Key takeaways
- Cordless tools with batteries and chargers sell for far more than bare tools.
- DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, and Festool hold value; store brands sell cheaply.
- Vintage hand tools (Stanley planes, Starrett, Snap-on) can surprise you.
- Show tools working. Buyers want proof before they pay.
Power tools: the battery decides the price
A bare cordless drill might bring $15–$30; the same drill with two good batteries and a charger can sell for $50–$120 depending on the platform. List batteries with their amp-hour rating and test them under load. Corded tools from good brands still sell well to people who do not want to buy into a battery system.
Hand tools worth a second look
- Stanley Bailey and Bedrock planes, Disston saws, Starrett measuring tools.
- Snap-on, Mac, and Matco wrenches and sockets, even used.
- Complete socket and wrench sets in their original cases.
- Rusty coffee cans of mixed tools often sell well as lots to tinkerers and resellers.
Sell faster
- Clean off grime and dust; photograph tools running when you can.
- Group small tools into themed bundles ("plumbing kit", "woodworking chisels").
- Large equipment such as table saws, compressors, and welders belongs on local marketplaces with clear specs.
Frequently asked questions
Do used power tools sell at garage sales?
Yes. Tools are among the best-selling garage sale categories, and shoppers often arrive early specifically for them. Have an extension cord ready so buyers can test corded tools.
Prices and tips in this guide are general guidance for U.S. sellers based on typical resale markets. They are not a certified appraisal or a guarantee of what an item will sell for. For insurance, legal, tax, or high-value items, consult a qualified appraiser.