How to thrift Goodwill online like a pro

When I’m not browsing the aisles of my favorite Goodwill Akron locations like State Road and Lakemore,  I’m enjoying the thrill of the hunt on Goodwill Akron’s online retail stores from the comfort of my home!  As more consumers move towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle, online thrifting has become a viable option for those treasure hunting for every style, genre, and niche.

Online thrift shopping is great for both new and avid secondhand shoppers. While seasoned thrifters can still enjoy the thrill of the hunt online, newbie thrifters can get their feet wet without having to dig the traditional way. Want to learn how to thrift online? We’ve got some tips to help you thrift Goodwill Akron online like a pro:

 

Get to Know Your Goodwill Online Thrifting Options 

Goodwill Akron has three great online thrifting options: a storefront on Shop Goodwill’s website, an eBay store, and an eBooks store.

          Examples of the treasures you can bid on at ShopGoodwill.com

Create an account 

Start by creating an account on the website that you plan to browse. This will allow you to bookmark things for later, set up alerts, save keywords, sizing, and more. All of these features will help make your online thrifting experience a little easier.

 

Remember that your purchase helps do good in the community

Shopping any of Goodwill Akron’s retail locations, whether online or in-person help Goodwill’s mission to provide employment preparation, training, rehabilitation, employment and support services to persons with barriers to employment.

 

Skip the shipping and pick up in-person

When you shop at Goodwill Akron’s online store on shopgoodwill.com, you can arrange to pick up your item in the store. Click here to learn more.

 

Use the Keywords and Search Filters

Searching a large selection like Shop Goodwill can seem overwhelming, so it helps to apply the same approach to online thrifting as in-person thrifting: narrow it down! Use all of the search filters available to you to narrow down your selections.

 

Mirror your traditional thrifting strategies

Use the same skill set you use when you’re thrifting in-person and apply them online. The more you browse and understand how each website functions, the more comfortable you get thrifting online.

 

Look for things you can’t find in a typical thrift setting

Online thrift stores can be great for vintage, retro, collectibles, special sizing and more.

 

Shop for gifts 

Set a spending budget and narrow items down by New with Tags to search for one-of-a-kind gifts for less.

 

Stick to brands you already love

If you’re hesitant to buy something because you can’t return it or try it on, use the search filters to browse brands and styles you know well. Already being familiar with a brand’s quality and sizing will reduce the element of surprise when you receive your item in the mail.

 

Know your measurements

Whether you’re shopping for clothing or furniture online, knowing the necessary measurements will ensure that your next favorite coat or dresser will fit nicely. If the item does not list the measurements, contact the store or seller and request that information before making your purchase.

Happy hunting!