Surplus stock and excess inventory of 6,980 leather iPhone covers

This is a parcel of surplus stock we offered to our buyers: leather iPhone cases in brand-new condition. They had been selling through a national phone retailer's stores at $39.95.

What was in the parcel?

6,980 units in total:

The cases wrap around the phone and flip open to the screen, leaving the camera, headphone socket, volume buttons and mute switch free to use.

Why does excess inventory of phone cases build up?

Accessories are ordered to match a phone launch. When the next model arrives, retailers switch their range, and any leftover cases for the old model become discontinued stock almost overnight.

What makes it sellable, and what makes it hard?

Brand-new condition, an even spread across six styles, and a known retail price all help. Cases are small and cheap to freight.

The hard part is the clock. Each case fits one model, and the market for it shrinks as people upgrade. A parcel that's easy to sell one month can be hard work six months later.

Who typically buys it?

• Overseas buyers, where older models stay in use longer
• Discount chains and variety stores
• Wholesalers supplying market stalls and phone repair shops
• Online sellers

Our guide on who buys excess stock explains how each one thinks.

What should a seller with similar stock do?

Call the moment you know the range is being replaced.

1. Send us a stock list spreadsheet (SKU, description, quantity, cost or RRP if you're happy to share, and any best-before dates), a few photos and the location of the stock. Email it to john@coorey.com or call John on 0411 430 047. Include the phone model.
2. John discreetly surveys the market to find out what it's worth.
3. In most cases, he makes an offer to buy all of it.

See how we buy excess stock and our general merchandise page.