When commodity prices rise, they rarely, if ever, come back. Even if the systemic factors underlying the initial rise change or improve, prices usually stabilize at new highs until the next shock pushes them back. Everything is more expensive today than it was a while ago, so you might as well take advantage of any deals you find. One of the best tools for finding bargains has become a growing trend in the United States: thrift stores. There's probably one or more of them out there right now, and the way they work can net you some incredible savings if you're willing to put in a little effort to shop around for games.
What is a junk shop?
A "one stop shop" is a store that handles all the surplus, returns, and clearances that big retailers like Amazon or Target have to get rid of. These stores handle high volumes (Americans alone return more than $800 billion annually) and must regularly clear space for incoming inventory. Container stores receive weekly shipments of this unwanted inventory and then dispose of it all in labeled containers, hence the name. The stores are large commercial spaces filled with counter-covered tables, each containing a mixed collection of similar products (shoes, electronics, clothing, etc.).
Most of these stores operate a weekly price reduction program. A typical schedule works like this: they get a new batch of merchandise on Thursday, and then they close. On Friday, they reopen and everything in the store is $12. On Saturday, everything is $10. On Sunday, the price goes up to $8 and up until the following Thursday, when supplies run out and prices reset.
Turn shopping into a treasure hunt or a game of sorts. If you visit the course on the first day, you will pay more, but there will be more options and you are much more likely to find a deal on what you are looking for. You can go further in the cycle and buy more for your money, but you may have trouble finding what you want or need. Some stores maintain a fixed price during the week, but these are rare exceptions.
How to find a junkyard near you
Box stores are a relatively new phenomenon, but they are expanding rapidly. There's probably a junk shop near you, and there are a few ways to find one:
Websites like Bean Store Finder offer state-by-state listings. Click to see a list of stores in your state.
Bin store companies like Opan Bins or Where Ya Bin also keep a list of their locations on their website.
Facebook. Many junk shops use Facebook as their point of contact, so searching for local listings on the social media platform can help identify junk shops that aren't on other listings.
Tips for shopping at the Bean Store
Box shopping can be fun and chaotic, but it doesn't work like other retailers. In addition to adding a strategic element to your shopping trip, there are other factors to consider to maximize potential savings:
This is my body. The products are packaged in boxes, so you have to be prepared to dig through piles of boxes and packaged items to see what's inside. These stores can be busy, especially on the first day of the pricing cycle, so there's also an element of Black Friday energy; Be prepared for the hustle and bustle.
Searchlight releases a preview of their latest shipments before many container stores reopen, which can give you an idea of what and where to look. Knowing the physical location of certain boxes can help you quickly target the best items. Also, all junk shops have their own policies; Some, for example, only accept cash. Learn these principles to be prepared as well.
the observation Items in these stores are usually "like new" but may also have defects and damage. Check everything before you buy. If it's in a box, most store employees will pull it out to show you what you're buying.
