How to Hold a Garage Sale Before You Move

Published: September 15, 2024

Moving is a great time to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. One of the most effective ways to do this is by hosting a garage sale. It will help you reduce the amount of stuff you need to move and put some extra cash in your pocket to help with moving expenses. A successful garage sale requires planning and organization. Here’s a guide to help you hold a successful garage sale before you move.

Set a Date and Time

The first step in planning your garage sale is choosing the right date and time. Weekends are generally the best time to hold a garage sale since most people are off work and have time to browse. Start early in the morning, around 7 or 8 AM, and aim for a time when there’s good weather. Avoid scheduling your sale on holidays, as people may have other plans. Check if you need any permits to hold a garage sale in your neighborhood or town. Some areas may require you to obtain one, so it’s best to be sure ahead of time.

Sort and Organize Your Items

Before your garage sale, go through your belongings and decide what you want to sell. Focus on items that are in good condition but no longer serve a purpose in your new home. Common categories include:

• Furniture
• Clothing
• Books
• Toys
• Kitchenware
• Tools
• Electronics

Once you’ve sorted your items, organize them in boxes or bins according to category. This will make it easier to set up your sale.

Price Your Items Wisely

One of the biggest keys to a successful garage sale is pricing your items correctly. Research similar items online or at second-hand stores to get an idea of their value. Garage sale shoppers usually look for deals, so price items to sell quickly. For most items, consider pricing them at 25% to 30% of their original value. Make sure all of your items are clearly labeled with price tags. You can purchase price stickers or use masking tape and a marker. Grouping similar items together in a “bargain bin” and pricing everything at $1 or $5 can also help move things quickly.

Advertise Your Garage Sale

To attract shoppers, you’ll need to get the word out about your sale. Start by posting on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and neighborhood groups. You can also use apps like Nextdoor or Craigslist to reach people in your community. If your area allows it, put up signs around the neighborhood a few days before your sale. Use large, clear lettering and bright colors to grab attention. 

Create an Inviting Setup

On the day of your sale, make sure your setup is clean, organized, and inviting. Arrange your items on tables or blankets so shoppers can easily browse. Group similar items together, like books or kitchenware, to make it easier for people to find what they’re looking for. If you’re selling clothing, hang items on a portable rack or fold them neatly. For larger items, like furniture, place them near the front of your driveway or yard to draw people in. You can also set up a small display with featured items to catch the eye of passersby.

Be Ready to Negotiate

Many garage sale shoppers expect to haggle over prices, so be prepared to negotiate. Decide in advance which items you’re willing to lower the price on and how much you’re willing to drop. Be friendly and flexible, but also know when to stand firm on the price for more valuable items. If you’re not comfortable negotiating, consider placing signs that say “Prices are firm” on certain items. Alternatively, you can offer discounts as the day goes on to move more items, such as half-off everything in the afternoon.

Have Enough Change on Hand

It’s important to be prepared to handle cash transactions during your sale. Have plenty of small bills and coins on hand to make change for your customers. A good rule of thumb is to have at least $50 in ones, fives, and quarters. You can also offer digital payment options like Venmo or PayPal to accommodate shoppers who don’t carry cash.

Donate What’s Left Over

No matter how successful your garage sale is, you’re likely to have some leftover items. Rather than moving them to your new home, consider donating what remains to a local charity or thrift store. Many organizations will even pick up large items like furniture for free.

Hosting a garage sale before you move is a great way to downsize and make some extra money for your upcoming move. With the right planning and a little effort, you can clear out unwanted items, reduce moving stress, and start fresh in your new home. 

For a convenient way to move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Houston or call (832) 924-7578 for a free quote.