From Hobby to Hustle: How to Make Money Selling Trading Card Games

Ever thought about turning your love for trading card games (TCGs) into something that actually makes money? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a collector with extra cards or someone looking to start a business, selling TCGs can be more than just a side gig—it can be a full-fledged venture. Let’s break down how you can get started, what challenges you might face, and the strategies that can set you apart.

Why Selling TCGs is More Than Just a Business

Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!—these games have been around for decades, and their popularity keeps growing. People aren’t just playing; they’re collecting, trading, and investing. The demand for cards is high, which makes this a great time to jump into the market.But selling TCGs isn’t just about making a profit. It’s about being part of a passionate community, helping collectors complete their sets, and giving competitive players access to the cards they need. And let’s be real—if you love these games, there’s something special about turning that passion into a business.

Starting Out: The Essentials You Need to Know

Before you list your first card for sale, here’s what you need to have in place:

1. Understand the Market

Not all cards are equal. Some hold value because they’re rare, others because they’re staples in competitive play. Do some research. Check sites like TCGplayer, eBay, or mtgetsy.com (a great place to buy and sell MTG cards). Knowing which cards are in demand helps you price correctly and make smart purchases.

2. Use Your Own Collection First

If you’ve been playing for a while, you likely have cards collecting dust. Start by sorting through them. Some could be worth more than you think. Tools like Delver Lens or the TCGplayer price guide can help you check prices quickly.

3. Get the Right Supplies

Selling cards means shipping them safely. You’ll need:

Sleeves – Protects the surface of the card

Toploaders – Sturdy plastic cases for high-value cards

Bubble mailers – Keeps cards safe in transit

A scale and label printer – If you’re shipping in bulk, this will save timeInvesting in good packaging now avoids bad reviews later.

Where to Find More Cards to Sell

Once you’ve sold some of your own collection, you’ll need more inventory. Here’s how to restock:

1. Buying Collections

People sell off their entire collections all the time. You can find deals on Facebook groups, eBay, Craigslist, or even local game stores. Look for undervalued cards, but always check pricing before making an offer.

2. Drafts and Sealed Events

If you play, sealed formats (like booster drafts) can be a great way to pick up valuable singles while enjoying the game.

3. Trading with Players

Card-for-card trades can build your inventory without spending cash. If you know what’s in demand, you can trade less valuable cards for ones that sell faster.

Pricing Cards the Right Way

Selling cards isn’t just about listing them at random prices. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Research Current Prices

Sites like TCGplayer, eBay, and mtgetsy.com can show you what cards are selling for. Market prices fluctuate, so check before listing.

2. Condition Affects Value

Mint cards always sell for more. If a card has scratches or edge wear, be honest about it. Buyers don’t like surprises.

3. Factor in Costs

Don’t forget about platform fees, shipping, and taxes. These eat into profits if you don’t account for them in your pricing.

Shipping and Customer Service: The Keys to Success

1. Protect Your Cards

Always use sleeves and toploaders for expensive cards.Add cardboard or extra padding for protection.Use tracking for high-value shipments.

2. Be Transparent

Describe card conditions honestly and set clear shipping expectations.

3. Good Service = Repeat Customers

People remember good sellers. Fast shipping, fair pricing, and good packaging lead to repeat buyers.

The Real Perks of Selling TCGs

Yes, selling cards can make money. But beyond that, it’s fun. You’ll meet other collectors, help players complete their decks, and stay involved in a game you love.So, if you’ve got extra cards sitting around, why not give it a shot? Start small, learn the ropes, and who knows? You might end up turning this into a thriving business.For Magic: The Gathering singles, check out https://mtgetsy.com/—a great place to buy and sell MTG cards.Happy selling!