricing. Used tools in good working condition often sell for 40-60% of their new retail price, creating a wide margin for resellers. You can establish a baseline value by checking sold listings on eBay and Facebook Marketplace. For an in-depth guide on this niche, this article on flipping high-profit tools offers excellent sourcing and selling strategies.

The most desirable flips are cordless combo kits that include a tool, one or two batteries, and a charger. Brushless models, often marketed as "FUEL" by Milwaukee or "XR" by DeWalt, command the highest prices. Always test tools before buying to ensure they function correctly. Sourcing from pawn shops, estate sales, and local classifieds can yield excellent deals, but always be cautious of stolen goods.

Pro Tip: Batteries are the most critical and expensive component. Always test the batteries and check their manufacturing date. A tool with a dead or dying battery is worth significantly less and can be a major negotiation point to lower your purchase price.

Focusing on complete, functional kits from top-tier brands allows you to capitalize on the strong local market. These items sell quickly for cash on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, minimizing shipping costs and transaction fees.

Visit Milwaukee's Website to research current models and retail pricing.

Reselling current-generation game consoles like the PlayStation 5 family and Nintendo Switch offers high liquidity and predictable profit margins. These devices maintain strong demand long after their release, creating a fast-moving market perfect for flipping. The value of these items is well-documented on marketplaces, allowing resellers to easily identify underpriced local listings and calculate potential profit after fees and shipping. Bundles that include extra controllers, popular games, and the original packaging consistently fetch higher prices.

The official PlayStation website serves as a crucial resource for market research. It establishes the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for new consoles, accessories, and games, which acts as a ceiling for the used market. Understanding these baseline prices helps you calculate the depreciation curve and spot profitable deals. For instance, knowing a new PS5 Slim costs $449.99 allows you to accurately price a used console bundle to attract buyers looking for value.

The most profitable opportunities arise from acquiring complete bundles locally and selling them on national platforms like eBay. Look for listings that include sought-after accessories like extra DualSense controllers or games from popular franchises. Always test the console thoroughly before buying, checking for disc drive functionality, controller stick drift, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Documenting that the console is fully operational and has been reset to factory settings builds buyer trust.

Pro Tip: Keep the original box and all inserts whenever possible. A "complete in box" (CIB) console can sell for 15-25% more than a loose console, as collectors and gift-givers prioritize a full-package experience.

By using official retail sites to anchor your pricing knowledge and focusing on high-value bundles, you can turn popular gaming hardware into one of the most reliable and best items to resell for profit, especially around holidays.

Visit the official PlayStation Direct Store to check current MSRP and bundle pricing.

Flipping premium, prosumer espresso machines is a lucrative niche that taps into the high-end coffee enthusiast market. Brands like La Marzocco, particularly models like the Linea Mini and GS3, have exceptional brand recognition and are known for their longevity and repairability. This makes them some of the best items to resell for profit, as well-maintained units retain a significant portion of their original value, often selling for thousands of dollars on the secondary market.

Unlike typical kitchen appliances, these machines are built with commercial-grade parts, ensuring a long, serviceable life. Resellers can find opportunities by sourcing units from local cafés that are upgrading, or from home users who are moving. When seeking the most profitable flips, exploring the market for highly rated used espresso machines can uncover excellent opportunities. The key is acquiring a machine with a verifiable history at a price low enough to account for potential servicing and shipping costs.

The most sought-after machines are those with a documented service history and original parts. Always verify the serial number and request proof of maintenance, as this builds immense buyer confidence and supports a higher asking price. Cosmetic condition, while important, is often secondary to mechanical integrity for serious buyers. Customizations, such as custom wood paneling or brass accents, can also add significant value.

Pro Tip: Factor in freight shipping costs from the outset. These machines are extremely heavy and delicate, often requiring palletizing. Get a shipping quote before you even make an offer on a machine to ensure your profit margins aren't eroded by logistics.

By focusing on machines with strong provenance and understanding the logistics involved, you can turn these high-ticket items into substantial profits, catering to a dedicated community of coffee aficionados.

Visit La Marzocco Home to learn about current models and features.

High-end baby gear is a surprisingly lucrative resale category because new parents often face sticker shock on items that are only used for a few years. Brands like UPPAbaby, Bugaboo, and Nuna retain significant value, making them excellent items to resell for profit. The demand is consistent, driven by growing families looking for premium quality without the full retail price tag. Items like the UPPAbaby Vista stroller, SNOO Smart Sleeper, and Wonderfold wagons are perennial favorites on the secondhand market.

Success in this niche comes from understanding that buyers want complete, well-maintained sets. A stroller sold with its original bassinet, car seat adapters, and rain shield will command a much higher price than the frame alone. Specialized recommerce platforms like GoodBuy Gear offer clear payout estimates and handle the logistics, giving you a baseline for pricing your items on local marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, where you can avoid hefty shipping fees.

Focus on sourcing popular models that are 2-5 years old, as these hit the sweet spot of affordability and modern safety features. Always inspect items thoroughly for cleanliness, functionality, and wear. A deep clean can significantly boost your final sale price. Before listing, check the manufacturer’s website for any safety recalls associated with the model number. Being transparent about an item's history and condition builds trust with buyers.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for gender-neutral and premium colorways like black, grey, or navy. These have wider appeal and tend to sell faster and for more money than bright, gender-specific colors.

Given the bulky nature of these items, local sales are often the most profitable path, eliminating shipping costs that can eat into your margins. By presenting clean, complete, and safe gear, you can build a reliable resale business catering to savvy parents.

Visit UPPAbaby to familiarize yourself with their popular product lines and features.

Throughout this guide, we've explored some of the best items to resell for profit, from high-demand Apple devices and limited-edition sneakers to premium power tools and retired LEGO sets. Each category presents a substantial opportunity to build a successful resale business. However, knowing what to sell is only the first step.

The true differentiator between average flippers and top-tier resellers is the ability to consistently source these items at a low enough price to secure a healthy margin. Manually searching marketplaces is time-consuming and often puts you behind the competition. The most profitable deals on items like a PlayStation 5 bundle or an UPPAbaby Vista stroller are often claimed within minutes of being listed.

To gain a critical advantage, you must shift from a manual, reactive approach to an automated, proactive one. This is where technology becomes your most valuable asset. Instead of spending hours refreshing listings, you can set up targeted searches that work for you 24/7.

Consider these key takeaways from our list:

• Speed is Essential: For hot items like iPhones and game consoles, being the first to respond is non-negotiable. An automated alert system puts you at the front of the line.
• Condition is King: Finding premium baby gear or a high-end espresso machine in excellent, clean condition is rare. Instant notifications help you spot these pristine listings before anyone else.
• Niche Knowledge Pays Off: Knowing which specific LEGO set or Milwaukee tool model holds the most value is your expertise. A powerful search tool allows you to apply that knowledge with surgical precision, targeting exact keywords and price points.

Adopting a tool-based approach allows you to scale your efforts without scaling your time commitment. You can monitor dozens of specific searches across multiple platforms simultaneously. This frees you to focus on the higher-value tasks of negotiating, cleaning, listing, and shipping your inventory.

An effective system should allow you to filter by location, price, and specific keywords to eliminate noise and only receive relevant alerts. This transforms your sourcing process from a game of chance into a predictable, efficient operation. You no longer hunt for deals; the deals find you. You've done the research on the best items to resell for profit, and now it's time to build a system that brings them directly to you, giving you the first opportunity to secure your next profitable flip.

Ready to stop missing out on the best local deals? Flipify gives you a powerful advantage by sending real-time alerts for the exact items you want to flip, the moment they’re listed on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Sign up for a free trial at Flipify and start sourcing smarter, not harder.