As of the writing of this article, our online store boasts over 8,000 individual records available for sale, with hundreds more listed every day. Each record is carefully cleaned, graded, photographed, and listed for sale on both our website here and our eBay store.
At its core, our business is simple: we buy records in bulk and sell them individually. However, while this process may seem straightforward, each step requires significant time, effort, and quality control. Many sellers focus on curating rare or highly desirable records, leveraging their deep knowledge of specific genres to maximize profit. At Genesee Vinyl, we take a different approach. We recognize the value in everyday records and strive to make them available at reasonable prices. To accomplish this, we have developed efficient processes that allow us to offer a wide variety of records at low prices without compromising quality.
Our operation can be broken down into five key steps: Acquisition, Cleaning, Grading, Listing, and Fulfillment.
Acquisition
We primarily purchase records in bulk, whether from personal collections or stores looking to offload excess inventory. We prioritize building respectful relationships so that both parties benefit from each transaction. Our acquisitions can range from as few as 2,000 to over 10,000 records at a time. Due to the unpredictable nature of bulk inventory availability and our high processing volume, we maintain a backlog of about one month’s worth of incoming inventory. This ensures smooth and consistent operations regardless of supply fluctuations.
Cleaning
After an initial sort to remove severely damaged records, each record undergoes a proprietary cleaning process. This process effectively removes dirt, dust, and grime from the grooves while preserving the delicate surface of the vinyl. After cleaning, records are dried in a specially designed chamber to eliminate all traces of moisture, preventing any degradation of the vinyl or label while in storage.
Grading
Under strong inspection lighting, we carefully examine each record for scratches and defects. We use the industry-standard Goldmine grading system to assess the overall condition of the record. Our goal is to provide accurate descriptions so customers can make informed purchasing decisions. We aim for every record to meet or exceed the condition stated in its listing.
Listing
Once graded, records are photographed on both sides in a custom-built lighting and photography booth. These images, along with details such as artist name, song titles, and grade, form the listing. Each record is then placed in a protective sleeve and stored in our temperature- and humidity-controlled warehouse to preserve its integrity until sold.
Fulfillment
When an order is placed, the corresponding record is retrieved from storage, securely packaged in a sturdy cardboard box, and shipped directly to the customer. We take great care to ensure that every order is safely packed for transit, allowing records to arrive in the best possible condition.
Constant Improvement
Efficiency and quality are at the core of our business. From our humble beginnings—listing records using just a smartphone—to today’s streamlined process, we have continuously refined each step. Many aspects of our workflow involve custom-built equipment designed specifically for our needs. This commitment to improvement has allowed us to scale while maintaining high standards.
At Genesee Vinyl, our mission is to make vinyl records accessible and affordable to collectors and music lovers alike. Whether you're searching for a nostalgic classic or exploring new sounds, we’re dedicated to providing a wide selection of quality records at fair prices.