When it comes to buying designer handbags, authenticity is everything. With counterfeit luxury goods flooding the resale market, ensuring your bag is the real deal has never been more important. That’s where professional bag authenticators come in—trusted experts who know every stitch, font, and serial code inside out. Whether you’re eyeing a Hermès Birkin, a Chanel Classic Flap, or a Louis Vuitton Speedy, having your piece authenticated not only protects your investment but also gives you peace of mind.
So, who are the best bag authenticators in the business today? Let’s break it down.
Why Bag Authentication Matters
The luxury resale market is booming, with platforms like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, and Fashionphile making it easier than ever to shop pre-loved bags. But with opportunity comes risk. Counterfeiters have gotten increasingly sophisticated, producing “super fakes” that can fool even seasoned collectors.
That’s why authentication services are crucial—they combine years of expertise with high-tech tools to verify everything from materials and stitching to microchips and serial numbers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, using a trusted authenticator ensures that your purchase is both genuine and worthwhile.
1. Real Authentication
One of the most widely used authentication services, Real Authentication offers quick and reliable digital authentication for luxury handbags and accessories. You simply upload high-quality photos, and within 24 hours (sometimes faster with expedited service), their team of experts provides a verdict.
What they’re known for: Speed, accessibility, and a user-friendly app.
Best for: Buyers and sellers who want fast verification before making a purchase or listing a bag.
Why we love it: Their experts are trained across multiple luxury brands and stay up-to-date on the latest counterfeit trends.
2. Authenticate First
As one of the earliest players in the bag authentication space, Authenticate First is trusted by collectors worldwide. They offer photo-based authentication as well as full certificates for buyers who want official documentation of authenticity.
What they’re known for: Detailed reports and certificates of authenticity.
Best for: Buyers looking for long-term proof of authenticity for resale or insurance purposes.
Why we love it: Their in-depth evaluations provide more than just a “yes or no,” giving peace of mind for serious collectors.
3. Entrupy
Entrupy takes a more high-tech approach, using artificial intelligence and microscopic imaging to detect counterfeits. While it’s primarily a tool used by resellers and stores, individual buyers can sometimes access Entrupy through partnered sellers.
What they’re known for: Cutting-edge technology and unmatched accuracy.
Best for: Resellers who authenticate high volumes of luxury goods.
Why we love it: Entrupy combines human expertise with AI, making it nearly impossible for super fakes to slip through.
4. Zeko Authentication
Founded by a former luxury reseller, Zeko Authentication specialises in Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. Their team has hands-on experience with thousands of bags, making them particularly skilled at spotting inconsistencies.
What they’re known for: Specialisation in top-tier luxury brands.
Best for: Collectors of Hermès and Chanel bags.
Why we love it: Their boutique approach feels personal, and their team is deeply invested in protecting the resale market’s integrity.
5. Bababebi
When it comes to Hermès specifically, Bababebi is a name that consistently comes up among serious collectors. With years of experience authenticating Birkins and Kellys, they are considered one of the most trusted authorities in the Hermès world.
What they’re known for: Unparalleled Hermès expertise.
Best for: Birkin and Kelly buyers who want the most reliable verdict.
Why we love it: Their reputation in the Hermès community is unmatched, making them the go-to choice for collectors investing in five-figure bags.
6. ProAuthenticators
A rising name in the authentication world, ProAuthenticators has gained traction thanks to their meticulous evaluations and dedicated team. They cover a wide range of luxury brands and offer both digital and physical authentication services.
What they’re known for: Flexibility and detailed reporting.
Best for: Buyers who want multiple options, from photo authentication to in-hand verification.
Why we love it: Their customer service is highly rated, and they work closely with both buyers and sellers.
Choosing the Right Bag Authenticator
When deciding which authentication service to use, consider:
- The brand of your bag: Some authenticators specialise in Hermès or Chanel, while others cover a wider range of brands.
- Your purpose: If you need quick peace of mind, a digital service like Real Authentication works well. If you want documentation for resale, choose a provider like Authenticate First.
- Your budget: Authentication services typically range from $20 to $150, depending on depth and brand.
The Future of Authentication
As technology evolves, authentication is becoming more precise. Brands like Louis Vuitton and Hermès are already embedding microchips and blockchain technology into their bags to guarantee authenticity from the source. But even with tech solutions, human expertise remains essential. Counterfeiters are clever, and the eyes of experienced authenticators are still the gold standard.
Final Thoughts
In today’s booming resale market, authentication isn’t optional—it’s essential. With so many services available, from tech-driven platforms like Entrupy to niche experts like Bababebi, buyers have more tools than ever to protect themselves. Whether you’re spending $1,000 or $50,000 on a bag, knowing it’s genuine is worth every penny.
So the next time you score that dream Chanel, Louis Vuitton, or Hermès, make sure to back it up with the seal of approval from one of the world’s best bag authenticators.
