Discovering Hidden Treasures: Tips and Tricks to ShopGoodwill, My Favorite Online Thrift Store

I LOVE thrifting. I grew up thrifting with my mom in Canada, and there is just something about the hunt for treasure that I've always loved. Did You know that Goodwill has an online store? Did you know that hundreds of goodwill stores from all over the country post items to their site?

Just like any Goodwill store in your city, you have to sift through the CRAP, but there are so many GEMS hidden within. Vintage finds, designer bargains (I'm talking GUCCI & PRADA), rare art and collectibles, you name it, it is on ShopGoodwill.

But buyer beware, you can overspend if you don't know and ins and outs of the site, and I'm here to admit I've made mistakes in the past. Read below to hear some of my best tips and tricks for getting the most out of ShopGoodwill, and join me on the hunt for our next great thrift finds!

A collection of vintage brass candle holders in various intricate designs displayed against a blue background, showcasing the artistry of metalwork.

Tip #1 - Search

Hey Goodwill, here's a tip for you: your search function could use some work! It's mostly because employees sometimes misspell or tag items incorrectly. So, if you're a collector searching for something specific, try using different spellings and variations of the brand or item you're after. Make sure to use both the site navigation and the search bar as you browse. For instance, if you're on the hunt for Vintage Band T-shirts (I've seen real Metallica T-shirts go for hundreds on the site), try using some of these methods to find them.

• Search Metallica in Top Search Bar

• Search Band T Shirts, Band Ts, Vintage T Shirts, Metallica T Shirts etc.

• Use the site navigation to Search for Clothing - Men's Clothing - T Shirts in addition to Clothing - Men's Clothing -Vintage

• Change and misspell Metallica as well for the best chance of finding what you're looking for

Tip #2 - Use Your Favorites

My next tip is to sign up for a ShopGoodwill profile, My Goodwill. Having a profile will allow you to use the favorites function on the site, and if you do choose to buy something, you will need a profile to claim and pay for your item. When I find anything, I favorite it and start watching! While most items are up for auction for three to five days, items that they think will garner high prices, can be posted for five plus days and you'll want to favorite and follow those items. The chance of finding the item again is rare, so favorite anything you may be interested in.

Tip #3 - Shipping & Handling Charges

So, once you've found something you love, start by using the estimate Shipping function on the products page. I have rarely seen items with Shipping and Handling charges under ten dollars, but every now and then they will offer an item at one cent if they expect it to go for a higher price. If you are planning to resell your treasures, you definitely need to take this cost into consideration and ensure it doesn't throw your profit margins off because it adds up quickly.

Tip #4 - Play The Long Game

Ok, this is important! Play the Long Game. Start my favoriting an item and only bid once the item is close to closing. The website has a max bid option, so if you can't wait, go ahead and put in a bid close to your max bid to kick it off.

Tip #5 - Finish Strong

The last five minutes before an auction close are the most important. If you really want something, you better be there in those last five minutes. I have been the max bidder for auctions and lost them in the last 60 seconds. At that point, your competition knows you want the item and can swoop in to outbid you.

Conclusion

That's it, those are my tips and tricks for shopping ShopGoodwill and finding yourself your next favorite treasure. Recent wins, a vintage 90s REBA T shirt in great condition, and a NWT Puma X Liberty Rain Jacket for my mom. Check out the blog for more fun content about thrifting here Achieve Simplicity and Balance | Drifting Towards Simplicity - Start Your Journey Today.