Goodwill Outlet Stores: What Are The Goodwill Bins? Are They Worth It?

Written by Frey Chu

Last updated on December 17, 2022

Goodwill outlets, also known as Goodwill bins, are like regular Goodwill thrift stores, except they don’t sell items by individual piece—they sell them by weight. But, besides buying by the pound, Goodwill bins offer an entirely different experience of second-hand shopping.

So let’s dive into talking about why the bins are the best opportunity to find expensive brand-name clothes, toys, electronics, and more, for dirt-cheap prices.

It’s hard to compare a Goodwill outlet store with your average Goodwill thrift store. Shopping at the bins is much more thrilling and favorable for your wallet, as long as you’re willing to get your hands a little dirty,

Let’s Be Honest. Goodwill Thrift Stores Are Becoming Less And Less “Affordable”

One of the main differences between a regular Goodwill thrift store and a Goodwill Outlet is that regular Goodwills have, in recent years, become less and less affordable. Compare that to Goodwill Outlets, where everything is charged by weight, typically costing $1.49/lb to $2.99/lb. I’ll share more about this soon.

But seriously, when did Goodwill thrift stores become so expensive?

Based on thousands of Google Reviews across the country, I’ve come to notice that Goodwill retail stores everywhere are jacking up their prices. What used to be an affordable way to purchase second-hand goods started becoming much more expensive ever since Goodwill began filtering and re-selling their more valuable donations online.

A spike in re-sellers in recent years has contributed a part in this price hike too. But hey, can we blame people for having a little entrepreneurial spirit in the last couple of years?

P.S. We welcome re-sellers here!

In this blog, I’m going to share the key differences between your average Goodwill and a Goodwill Outlet, as well as the people that it’s the most worth it for (If you’re a re-seller, keep reading). Along the way, I’ll sprinkle in some important tips so that you can shop the Goodwill Outlet like a pro.

What's the difference between Goodwill thrift stores and Goodwill bins?

Goodwill outlets are the thrift bins of the Goodwill world, and they’re a great way to score some amazing second-hand clothes and other goods at an unbeatable price.

What are Goodwill Outlets?

Goodwill outlets, or these thrift bins, are a type of goodwill clearance store. The items that don’t sell in Goodwill thrift stores around the country get sent to their Goodwill warehouse locations. These Goodwill outlets are run by Goodwill organizations and are used to sell donated items to the public by weight, where you buy by the pound, instead by individual pieces.

Goodwill clearance stores are full of all sorts of second-hand goods, from clothes and accessories to furniture and kitchenware. You’ll find everything from brand-new items to used and vintage clothing, electronics, books, and more—all at affordable prices!

At some locations, you can also donate your old stuff at Goodwill donation centers. But make sure to double-check the location you’re visiting, as not all Goodwill outlets include a donation center.

How does shopping at the Goodwill Bins work?

Thrifting at the bins is simple. Grab a cart (or bring your own large bag, which is recommended) and start sifting through the large blue thrift bins for items you want. Once you have finished shopping through the bins, go to the checkout where someone will weigh your items and charge you by the pound.

Some Goodwill bins locations will also sell furniture, books, and more. The price may vary based on your Goodwill outlet store, but it’s typically an absolute bargain regardless.

Follow the rules and policy, as Goodwill bins are known to get rowdy and chaotic. A lot of re-sellers and flippers come from all around the way to visit a Goodwill clearance store, many of which will shamelessly push and shove their way into finding the best finds in the bins.

What type of people shop at Goodwill Outlet Stores?

Thrift shoppers are a diverse bunch, and the types of people who thrift at the Goodwill Outlet are no exception. We’re talking about all kinds of folks—from re-sellers to hipsters to hippies to vintage heads.

But no matter what they look like or how they dress, one thing is certain: they love a good bargain. And that’s why they shop at the Goodwill Outlet.

When you go to a Goodwill outlet, you’re not just shopping. You’re also competing with other bargain hunters.

Some resellers love going to these outlets because it’s a great way for them to find items to sell for a profit. And since the bins get swapped out for new bins full of merchandise quite frequently throughout the day, there are always fresh opportunities for finding treasure. But since it’s such a good way for resellers and flippers to find items to sell for a profit, things can get chaotic and competitive.

If you’re planning on going to one of these outlets to do some shopping yourself, here are some tips:

1. Bring a large tote bag—there may not be enough shopping carts to go around, plus they will slow you down.

2. Get there early—the best stuff is gone by noon at most locations!

3. Look in the corners of bins—it’s where you’ll find the best deals!

So if you’re looking for some great deals on gently used items, then look no further than your local Goodwill Outlet. You can find everything from clothes to home decor to electronics and more. You can even find furniture, such as couches and desks, at varying Goodwill clearance centers.

Is it worth shopping at the Goodwill Bins?

If you’re asking yourself what the best place to find good deals is, then you definitely need to give the Goodwill Outlets a try.

Especially if you’re a reseller or flipper, yes it’s worth it. If you’re a reseller then you’re probably looking for the same thing: high-quality items that are in good condition at a low price. Whether you sell brand-name clothes on Poshmark or flip electronics on eBay, the Goodwill Outlet is the main place to buy low and sell high.

Note: Keep in mind, not all Goodwill outlet stores will have an assortment of merchandise. Based on the bins you’re visiting, they may only sell clothes. Confirm with your nearest bins location if you’re looking for electronics, home goods, and furniture.

Goodwill outlets have bins full of items that have been donated by people all over the country. Since they don’t have to be cleaned up and polished before they’re put on display, you can find all kinds of amazing things—from furniture to clothing to electronics—that are in great condition, but cost less than half of what they’d cost new.

You might not score big on your first visit to the bins, but it’s all about being consistent and learning how the Goodwill clearance centers work. It’s an entirely different shopping experience, but if you’re willing to stick it out and learn how to sort through the bins quickly, time the new bin rotations, avoid the aggressive shoppers, and identify expensive items, you’ll be profiting from your thrift bins in no time.

How do I find Goodwill Bins Near Me?

How do you find a nearby Goodwill bins store?

You can find the closest store by visiting our Goodwill Outlet Store Locator. Click on your state to find the address, hours and phone number of the closest Goodwill bins location near you. You can also check out the reviews left by other customers.

First time checking out The Bins? Here are some pro tips:

There are a few things you should always bring when you’re hitting up a Goodwill outlet store.

1. Gloves: This is for two reasons—first, it keeps your hands protected, and second, it helps keep germs off of the things you touch.

2. A large shopping bag: This is so that you can easily move things around in the store and keep them organized in one place while you shop.

3. Batteries to test toys and electronics: You never know what might be broken or if there’s damage until you test it out yourself.

4. Disinfectant wipes: used items can be covered in germs and bacteria, so wiping them down with disinfectant wipes before bringing them home is a good idea.

5. A measuring tape (for furniture): If you’re buying furniture from a secondhand store like Goodwill, make sure to bring along a measuring tape so that you can ensure that the piece will fit where it needs to go.