Stop handling equipment if you observe arcing, burning, melting, or structural compromise. Follow current manufacturer instructions and engage appropriately qualified electrical professionals and the authority having jurisdiction for any removal, reinstallation, or live testing. This site’s submission process is not a safety inspection or installation guide.
What we buy and how we review submissions
We review qualifying Eaton (Cutler-Hammer) CH-family circuit breakers for purchase. Submissions with clear, original CH-family labeling and sufficient documentation are evaluated during our review. We do not guarantee purchase of every submission; each item is evaluated for authenticity, condition, and potential commercial fit.
This page explains the evidence we look for, how to describe condition, what photos to provide, and the important caveat about panel-family compatibility. Use this guidance to prepare a clear submission that speeds review and reduces follow-up questions.
- We review but do not automatically accept all CH-family breakers.
- Original CH-family labels are the primary proof we request.
- Provide quantity, exact part numbers, and condition details for each lot.
How to identify an Eaton CH-family breaker
The fastest way to get a prompt review is to show the original CH-family label on the breaker. Identification fields we rely on include the manufacturer mark (Cutler-Hammer or Eaton for identification only), the catalog or catalog-style number printed or stamped on the label, ampere rating, pole count, and any frame or series marking that includes CH in its designation.
Do not assume a physical form factor alone proves the breaker is a CH-family device. When submitting, list the exact alphanumeric catalog number you see, the pole count (single, two, three, etc.), and any date or lot codes that appear on the label. If labels are missing or illegible, note that in your submission — missing labels are a common reason for non-acceptance.
- Show the entire label in at least one photo — partial close-ups can miss critical characters.
- Record catalog number, ampere rating, and pole count exactly as printed.
- Note any additional marks such as UL, CSA, or batch codes (for identification only).
Describe condition honestly — what we need to know
Use clear, honest condition descriptors when you submit breakers. Common commercial descriptors include: new surplus (uninstalled in original packaging), like-new (minimal wear, original label intact), used serviceable (installed previously with normal wear), or damaged/unsafe (visible cracking, corrosion, or missing parts). These descriptors help us evaluate overall condition and marketability.
Be specific about signs of wear or damage. Items with the original CH-family label intact and no internal access damage are easier to evaluate. If parts such as handles, mounting feet, trip modules, or terminal screws are missing or modified, list those details. We may decline or request more information on items described as altered, painted-over, or repaired.
- New-surplus or original-box items — note packaging and any labels on boxes.
- Used serviceable — describe wear, operation history if known, and clean appearance.
- Damaged or modified — list missing components, physical damage, and evidence of overheating.
Photos and documentation we need with every submission
High-quality photos reduce review time. At minimum include a front label shot that clearly shows the CH-family catalog number, a picture of the breaker body showing pole count and handle orientation, and a photo of any packaging or manufacturer paperwork. If you have an entire panel label that lists compatible breaker families, include that as well — it helps with the panel-family caveat described below.
If you are submitting multiple breakers, include representative shots of the lot plus close-ups of any items that differ (different ratings, visible damage, missing parts). Files taken with good lighting, without heavy reflection obscuring the label, and using a steady camera are most useful.
- Front label close-up (fill the frame with the label).
- Full-body shot showing pole count and handle position.
- Packaging or box label and any manufacturer paperwork or purchase invoices.
- Panel label photo if breakers came out of a panel (shows panel-family information).
- Close-ups of damage or unique markings.
How to group and present multiple breakers
When submitting larger quantities, organize breakers by exact catalog number, amp rating, and condition. A simple spreadsheet listing quantity, catalog number as printed on the label, pole count, and a short condition note for each line speeds our review. Keep physically similar items together and label boxes or pallets so we can match photos to the spreadsheet.
Avoid sending mixed lots without clear labeling. Mixed lots often require follow-up and slow the review. If you have many variants of the same CH-family frame or trip type, prepare separate lines in your submission and include representative photos of each variant.
- Group identical catalog numbers together and provide quantities for each group.
- Use a spreadsheet with columns: catalog number, amp rating, pole count, condition, quantity.
- Label boxes/pallets to match your submission spreadsheet or photos.
Exact panel-family caveat — what to include and why it matters
Fit into a particular panel family is often the reason a buyer wants CH-family breakers. We do not determine or guarantee that a breaker is suitable for a given panel; compatibility depends on the exact panel family and the panel manufacturer's acceptance. If you know the exact panel-family name and number from the panel label, include that information and a photo of the panel label. This helps assess potential commercial fit but does not replace a field compatibility check by a qualified professional.
Do not rely on physical resemblance alone to assert compatibility. Where possible, provide the panel-family identifier exactly as it appears on the panel label, and include photos showing the breaker installed in that panel if available. Even with this information, our review is for purchase consideration only and not a confirmation of compatibility or safety for installation.
- Include a clear photo of the panel label showing the panel-family identifier when available.
- Provide exact panel-family text; vague descriptions reduce confidence.
- Understand that our purchase review is not a fit/compatibility certification for installation.
What we won’t accept and important safety limits
We generally require the original CH-family label on the breaker. Breakers with missing or obliterated CH-family labels, severely altered housings, or internal access damage are commonly ineligible. Items that show clear signs of overheating, extensive corrosion, or missing trip modules should be disclosed; such conditions frequently render a submission non-qualifying.
If you encounter breakers with evidence of arcing, charring, melting, or a strong burnt odor, stop handling them and consult appropriately qualified electrical professionals. Do not attempt energized testing or reinstallation yourself. Our process does not include on-site safety remediation or installation advice.
- We require the original CH-family label as primary identification evidence.
- We may decline breakers with missing labels, major physical damage, or unknown internal condition.
- Stop and seek qualified help if you see arcing, melting, or burning signs before moving or photographing equipment.
How to submit and what to expect next
Start a submission through our parent sell page and include the catalog numbers, quantities, condition descriptions, and the photos described above. A complete submission helps us perform a faster review. Remember that a website submission is not an appraisal, purchase order, payment authorization, or shipping approval — it is the first step in our buy-side review.
After you submit, we review the documentation and may ask follow-up questions. Final acceptance depends on our review, owner approval, and current demand for the specific CH-family items you offer.
- Include catalog numbers, quantities, condition notes, and the photos listed above with your submission.
- A submission is for review only and not a binding offer or inspection.
- Expect follow-up questions if labels are unclear or lots are mixed.