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

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, cleaned, and any wear or missing parts are clearly stated. At De BrickPlaats, we carefully inspect every set.

Used LEGO® is more popular than ever: it’s cheaper, 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 called secondhand LEGO®) are sets, minifigures, or loose bricks that have been owned before. The quality of LEGO® is so high that bricks still fit perfectly after years. A used set is therefore almost indistinguishable from new, provided it is well checked and cleaned.

Is used LEGO® complete?

That depends on the seller. At De BrickPlaats, we carefully check every set for completeness. If something is missing, we clearly mention it in the product description. If a piece is unexpectedly missing, we fix it. This way, you know exactly what you’re buying in advance.

When buying, watch out for these points:

• Is completeness stated? A good seller indicates whether the set is complete and if the box and instructions are included.
• Is the condition described? Think about whether it’s built or unbuilt, with or without box, and any wear.
• Can you order missing parts? At a store with loose parts, a missing brick is easily resolved.

New versus used LEGO®: what should you choose?

Both have advantages. For comparison:

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

Check out our wide range of used LEGO® sets or browse the Bargain Corner for extra affordable sets without completeness guarantee.

Are used LEGO® sets clean?

At a good store, yes. We clean and check used sets before they go on sale. Want to clean secondhand LEGO® yourself? Read our guide on cleaning LEGO® without damage.

Where can you buy reliable used LEGO®?

Choose a seller who checks sets, honestly describes the condition, and allows returns. De BrickPlaats is a physical LEGO® store and webshop in Oss with a rating of 9.6/10 and thousands of satisfied customers. You can order online or pick up in the store. Looking for something old or rare? Check out our vintage LEGO®.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is secondhand LEGO® as good as new?

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

Do I get the box and instructions?

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

Can I return used LEGO®?

Yes, you have 30 days to reconsider. The conditions can be found on our returns page.

Can I sell used LEGO® myself?

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