Last updated: February 2026
TL;DR — Key Takeaways
- Authentication is non-negotiable for designer resale — one fake ruins your reputation
- Louis Vuitton: Check date codes (pre-2021) or microchips (2021+), stitching, canvas alignment, and hardware
- Gucci: Verify serial number tags, G alignment on GG canvas, and leather quality
- Chanel: Authenticate hologram stickers (pre-2021) or microchips, quilting stitch count, and CC turn-lock
- Use professional authentication services ($10-$35) for items over $200
- Best services: Entrupy (AI-powered), Real Authentication, Authenticate First
- Platforms with built-in auth: Poshmark ($500+), eBay Authenticity Guarantee, Whatnot (select categories)
Why Authentication Matters More Than Ever
Let me be blunt: selling a fake designer item — even accidentally — can end your reselling career. Here's what happens:
- eBay suspends your account and withholds funds
- Poshmark refunds the buyer and debits your account
- Whatnot bans your seller account permanently
- Legally you could face trademark infringement charges (yes, really)
And the counterfeits have gotten scary good. I've been reselling for years and I've seen "super fakes" that fooled experienced consignment shop owners. The days of spotting a fake from across the room are over.
This guide teaches you the red flags to look for on the three most commonly resold luxury brands, plus when to invest in professional authentication.
Louis Vuitton Authentication Guide
Louis Vuitton is the most counterfeited brand in the world. Here's how to spot the real thing.
1. Date Codes and Microchips
Pre-2021 models: Every authentic LV has a date code stamped somewhere inside the bag. The format tells you when and where it was made.
- Format: Two letters + four numbers (e.g., FL0231)
- Letters = factory location (FL = France, SD = France, AR = France, etc.)
- Numbers = date. Read alternating: FL0231 = made in the 2nd week of 2031? No — read as month/year: 01/23 = January 2023
Common date code locations:
- Neverfull: On the interior side pocket tab
- Speedy: On the interior leather tab near the zipper
- Pochette: On the interior leather tab
2021+ models: Louis Vuitton replaced date codes with RFID microchips. You can't see them — they're embedded in the lining. You'll need an NFC reader app to verify them. The chip stores production data but doesn't display a visible code.
Red flags:
- No date code at all on pre-2021 items
- Date code format doesn't match known patterns
- Date code font looks wrong (LV uses a specific typeface)
- Date code placed in the wrong location for that model
2. Canvas Quality and Pattern
Monogram canvas:
- The LV monogram pattern should be symmetrical and evenly spaced
- On the Neverfull, the pattern should be right-side up on one side and upside down on the other (this is normal — it's one continuous piece of canvas)
- The canvas should feel coated and slightly textured, not plasticky or too smooth
- Color should be a warm brown with golden undertones, not orange or muddy
Damier Ebene canvas:
- Squares should be perfectly aligned at seams
- Color should be a rich brown with subtle contrast between light and dark squares
- Pattern should be continuous, not cut off awkwardly at seams
3. Stitching
Louis Vuitton's stitching is the gold standard:
- Always mustard yellow thread
- Always even and consistent stitch length
- Always angled stitching (not straight up and down)
- Never loose threads or uneven spacing
- Count the stitches on a specific seam and compare to known authentic examples
A single stitch out of place doesn't necessarily mean fake (LV is handmade, minor variations exist), but consistently sloppy stitching is a dead giveaway.
4. Hardware
- All hardware should be a consistent gold or brass tone
- Zippers should be smooth and heavy, branded with "Louis Vuitton" or "LV"
- Clasps should snap firmly
- Hardware should not be shiny chrome (authentic LV hardware has a warm gold tone that develops a patina)
5. Leather
- Vachetta leather (the tan leather on handles and trim) starts pale and darkens with age
- Brand new vachetta is a light, almost cream color
- It should feel supple and develop a honey patina over time
- If the leather looks plasticky or has a chemical smell, it's likely fake
Gucci Authentication Guide
Gucci is the second most counterfeited luxury brand. Here's what to check.
1. Serial Number Tag
Every authentic Gucci bag has a leather serial number tag, usually inside a pocket:
- Format varies by era, but modern Gucci uses a two-line format
- Top line: style number (6 digits)
- Bottom line: supplier code (4-6 digits)
- Tag should be heat-stamped (not printed), clean and precise
- Leather tag should be a consistent color and quality
Red flags:
- No serial tag at all
- Numbers that don't correspond to the style
- Tag appears printed rather than heat-stamped
- Tag leather quality differs from the rest of the bag
2. GG Canvas Pattern
The iconic GG monogram canvas has specific tells:
- The interlocking G's should be perfectly aligned and consistent
- The "G" faces should be rounded, not angular
- Pattern should be symmetrical across the center of the bag
- Canvas should have a slight texture, not feel like cheap vinyl
- The darker G should be slightly raised/textured compared to the background
3. Stitching
- Gucci uses consistent, even stitching
- Thread color matches the leather or canvas
- No loose threads or skipped stitches
- Edge stitching on leather should be very close to the edge and perfectly straight
4. Hardware
- Gucci hardware is typically a warm gold or antiqued gold
- Should feel heavy and substantial
- Engravings should be clean and crisp, not blurry or shallow
- Zippers are usually branded YKK or Lampo on older pieces, or unbranded on newer ones
- The "GUCCI" engraving on hardware should be perfectly proportioned
5. Dust Bag and Packaging
- Authentic Gucci dust bags are a dark brown/chocolate color with gold "GUCCI" logo
- Older dust bags may be lighter brown or navy
- Cards and booklets should be crisp with proper Gucci branding
- Box should be sturdy with magnetic closure
Important: Dust bags and packaging are easily counterfeited and sold separately on eBay. Never authenticate based solely on packaging.
Chanel Authentication Guide
Chanel is arguably the hardest brand to authenticate because the counterfeits are incredibly sophisticated. Proceed with extra caution.
1. Authenticity Card and Hologram Sticker
Pre-2021:
- Every Chanel bag came with a black authenticity card with gold borders and an 8-digit serial number
- Inside the bag, a hologram sticker with the matching serial number was affixed
- The sticker should shimmer and shift when viewed from different angles
- Serial number ranges correspond to production years (look up current databases)
2021+:
- Chanel replaced hologram stickers with embedded microchips
- No visible sticker inside the bag
- Chip can be scanned with NFC reader
- Authenticity card was also discontinued
Red flags:
- Serial number on card doesn't match sticker in bag
- Hologram sticker doesn't shimmer (flat printing = fake)
- Serial number is outside the range for the bag's stated age
- Sticker peels off easily (authentic ones are very firmly attached)
2. Quilting and Stitch Count
The diamond quilting on Classic Flaps is one of the most reliable authentication points:
- Stitch count: Authentic Chanel averages 9-11 stitches per inch on quilted sections
- Quilting alignment: The quilting pattern should align perfectly at seams, especially where the flap meets the body
- Puffiness: Authentic quilting has a consistent, pillowy puff. Fakes often look flat or over-stuffed
- Back pocket: The quilting should align on the back slip pocket (this is where many fakes fail)
3. The CC Turn-Lock
- The interlocking CC's should be precisely aligned
- The right C overlaps the left C at the top, and the left overlaps the right at the bottom
- Hardware should feel substantial and turn smoothly
- Edges should be clean and sharp, not rounded or rough
- The lock mechanism should click firmly
4. Chain Strap
- Authentic Chanel chain straps are heavy — significantly heavier than fakes
- The leather woven through the chain should be consistent in width
- Chain links should be uniform in size
- The chain should move freely and not feel stiff
5. Interior
- Interior lining on Classic Flaps is either burgundy (most common), black, or matching leather
- The "CHANEL" and "Made in France/Italy" stamps should be clean and proportional
- Interior pocket zipper should be smooth and branded
- Stitching inside should be as clean as outside
When to Use Professional Authentication Services
Always Authenticate When:
- Item costs over $200 — The $10-35 authentication fee is insurance
- You're not 100% confident — Trust your gut. If something feels off, get it checked.
- Buying from unknown sources — Estate sales, flea markets, storage units
- Selling on platforms without built-in auth — Protects you from buyer disputes
Best Authentication Services (2026)
| Service | Price | Speed | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entrupy | $10-15/item | Instant | AI + photo analysis |
| Real Authentication | $15-35 | 2-8 hours | Expert review |
| Authenticate First | $15-30 | 6-24 hours | Expert review |
| Legit Check | $10-20 | 1-24 hours | Expert + AI hybrid |
My recommendation: Use Entrupy for volume (it's fastest and cheapest) and Real Authentication for high-ticket items where you want a human expert's eyes.
Platform-Provided Authentication
Some platforms offer built-in authentication:
- Poshmark: Free Posh Authenticate for items $500+ (seller pays nothing extra)
- eBay: Authenticity Guarantee for watches, sneakers, and select handbags
- Whatnot: Authentication available for select categories during live shows
- The RealReal: Authenticates everything they sell (they're a consignment platform)
How to Spot Fakes When Sourcing
Red Flags at Thrift Stores and Estate Sales
- Price too good to be true — A real Chanel Classic Flap at Goodwill for $15? It happens, but rarely.
- Multiple "designer" items together — A pile of Louis Vuitton and Gucci in the same donation bag screams counterfeit haul.
- Chemical smell — Authentic leather smells like leather. Fakes often have a chemical/plastic/glue smell.
- Weight — Real designer bags are heavier than fakes. Pick them up. If it feels like a feather, be suspicious.
- "Made in China" labels — Louis Vuitton and Chanel do NOT manufacture in China. Gucci has some production in China for non-leather goods, but bags should be Italy.
Red Flags Buying Online
- Stock photos instead of actual item photos — Always request real photos
- Seller has multiple of the same "limited" item — Red flag
- No serial number or date code photos — Ask for them. If they refuse, walk away.
- Price significantly below market — Check sold comps first
- New account with designer items — Higher risk, proceed with caution
Building Authentication Into Your Workflow
If you're reselling designer items regularly, here's a workflow that protects you:
Step 1: Initial Inspection (2 minutes)
Quick visual check of stitching, hardware, leather quality. If it passes the eye test, proceed.
Step 2: Detailed Photo Documentation (5 minutes)
Photograph every authentication point:
- Serial/date code
- Stitching close-ups
- Hardware engravings
- Interior stamps
- Overall construction
Step 3: Self-Authentication Check (5 minutes)
Compare your photos against known authentic examples. Use resources like:
- Entrupy's authentication guides
- YouTube authentication videos (Lollipuff, Bagaholic Boy)
- PurseForum reference threads
Step 4: Professional Authentication (if needed)
Submit to Entrupy or Real Authentication for items over $200 or anything you're not 100% confident about.
Step 5: Include Authentication in Your Listing
- Show the certificate of authenticity in your listing photos
- Mention the authentication service used in the description
- This increases buyer confidence and justifies higher prices
The Business Case for Authentication
Authentication isn't just about avoiding fakes — it's a profit multiplier.
Without authentication:
- A Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM might sell for $600-$800 on eBay
- Buyer worry reduces bids and final sale price
- Higher return rate from suspicious buyers
With authentication:
- Same bag sells for $800-$1,100
- Buyers pay premium for verified authenticity
- Nearly zero returns for "not authentic" claims
- You can charge more because trust is built in
A $15 authentication investment can add $100-$300 to your sale price. That's the best ROI in reselling.
Protect Your Reselling Business
Selling designer items across multiple platforms means tracking authentication certificates, purchase provenance, and serial numbers for every item. That's a lot of data.
BundleLive helps resellers organize inventory with notes, track items across platforms, and maintain records that protect you if a buyer disputes authenticity.
Related articles: