Serviceable vs. unserviceable: what you can sell and how
Every used aviation part falls into one of two categories: serviceable (approved for installation) or unserviceable (cannot be installed but may have other value — core exchange, display, restoration).
A serviceable part must come with release documentation — in Europe, that means an EASA Form 1 (or JAA Form 1 for older parts) signed by an appropriately authorised Part-145 maintenance organisation. Without a Form 1, a part cannot be legally installed on an EASA-registered aircraft.
Unserviceable parts can still be listed and sold — for core exchange programmes, experimental aircraft builders (where regulations differ), or display/restoration use. Label them clearly as UNSERVICEABLE in the listing title and description.
What makes a good parts listing
Include the part number (P/N), manufacturer, and the aircraft types it's approved for. Buyers will search by part number, so accuracy here directly affects whether your listing is found.
State the traceability documentation clearly: Form 1 present, last installed on [aircraft type], removed due to [reason — e.g., upgrade, aircraft retirement]. Buyers need to understand the part's history.
Photos: all sides of the part, any placard or data plate, the Form 1 or release document. For avionics, include a photo of the equipment face showing the software/database version if relevant.
Pricing aviation parts
New list price (NLP) is your ceiling. Most used serviceable parts trade at 40–70% of NLP depending on age, condition, and demand. Parts for popular types (Cessna 172, Piper PA-28) have more buyers and hold value better than obscure type-specific parts.
Check what similar parts are selling for on VoloMarket, ePlane, and controller.com. For avionics, the manufacturer's refurbished price is a useful benchmark — buyers will compare your price against what a factory refurb costs with a warranty.
Parts without Form 1 documentation should be priced at a significant discount to serviceable equivalents — 20–40% depending on whether the buyer will need to pay for an incoming inspection and release.
Shipping and handling
State clearly whether you'll ship nationally, within Europe, or internationally. Aviation parts attract customs scrutiny — proper harmonised tariff (HTS) codes and clear documentation avoid delays.
Pack carefully. Avionics are expensive and fragile. Use anti-static bags for electronic components, bubble wrap, and double-boxing for anything over €500. Photograph the packaged item before shipping — this protects you in any dispute.
For high-value parts, require insurance and signature on delivery. DHL Express and FedEx both have aviation logistics programmes with appropriate handling.