8 Tips for Making Money from Thrift Store Flipping That Really Work
Making money from thrift store flipping is a great way to turn secondhand items into real cash. Whether you’re looking to start a side hustle or grow a small business, these 8 tips will help you get results. Thrift stores are full of hidden gems, and with a little know-how, you can flip those treasures for profit — even if you’re just starting out.
Let’s break down these practical tips one by one so you can start making money from thrift store flipping today.
Tip 1: Start with a Small Budget
You don’t need a lot of money to begin. A $20 bill can get you started. Go to your local Goodwill, Salvation Army, or any nearby thrift shop and look for cheap, high-quality items. Starting small helps reduce the risk and gives you room to learn.
Extra tip: Stick to lightweight items like clothes or books when you’re just starting to avoid high shipping costs.
Step 1: Start Small and Set a Budget
You don’t need thousands of dollars to begin. You can literally start with just $10 to $50. Visit your nearest Goodwill Outlet, often called “the bins,” where items are sold by the pound. Focus on lightweight, high-value items like vintage t-shirts, brand-name clothing, or small electronics.
Setting a clear budget keeps you from overspending and helps you track your profit from the beginning.
Tip 2: Know What Sells
Before buying anything, check what people are already buying online. Visit eBay’s sold listings or use platforms like Mercari, Poshmark, or Depop to see trending products. Items that often sell well include:
Knowing what sells helps you avoid bad buys and focus on profit.
Tip 3: Visit Often and Dig Deep
Thrift stores restock regularly, so visiting often increases your chances of finding valuable items. Don’t just scan shelves — dig! Look behind other items or check bins that others might skip. Some of the best items are hiding in plain sight.
Tip 4: Check for Quality Before Buying
Not everything in a thrift store is in good shape. Always check for stains, tears, missing pieces, or damage. Make sure clothes have no holes and electronics work (ask if you can test them in-store). Only buy items you’re confident you can resell.
Tip 5: Clean and Present Items Nicely
Before listing your item, clean it properly. Wash clothes, wipe down toys, or dust off shoes. First impressions matter! Take clear, bright photos in natural light. Use a clean background and show the item from different angles.
Tip 6: Write Honest and Detailed Listings
On platforms like eBay or Poshmark, clear and honest listings make all the difference. Write a title like: “Vintage Levi’s Denim Jacket Size M – Great Condition.” Mention any flaws clearly. Buyers trust sellers who are upfront and honest.
Tip 7: Ship Fast and Package Well
Once you make a sale, ship it quickly. Use bubble wrap, poly mailers, or boxes to keep the item safe. A fast and clean shipment often earns good reviews, which can bring you more buyers and help you build your reputation.
Tip 8: Track Your Profits and Learn from Mistakes
Keep a small notebook or use a spreadsheet to track how much you spend and how much you earn per item. If something doesn’t sell, ask yourself why. Learning from small mistakes will help you get better with each flip.
Final Thoughts
Thrift store flipping can be fun, creative, and profitable. You don’t need fancy tools — just some time, a good eye, and the will to learn. With these 8 tips for making money from thrift store flipping, you’re ready to turn a simple thrift trip into a money-making opportunity. Stay consistent, and your flipping side hustle can grow into something bigger than you imagined.
