F.A.Q.
How do I know when my quote is finalized?
A quote is not finalized unless it includes a quote number. On the confirmation page, the finalized quote is available by clicking the "View Packing List" button.
How many copies of the quote should I bring to the buyback?
It is recommended that you print two copies of your quote or, at a minimum, 1 copy for every 6 books you plan to sell back. Multiple copies ensure that large orders are not lost if they are separated. We also suggest printing a copy for your personal records.
What do students need to bring to the buyback?
Students or parents should bring their books, along with two copies of their finalized buyback quote, to the school on the day of the buyback. A table will be set up to drop off books with a school representative.
When will I be compensated for the books I sell back?
Once your books have been processed at the MBS Direct warehouse, you will receive an email confirming their value. A check will then be sent to your mailing address. Please allow approximately 2 to 4 weeks for the entire process to occur.
What is an ISBN number?
ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number. It is a unique identification number assigned to every book sold anywhere in the world.
Where do I find a book's ISBN number?
An ISBN is usually located on the back of a book, or you can find it in the inside front cover of your book near the copyright date. It looks like this:
What if I can't find the ISBN number?
If you purchased your book from MBS Direct and you can't find your book's ISBN number, you may need to use the MBS Book Number to sell back your book. The MBS Book Number is located on the sticker that is on the back of all books MBS sells, and does not have an ISBN. The MBS Book Number is eleven characters, both beginning and ending with a letter. The MBS Book Number is printed beneath the barcode on every MBS label. The MBS Book Number looks like this:
How do you determine buyback values?
Buyback values are based on anticipated future demand for a book and current stock level. If your book does not currently have a buyback value, check back closer to the end of the next term. It may have a value at that time.
What is your Customer Loyalty Program?
When you buy from your online bookstore, you'll receive a buyback notification email at the end of the term with instructions on how to sell your books back online. When you create a quote online, for each book that is in-demand, you'll receive top-dollar, plus an additional buyback bonus for being a loyal customer.
Will you accept books in any condition?
No. MBS Direct does not accept any books with:
- Stains or water damage
- Missing, torn or loose pages
- Missing, torn or loose cover
- Excessive writing or marking
- A broken spine
- Torn or damaged binding
You will not receive payment for books that do not meet our minimum standards of quality.
Do I need to send the CD that came with my textbook?
Although we prefer to receive the software that originally came with your textbook, it is often not required. Our system has different prices for books with and without software. Please refer to your buyback quote for details. If the item listed has "w/CD", "w/Study Guide", "w/Companion", etc., please include the supplemental materials.
I have a few extra books that are not on my buyback quote. Can I send them to you in case you need or want them?
No. Any items that are received with a buyback quote and are not listed, can cause delay in processing, and items will be discarded.
What happens if I send materials with no buyback value?
Books submitted to us for buyback that do not meet our minimum standards of quality will either be discarded or returned to you at your expense. If there is no value on your items, you will receive notification in the form of a letter or email. You have 1 week to request to have the materials returned to you. A replacement copy will be shipped at your expense. You may not receive the original book you returned.
