• Decide on a shopping budget ahead of time and make a list of desired items.

• Research the cost of more expensive items ahead of time so you know what they’re worth.

• Plot your route. Read sale ads carefully and plan to visit the sales with items you really want first. If you are not looking for anything specific, plan to stop at sales located in the same area before moving on.

• Hit the road early, before the good stuff is snapped up.

• Clean out your car so there is enough space for new-found treasures.

• Bring bags and boxes/baskets to keep smaller items from rolling around in your car trunk.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing and bring water and snacks if you plan to make a day of it.

• Make sure you have small bills and change - it will save time.

• Obey parking signs/restrictions.

• Be friendly and polite. Don’t haggle over items priced at $1 or less, and don’t show up too early, especially if the sale ads say “No Early Birds.”

• Open boxed items and CDs to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting.

• Test electrical and battery operated items before buying.

• Bring a tape measurer if you plan to buy furniture or other large items.

• If you have to return with a truck for a larger item, make sure you get a receipt and mark down the address, in case you forget which sale you saw it at.

• Read through the May 31st Trailways to Treasures ads in the Genesee Valley Penny Saver, circling ads that interest you. Next, underline the sale days and times, so you don’t waste time going to sales on the wrong day. Review your selected ads and map your route in order of location, so you don’t have to backtrack.

• Add second part to 9th bullet which says Obey parking signs/restrictions. Keep an eye out for pedestrians, and other cars that may be parking or pulling out.

• Start collecting items months before. Anything and everything you can find - even if you think it’s worthless. Homemade items are hot. Crafters look for findings - everything from buttons, beads, and trims to scraps and doilies. Children’s accessories, toys and clothes are popular. Dishware odds and ends, furniture, antiques, books - the possibilities are endless!

• Pick a good date. Thursdays through Sundays are best - avoid holidays.

• Advertise, Advertise, Advertise! Place an ad in your local paper and online for free; post flyers at work and around the community.

• Create a sale sign with large letters, using only 1-2 colors, and place it high enough so it’s visible and readable from the road. Add some balloons for extra impact.

• Make sure you have available parking.

• Start the day with enough cash to make change - you’ll need both bills and coins. ($80-100)

• Strategically place a few interesting items at the curb to entice potential customers (especially males) to stop.

• Be prepared for early birds who will show up before the sale is scheduled to start - or specify “No Early Birds” in your sale ad.

• Set prices at 1/4 to 1/3 of an item’s original value.

• Mark prices clearly and place on top of items so they’re easily seen.

• If it’s a multiple family sale, use a pricing code with the first letter of the family’s last name followed by the price (D - $2.00). Collect the tags to calculate how to divide proceeds at the end of the day.

• Group items - a set of 4 glasses for $1-2 will sell faster than individually pricing them. Books can sell individually or with a group discount.

• Have a box marked “FREE” for items not worth selling. Bargain hunters will love it!

• Arrange items/tables so they are visually appealing and well-organized.

• Consider having a special “Man” area or table.

• Don’t leave a cash box lying around - a fanny pack or carpenter’s apron works well.

• Have plenty of bags on hand, along with newspaper for wrapping breakable items.

• Be prepared with a few batteries and an extension cord so customers can try out electronic games, appliances, or lamps.

• Don’t barter too early, if you feel the item is worth the marked price. Tell customers you’ll consider a reduction later in the day.

• Consider selling bottled water or lemonade - weary bargain hunters may appreciate some liquid refreshment.