Holding period
Also called hold period, resale hold
A holding period is a requirement in some cities and states that a dealer keep a purchased item, unaltered and unsold, for a set time after buying or reporting it, so police can check it against theft reports.
The length and the rules on what counts as altering the item differ by location, and some places have no fixed holding period at all. Where one applies, it delays your sale and adds to carrying cost.
Check the holding period in your city's guide and build it into your hold-time estimate when you price a purchase.
Related terms
Read more
Compliance guideWhat's specific to PhoenixCompliance guideWhat's specific to DallasCompliance guideWhat's specific to Fort WorthCompliance guideWatch dealing in Pennsylvania: precious metals, second-hand watches, and taxCompliance guideWhat's specific to Jersey CityCompliance guideWhat's specific to BostonCompliance guideWatch dealing in Washington: records, holds, and tax
Where this comes up
Pages on this site that use the term.
- Watch dealing in Nevada: licensing, records, and taxCompliance guide
- What's specific to ScottsdaleCompliance guide
- What's specific to TucsonCompliance guide
- Watch dealing in Florida: registration, records, and taxCompliance guide
- Watch dealing in Illinois: the Resale Dealers ActCompliance guide
- Watch dealing in Massachusetts: licensing, records, and taxCompliance guide
Learn the trade, not just the word
Plain-English guides to buying, pricing and selling watches as a business. Free, and written to be used at the counter.