Does anyone here do consignment with local music stores?

[Rickett Customs]

The reason I ask, is because so far I have offers from 2 local music stores to do a consignment deal. Anyone doing the same?

 

[mikeyswood]

I am getting ready to do a build or two for a local retailer here. Not customer work, but builds that are up to me. He will then sell them for what he can and we will discuss future builds after that.

It can be a good way for you to build instruments that you like without having to walk a customer through the process.

 

[Dirk Diggler]

Also a great way to get your instruments in other hands.
Dirk

 

[Rickett Customs]

That's what I'm thinking too, just concerned about any "pitfalls" regarding consignment. Well that and "fronting the money" to get them out there, seems to make tiny delay right now, but I also know that in a small concentrated area where I'm at, there are no Lakland, Sadowsky, Mike Lull or Avella C types, so it may be to my advantage to get some mid to highend P and J basses out there.

 

[mikeyswood]

You've got to be willing to be out the cash ahead of time and make sure that your stuff is covered under the store's insurance.

A good relationship with the proprietor and one hanging on the wall could lead to commissions if you are accepting them.

 

[N.F.A.]

mikeyswood,
I didn't know you were a builder. Do you have pix or a website? Which store are you consigning them to? I am in your area and always interested in local luthier work.

 

[Din Of Win]

That's what I'm thinking too, just concerned about any "pitfalls" regarding consignment. Well that and "fronting the money" to get them out there, seems to make tiny delay right now, but I also know that in a small concentrated area where I'm at, there are no Lakland, Sadowsky, Mike Lull or Avella C types, so it may be to my advantage to get some mid to highend P and J basses out there.

This would be awesome!!

 

[Rickett Customs]

My main proposal for the 2 places is to do 4 and 5 string bolt ons, ranging from fender american standard to about Musicman prices.

 

[tjclem]

Years ago I had one in Bass Central for a while I got tired of it just sitting there so I put it back one-bay and it sold. Back then basses would move on e-bay, so that is how I sold the non custom orders. Now e-bay is dead so I am re-thinking my options.

Good topic.

 

[jmac]

make sure that your stuff is covered under the store's insurance.

This is good advice.

I would also know upfront who covers even moderate (wear and tear) damage. Some stores will let walk-ins just pound away on an instrument. This can cause wear; thus preventing someone from purchasing the instrument.

 

[Mike Shevlin]

I can't imagine anyplace better for consignment than Bass Northwest~ They have the most active website of any of the major bass only stores & I have sold several basses with them very quickly~ www.bassnw.com

 

[mikeyswood]

mikeyswood,
I didn't know you were a builder. Do you have pix or a website? Which store are you consigning them to? I am in your area and always interested in local luthier work.

I've been meaning to be more active 'round here.

 

[Musiclogic]

Consignment can bring you some business, but also many headaches if you do not have all the particulars hammered out first, as far as percentage to the dealer, hard bottom on price and display price so the dealer can haggle, along with the handling and breakage coverage. A consignment is a great to help get your name out, but if you do not CYA, prepare to take it there. Do your contract sale homework before you put anything in someones store.

 

[Jazzdogg]

I've sold a few furniture pieces through galleries, and they all seem to want a 50% split. A piece that I'd price at $2,000 will be priced at $4,000 by the gallery. Sometimes, these prices make buyers reluctant.

IMO, a written agreement is essential. I always require them to provide a certificate of insurance naming me as additional insured and loss payee in case of loss or damage. Even with insurance, sometimes pieces are damaged at the gallery and the owner tries to shrug it off. Make sure the contract covers all eventualities, no matter how unlikely they seem. I take digital photographs from all angles to document the condition when I deliver the piece.

Something else to think about - some galleries may propose you pay them a commission when a customer sees your work in their gallery and contacts you directly for custom work.