Picture this: You’ve heard about a discount bin store from friends that INSIST you have to check it out! How does this work? What deals might you find there? Is it even worth it?
On your first visit to a discount liquidation bin store, it is normal to be filled with excitement and curiosity. A seasoned bargain hunter can’t wait to explore the aisles and uncover hidden treasures. However, there were a few key things most wish they had known before diving into this retail adventure. As a bin store owner, I will share my personal experiences and insights on the top three things to know before visiting a discount liquidation store for the first time.
Embrace the Unexpected:
Walking into a discount liquidation store is like stepping into a world of surprises. You never know what treasures you might find. From brand-new products to customer returns, the inventory is constantly changing. Everything is dependent upon the season, the brands, and what is returned at any given point in time.
Depending upon the storage space, you may find that bin stores will hold seasonal items UNTIL that season. After all, wouldn’t it be exciting to find the perfect Christmas tree right at Christmas time?
You can expect to find items of all seasons in the bins. On my first visit to a bin store, I stumbled upon a high-end blender at a fraction of retail. It was a pleasant surprise, but it taught me the importance of being open-minded and embracing the unexpected. The thrill of the hunt lies in the unpredictability of what you might discover.
Arrive Early for the Best Selection:
Discount liquidation stores operate on a first-come, first-served basis. As I learned the hard way, arriving early is key to securing the best deals. On a subsequent visit, I arrived an hour after opening, only to find that the most sought-after items had already been snatched up.
Of course, there are going to be neat surprises no matter what time you go, if you arrive within the first hour of opening, that’s the sweet spot. Be aware, many others may have already gotten that idea, so there may be a line out the door! The closer to the front, the sooner you get into the door to find your treasures! Arriving anywhere from 10 minutes to 45 minutes early can be your best bet, but it all depends on how popular the store is. The higher dollar days tend to have longer lines than the lower dollar days in most cases. You can find bin store hours through a quick Google search, or you can check their Facebook page to plan accordingly.
So, set your alarm, grab your shopping partner, and arrive early to have first pick from the inventory.
Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Inspect and Ask Questions:
While discount liquidation stores offer incredible savings, it’s important to inspect items for their condition. On the outside, you may think you’ve found a stylish jacket at an unbelievable price, but upon closer examination, you notice a small tear. Lesson learned: take your time to inspect items for any defects or issues. There is nothing more disappointing than taking an item home without inspecting it, only to find it is broken. A few seconds could save you a whole lot of heartache!
Don’t hesitate to ask store associates about the return policy. This way, you can make an informed decision and avoid any surprises when you get home.
The employees at most bin stores may not know the exact history of every item that has come into the store. However, most stores try their best to give you every opportunity to inspect items before you buy them. Many stores offer a testing or inspection station, with batteries, electrical outlets, or even just a flat space to be able to unbox an item and see its condition. You check for missing parts, wear and tear, or plug it in to see if it functions properly!
Ask about a testing or inspection station, see if there is a return policy available, and feel free to use your phone to look up features of any item you happen to find in the bins!
Conclusion:
As a seasoned bargain hunter, my first visit to a discount liquidation store was an eye-opening experience. I loved it so much, now, I own a liquidation bin store myself. By embracing the unexpected, arriving early for the best selection, and thoroughly inspecting items, I learned valuable lessons that have enhanced my subsequent visits. Discount bin stores offer a world of exciting savings and unique shopping experiences. So, armed with these insights, embark on your own retail adventure and prepare to be amazed by the incredible deals and hidden treasures that await you.
If you’re interested to see more about our bin store– check out our Facebook page for more up-to-date sneak peeks, hours of operation, and pricing structure!
Happy hunting, fellow bargain seekers!
