The Mule's Journey: How We Source Your Favorite Rare Kits
Have you ever browsed our store and wondered, "Where do they find all these incredible, out-of-production kits?"
It’s a question we get a lot. The answer is that every kit we sell has a story, and that story almost always begins with a much larger collection. Here at The Model Mule, we don’t just sell models; we actively seek out and preserve the stashes of fellow hobbyists. Here’s a look at how that journey unfolds.
The First Contact
It usually starts with an email or a phone call. Someone has a personal collection they’ve built over a lifetime, or perhaps they've inherited the extensive stash of a loved one. They’re looking for a good home for the kits—a place where they’ll be valued and passed on to someone who will appreciate them. As our FAQ says, we buy collections of all sizes, from a handful of boxes to a room stacked to the ceiling.
Fair and Honest Evaluation
Our next step is to work with the seller to understand what they have. It’s not just about counting boxes; it’s about identifying the rare gems, assessing the overall condition, and recognizing the years of passion that went into building the collection. We work with sellers to evaluate their collection together to determine a fair and honest price. Our goal is always a transparent and hassle-free experience for everyone involved.
Let the Mule Do the Heavy Lifting
Once we agree on a price, the real work begins. This is where our name truly comes into its own. We handle the logistics, arranging shipping right from the seller's doorstep—no heavy lifting on their end. Whether it’s a few boxes or a pallet, we ensure the collection is packed with care for its journey back to our workshop.
Inspection and Inventory
When a new collection arrives, it’s like Christmas for a modeler. We carefully unbox every single kit. Each kit is individually inspected, and we do our best to verify its completeness. We check the parts, look at the condition of the decals, and confirm the instructions are there. We then take actual photos of the exact model you’ll be receiving, so there are absolutely no surprises.
This meticulous process is why you can trust The Model Mule. We do the hard work of sourcing and verifying so you can focus on the fun part: building. Every kit you see in our store is a piece of hobby history, saved from a dusty attic or forgotten closet and ready for its next chapter on your workbench.