Popular second-choice products, such as game consoles, smartphones or clothing, are sometimes offered considerably cheaper online than A-goods. However, the B-goods are not always as good as new. Here you can find out what buyers have to watch out for and whether the discounted purchase is worthwhile.
The demand for second-hand goods has risen sharply in recent years because price sensitivity for mass-produced electronics or fashion items, i.e. the degree to which the purchase price is important for the customer, is high. But not only is the demand increasing, the supply is also booming, because in Germany every sixth item is returned, of which 6% turn out to be new.
Contents
What is B-Ware anyway?
B-stock or remaining stock are products of second choice. In concrete terms, this means that the items are new with slight signs of use, returns with slight damage or incomplete content and demonstration devices. Ideally, only the original packaging is slightly damaged.
However, new goods do not mean that they are automatically the latest models, and even brand new models can show various signs of wear.
In addition, there are sometimes only supposed bargains, because with older models the comparatively large discount that is advertised only comes about by referring to the outdated recommended retail price. As a result, the apparent discount is often lower than you think.
Comparison is essential
In order not to be lured by dubious high discounts, it is advisable for consumers to compare offers and prices on price comparison portals, as is generally the case with every purchase. Of course, not all offers from every online retailer are listed on these sales portals, which is why the product description should be another important factor in the purchase decision. Because the seller is obliged to list the respective defects in full. If there is a defect in the product description, the buyer can complain about the B-Ware item during the two-year warranty. Unless expressly stated on the retailer's website, the seller must even bear the cost of shipping. The online shop often does this voluntarily to show goodwill. In any case, it is important to read the item description as well as the general terms and conditions (GTC) thoroughly in order to avoid a rude awakening.
Use reputable online shops
So that you don't get a stomach ache when you make your purchase, we recommend that you use well-known online mail order companies such as the market leader Amazon or Ebay or Swappie. Both companies have not overslept the B-ware trend and have already brought special programs onto the market.
Amazon Warehouse Deals
Amazon offers Amazon Warehouse Deals on their B-Ware platform for damaged or returned goods, which can be discounted by up to 50%. Here it is very difficult to forecast the inventory of the products for the future, which is why you stop by frequently in order not to miss the best deals. In addition, you can return the extensively tested quality products as part of Amazon's 30-day return guarantee without giving a reason. The only requirement is that the condition of the item must be the same as when you received it.
Ebay re store
The large US company Ebay is also very popular when it comes to B-stock and has its own program, the re store, set up. Commercial dealers also offer new goods, which are then also returned and some are offered again in the re-store. Ebay advertises here on the home page with demonstration devices and returns that are 100% functional and unused. On top of that, there is also a full year of statutory warranty just in case. In addition, so-called refurbished items are also offered. Refurbished goods are devices that are not only overhauled by verified manufacturers or experts within an audit process, but also cleaned and tested for functionality. With a smartphone, for example, the battery or the housing could be replaced for full functionality and a new appearance. These are often devices from companies where leasing contracts have expired. Here, too, you get a one-year seller guarantee for your purchased product. Furthermore, tested and functional second-hand goods, which only show slight signs of wear, are offered. Just like the demonstration devices and returns, there is a one-year statutory warranty. The description of the condition is not universal and depends on the product categories.
Amazon also has a special program for high-quality, new products that have been used but have been refurbished. Here, electrical or mechanical components of the products are either repaired or replaced with new functional components. To ensure this, a diagnostic test is carried out so that the correct parts are replaced. Finally, the items are thoroughly cleaned, put through their paces and, if necessary, repackaged to offer the customer the best possible experience.
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What are the benefits of buying B-stock?
By buying less attractive B-goods, you can relieve the burden on the environment, because not only does electronic waste have to be disposed of somewhere, the manufacture of electronic items is also extremely energy-intensive. According to Michael Kuhndt from Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy is calculated with the transport processes for each newly manufactured computer Performance of 3000 kWh required. For comparison: With the same amount of energy, a standard oven can heat up for 60 minutes every day for a year Baking be used.
In addition, the difference between A and B goods is often only marginal, since employees in the audit are sometimes unable to segment the difference themselves.
Conclusion
Selling second-hand goods has many advantages, especially if you are looking for good bargains. The environmental aspect should also not be neglected due to climate change, because the manufacture of electrical devices is often harmful to the environment. Nevertheless, you should find out in detail what the guarantee and warranty of the respective provider looks like. In addition, you should research on price comparison portals whether the discount on the price is really as high as stated, or whether outdated RRPs are being used as a trick.
Does it really bother you if the packaging of your new toaster has a few quirks or the coffee machine has a scratch? Especially when it comes to everyday items, good, used B-goods are really highly recommended and protect the environment and your wallet.