How to Get Something for Free Using Freecycle

Have you ever needed something but didn't have the money? Ever wondered if there was someone out there who would probably be willing to get rid of the exact thing you want? Well there is and I'm gonna show you how to get it!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Visit www.freecycle.org to find a freecycle group in your area. They're usually on Yahoo! Just fill in your zip and the site will spit out the online freecycle group in your area.

2. Join the group. It's free, just visit the group's site and enter your information to join the group. They may be groups for different cities in your surrounding area so feel free to check the site your group is on by typing in a search for surrounding cities and the word freecycle. For instance if you live in Detroit, Michigan, Detroit may have it's own freecycle group while other suburb cities only minutes away might have their own. You'd type a search for Dearborn Freecycle (a suburb of Detroit).

3. Within the group is a certain way posts will be marked. Freecycle is a way for people to post things they are giving away for free (offers), and a way for people to post things they need or are looking to get (wanteds). In many groups the owner prefers that you type the word offer or wanted in the heading of your post. (All guidleines will be given to you when you join.)

4. Most groups prefer that you start off with an offer instead of constantly trying to get something for free, but it's not always mandatory. Scroll through the offers before posting a wanted ad.

5. Within the offers and wanteds you'll also see "taken" and "received". If someone posted an offer and the item(s) are taken then they will post an additional ad stating that they are taken, and if someone get the item they requested they'll post an additional post saying it has been received. Be sure to take note of any takens for offers that you may have wanted!

6. If you see something you want and you don't see an identical taken ad then reply to the post. It is very important that you be very polite when replying. Kindness get you everywhere. Don't say something like, "Just let me know where to pick it up!" This is rude and many people do it. Say please and thank you.

7. If you get an email back stating that you can have the item(s) then you and the person can set up a time to pick them up. It is important that you be punctual. People hate no shows and those that aren't on time.

8. If you don't see what you want then place a wanted post for the item you are looking. Be reasonable. Don't expect to get a diamond ring or a car for free. Be polite in your post, someone it potentially going to be giving you this for free.

Tips & Warnings

• In order to be one of the first to receive an offer you probably want to check the boards often. Every hour or two is best if you have a high traffic group. Things can go quickly.
• Always be on time. Do what you say and say what you mean.

[optimistjunkie]

on 11/30/2008 I rate this one a 5 out of 5... I have used this in the past and it's a great resource for people that need good things for FREE! Great tips!

[voliegurl]

on 11/26/2008 Great info, thanks!