Frequently Asked Questions

Is all this stuff actually in stock?

Yes - unless marked as "SOLD."  We update the database once a day - typically in the evening shortly after closing the store.  We keep sold items on the site for two days after they sell. 

You may call us (206-763-6929) to get up-to-the-minute availability of a particular item - when calling please have the "Item Number" ready.

Why are some of the descriptions so vague?

We process large volumes of used building materials daily, and attempt to add new items to our website the same day they arrive. To keep up, we rely on an intake process that is highly automated. Our system only requires items get categorized. Beyond that, further description is optional.  Sometimes pictures are added, or listings are modified after the initial posting.

Please do not expect us to be able to provide much more information about an item over the telephone or via e-mail. Usually, all that we know is posted. You are welcome to call us at 206-763-6929, but often your best recourse if you need more information is to visit our store and see the item in person.

Where is the shopping cart?

We do NOT sell items directly from our website.

Why not?

This website is designed to be a catalog of items currently available at our retail store in South Seattle. Our store and this website are oriented toward local customers. Due to the unique nature and variable condition of many of our items, we recommend that purchases be made in person at our Seattle store so that items may be personally inspected for suitability.

I am ready to buy something. What do I do?

Great! Come on down...

Our store is located at 7953 Second Ave S in Seattle. We are open 7 days a week from 9-5. We accept major credit cards (Visa, MC, Amex and Discover),  checks and cash.

What about phone orders?

We do accept phone orders on a limited basis* (206-763-6929 x0). Although,as stated above, we strongly encourage you to personally inspect all items before purchasing.

We accept credit card or store credit as payment for phone orders.

All phone orders must be picked up at our yard within two days. Items purchased by phone that are found upon inspection to be unsuitable may be returned (within 90 days) but will be charged our standard 10% return fee.

*We do not guarantee the ability to process your order via telephone. Certain hard-to-locate items may be unavailable for phone purchase. At rare times, we may be unable to process phone orders due to staffing levels or abnormally busy store traffic.

Can I hold items over the phone?

You may hold items until 4:30 p.m. the following day. Depending on the item, we may require a deposit of $5 per item. In some situations, we may not be able to process a hold over the phone. Bottom line:  call to inquire.

Can I store my purchase at Second Use until I'm able to pick it up?

Yes. Customers can store items at Second Use for two days after their purchase, free of charge. After two days, a daily storage rate will apply. The cost is $5/day or $20/week for items that fit on one pallet or cart. For larger items that we must move to our separate storage facility, customers must pay a transfer fee of $50, and then standard rates apply. Unusual items that require a lot of work to move- for instance, a chandelier- will be subject to a $35/hour handling fee, plus 35 cents/square foot/day to store.

Does Second Use ship items?

Yes. Items that are easily shippable via UPS or FedEx Ground are marked "Shipping Available." Unfortunately,  many of the items we sell are bulky and quite expensive to ship. Larger items are still shippable (just more difficult). Please contact us with any specific inquiries. For more information about shipping and delivery, visit Shipping & Delivery on the website.

What is the best way to contact Second Use?

Phone is far better than e-mail for a quick question about our inventory. Our number is 206-763-6929.

We respond to e-mail as time allows. If you must e-mail with questions about inventory seen on this site (or those not seen here). Our e-mail address is seattle@seconduse.com. Please do not expect a rapid response.