Best Tips for New Resellers at Goodwill Outlets
Starting as a reseller can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. The good news is that everyone starts somewhere — and Goodwill Outlets are one of the easiest and cheapest places to learn.
Here are some simple tips that can help you build good habits and avoid rookie mistakes.
👉 Free Download: The Goodwill Bins Reseller Checklist.
1. Use the eBay App to Check Prices
When you see something interesting, open the eBay app and use the barcode scanner or photo search. Then sort by “Sold Listings” to find what people have actually paid. That gives you real market prices — not just guesses.
For a full step-by-step walk-through of scanning apps, speed techniques, and common mistakes to avoid, check out our guide on how to scan items at the Goodwill Bins.
2. Don’t Forget About Fees
Online marketplaces charge fees when you sell an item. eBay and Poshmark usually take around 10–15%. So if you see that something sold for $40, you’ll actually earn closer to $34 after fees. Always keep that in mind when deciding what to buy.
3. Think About Shipping
Shipping can eat into profits fast. A heavy item might cost $20 to mail, while a T-shirt could cost under $5. As a beginner, stick with lightweight, small items like clothes, toys, or shoes.
4. Check How Often Items Sell
Some things are valuable but don’t sell quickly. On eBay, you can check how recently items sold. If something sells often — like every week — that’s a great sign. If it hasn’t sold in months, it might just take up space.
5. Keep Learning
The more you visit Goodwill Bins, the more patterns you’ll notice. You’ll start recognizing valuable brands or collectible items. Don’t worry about mistakes — everyone buys a few duds in the beginning.
Reselling is like a game of curiosity. You’ll learn, experiment, and get better every week. Be polite to other shoppers, respect the staff, and remember: there’s enough treasure for everyone.
For more practical tips, be sure to check out our free Goodwill Bins Reseller Checklist
