Used textbooks can save a lot of money, but there are a few things to look out for when shopping for used textbooks:

1. Beware of International Editions

There isn’t anything wrong with international editions, per se, but you should know what you are getting. International editions are textbook editions that are printed for markets outside the U.S. Typically the international editions are paperback and are printed in black and white. Also, the paper may be a different grade than the U.S. edition. The major drawback I see with international editions is that you may not be able to list them for sale on Amazon. Amazon’s textbook policies prohibit the sale of international edition used textbooks, although I see them listed all the time. Still, you wouldn’t want to run afoul of Amazon or a buyer by passing off an international edition under the listing of the regular U.S. edition.

How to spot an international edition: First, the price – if the price is a lot lower than the competing offers, it may be an international edition. Another clue: it is shipping from India or some other country. Also, sellers are getting clever with how they list the fact that the book is an international edition, I have seen “ISE”, “IE”, and other abbreviations used. So, if the price looks too good, take a close look at the description and the location of the seller.

However, that being said, if you are OK with buying a cheaper version of the book that you may not be able to or want to resell, then an international edition may be the way to go.

2. Look carefully at the Edition Number you are buying
Another important consideration is the edition number of a used textbook. You should buy the edition that your instructor specifies. However, it never hurts to ask your instructor if an older edition will work (of course, don’t ask this if the instructor is one of the authors – they’d probably like you to buy a new copy of the latest version).

I have often seen the lowest price copy of a textbook listed in Amazon be an earlier edition used textbook listed under the current edition page. This practice is not allowed by Amazon, but I see it all the time. So, just be careful and remember if the price looks TOO GOOD, then take a second look and email the seller if in doubt.

3. Review the condition of the book

A used textbook that has been written all over and highlighted on every page may be cheap, but may not be what you are looking for. However, I did find some used law books when I was in law school that meticulous margin notes and I considered these books more valuable than a brand new copy.

So, before you jump on the copy with lowest price available, be sure to read the description and take note of the condition. If the description is just a generic one, then check the seller’s return policy to make sure you can get your money back if you are not happy.

4. Look at the seller’s recent feedback

Sounds obvious, but taking a look at the seller’s recent feedback ratings and comments can steer you to a good seller and a cheap used textbook and also steer you away from trouble.

5. Is there a picture of the actual book or is it a stock picture
If the seller is new or if there are any warning signs, then check the image of the book. It is best to have an image of the actual book for sale, especially with used textbooks, but most listing will use a stock image. If you are concerned abut any other factors and the image is a stock image, then pass on the book or ask the seller for an image of the copy for sale.

Also, the actual book image can be used to confirm the edition, even if you can’t read the edition number, you can look at the cover art and compare it with the cover art of the latest edition in Amazon.

Hope these tips help you make a good decision when buying used textbooks. There are plenty of bargains out there – I only buy used textbooks – but you do have to be cautious and not get caught up in a book with a price that looks too good to be true.

Tagged as: Textbook, textbook rental, used textbooks