Consignment Sale Tips and Tricks – Shopping a Sale

Do you love shopping? Do love the rush of finding that perfect, amazing deal? Do you like the smell of children’s detergent? Ok, maybe not the last one so much, but if you answered yes to these questions, you need to check out the Kids Consignment sales taking place in the Nashville area in the spring and fall.

If you are a first timer, shopping a consignment sale can be overwhelming. The sales can be huge, in giant warehouses, with everything from bootie socks to bunk beds. Do a little upfront research and determine what you are trying to accomplish. Do you want to stay in your area? Are you a new mom? New Moms usually have a special shopping times. Do you want to shop early? Become a consignor or a volunteer. They get to shop early!

Shopping Tips and Tricks

Your best, most strategic plan of attack is to have a list. Seriously, a detailed list of what you a) need, b) want and c) would be nice to find. I have been to many sales as a seasoned consignor thinking I could totally wing it. Then I get home and realize I forgot to get the coat/uniform pants/jeans/etc. The sales clearly mark each departments. Clothes are divided into girl and boy and by age. Some sales have junior, women’s and maternity sizes as well. A walk through before you dive in may be in order, or you may just want to go straight to your first item and get started.

Be sure to take something to put your amazing finds in. Some sales have a limited amount of shopping carts, but with most sales, you should rely on what you bring in. I’ve seen (and used) rolling clothes hampers, rolling totes, wagons, clothes baskets, strollers, tote bags, etc. If you plan on coming away with a lot, be sure to bring in something that is practical and useable.

If you find a large item that you cannot realistically drag all over the location with you, most sales allow you to remove the tag and either carry it with you or take to the check out or a volunteer worker to hold it until you check out.  Check with the staff at the current sale you are attending for their policies.

Expect long lines during peak periods. Lines to get in, lines to get out. Plan accordingly.  Be patient. Be kind. Most, if not all, sales are run mostly by volunteers. They are being as fast and thorough as possible. This should go without saying, but please don’t cut in front of other moms trying to check out. Their time is just as important as yours. Again, be patient.

Large loads and long lines mean tired feet. Comfortable, supportive shoes are your best friend. You may want to bring a granola bar or banana and a bottle of water. Please check the sale as some may not want or allow food inside. But if allowed, a snack is good idea.

Not all locations have accessible restrooms. Some have access to a port-a-potty. Again, plan accordingly. Sometimes the call of nature cannot be planned, but keep this in mind while hitting the sales.

If at all possible, do yourself a favor and don’t bring the kids. It’s easier on you and will make shopping quicker, smoother and less stressful.

Above all, have fun. Finding those amazing deals nestled in thousands of pieces of clothing is a great feeling. Good luck and Happy Shopping!

Got a tip to add, please leave it for fellow shoppers!

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