Visiting thrift stores and hunting for physical media is one of my favorite hobbies. I love looking through hundreds of DVDs or VHS and experiencing the joy of finding one specific movie or show that I have been searching for. Though sometimes I have to come to terms with the fact that certain movies or shows are just not likely to find out in the wild. When that happens, I turn to online secondhand marketplaces to help me find exactly what I am looking for. I have compiled a list of the best places to buy movies online to find all of the physical media that is on your must-have list.
eBay is probably the most well-known online secondhand marketplace. Here are some tips I would recommend if you are new to purchasing from eBay. Always check out the seller and their return policy. If they have a review percentage in the 90-100 range, it is a safe bet that you are purchasing from a trustworthy seller. Also always thoroughly check the photos and description of the item listed. On the off chance you receive an item that does not match the description there is no need to worry. eBay has a great buyer protection policy that makes returns and refunds easy.
WhatNot is another online secondhand marketplace that has risen to prominence in the last few years. Unlike eBay, WhatNot is a live auction format. Where anyone can hop on a livestream and auction off items in real time. I personally have not used WhatNot, but I know many people who love the platform and have found great used physical media this way.
Mercari is an online secondhand marketplace that offers a wide variety of items to purchase from all over. In many ways, Mercari functions similarly to eBay. When looking for physical media, I recommend following the same tips I gave for those shopping on eBay. They also offer buyer protection to ensure that you are receiving the correct items and in the condition that was expected.
Facebook Marketplace is an online secondhand marketplace that you can access through having a Facebook account. Something that sets Facebook Marketplace apart is that it utilizes your location to show you items local to you. This allows for same day pick up. You are also able to check out the seller ratings. Which is great for helping to weed out listings. I personally have had great luck with finding not only physical media but also CRT TVs on Marketplace.
Orbit is primarily know for selling a selection of new releases from various physical media boutique companies. I am including them in this list because they also offer a wide selection of used physical media (including VHS). I love the opportunity to support small businesses whenever possible so I definitely recommend checking them out! One thing to note is that a large majority of what they offer is imported physical media. This is great if you are looking for something that may not have received a US release or had a limited release. It is important to keep in mind that imported physical media will often require a region free player. So, make sure to check the listing before you purchase. If needed you can purchase a region free player on their site or elsewhere.
One last thing to note when you buy used movies online is that there will often be many listings on each site for the same or similar items. Add items you are considering to your watchlists. This way you can receive notifications if a seller drops the price or makes you an offer. Also don’t be afraid to counteroffer. The worst they can say is no and you might get a better deal out of it.
Over the years, movies have given me room to express myself and have helped me to find community. Currently I find myself watching primarily horror/thrillers (David Cronenberg and David Lynch have my heart) but I also love Studio Ghibli and have a special place in my heart for Star Wars and the MCU. When I’m not watching movies, I’m either thrifting physical media, adding to my Scarlet Witch collection or working my retail job.
My Favorite Movies: The Mummy (1999), Clue, Howl’s Moving Castle, IT (1990), and Mamma Mia