Amplify Your Profits
Thrift stores are where reselling dreams are made. Learn when to go, what to look for, and how to maximize every trip.
💡 Pro Tip: Ask employees when they restock. Build relationships. Some will hold items or tip you off to incoming donations.
| Store Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Goodwill | Consistent, color tag sales, many locations | Prices rising, picked over in cities |
| Salvation Army | Often cheaper, less picked | Fewer locations, less organized |
| Local/Church Thrifts | Cheaper prices, hidden gems, less competition | Limited hours, smaller selection |
| Habitat ReStore | Tools, furniture, building materials | No clothing, specialized inventory |
| Goodwill Bins/Outlets | Pay by pound = lowest prices | Chaotic, dirty, competitive |
| Consignment Stores | Pre-curated, higher quality | Higher prices, smaller margins |
Before buying, quickly calculate: if this costs $5 and sells for $20, that's 4x ROI. Worth it. If it costs $10 and sells for $15, probably not worth the effort.
💡 The 30-Mile Rule: Drive 30 minutes from a major city and thrifts are less picked, cheaper, and have more vintage items. Worth the gas.