Garage Sale Trail guide for sellers

Make a buck as more than 400,000 Australians hits the streets as part of the nation’s biggest second-hand treasure hunt, the Garage Sale Trail. Sellers make an average $457, proving pre-loved is planet and pocket friendly.

We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you get involved over 2 big weekends of garage sales this year, on 9–10 and 16–17 November. It’s free to register.

1. No garage? No worries. Join a group sale near you or host from your apartment building.
2. Advertise your sale on poster pillars. There are 8 legal spots in the inner city. Not a bad idea to pull out your dad’s best puns here. You’ll get free promo materials when you sign up. You could also whip out the coloured markers and reuse some old cardboard for custom-made signs.
3. Promote your sale on social media. The more mates that come down, the more cash and an all-round great day for you.
4. Deck out your sale the sustainable way. Swap balloons and plastic sticky tape for paper bunting, streamers and twine. You could even make bunting from old fabric pieces – that way you can reuse it year after year.
5. Think about bargain bins and irresistible deals. Price things the night before so you’re not scrambling on the day. Wrap smaller goodies in newspaper or fabric and make a 3 for $10 lucky dip.
6. Opt for eco-friendly packaging options. Gather some old newspaper and cardboard boxes for wrapping breakables and packing bulkier items. Encourage your shoppers to bring reusable bags or go bag-free.
7. Clean up your unsold stuff at the end of the day. Consider selling it online or talk to your local charity about donating. View our guide on sustainable ways to get rid of your old stuff.