Well-known online shop ThriftBooks Global has launched its new BuyBack program. The retailer aims to revolutionize how customers interact with their bookshelves and advance sustainability in the book industry. Users may now sell their unwanted books to ThriftBooks directly and get paid cash or shop credit in exchange for them.
The BuyBack program represents a step toward sustainability by giving old books a second life. ThriftBooks accepts books that meet specific criteria: they must be in good condition, free from water damage, has intact spines, and has minimal wear and tear. This criterion ensures that only high-quality books re-enter circulation, aligning with the company's commitment to sustainability.
Ken Goldstein, Chairman and CEO of ThriftBooks Global, emphasized the program's role in completing its circular economy vision. He noted the complexity of developing algorithms that ensure a seamless customer experience, honed through extensive beta testing and customer feedback. Goldstein anticipated that ThriftBooks BuyBack would set a new industry standard for reverse commerce.
The program is accessible to all, including non-ThriftBooks customers who can create an account to participate. Existing customers can utilize their "SellBack Shelf" within their account to see offers for books previously purchased from ThriftBooks. Non-customers can input ISBNs to check potential offers for books not originally purchased from the retailer.
For customers who plan to sell their books, packing guidelines are set to ensure that books reach ThriftBooks safely. All accepted items should be placed into one sturdy box, and the provided Free Prepaid Shipping Label should be used to avoid rejection. To ensure payment, any extra items beyond those listed on the packing slip should not be included.
Thriftbooks suggests using a secure box with adequate padding to protect the books during transit and securely tape it closed. It is crucial to mail the package within seven days of receiving instructions to avoid cancellation of the BuyBack.
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Upon receiving and verifying the books, ThriftBooks issues payment promptly. Payment is expected within approximately 20 business days, factoring in up to 14 days for shipping and 5-6 days for processing. Payments via PayPal will be deposited directly into the customer's linked account. For those opting for ThriftBooks Store Credit, payments will reflect in the "My Account" section under "Account Balance," providing a convenient way to use credits toward future purchases.
The service is available for shipments from the continental United States, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, and AFO/FPO/DPO addresses. Certain book types are excluded from the BuyBack program, including Instructor Edition Textbooks, Examination Copies, and sexually explicit or offensive materials. Additionally, books marked "Not for resale" or lacking an ISBN are not eligible.
Founded in Seattle in 2003, ThriftBooks Global has been a critical player in the used book market, having sold over 250 million books. ThriftBooks buys books in bulk from various sources such as libraries, thrift stores, book drives, and individual sellers, sometimes acquiring thousands of titles at once or even entire truckloads. They sell new and used books, with used books graded by quality to indicate whether they are gently used or have more significant wear, ensuring transparency for buyers before purchase.
The BuyBack program underscores their commitment to sustainability and customer-centric innovation in online book retail.
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