How easy is it to buy and sell second-hand strollers?
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Second-hand strollers are a cheap and sustainable alternative to buying new, but there are important points to consider.
- Costs : Used models start at CHF 50, while new strollers can cost several hundred francs.
- Platforms : Popular online marketplaces in Switzerland are tutti.ch , ricardo.ch and Loopia relove , which enables handovers in Migros branches.
- Challenges : Safety and hygiene risks such as defective brakes, mold or missing safety standards are common.
- Buyer Tips : Check brakes, seat belts and date of manufacture (after 2015 for current standards).
- Tips for sellers : Clean the stroller thoroughly, take clear photos and provide honest information.
- Alternative : Rental services such as Loopi offer well-maintained strollers starting at CHF 29 per month – ideal for flexibility and safety.
Comparison of options :
| option | Cost | special features |
|---|---|---|
| new purchase | CHF 200-1,000+ | High initial investment |
| second-hand | CHF 50-300 | Quality often uncertain |
| Rent | CHF 29-99/month | Regular maintenance, flexible |
Whether buying, renting or selling – each option has advantages and disadvantages. Check your needs and decide accordingly.
Common problems in the second-hand stroller market
safety and hygiene concerns
Buying a used stroller can involve various risks, especially in terms of safety and hygiene. According to a study, about 63 percent of injuries in children under 5 years of age are due to problems with children's furniture and equipment. The following problems are particularly common:
| risk factor | Possible problems |
|---|---|
| Mechanical defects | Worn brakes, loose screws, damaged frames |
| Hygienic deficiencies | mold, bacterial infestation, hidden dirt |
| safety standards | Missing 5-point belts, non-EN-1888 compliant models, outdated safety mechanisms |
"Make sure the stroller folds and unfolds properly. Test each function according to the owner's manual to make sure everything works properly." - Joan Muratore, engineer at Consumer Reports
In addition to these risks, there are also challenges that arise specifically when purchasing via online platforms.
purchase risks
When purchasing online via platforms such as tutti.ch or ricardo.ch, some problems can arise that complicate the purchasing process:
- Misleading or incomplete product information , often with inadequate photos.
- Functionality is difficult to verify as the stroller cannot be tested before purchase.
- Insecure payment methods that increase the risk of fraud.
An important note: Pay attention to the date of manufacture of the stroller. Models manufactured after September 10, 2015 meet the current safety standards.
But it is not only buyers who face challenges – sellers also do not always have it easy in the second-hand market.
sales difficulties
For sellers, reselling a used stroller can be a significant hassle. The most common problems include:
- Time-consuming preparation : cleaning and detailed documentation of the condition.
- High competition : Many providers make it difficult to stand out.
- Viewing appointments : These require additional time.
- Fluctuating prices : The market is often unpredictable, making pricing difficult.
An accurate description of the condition is crucial as buyers have clear expectations of quality. Despite these challenges, resale remains an important step to conserve resources and use strollers sustainably.
How to buy and sell used strollers
checklist for buyers
Careful inspection is crucial when you are looking to buy a used stroller. Here are the key points to look out for:
| test area | What to look out for |
|---|---|
| Technical condition | brakes, wheels, joints, connections, folding mechanism |
| textiles | condition of the covers, completeness |
| documentation | instruction manual, date of manufacture |
Guide for Sellers
If you want to sell a stroller on platforms such as tutti.ch or ricardo.ch, you should consider the following tips:
- Preparation and description : Clean the stroller thoroughly and provide all important details such as age, repairs and length of use.
- Photos and documents : Take clear photos in daylight and include documents such as the instruction manual if available.
- Open communication : Be honest about the condition and usage history of the stroller.
"Hidden defects often lead to conflicts between buyers and sellers." - Consumer Reports [1]
Conduct secure transactions
To make the purchase or sale safe, you should note the following:
- Meet in a public place and check the stroller together.
- Use secure payment methods such as cash or TWINT .
- Record the handover in writing.
If the effort of buying or selling seems too great for you, rental services like Loopi can be a practical alternative. With prices ranging from CHF 29 to CHF 59 per month for standard models, they offer a flexible and risk-free way to use high-quality strollers.
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Rent as an alternative
Renting strollers is a practical option that can replace buying used. While there is often uncertainty about the condition and hygiene of the second-hand market, rental services guarantee products that are professionally maintained and thoroughly cleaned.
Why rent?
Here are the main advantages of stroller rental:
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Flexibility & Quality | Models can be changed, regular maintenance guaranteed |
| Security | Hygiene checks are carried out continuously |
| cost control | Monthly expenses can be planned |
rental services in Switzerland
Loopi is a leading provider of stroller rentals in Switzerland and offers flexible models starting at CHF 8 per month. The costs vary depending on accessories and stroller type. The minimum rental period is 6 months. All strollers are professionally cleaned and technically checked between rentals.
Cost comparison: New vs. used vs. rent
| option | Cost | special features |
|---|---|---|
| new purchase | CHF 200-1,000+ | High initial investment |
| Needed | CHF 50-300 | Quality often uncertain |
| Rent | CHF 29-99/month | Flexible and without risk |
In Switzerland, around 90,000 strollers are thrown away every year. Renting is a more sustainable alternative that takes both the environment and safety into account. This option is particularly suitable for families who value quality and flexibility.
"The demand for sustainable and flexible consumption options will continue to grow, making stroller rental increasingly attractive for environmentally conscious and cost-sensitive families." - Swiss consumer experts
Whether you buy, buy second-hand or rent, each option has its strengths and weaknesses. It's worth examining the options carefully before making a decision.
decision support
The choice between buying a used stroller and renting one depends largely on your personal requirements. Here are some points that can help you decide:
duration of use and budget
| usage profile | Recommended option | reasons |
|---|---|---|
| Short-term (< 6 months) | Rent | Flexible terms, no maintenance required |
| Medium term (6-12 months) | second-hand | Good price-performance ratio |
| Long-term (> 12 months) | second-hand or rental | Depends on your quality requirements |
quality and safety
If you buy a used stroller through platforms such as tutti.ch or ricardo.ch, you should check it carefully. Pay attention to:
- Functioning brakes and joints
- Undamaged belt systems
- No visible damage to the frame
- compliance with current safety standards
Practical aspects
Also think about storage, transport and the possibility of changing the model if necessary. Rental services such as Loopi offer professionally maintained strollers from CHF 29 per month. This can be particularly interesting if you prefer flexibility and guaranteed quality.
environmental friendliness
Both buying second-hand and renting help to conserve resources. Rental services also extend the lifespan of products through regular maintenance.
cost overview
| option | initial costs | Monthly costs | resale value |
|---|---|---|---|
| second-hand | CHF 50-300 | - | About 50% of the purchase price |
| Rent | No | CHF 29-99/month | Not applicable |
The cheapest option is not automatically the best. Comfort, safety and flexibility should also be taken into account.
Whatever you choose, it's worth thinking through some of the most common questions to make sure you make the right choice.
FAQs
What should you consider when buying a used stroller?
When checking a used stroller, you should pay particular attention to the following points:
| Area | Important aspects |
|---|---|
| Security | Year of manufacture from 2015, working brakes, sturdy belts and frame |
| hygiene | No stains or unpleasant odors, washable covers |
| mechanics | Joints, flaps and locks should work smoothly |
A detailed checklist can be found in the previous section.
How to buy and sell safely on online marketplaces?
To trade safely on platforms like tutti.ch or ricardo.ch, follow these tips:
- Share detailed photos and precise product descriptions.
- Be honest and show the item from different perspectives.
- If possible, arrange a personal viewing.
- Set a realistic price that takes into account the age and condition of the product.
What alternatives are there to buying second-hand?
Rental services are a good option and offer you well-maintained and tested strollers starting at CHF 29 per month. Advantages of these services:
- Flexible rental period from 6 months
- Ability to change the model if necessary
- Regular maintenance and tested quality
You can find out more about this in the section "Renting as an alternative".
What problems often arise when buying second-hand?
Common difficulties include hidden defects, hygiene uncertainties and problematic transactions.
"It is particularly important to check all safety features such as brakes, belt system and frame structure" [2]
With these tips and alternatives, you can make an informed decision for your family.