Selling a Guitar or Other Instrument on Reverb: Fees, Listing and Shipping
A guitar in the closet, a keyboard under the bed or an amplifier in the garage can be worth more than you think. Musical instruments often sell best to people who know what they are looking for. Reverb is a website built just for that. This guide covers how it works, what it costs, and how to ship an instrument safely. Selling a used instrument could help cover a month of a $20 bill, though what yours is worth depends entirely on the instrument. Prices vary.
What Reverb is
Reverb is an online marketplace for new and used music gear. Buyers are mostly players and collectors, so a listing with the right details can reach people who want exactly your item.
What it costs, as of November 2026
- Listing is free. Reverb says creating a listing and removing an unsold one cost nothing.
- Selling fee: 5% of the item price, including shipping, with a minimum of $0.50 and a maximum of $500.
- Payment processing fee: 3.19% plus $0.49 per order, according to Reverb’s seller page.
- Reverb says you keep about 91.8% of the selling price after those fees. Extra fees, such as shipping labels bought through Reverb, can apply.
As an example, a $200 sale would carry a $10 selling fee and about $6.87 in processing, leaving roughly $183 before shipping costs. Fees can change, so check the current page before you list.
Listing step by step
- Find the brand and model, usually on the back of the headstock, the back panel or a sticker.
- Search Reverb for the same model and look at what similar items sold for, not just what sellers are asking.
- Take clear photos in good light from the front, back, sides and any scratches. Our guide to listing photos with your phone can help.
- Describe the condition honestly. Mention repairs, replaced parts and wear.
- Set a price. Reverb says nearly half of used gear sales begin with an offer, so leave a little room.
Packing and shipping
Reverb’s guitar shipping guide suggests a sturdy box with about 2 inches of padding on every side, loosened strings, paper between the strings and fretboard, and no loose movement when you shake the box. It also says never to ship a hardshell case without an outer box. Photograph the packed box, keep your receipt, and add insurance, either Reverb Safe Shipping or carrier insurance. For general tips, see shipping a sold item without the stress.
A heavy amplifier or a large item may be easier to sell locally. If you do, follow the advice in selling to neighbors safely.
Taxes and benefits
Selling a used personal item for less than you paid is generally not taxable income, but rules differ and regular selling can count as a business. General information only. Check irs.gov or ask a tax preparer. If you receive Social Security, SSI or Medicaid, ask the agency whether a sale affects you.
