The Hermès Birkin Chase: Why It’s So Hard to Buy One

When it comes to high-end designer bags, most people probably think of the Hermès Birkin as the most iconic item of all. The Birkin is a signature bag that represents the Hermès brand, and its rarity puts it at the very top of the luxury handbag world in terms of exclusivity.

Because of its lasting popularity, demand for the Birkin isn’t limited to those who genuinely want to carry it—many also seek it as a high-value investment. In this article, we’ll explain why it’s so hard to buy a Birkin, tips for increasing your chances of purchasing one, and recommended buying methods.

The reality is, getting your hands on a Hermès Birkin is extremely difficult. If you're considering making the Birkin a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, be sure to read on and use this article as your guide.

Why Is It So Hard to Get a Birkin Bag?

There are several reasons why the Hermès Birkin is so difficult to purchase: it can’t be mass-produced, supply simply can’t keep up with demand, and it’s widely regarded as an investment-grade item. Let’s take a closer look at each of these reasons.

Each Birkin Is Handmade by a Single Artisan

At Hermès, rather than dividing tasks among different workers, one artisan is responsible for crafting an entire Birkin from start to finish.

Because of this commitment to craftsmanship, it naturally takes a significant amount of time to complete just one bag. Of course, Hermès could assign tasks to different workers or use machines to speed up production and increase output, but that would compromise the brand’s commitment to artisan craftsmanship.

This meticulous, hands-on process is precisely what gives the Birkin its value. Not only is the bag visually stunning, but it’s also built to the highest standards of quality, functionality, and durability. For this reason, the Birkin cannot be mass-produced. The limited production capacity is one of the significant reasons why it’s so hard to buy.

Supply Can’t Keep Up with Soaring Demand

Since every Birkin is handmade, it’s impossible to produce them in large numbers. Especially in recent years—with added production challenges due to COVID-19—fewer Birkins have been made, while demand has continued to climb. It’s human nature to want what you can’t easily have, and this only adds to the desire for the Birkin. As a result, supply and demand are entirely out of balance.

However, Hermès has no intention of increasing production just to meet demand. Becoming a skilled artisan capable of crafting a Birkin takes years of training, and it’s not something that can be scaled quickly. Because of this, the supply-demand gap is unlikely to improve anytime soon.

Even in the resale market, Birkins remain rare and often command extremely high prices. All signs point to the Birkin’s popularity continuing to rise in the years ahead.

High Investment Value Makes It a Coveted Asset

Another reason for the Birkin’s immense popularity is its recognized value as an asset. As a product that cannot be mass-produced and is challenging to obtain, its scarcity naturally drives demand and price.

In many cases, Birkins are sold on the secondary market for more than their original retail price. Even bags that are unused or show only minor wear often trade at higher-than-retail values. Because of this potential for capital gain, many people pursue Birkins not as fashion items, but as investment opportunities.

While some are after the Birkin purely for its elegance and status, many are motivated by its financial value as a collectible asset. Ironically, this growing demand further drives up the bag’s value, especially since Hermès continues to keep production tightly limited.

5 Tips to Increase Your Chances of Buying a Birkin

Shop Hermès Handbags

Hermès Birkins are notoriously tricky to buy due to their limited production and high investment value. Demand far outweighs supply, making them one of the hardest luxury bags to get your hands on.

However, there are ways to improve your chances. Below, we’ll share five tips that could help increase your odds of securing a Birkin.

1. Visit Hermès Boutiques Regularly

When people want to buy a luxury bag, their first instinct is usually to head to a brand’s official boutique. However, it’s essential to understand that showing up at a Hermès store doesn’t mean you’ll simply be offered a Birkin.

There’s no official announcement of when or where Birkins will be restocked, so customers often visit multiple boutiques repeatedly in hopes of finding one. 

Unfortunately, the success rate of this method is very low. It requires a lot of patience and persistence, and it’s generally not the most effective approach. Even if you do happen upon a Birkin in-store, existing loyal customers with a history of purchases may be prioritized over new visitors.

2. Build Purchase History with Other Hermès Items

If your goal is to buy a Birkin from an official Hermès boutique, the most realistic approach is first to build a purchase history with other Hermès items.

Each Birkin is meticulously handcrafted, almost like a piece of art. As such, Hermès prefers to offer these exclusive bags to customers they trust. If you’ve already made purchases from Hermès in the past, you’re more likely to be considered for a Birkin.

Many Birkin owners got their chance only after investing in other products—scarves, belts, shoes, or jewelry—and establishing themselves as regular, loyal customers. That said, Hermès is a globally recognized high-end brand. Even their “entry-level” items can be expensive, so building a solid purchase history isn’t financially feasible for everyone.

3. Choose Boutiques with Larger Inventory

If you're aiming to buy a Birkin at a Hermès boutique, your chances are slightly better at locations that carry more stock. There are many Hermès stores around the world, but they vary significantly in size and inventory levels. Research the size of the boutique and the types of products they typically carry before visiting.

Larger, standalone stores (especially in city centers) usually have more stock than smaller locations inside department stores. Still, your chances of walking into a boutique for the first time and buying a Birkin on the spot are virtually zero. Because so many customers are vying for the same rare bag—and many of them have already made multiple purchases—Hermès is unlikely to offer a Birkin to a first-time visitor.

If you're committed to buying from a boutique, prioritize larger locations with a reputation for broader inventory.

4. Build Relationships with Hermès Sales Associates

Establishing good communication with sales associates can be key to eventually landing a Birkin. Because Birkins are produced in limited quantities and restock dates are not publicly announced, the odds of walking in at just the right time are slim.

However, getting to know a sales associate increases the chances they might tip you off about upcoming inventory or availability. In some stores, customers have built close enough relationships to exchange contact details with staff.

Of course, these relationships usually develop through making other purchases, so it’s not something that happens without effort. But if you can turn a staff member into an ally, it could be a significant step toward securing a Birkin.

5. Build a Long-Term Relationship and Earn VIP Treatment

You’ve likely heard of “VIP customers,” but Hermès doesn’t officially publish any VIP program. However, when deciding who to offer a Birkin to, Hermès does consider several factors—purchase history, customer longevity, personal appearance, behavior, and even social standing.

Given how rare Birkins are, Hermès is intentional about offering them only to customers they view as highly trustworthy. Simply buying a few items won’t elevate you to VIP status. You need to establish a long-term, high-quality relationship with the brand. Only then might you be treated as a VIP and considered for rare, high-demand items like the Birkin.

This path requires not only significant financial investment but also time, consistency, and a level of personal rapport that’s hard to quantify. Reaching VIP status is no easy feat—and it’s definitely not for everyone.

What’s the Best Way to Get Your Hands on a Birkin?

If you’re hoping to buy a Hermès Birkin, securing one through an official boutique is extremely difficult. To even be considered, you’ll need to build a long-term relationship with the brand by purchasing other items and maintaining trust with store staff—a path that isn’t feasible for everyone.

If you’re determined to own a Birkin, alternative options include purchasing through a resale app, buying internationally, or shopping at a trusted pre-owned luxury store. Below, we’ll explain each method along with essential precautions to keep in mind.

Buying Through a Resale App

Birkins are often listed on popular resale apps. Compared to buying internationally or at a consignment store, one advantage of using a resale app is that prices can be slightly lower. Since these are peer-to-peer transactions, there are fewer fees involved, which can make pricing more competitive.

However, buying through a resale app comes with risks. Since you're dealing with individual sellers, issues like receiving a counterfeit or a bag that looks different from the photos, maybe with hidden flaws such as scratches or stains, can occur. These situations are, unfortunately, not uncommon.

Sellers often include disclaimers in their listings, and many apps do not offer returns or refunds, meaning purchases are usually at your own risk. Even if you find the Birkin of your dreams, you do not want to buy it only to find out it was a fake. If you decide to buy through a resale app, make sure you fully understand the risks involved.

Buying Internationally

Another option is to buy a Birkin abroad. Europe, especially France (Hermès's home country), has a large number of official Hermès boutiques, and if you’re fortunate, you might find a Birkin available.

If you’re considering purchasing abroad, France is a strong candidate due to the number of boutiques. That said, many international locations require advance appointments, and you’ll need to gather local information ahead of time. You’ll also need to communicate with staff in the local language, and if any problems arise, resolving them could be more difficult than in your home country.

We strongly advise purchasing only from official Hermès boutiques when abroad. Buying from non-authorized sellers globally greatly increases the risk of counterfeits and complications.

Buying from a Trusted Pre-Owned Luxury Store

If you're serious about owning a Birkin, one of the most reliable options is buying from a trusted pre-owned luxury store. These specialty stores often carry Birkins that even frequent boutique shoppers never get the chance to see. Unlike at Hermès, there’s no need to buy other items—you can focus on the Birkin you genuinely want.

Still, caution is necessary. Some resellers may mark up prices significantly or offer questionable authenticity. That’s why choosing a reputable retailer is essential. Gallery Rare is a certified secondhand dealer, officially licensed by Japanese authorities to sell pre-owned luxury items. Our online store offers a secure shopping experience with a strong emphasis on authenticity.

Gallery Rare is also a member of the AACD (Association Against Counterfeit Product Distribution), a private organization committed to ensuring consumers can purchase luxury goods with confidence. Prices are set based on current market value.

Gallery Rare has an impressive selection of Birkins—many of which are rarely, if ever, seen at Hermès boutiques. If you’re looking for a Birkin, we highly recommend browsing the Gallery Rare official online store.

Since Birkins are such high-value items, it’s completely natural to feel unsure about purchasing from somewhere other than a Hermès boutique. But Gallery Rare offers full customer support, with free consultations by phone and 24-hour support via email.

Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to help, no matter how small your question may be.

What to Watch Out for When Buying a Pre-Owned Birkin

When purchasing a pre-owned Birkin, even from a trusted luxury store, it’s essential to stay alert and informed. Not all resellers offer the same level of transparency, so doing a bit of homework can make all the difference. Always make sure the store guarantees the authenticity of the bag. Look for retailers that offer certificates of authenticity, clear product photos, and reasonable return policies. Membership in respected industry associations, such as the AACD, is also a strong sign of credibility.

You’ll also want to take a close look at the bag’s condition. Reputable stores typically include detailed grading systems and high-resolution images that highlight any scratches, scuffs, or signs of wear. If the description is vague or lacking, it’s best to proceed with caution. Be especially wary of prices that seem too low—while pre-owned Birkins may cost less than those in boutiques, they still carry significant value. Significantly discounted prices could indicate counterfeits or hidden issues.

Before making a purchase, take time to research the retailer. Stores with a long history, solid customer reviews, or government-issued resale licenses generally offer a more secure shopping experience. It's also important to check the store’s return policy and customer support options. Reliable pre-owned retailers should provide clear information and have knowledgeable staff who can assist with questions about materials, serial numbers, or proper care. By paying attention to these factors, you can shop with confidence and find a Birkin that’s both authentic and timeless.

Conclusion: Why Is It So Hard to Buy a Birkin?

• Every Birkin is handcrafted by skilled artisans, meaning production is extremely limited.
• Despite the low supply, Birkins are highly valued as investment pieces, creating a significant imbalance between supply and demand.
• Buying a Birkin from a boutique requires more than just money—it demands a long-term relationship with Hermès, a history of prior purchases, and sometimes even VIP status, all of which require significant time and financial commitment.
• If you want a Birkin now, the most realistic route is through a trustworthy pre-owned luxury store.
• Gallery Rare offers a wide selection of Birkins that aren’t available in official Hermès boutiques.
  

In this article, we’ve explained why Birkins are so difficult to purchase and offered tips on how to get one. Buying from a boutique involves not just money, but also time, effort, and persistence—and even then, there’s no guarantee you’ll succeed.

Pre-owned luxury stores, on the other hand, let you shop specifically for the Birkin you want. If you’re hesitant about buying secondhand, Gallery Rare is a certified, reliable retailer with full support and a wide range of authentic items.

The Hermès Birkin is a timeless masterpiece—part fashion, part art, and something you'll treasure for life. Start your search today at the Gallery Rare official online store, and find the Birkin that’s meant just for you.

*Please note that the prices listed in our blog are for reference only and are converted from Japanese Yen (JPY) to US Dollars (USD) using the exchange rate of June 2025. Prices on the sales site include customs duties and shipping fees. Actual exchange rates may vary.