How to Shop Consignment Stores for Bargains

Consignment stores can be a great place to find quality clothing, furniture and home goods for far less than new. This guide is for shoppers who want to get better at spotting real bargains, avoiding regrets, and using how consignment shops work to their advantage.

Learn how the shop's pricing works

Many consignment shops lower prices on a schedule, for example after an item has been on the floor for a set number of weeks. Some use colored tags or dates on tags to show when an item came in. Ask a staff member how their markdowns work. Once you know, you can tell at a glance which items are about to drop and which are fresh arrivals.

Keep in mind that waiting is a gamble. If you love something and the price is fair, someone else may buy it before the next markdown.

Time your visits

• Shop often. Inventory changes constantly, and the best pieces tend to go quickly.
• Ask when new items hit the floor. Some shops process consignments on certain days.
• Shop off-season. Coats in spring and patio furniture in fall are often priced to clear space.
• Watch for sales events. Many shops run clearance days before contracts end or at the change of seasons.

Know your prices before you go

A bargain is only a bargain if you know what the item is worth. Before shopping for something specific, check what similar new and used items cost. Take a quick look at sold listings on online marketplaces for brands you like. That way you will recognize a genuinely good price, and you will not overpay just because something is secondhand.

Inspect everything carefully

Most consignment sales are final, so check items before you buy.

• Clothing: look for stains, odors, pilling, broken zippers, missing buttons and alterations. Check underarms, collars and hems in good light.
• Furniture: open drawers, test joints for wobble, look underneath for damage or pests, and check for strong odors such as smoke.
• Electronics and appliances: ask whether you can test them in the store and whether any return option exists.
• Designer goods: ask how the shop verifies authenticity and whether they guarantee it.

Measure furniture and bring your room measurements, including doorways. A great price on a sofa that will not fit through your door is no bargain.

Ask about negotiating politely

Some shops allow offers, especially on furniture and higher-priced pieces, and pass them along to the consignor. Others have firm prices. It never hurts to ask respectfully whether there is any flexibility, particularly on an item that has been in the store a while. Be ready to accept a no gracefully.

Look past the surface

Some of the best values need minor attention: a solid wood dresser with dated hardware, a wool coat that needs a button, or a lamp that needs a new shade. Focus on good construction and materials rather than styling. Just be honest with yourself about whether you will actually do the work, and avoid pieces that need structural repair or have original finishes you would want a professional to evaluate.

Build a relationship with the shop

Regular customers often hear about new arrivals first. Many shops keep wish lists or will call you when a certain item comes in. Follow the shop's social media or email list for previews and sale announcements.

Understand the rules before paying

Ask about returns, holds and layaway, and how long you have to pick up furniture. Ask whether delivery is available and what it costs. Knowing the policies ahead of time prevents surprises.

Quick checklist

• Ask how and when markdowns happen.
• Shop often and off-season.
• Know the going price before you buy.
• Inspect closely, since sales are usually final.
• Bring measurements for furniture.
• Ask politely whether offers are accepted.
• Get on the shop's wish list or email list.