What Should You Do With Extra Diabetic Supplies? Sell or Donate?

It’s surprisingly easy to end up with more diabetic supplies than you actually need. Maybe your doctor switched you to a different brand. Maybe your insurance coverage changed. Or maybe you're managing supplies for a loved one who’s passed away or no longer uses them. Whatever the reason, if you’re staring at a cabinet full of perfectly good, unexpired diabetic supplies, you’re probably wondering: What now?

Throwing them away feels wasteful. Letting them expire isn’t much better. So the real question becomes: Should you sell them or donate them?

Let’s break down both options,  including how to do it safely, legally, and in a way that genuinely helps someone else.

Why Do People Have Extra Diabetic Supplies?

You’re not alone, this happens more often than you’d think. People end up with extra diabetic supplies for all sorts of reasons:

• Insurance or pharmacy changes that lead to automatic refills
• Switching medications or brands mid-treatment
• Over-ordering out of caution or during travel
• Lifestyle changes, like moving to a CGM or insulin pump
• Caring for a relative who no longer needs the supplies

In many cases, these supplies are still sealed, unexpired, and perfectly usable. Which makes it all the more frustrating when you realize they’re just collecting dust.

Option 1: Selling Extra Diabetic Supplies

Let’s talk about the route most people don’t realize is even possible — selling your extra supplies.

There are licensed and compliant companies that allow individuals to sell unused, unexpired, and sealed diabetic supplies, including test strips, CGMs, and insulin pens. These services exist because the resale of medical goods can help reduce waste and get affordable products into the hands of people who might otherwise struggle with cost.

Is It Legal?

Yes, with conditions. Selling your own supplies is legal in most U.S. states, so long as:

• You are the legal owner of the supplies (not stolen)
• The products are unexpired, unused, and still factory sealed

Why People Sell:

• Cash back for items that would otherwise go to waste
• Quick process — most companies provide pre-paid shipping labels and fast payouts
• Sustainability — it keeps good products in circulation and out of landfills

If you go this route, be sure to choose a platform that’s transparent, safety-focused, and well-reviewed.

For example, platforms likeDiabetics Trust allow users to get an instant quote, ship their products for free, and get paid within 1–2 business days. They inspect everything for quality and follow strict safety guidelines, which means you’re helping someone and putting a little money back in your pocket.

Option 2: Donating Extra Diabetic Supplies

If you’re more inclined to give rather than sell, donating can be just as impactful — especially for nonprofits or individuals in crisis.

Many people around the world, and even within the U.S., don’t have consistent access to life-saving diabetic supplies. Donating your extras can make a serious difference.

Where Can You Donate?

• Local charities or diabetes support groups (some collect donations for those in need)
• Free clinics and community health centers
• Overseas medical missions (especially in areas with limited access to insulin and test supplies)
• National programs that coordinate redistribution

It’s important to call ahead before donating. Each organization has its own criteria for what they can accept,  and they usually won’t take opened boxes, expired items, or anything with visible damage.

When Donation Makes Sense:

• You don’t need the money and want to help someone directly
• You have small quantities not worth the effort of selling
• You’re okay with slower processing and less tracking
• You’re donating in memory of someone or as an act of goodwill

Sell vs. Donate: Which Is Right for You?

Ultimately, the right option comes down to your situation, your values, and your goals. Here’s a quick way to decide:

Some people do both — sell part of their supplies and donate the rest.

If you're leaning toward selling but are unsure about the process, companies like Diabetics Trust have a FAQ section that explains everything from shipping to payment timelines. Their process is pretty straightforward and helps demystify the whole experience.

A Few Warnings: What Not to Do With Extra Supplies

Here’s the part that’s not often talked about — the don’ts.

• Don’t toss them in the trash. It’s not just wasteful — it could be dangerous for others if retrieved.
• Don’t sell to individuals online. Sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist are not regulated, and you could unknowingly break the law or endanger someone.
• Don’t keep expired supplies around. Even unopened, they can tempt misuse or cause confusion.
• Don’t assume all products are eligible for resale. Opened, stained, crushed, or re-glued boxes are usually rejected.

Final Thoughts: Whichever You Choose, Choose Responsibly

Having extra diabetic supplies isn’t a burden, it’s an opportunity. You can turn them into cash that helps during tough times or donate them to someone whose health depends on it. Either way, you’re doing something worthwhile.

Just make sure you choose a method that’s safe, transparent, and respectful of the products and the people who will eventually use them.

If you’re exploring the selling route, do your research. Companies like Diabetics Trust make the process simple and secure.

And if you’re donating, thank you, truly. You might not see the impact directly, but someone out there will feel it.