I have found one rather old post talking about this issue and I was wondering what the current status is like. Nowadays, there are rather “international” services, like MPB, KEH, or B&H that make it super easy to sell your gear (especially when you have multiple items). Unfortunately, though, it is difficult to get information about what countries they support. MPB told me (after getting a quote) that they do not accept offers from Japan (or essentially outside the EU) due to Tax and import VAT issues.
I haven’t tried the other services yet but due to expensive shipping from Japan in general, it can be rather costly to send gear to KEH or B&H. MPB even told me to send my gear to citizens in the EU first (if I have any contacts). Afterward, they could buy my gear. So I would be happy for any suggestions. To give you a price range, the MPB quote was 1000EUR (\~140k JPY). I assume I get much less from local buyers here.
4 comments
Sofmap? Mercari?
Look at how much stores sell the same stuff used for here. Should give you a rough idea of how much people are willing to pay if you sell privately. Fujiya and MAP camera used items are browsable online.
IIRC fujiya had a list of buying prices online but I haven’t looked for many years now.
It really depends on what you are selling. Digital cameras are probably easier as you can sell them to most recycle stores or camera stores. But there is a caveat, they will only give you about 30% of market. It is better to sell on mercari etc.
For film cameras, there are certain stores that will buy, and the prices can be good, though they will commonly offer about 50% of market. Map camera, Fujiya camera, Shimbashiichi and kitamura will all buy.
Amazon is an option too.
One thing to note though: even if you find a service, selling used gear in Japan can be a pain given how particular they are about secondhand items.
A “good” condition here is like near-mint back home, IME.