Buying Used LEGO®: What to Look for in a Good, Complete Set

By Josse de Wijs
2 min read
Waar moet je op letten bij het kopen van gebruikte LEGO®?

Buying used LEGO® is safe and affordable as long as you pay attention to completeness, condition, and the seller. At a reliable store, sets are checked and cleaned, and any wear or missing parts are clearly mentioned. At De BrickPlaats, we carefully inspect every set.

Used LEGO® is more popular than ever: it is more affordable, more sustainable, and often the only way to get older or sold-out sets. Still, buyers sometimes hesitate: is the set complete? Is it clean? In this guide, we answer those questions and help you make a good choice.

What exactly is used LEGO®?

Used LEGO® (also known as second-hand LEGO®) consists of sets, minifigures, or loose bricks that have previously been owned. LEGO® quality is so high that bricks still fit perfectly after years. As a result, a used set is almost indistinguishable from a new one, provided it has been properly checked and cleaned.

Is used LEGO® complete?

That depends on the seller. At De BrickPlaats, we carefully check every set for completeness. If anything is missing, we clearly mention it in the product description. Should a brick nevertheless be missing, we will resolve it. This way, you know exactly what you are buying in advance.

When buying, pay attention to these points:

  • Is completeness stated? A good seller indicates whether the set is complete and whether the box and instructions are included.
  • Is the condition described? This includes whether it is built or unbuilt, with or without a box, and any signs of wear.
  • Can you order the part separately? At a store with loose parts, a missing brick can easily be replaced.

New versus used LEGO®: which should you choose?

Both have their advantages. For comparison:

  • New LEGO®: sealed, with box and instructions, ideal as a gift or for collectors who care about the box.
  • Used LEGO®: more affordable, more sustainable, and often the only option for sold-out or older sets. Perfect for building and playing.

Browse our extensive range of used LEGO® sets or explore the Bargain Corner for extra-affordable sets without a completeness guarantee.

Are used LEGO® sets clean?

At a good store, they are. We clean and check used sets before putting them up for sale. Would you like to clean second-hand LEGO® yourself? Then read our guide on cleaning LEGO® without causing damage.

Where can you buy used LEGO® with confidence?

Choose a seller that checks sets, describes their condition honestly, and accepts returns. De BrickPlaats is a physical LEGO® store and online shop in Oss, with a rating of 9.6/10 and thousands of satisfied customers. You can order online or collect your purchase in the store. Looking for something old or rare? Then take a look at our vintage LEGO®.

Is second-hand LEGO® just as good as new?


LEGO® lasts for decades. A checked and cleaned used set builds and fits together almost like new.

Do I get the box and instructions included?

That varies by set and is always stated in the description. Instructions can also be ordered separately from us.

Can I return used LEGO®?

Yes, you have a 30-day cooling-off period. You can find the terms and conditions on our returns page.

Can I sell used LEGO® myself?

Of course. We buy LEGO® at a fair price. See how it works on our buying page.

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