Authenticate Chanel Before You Buy
Chanel refuses to authenticate for resale buyers.
You need to know what to look for yourself.
Why Chanel Authentication is Tricky
Chanel is notoriously protective of their brand—which ironically makes authentication harder for legitimate buyers:
- Chanel won't authenticate bags for you. They say only they can certify authenticity, but they won't do it for resale.
- They don't participate in blockchain authentication like other LVMH brands. Their chip tech is proprietary.
- Counterfeiters have gotten sophisticated: fake serial stickers, fake authenticity cards, even fake receipts.
- Post-2021 bags have no visible serial number—only an embedded microchip that requires special equipment to verify.
How Spottable Helps
1. Listing Analysis
Our AI examines listing photos for telltale signs of counterfeits: quilting alignment, CC logo construction, hardware quality, and stitching patterns.
2. Price Intelligence
We know what real Chanel sells for. Pricing that's too good flags the listing for extra scrutiny—even if photos look decent.
3. Verification Checklist
You get a personalized guide: exactly what to inspect on the specific Chanel style you're buying, with photos of what to look for.
4. Seller Risk Score
New accounts, suspicious patterns, refusal to share details—we flag seller behaviors that indicate potential scams.
Red Flags Our AI Catches
These listing-level signals often indicate a fake or scam before you even inspect the bag:
Suspiciously Low Price
Chanel holds value. 40%+ off "retail" is almost always fake.
Missing Serial Sticker
Pre-2021 bags must have holographic serial sticker inside.
Won't Show Interior
Refuses to photograph the inside, serial number, or authenticity card.
"Gift" Story
"Never used, was a gift" often covers up lack of purchase history.
Ships Only
Won't meet in person to let you inspect before paying.
Fake Receipt
Counterfeiters now fake receipts too. Paper alone proves nothing.
What to Check In Person
When you meet the seller, here's what authentication experts look for. Spottable generates a version of this tailored to your specific bag style.
Understanding Chanel Serial Numbers
Pre-2005
7 digits. First 1-2 digits indicate year. No hologram on earliest versions.
2005-2020
8 digits. Holographic sticker with X-cut pattern. "Chanel" printed on SIDE of sticker only.
2021+
Microchip only. No visible serial number. Chip requires Chanel's proprietary scanner.
Important: A 9-digit serial number is ALWAYS fake. Chanel never made 9-digit codes.
Most Counterfeited Chanel Bags
Be extra careful with these high-demand styles:
Classic Flap
The iconic quilted bag with CC turn-lock. Check that the C's interlock in 3D—flat logos are fake.
Boy Bag
Modern with chunky hardware. Verify the clasp mechanism and chain weight carefully.
2.55 Reissue
The original design with mademoiselle turn-lock. Often confused with Classic Flap—know the difference.
Wallet on Chain
Entry-level Chanel = prime fake target. Extra scrutiny needed on hardware and leather quality.
"The seller had all the 'right' stuff—box, dust bag, receipt, authenticity card. Spottable told me to check the screws on the lock plate. Sure enough, Phillips head screws. Real Chanel never uses those. I would have been out $1,200."
— Amanda L., Chicago
Buy Chanel with Confidence
At these prices, you can't afford to guess. Know what's real before you pay.
Download SpottableAI authentication included in all plans. No per-item fees.