How to Post an Effective Classified Ad

Top Tips for Selling Used Tools Online

Whether you’re a farmer, artisan, or small business owner in South Africa, selling your used tools online is one of the quickest ways to turn idle equipment into cash. But not all listings are created equal. If you want your gear to sell fast and for the best price, you’ll need more than just a few blurry photos and a vague description.

This complete guide on how to post an effective classified ad gives you proven tips for selling used tools online—from writing attention-grabbing titles to choosing the right platforms and avoiding common pitfalls.

Why Sell Used Tools Online?

Tools — from welders and compressors to grinders and cordless drills — hold strong value in the second-hand market. Here’s why online classifieds work so well in South Africa:

• High demand for affordable, durable tools
• Many tradespeople, farmers, and DIYers prefer quality used gear over cheap new imports
• Fast-moving platforms like AgriGear Connect, Facebook Marketplace, and Gumtree make selling local and simple

But you’ll only succeed if your ad stands out and builds trust.

1. 📸 Take High-Quality Photos

Photos are the most important part of your listing. Buyers make decisions in seconds — and visuals speak louder than words.

✅ Do:

• Use a clean, clutter-free background
• Photograph the tool from all angles (front, side, back, and key components)
• Show close-ups of any wear or defects (be transparent!)
• Include photos of accessories, cables, or manuals

❌ Don’t:

• Post blurry, dark, or overexposed images
• Use stock images or pictures of similar tools

Tip: Take photos in natural light — early morning or late afternoon gives the best results.

2. 🧲 Write a Catchy and Clear Title

Your ad’s title is the first thing people see when scrolling. Make it clear, specific, and keyword-friendly.

Good examples:

• “Makita Angle Grinder 900W – Excellent Condition”
• “Bosch Cordless Drill 18V with 2 Batteries & Charger”
• “Petrol Generator 5.5kVA – Reliable Power Backup”

Bad examples:

• “Selling tools”
• “Drill”
• “Cheap stuff for sale”

Include the brand, tool type, condition, and maybe a standout feature (like “low hours” or “like new”).

3. ✍️ Write a Detailed and Honest Description

Buyers want to feel confident. Give them useful, specific info in the description, including:

• Brand and model
• Power specs (voltage, wattage, size, etc.)
• Condition (any wear, missing parts, recent repairs)
• Age (approximate purchase date or usage hours)
• Reason for selling
• Any extras (like cases, manuals, attachments)
• Location and collection/delivery info

Example description:

Selling a Makita DHP485 18V cordless hammer drill. Comes with 2 x 5Ah batteries, fast charger, and hard case. Lightly used on a farm workshop for about 6 months. Batteries hold full charge. One small scratch on the handle, otherwise in great condition. Based in Heidelberg, Western Cape. Prefer collection but can courier nationwide at buyer’s cost.

4. 🎯 Choose the Right Platform

Here are the best classifieds platforms for selling used tools in South Africa:

✅ AgriGear Connect

Specialized for tools, machinery, and equipment. Attracts farmers, technicians, and agri SMEs.

✅ Facebook Marketplace

Great reach, especially in local towns or farming groups. You can respond quickly via Messenger.

✅ Gumtree South Africa

Still popular for tools, especially in cities and towns with active DIYers or contractors.

✅ OLX / Bidorbuy / Takealot 3rd-party sellers

Less common for tools but worth considering for broader reach or if selling as a small business.

Pro Tip: Post on more than one platform — but keep your prices and details consistent to avoid confusion.

5. 💰 Price It Right

This is where many sellers go wrong. Price too high and it won’t sell. Price too low and you leave money on the table.

How to price effectively:

• Check what similar tools sell for on your platform of choice
• Factor in your tool’s age, condition, and accessories
• Be open to negotiation, but have a minimum price in mind
• Mention if your price is “negotiable” or “not negotiable” clearly

Example:

Asking R2,800 negotiable. New price is R4,500. Lowball offers will be ignored.

6. 🕐 Post at the Right Time

Timing matters. Post your ad when buyers are most active:

• Evenings and weekends (when people are off work)
• Start of the month (when most have been paid)
• After or during load shedding schedules for tools like generators, inverters, or solar gear

Repost or bump your ad if it gets buried.

7. 📱 Respond Quickly and Professionally

Once your ad is up, be ready to respond fast — especially if you include a WhatsApp number.

When a buyer contacts you:

• Answer questions clearly
• Offer to send extra photos or videos
• Be honest about the condition
• Confirm collection/delivery details

Don’t ghost buyers or delay replies — you’ll lose sales.

8. 🤝 Build Trust

Many buyers hesitate because of scams. Build credibility by:

• Using your real name and photo (especially on Marketplace)
• Including your physical location
• Offering to meet at a safe public place
• Providing proof of purchase or serial number if requested

On platforms like AgriGear Connect, verified sellers or repeat listings build more trust over time.

9. 📦 Offer Delivery or Meet-Up Options

Selling locally is easier — but if you’re in a remote area, offering delivery widens your market.

Options include:

• Paxi (Pep-to-Pep delivery service)
• PostNet-to-PostNet
• Courier Guy / Fastway / Aramex
• Local bakkie courier services (for bulkier tools)

Make sure the buyer covers shipping and always get proof of payment first.

10. 🔁 Relist or Refresh Regularly

If your tool hasn’t sold in 1–2 weeks:

• Lower the price slightly
• Update the description or photos
• Repost the ad with better timing or on a new platform

Persistence pays off. Even old tools can sell if the ad looks professional and the price is fair.

Final Thoughts

Selling used tools online is a great way to free up space, earn extra cash, and help others access affordable gear. But to succeed, your ad must be:

• Clear (honest title and description)
• Compelling (great photos and fair price)
• Responsive (quick communication)
• Trustworthy (build buyer confidence)

Use these tips for selling used tools online to get your items noticed, get inquiries faster, and sell with confidence.

Want to list your tools for free?
Check out AgriGear Connect — South Africa’s new go-to platform for second-hand farm tools, equipment, and workshop gear.