Exploring the Wonders of Goodwill Outlet Stores

Discover all the ins and outs of how Goodwill outlet stores operate. These establishments, affectionately known as “the Bins,” represent the apex of thrift shopping. They serve as the final destination for items that didn’t find buyers at regular Goodwill locations, and these items are presented in loosely organized bins and sold by weight. We’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to navigating the world of thrifting at the Bins, covering everything from pricing strategies to essential tips for maximizing your shopping experience.

Goodwill bins represent outlet stores where items are sold at discounted rates from large bins. These stores are stocked with sizable blue bins containing items that have not sold within the standard six-week period at regular Goodwill locations or items that were donated in less-than-perfect condition.

• Any unsold items at the Outlets are either recycled or sold elsewhere as salvage goods.
• Goodwill Outlets can be found in numerous states across the U.S. Check online to locate one near you.

Many items are priced based on weight. The Outlets employ a unique pricing system where a significant portion of the merchandise is sold by weight, with prices calculated at the point of sale. Other items are offered at substantial discounts on an individual basis. The pricing structure typically consists of:

• Housewares, clothing, footwear, accessories, and physical media: $1.69 per pound for transactions under 9.99 pounds, $1.49 per pound for transactions between 10 and 24.99 pounds, and $1.19 per pound for transactions of 25 pounds or more.
• Glassware and dinnerware: $0.39 per piece
• Electronics: $0.49 per item
• Books: $0.15 per inch (measured by the thickness of the binding)
• Furniture: Priced on a per-item basis

The contents of the bins are regularly refreshed. Each Outlet adheres to its own schedule for rotating merchandise, removing old items from the sales floor and introducing new ones. This ensures a constant influx of fresh discoveries.

• Shoppers are often requested to vacate specific areas while new bins are brought in.

Equip yourself with a cart and comfortable footwear. Given the expansive nature of most Outlets and the tendency for shoppers to accumulate numerous items, having a cart is essential for transporting your newfound treasures. Comfortable shoes will ensure you can traverse the store without fatigue.

• Don't hesitate to place items you're undecided about in your cart. Many locations have designated bins at the checkout where you can discard items you ultimately decide against.

Familiarize yourself with the store layout to identify prime digging spots. Most Outlets are segmented into various sections such as clothing, electronics, and household items. Take a brief tour to acquaint yourself with the layout and strategize your approach to exploring the bins.

• Keep an eye out for bins labeled as containing 'unsorted donations,' which may harbor valuable items overlooked by other Goodwill stores.

Don gloves and prepare to rummage through the bins. While some Outlets mandate the use of masks and gloves for hygiene purposes, it's advisable to wear them regardless. Given the nature of sifting through secondhand items, gloves can help keep your hands clean and germ-free.

• Additionally, bring along sanitizing wipes to clean any dirt or grime from items of interest.

Time your visit for optimal bin exploration. Each store operates on its own schedule for rotating bins, with many larger locations refreshing them every 30 minutes. Arriving early to peruse freshly rotated bins increases your chances of discovering coveted items.

• If uncertain about the rotation schedule, don't hesitate to inquire with a staff member.

Prepare a thrifters' kit complete with batteries and other essentials. It's essential to have AAA and AA batteries handy for testing electronics. A measuring tape will help you assess the dimensions of furniture to ensure suitability for your space. Also, make sure you know your clothing sizes in advance as fitting rooms may not be available.

• Don't forget to pack snacks and water for sustained energy during your shopping spree.
• Be mindful that certain locations may have restrictions on items like backpacks or large purses.

Show consideration to staff and fellow shoppers. Allow ample space for others to navigate freely, and refrain from overcrowding or monopolizing bins. Additionally, exercise patience and refrain from diving into a bin immediately after rotation; wait for staff approval first.

• Opt for early morning or late evening visits to avoid peak crowds.

Adopt an open-minded approach rather than fixating on specific items. The assortment in the bins is eclectic, making it unlikely to find exactly what you're seeking. Embrace the thrill of the hunt and trust that you'll stumble upon hidden treasures, even if they weren't on your initial shopping list.

• Consider maintaining a general wish list of items such as lamps, footwear, or audio equipment to reference during your visit.
• Prepare for an extended browsing session at the Outlet; it's more of an immersive experience than a quick errand. Time tends to slip away when exploring the selection!
• Keep in mind that many electronics can still hold value for resale online, even if they're not fully functional.