FlipLens

Resale value of books, vinyl records, CDs and DVDs

Most books, CDs and DVDs resell for a few euros, but a few editions are worth much more. The barcode tells you exactly which edition you have, and that is where the price starts.

Updated 2026-10-12 · by FlipLens

The barcode identifies the edition

Books carry an ISBN, music and films an EAN barcode. Both identify the exact edition, not just the title. The same novel or album can exist in many editions at very different prices, so always compare the same barcode.

Edition and format matter

  • Books: first editions, signed copies and hardcovers are usually worth more than later printings and paperbacks.
  • Vinyl: an original pressing is often worth more than a reissue. 180g pressings, coloured vinyl and picture discs have their own prices.
  • Films: DVD, Blu-ray and 4K are different products. Steelbooks and complete box sets often sell for more.
  • Condition: scratches, a worn sleeve, a damaged case, notes or underlining lower the price. Missing booklets or discs in a box set lower it a lot.

What is actually worth selling

Mass-market books, CDs and DVDs usually resell for a few euros each. The value is in rare editions, popular vinyl and complete box sets. For cheap items, bundles sell well: a series of books, a stack of CDs by one artist or a set of films in one listing saves shipping and time.

Buyback services or selling yourself

  • Buyback services: such as Momox and reBuy in Germany or WeBuyBooks and Ziffit in the UK. You scan the barcode, get an offer and send the items in. They pay quickly, but the price is low.
  • eBay and Vinted: selling yourself takes more effort, but usually brings more for valuable editions, vinyl and box sets.
  • Locally: flea markets and classifieds, good for bundles and boxes of cheap items.

Check the price with FlipLens

Scan the barcode or take a photo of the cover. FlipLens searches the exact edition by its barcode on eBay in five EU countries or eBay.co.uk, adjusts asking prices down and shows the most to pay if you are buying to resell.

For a box of books or a stack of records, use the "many items at once" mode: one photo per item, prices for all of them and listings written. See how to check resale value and the flea market reselling checklist.

Questions

Are my old books and DVDs worth anything?

Most mass-market books, CDs and DVDs resell for a few euros. Rare editions, popular vinyl and complete box sets are worth more. Check the barcode to find the exact edition.

Should I use a buyback service or sell myself?

Buyback services pay quickly but low. Selling yourself on eBay or Vinted usually brings more for valuable items, while cheap items often sell best as bundles.

Can FlipLens price a whole box of books or records?

Yes. In "many items at once" mode you take one photo per item, and FlipLens prices all of them and writes the listings.

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