Each year, more than 13,000 households around Australia take part as sellers in the Garage Sale Trail. An average household usually makes about $850 on the day.
We’ve compiled a list of basic guidelines to help you get involved over 2 big weekends of garage sales, 11-12 and 18-19 November.
Do
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.
Promote your sale on social media. The more mates that come down, the more cash and an all-round great day for you.
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.
Use touch-free QR code payments provided by PayPal to avoid exchanging cash or bank details with your customers.
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.
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.
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.
Don’t
Take it to the street. Create a beautiful shopfront in your garage or front garden instead. If you live in an apartment, make sure you chat to your strata or agent first. Private property is easiest, otherwise you will need to consider permissions and liability. Get creative with signs, streamers and other planet-friendly decorations on your property.
Published 31 August 2016, updated 4 October 2023
