The Dos and Don’ts of Consigning Your Horseback Riding Gear at Tack Shops

If you’re an avid horseback rider, you know how expensive it can be to keep up with all the gear you need. From saddles to bridles to boots and helmets, the cost of outfitting yourself and your horse can quickly add up. That’s why many riders turn to consignment shops to sell their used gear and save a bit of money. However, before you rush to consign your horseback riding gear, there are a few dos and don’ts you should be aware of. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about consigning your horseback riding gear at tack shops.

What is Consignment?

Before we get into the dos and don’ts of consigning your horseback riding gear, let’s first define what consignment actually is. Consignment is a retail agreement in which a store agrees to sell goods on behalf of someone else. The consignor (the person selling the goods) retains ownership of the goods until they are sold, at which point the store takes a percentage of the sale price as commission. Consignment can be a great way to sell used horseback riding gear, as it allows you to reach a wider audience and potentially make more money than you would selling the gear on your own.

Dos of Consigning Your Horseback Riding Gear

Clean Your Gear Thoroughly

One of the most important things you can do when consigning your horseback riding gear is to clean it thoroughly. No one wants to buy used gear that’s dirty or smelly, so take the time to clean your gear before you bring it to the tack shop. This includes cleaning your saddle, bridle, boots, and any other gear you plan to consign. Make sure everything is free of dirt, dust, and horse hair, and consider using a leather cleaner and conditioner to give your gear a polished look.

Take High-Quality Photos

When you consign your horseback riding gear, you’ll likely need to provide photos of the items you’re selling. To ensure your gear looks its best in photos, take the time to stage the items and take high-quality photos. Use a neutral background and good lighting, and take photos from multiple angles so potential buyers can get a clear view of the gear. If you’re not confident in your photography skills, consider hiring a professional photographer to take the photos for you.

Be Honest About the Condition of Your Gear

When selling used horseback riding gear, it’s important to be honest about the condition of the items you’re selling. Don’t try to hide any damage or wear and tear, as this will only lead to dissatisfied customers and negative reviews. Instead, be upfront about any issues with your gear, and provide detailed descriptions and photos so buyers know exactly what they’re getting. If your gear is in excellent condition, be sure to highlight this in your listing as well.

Price Your Gear Competitively

Pricing your horseback riding gear is another important factor to consider when consigning. While you may have paid a lot for your gear when you bought it, it’s important to price it competitively to attract potential buyers. Research the prices of similar gear online and in other tack shops, and set your prices accordingly. Keep in mind that the tack shop will take a percentage of the sale price as commission, so you’ll want to factor this into your pricing strategy as well.

Research the Tack Shop Before You Consign

Before you consign your horseback riding gear, it’s important to research the tack shop you plan to work with. Look for a shop that specializes in horseback riding gear and has a good reputation in the community. Read reviews and ask other riders for recommendations to ensure you’re working with a trustworthy and reputable shop. You’ll also want to familiarize yourself with the shop’s consignment process and terms and conditions before you consign your gear.

Don’ts of Consigning Your Horseback Riding Gear

Don’t Consign Damaged Gear

While it’s important to be honest about the condition of your gear, you should never try to consign gear that’s damaged beyond repair. Not only is it unethical to sell gear that’s not safe to use, but it could also put the tack shop and potential buyers at risk. Before you consign your gear, inspect it carefully for any damage or wear and tear that could make it unsafe to use.

Don’t Overprice Your Gear

While you may be attached to your horseback riding gear and believe it’s worth a lot of money, it’s important not to overprice your gear when consigning. Overpricing your gear can make it harder to sell, and may deter potential buyers from considering your items. Research the prices of similar gear and set your prices accordingly, taking into account the commission the tack shop will take as well.

Don’t Ignore the Terms and Conditions of the Consignment Agreement

When you consign your horseback riding gear, you’ll likely need to sign a consignment agreement with the tack shop. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the consignment, including the commission the shop will take, how long your gear will be consigned for, and what happens if your gear doesn’t sell. It’s important to read and understand the agreement thoroughly before you sign it, and to abide by the terms and conditions outlined in the agreement.

Conclusion

Consigning your horseback riding gear can be a great way to make some extra money and clear out some space in your tack room. However, it’s important to follow the dos and don’ts of consignment to ensure a successful sale. Remember to clean your gear thoroughly, take high-quality photos, be honest about the condition of your gear, price your gear competitively, and research the tack shop before you consign. And, most importantly, don’t consign gear that’s damaged beyond repair, overprice your gear, or ignore the terms and conditions of the consignment agreement.

FAQs

1. How much commission do tack shops typically take when consigning horseback riding gear?
   • Commission rates vary by shop, but most tack shops take between 20% and 40% of the sale price as commission.
2. How do I know if my gear is in good enough condition to consign?
   • Inspect your gear carefully for any damage or wear and tear that could make it unsafe to use. If you’re unsure, ask a professional for their opinion.
3. How should I price my horseback riding gear for consignment?
   • Research the prices of similar gear online and in other tack shops, and set your prices competitively. Factor in the commission the tack shop will take as well.

4. What should I do if my gear doesn’t sell during the consignment period?
   • The terms and conditions of the consignment agreement should outline what happens if your gear doesn’t sell. Some shops may offer to reduce the price or extend the consignment period, while others may require you to pick up your gear at the end of the consignment period.
5. Can I consign gear that’s not specifically designed for horseback riding?
   • While some tack shops may accept non-equine gear for consignment, it’s best to check with the shop beforehand to ensure they’re interested in selling your items. Keep in mind that specialized horseback riding gear will likely have a higher resale value than generic sportswear or outdoor gear.