Clearance Sale vs. Sales: What Are the Differences?
The terms “sale” and “clearance” are often used interchangeably, but in reality, they are two very different mechanisms in the world of commerce. Whether you’re reselling toys or looking to buy products at discounted prices, it’s essential to clearly distinguish between the two practices .
Here are the fundamental differences between clearance and sale , and why clearance offers more flexibility for both retailers and consumers.
🏷️ 1. Sales are regulated by law
In France, the sales:
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Take place twice a year (winter and summer sales)
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Are limited in time (4 weeks max)
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Must concern products already in stock before the start of the period
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Allows selling at a loss , which is prohibited outside of these periods
👉 This mechanism is reserved for established traders , and subject to strict rules .
📦 2. Clearance can take place all year round
Unlike sales, clearance:
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Not time limited
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May concern end of series, overstocks, unsold items
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Can be made by a wholesaler, reseller or brand
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Does not depend on specific authorization
💡 This is a free trade operation, used to quickly liquidate stocks .
🧸 3. Clearance products are not necessarily on sale
A clearance product is not “sold off”: it is often:
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in perfect condition
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new, in packaging
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simply removed from the classic circuit (change of packaging, end of collection, etc.)
➡️ The price is attractive because the supplier wants to free up space , not because the product is of lower quality.
💼 4. For resellers, destocking is more strategic
As a professional or reseller:
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You can buy clearance items all year round.
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You don't need to follow an official schedule.
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You have access to sorted, classified, sometimes exclusive lots
🟢 At Simcha.fr , clearance is our specialty. We offer new, licensed toys, in real stock in France , for Vinted, eBay, Leboncoin, and physical retailers .
🚚 5. Logistical conditions are different
Criteria | Sales | Clearance sale |
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Calendar | Set by the State (2x/year) | All year round |
Selling at a loss | Only allowed on sale | Not authorized |
Target | End customer | Resellers or individuals |
Logistics | Shop stock | Pro lot, often in bulk |
Regulation | Very supervised | Free, subject to compliance with standards |
✅ In summary
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Sales : limited in time, regulated, intended for the general public
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Clearance : free, all year round, perfect for profitable resale
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Simcha.fr offers regular clearance sales of new, licensed toys, available immediately.
📦 Check out our selection of clearance toys at www.simcha.fr — fast delivery, fixed costs of €4.99 via Mondial Relay, free for orders over €500 incl. VAT.