Why Facebook Marketplace Is Still King for 2nd-Hand Tools
When it comes to finding second-hand tools in Australia, no platform consistently delivers better bargains, more variety, and faster access than Facebook Marketplace. While garage sales, swap meets and antique stores all have their place, Marketplace remains the most active, accessible and opportunity-rich hunting ground for quality used tools. Here’s why it still reigns supreme.
Facebook marketplace, it is still KING!!
1. Massive Daily Listings — Local and Nationwide
Facebook Marketplace has more second-hand tool listings than any other platform in Australia. Because it’s easy to use and free to list, people constantly upload sheds, workshops and garage clean-outs. This means new tools appear every hour: chisels, planes, saws, vices, grinders, sharpening gear and entire tool chests. If you browse often, you’ll never miss a bargain.
2. Real People Clearing Out Real Sheds
Unlike curated antique shops or swap meets, Marketplace is full of real people selling tools they’ve owned for years. That’s where the genuine bargains live. Retired tradespeople, downsizing families and estate clearances all appear regularly often with tools priced far below their value simply because the seller wants them gone.
Everyday someone is tossing out junk. AKA Treasure!!
3. You Can See What’s Nearby Instantly
Marketplace’s location-based search makes it incredibly easy to find deals close to home. Whether you’re in Colac, Geelong, Warrnambool or Adelaide, you can scan your local area in seconds. This means less driving, more picking, and more chances to score tools before others see them.
4. Negotiation Is Easy and Expected
Facebook Marketplace is one of the few places where negotiating is normal. A quick, polite message can turn a good deal into a great one. Because sellers often want fast pickups, they’re more flexible with pricing — especially if you buy multiple items.
A quick, polite message can turn a good deal
5. You Can Inspect Tools Before Buying
One of the biggest advantages over eBay or online auctions is the ability to see and handle tools in person. You can check for cracks, pitting, straightness and overall condition before handing over money. This reduces risk and improves your chances of finding tools worth restoring.
6. Sets, Bundles and Job Lots Are Common
Marketplace is the best platform for bulk tool buys: boxes of chisels, mixed hand planes, saw bundles, or entire benches of gear. These bulk deals are where the biggest savings usually are, particularly for restorers or collectors.
7. Fast Turnover = Constant Opportunity
Marketplace moves quickly. A listing may get 20 messages in an hour if the price is right but that fast pace means new deals are constantly replacing old ones. Regular checking is rewarded heavily.
Finally! Enjoy the process. I began on Marketplace with some nervousness but by meeting people, having a chat and asking questions. I’ve always loved getting to know someone and hearing their story. And thanking them for some really great 2nd hand tools.
