The pre-owned luxury market is booming globally — but in Canada, it carries unique advantages that make it one of the smartest and most sustainable ways to shop. Whether you’re eyeing a vintage Louis Vuitton Speedy, a timeless Prada tote, or a pair of classic Levi’s 501s, buying resale in Canada delivers value, accessibility, and peace of mind.
Here’s why more Canadians (and savvy international shoppers) are turning to the resale market — and why it makes sense to shop closer to home.
1. Save on Import Duties & Taxes
If you’ve ever ordered luxury from the U.S. or overseas, you know the pain of unexpected duties, tariffs, and brokerage fees. In 2025, new changes to U.S. de minimis thresholds mean U.S. buyers now pay duties on almost every import — making cross-border shopping far less appealing.
When you shop resale in Canada, you avoid many of these surprises:
- Transparent pricing in CAD
- Lower or no duties on domestic shipping
- Support for Canadian-based resale businesses that understand our tax structure
(Source: Government of Canada – Import/Export Duties Overview, 2024)
2. Support Sustainability, Locally
Buying pre-owned isn’t just about saving money — it’s about reducing waste and extending the life cycle of high-quality goods. Canadians are especially eco-conscious: according to a ThredUp 2024 report, 65% of shoppers say sustainability factors into their purchase decisions.
By choosing resale in Canada, you’re reducing the carbon footprint associated with international shipping and supporting a circular economy within your community.
3. Access to Vintage & Scarcity
Canada may be a smaller market than the U.S. or Europe, but that often works to the advantage of resale buyers. Many rare or vintage finds surface here, often in excellent condition, thanks to Canada’s smaller resale ecosystem.
From ‘90s Chanel to Levi’s denim from the 1970s, Canadian resellers are curating items that may not be as widely available elsewhere. Shopping here means you’re getting access to unique inventory without the same level of global competition.
4. Authenticity You Can Trust
One of the main concerns in resale is authenticity. Canadian luxury resellers like HOUSE OF 1880 are investing in technology and expertise (like Entrupy authentication) to ensure every piece is genuine. That means peace of mind — and protection of your investment.
(Source: Vogue Business – Entrupy and the Future of Fashion Authentication)
5. Invest in Value
With luxury brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton raising retail prices multiple times per year, resale has become one of the only ways to lock in value before the next price increase. A Chanel Classic Flap that cost $5,800 CAD in 2019 now retails for over $13,000 CAD in 2025.
Buying resale in Canada allows you to secure pieces that not only retain value but may also appreciate over time.
(Source: Business of Fashion – Chanel Pricing Strategy 2024)
Related Reads:
Sources / Citations
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Government of Canada – Import/Export Duties Overview
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/trade-commerce/tariff-tarif/menu-eng.html -
ThredUp 2024 Resale Report
https://www.thredup.com/resale -
Vogue Business – Entrupy and the Future of Fashion Authentication
https://www.voguebusiness.com/technology/entrupy-authentication-fashion-resale -
Business of Fashion – Chanel Luxury Strategy 2023
https://www.businessoffashion.com/articles/luxury/chanel-luxury-strategy-price-increases-2023/