The avid thrift shopper or the budget-conscious individual knows that Goodwill is a treasure trove of secondhand goods, ranging from clothing and accessories to furniture and household items; all available at bargain prices.
However, did you know that there is a specific ‘best’ time to visit Goodwill for the best deals and finds?
According to TikTok user Christina (@flipdaddie), an experienced furniture flipper who regularly shares her thrift shopping tips and discoveries on the platform, this optimal time period is Monday and Tuesday mornings.
Christina’s advice is logical.
Most Goodwill stores receive an influx of donations over the weekend when people typically have more free time to clear out their closets and garages.
As such, fresh stock is put out on the shelves early in the week – typically falling on Mondays and Tuesdays.
By visiting Goodwill during these times, shoppers have a higher chance of first dibs at recent arrivals before others get their hands on them.
Recently, Christina posted about some fantastic deals she uncovered at her local Goodwill store during one of these Monday morning shopping trips.
Among her finds were a wooden dresser priced at only $30, two identical wooden nightstands for $35 each, a cherry wine rack for $100, an eight-dollar side table, an outdoor rattan chair accompanied by cushions and an ottoman for $75, as well as a unique lamp that cost just twelve dollars!
Apart from this tip shared by Christina (@flipdaddie), Goodwill itself also recommends hitting their stores after holiday weekends. During such periods, people are generally more inclined to donate items they no longer need or use.
Therefore, the days following holiday weekends will see a considerable increase in new items available for purchase.
With these tips in mind, your next thrift shopping trip will be even more fruitful!
If you’re hunting for great deals on secondhand items or hoping to uncover some hidden gems among the throng of donated goods, be sure to mark your calendars for a Monday or Tuesday morning following a holiday weekend.
In addition to the aforementioned scheduler, here are some additional thrift shopping tips that can further enhance your Goodwill shopping experience:
- Be patient and persistent: The best deals and hidden gems don’t always present themselves immediately. It can take thorough and repeated browsing to uncover them.
- Be willing to dig: Often, the most valuable items are not prominently displayed but hidden away waiting for the discerning shopper to find them.
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate: Although Goodwill already offers items at lower prices than traditional retailers, there’s no harm in asking if the listed price is the final price or if there’s room for a bit of negotiation.
- Buy in bulk: You may be able to negotiate an even better deal if you’re purchasing multiple items.
- Be creative: Keep an open mind as you browse through items in store. With a touch of creativity, items can be repurposed or upcycled into something new and unique.