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Step 1
Do your homework. Check eBay's completed listings for what items sell and for what price. If you have a hunch about an item's value, check it out on eBay before buying it to resell. You don't want to be stuck with a bunch of items that nobody wants.
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Step 2
Look for any items, still in the box or with tags. Many people donate items to charity that are brand new. These items may have been gifts, clothing in the wrong size, or they may never have had the chance to return them to a store for a refund or exchange. You will find items new in the package like candles, office supplies, cosmetics, bath gel, board games, kitchen gadgets, and baby items.
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Step 3
Look for high end, designer leather goods such as handbags, coats, boots, shoes, and belts. Authentic leather items sell well on eBay.
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Step 4
Check the front counter or special display areas for high dollar items such as perfumes, china dolls, cosmetics, leather motorcycle jackets, electronics, and gift items. Many thrift stores know the value of these items and will sell them for more than the regular inventory on the sales floor. These items may be more expensive than other items in the thrift store, but you can still make a good profit selling them on eBay.
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Step 5
Kitchen items. Look for calphalon, circulon, cast iron, Pampered Chef, Corningware casserole dishes, and vintage Pyrex items.
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Step 6
Linens. Childrens items do well - focus on whatever characters are popular at the time. Sheets, comforters, pillows, sleeping bags do well. Look for electric blankets of all sizes. Make sure they work properly before purchasing.
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Step 7
Vintage character items. Anything with characters such as Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Peanuts; Smurfs, Evil Kneivel, Disney characters are good sellers. Look for items such as bed sheets, lunchboxes, mugs, puzzles, dolls, etc.
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Step 8
Candles. Look for Yankee Candle, White Barn Candle, any that are expensive when purchased retail. Even if the candle it burned a little, you can still sell it on eBay. Some of these have been retired and aren't being made any more.
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Step 9
Anything with a unique theme. People collect anything and everything. Look for items like men's unique ties, shirts with a specific theme (animals, vehicles, etc), salt pepper shakers, kitchen and home decor.
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Step 10
Check the resources section below for more information on how to make money selling thrift store items on eBay.
Comments
trillity said
on 11/15/2009 great article on how to find thrift store items to sell on ebay! thanks! 5*
SueJ said
on 8/3/2009 Great tips -- excellent article!
Beverlyz said
on 3/10/2009 Thanks for all the great info. on having an ebay business!
gerrie5044 said
on 3/10/2009 Thanks for the great information..5* and rec
aliciaanswers said
on 3/6/2009 I will definitely be checking out local thrift stores, especially for high end items from upscale areas nearby.. it seems like common sense, but I never thought to check there for items to sell on ebay! I will definitely follow your advice and loved you free ebook 'stay at home mom's guide to successful ebay selling'!!! 5*