Best Places To Sell Camera Lenses In London

If you're looking to sell camera lenses in London, there are several options available to you. London Camera Exchange, Park Cameras, and Harrison Cameras all offer trade-in services for camera lenses and other photography equipment. These companies provide competitive quotes, free collection services, and secure payment methods. Additionally, Camera Exchange Store and Worldwide Camera Exchange are online platforms that allow you to sell camera lenses and other camera gear by providing quotes based on the current market value.

Online marketplaces for selling camera lenses

There are several online marketplaces that cater to those looking to sell camera lenses. These platforms provide convenient and efficient ways to sell used photography equipment, often offering features such as instant quotes, free shipping, and fast payment methods. Here are some of the notable online marketplaces for selling camera lenses:

Camera Jungle:

Camera Jungle is a specialised platform for buying and selling used cameras, lenses, and accessories. They offer a straightforward selling process that includes getting an instant online quote, arranging insured shipping, and receiving payment directly into your bank account. Camera Jungle does not charge any fees, and they prioritise making the transaction quick, safe, and secure.

MPB:

MPB is a popular online marketplace for buying and selling used photo and video equipment. They provide an efficient platform for sellers, offering instant quotes, free shipping, and fast payments. By signing up for an MPB account, sellers can access exclusive offers and stay up-to-date with creative news and original content.

Park Cameras:

Park Cameras offers a trade-in service for camera gear, including lenses. They provide an online form for sellers to submit details about their equipment and receive a quote. Park Cameras offers free collection for equipment valued over a certain amount, and they also have physical stores where you can part-exchange or sell your items. Their process is designed to be simple and hassle-free, with excellent customer service.

These online marketplaces provide London-based photographers with convenient options for selling their camera lenses and other photography equipment. Each platform has its own unique features and benefits, so it is worth exploring them to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

London-based camera shops that buy used equipment

If you're looking to sell your camera equipment in London, there are several shops that buy used gear. Here are some options:

Park Cameras

Park Cameras is an independent audio and video retailer with a showroom in London, near Oxford Circus. They offer an extensive range of used cameras, lenses, and accessories from brands like Canon, Leica, Nikon, and Fujifilm. They provide a simple trade-in service, where you can fill out the details of your gear on their website and receive an offer. They also offer free delivery on orders over £50.

London Camera Exchange

London Camera Exchange is a well-known camera shop with a branch on the Strand in London. They deal in a wide range of new and used camera equipment, including lenses and accessories from various brands. They also offer trade-in and part-exchange services, and you can visit their store to browse their selection.

The Classic Camera

The Classic Camera has been operating in the heart of London's photographic retail district for over 20 years. They specialise in rangefinder and mirrorless cameras, with a focus on brands like Leica, Zeiss, and Voigtlander. They welcome trade-ins and part exchanges, and also offer repairs and servicing for mechanical and digital cameras. You can find them near the British Museum.

Harrison Cameras

Harrison Cameras is another option, offering an extensive range of second-hand cameras and equipment, including DSLR, compact, rangefinder, and film cameras, as well as lenses and tripods. They provide a 12-month warranty and a 14-day money-back guarantee on their used gear. While their physical store may not be in London, they do offer free delivery for orders over £50.

CameraWorld

CameraWorld has a store in London and also offers to buy used camera equipment. While their website does not provide specific details about their trade-in process, you can give them a call or visit their store to discuss selling your camera lenses and equipment.

Getting a quote for your camera lens

There are several options for getting a quote for your camera lens in London. Here are some detailed instructions for a few of the options:

Park Cameras

Park Cameras offers a trade-in service for various camera equipment, including lenses. Here's how to get a quote from them:

• Visit the Park Cameras website.
• Find the Sell or Part Exchange section and click on the link to their dedicated trade-in page.
• Complete the online form with details about your lens.
• Submit the form to receive an instant quote.
• If you accept the offer, you can arrange for free collection or visit one of their stores.

Worldwide Camera Exchange

Worldwide Camera Exchange is another option for selling your camera lens. Here's how to get a quote from them:

• Contact Worldwide Camera Exchange via phone or email to provide details about your lens.
• Receive an immediate quote from them.
• If you're happy with the price, you can send them your lens, bring it to them, or arrange for a free home pickup (GB only).
• They will inspect your lens, and if they're satisfied, they'll pay you immediately.

Harrison Cameras

Harrison Cameras offers a competitive buy-back service for camera equipment, including lenses. Here's how to get a quote from them:

• Visit the Harrison Cameras website.
• Find the Sell Camera Equipment section and click on the link to their quote request form.
• Complete the form with details about your lens, including its condition.
• Submit the form and expect a reply with a quote within 60 minutes on a working day.
• If you accept the offer, they will arrange a free DPD collection for UK mainland customers.
• They will pay you via secure bank transfer.

Camera Exchange Store

The Camera Exchange Store provides a platform to sell your old camera lenses. Here's how to get a quote from them:

• Visit the Camera Exchange Store website.
• Choose your lens make and model from the provided links or complete the online form.
• Submit the form to receive a quote within 24 hours.
• They will provide you with an order number and postage instructions, along with a Freepost address.
• Send them your lens, and once they've inspected it, they will transfer the payment to your bank account.

Packaging and posting your camera lens

Now that you've found a place to sell your camera lens in London, it's time to package and post it safely and securely. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the lens

Before you start wrapping, make sure you remove the lens from the camera body and detach any lens caps, filters, straps, memory cards, batteries, and flashes. Keep the body cap attached to protect the mirror and sensor during shipping. Lithium-ion batteries must remain inside the camera.

Step 2: Wrap the lens

Gather some bubble wrap and start wrapping your lens. It is recommended to use 2-3 layers of bubble wrap to ensure adequate protection. Secure the bubble wrap with packing tape, and then place the wrapped lens inside a padded lens case or the original box if you still have it. This adds an extra layer of protection during transit.

Step 3: Choose the right box

Select a sturdy cardboard box that is roughly twice the size of your lens or camera. This will allow you to add enough packing material around the wrapped lens for maximum impact protection. Make sure the box is not too big, as you want a snug fit to prevent the lens from moving around.

Step 4: Pack the box

Place a two-inch thick layer of packing material, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts, at the bottom of the box. Then, put the wrapped lens in the centre of the box. Add more packing material around the sides and on top until the box is full and the lens is immobilised. Close the box and give it a gentle shake to ensure that nothing is moving around inside.

Step 5: Seal and label the box

Use strong adhesive tape to securely seal all seams, corners, and edges of the box. Attach a shipping label if required by your chosen courier service. You can also add a "Fragile" or "Handle with Care" label to ensure your package is handled with extra care.

Step 6: Choose a shipping service

Select a reputable shipping service such as USPS, UPS, or FedEx, offering tracking and insurance for valuable items. Compare prices and services to find the best option for your needs. You may also want to consider using a service that offers "Signature Required" upon delivery for added security.

Step 7: Drop off or schedule a pickup

Take your packaged lens to your chosen shipping service and get a receipt as proof of shipment. Alternatively, you can schedule a pickup service for added convenience, although this may incur an additional cost.

Step 8: Track your shipment

Keep an eye on the progress of your shipment using the tracking information provided by the shipping service. This will allow you to know when your lens has been delivered safely to its destination.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your camera lens is packaged securely and posted safely to its new owner in London.

Payment methods for selling camera lenses

When selling camera lenses, there are a few different payment methods that you can use. The specific method will depend on the company or individual that you are selling to. Here are some common payment methods for selling camera lenses:

Bank Transfer

Some companies, such as Harrison Cameras, Camera Exchange Store, and Park Cameras, offer payment via secure bank transfer directly to your account. This method ensures that the payment goes directly to you and is often completed within a few working days.

Cheque

In some cases, companies like Camera Exchange Store may offer the option of sending you a cheque for the agreed-upon amount. This method may take longer than a bank transfer, depending on the mailing system and the time it takes for the cheque to clear.

Cash

If you prefer cash as a payment method, you can opt to sell your camera lenses to local stores or individuals. Companies like Worldwide Camera Exchange, which has a store in London, offer cash payments after inspecting and valuing your equipment.

Part Exchange

Another option for payment is to part exchange your camera lens for other equipment. Many companies, including Harrison Cameras, London Camera Exchange, and Park Cameras, offer this option. You can use the value of your old lens to upgrade to a new one or choose other photography gear that suits your needs.

Frequently asked questions