Do you want yet another way to get free clothing, free toys and free household items? Look around your area for the latest trend, the swap shop, or start your own.
What is a swap shop?
A swap shop is a place where people in a community can go to drop off items that are in good useable condition and pick up other things that they find there for free. No money changes hands, and the items can be put to good use over and over again.
A swap shop may be as simple as an open trailer or as elaborate as a storefront that is manned with volunteers. Sometimes the later is called a free shop instead of a swap shop.
Benefits of a swap shop
A swap shop runs much like Freecycle, but with some major differences. Because a swap shop operated in a central location, there is no arranging for pick up or wondering if a particular item has already been taken. Because of this location, swapping items can be safer, too, since you don’t have to go to anyone’s house or give out your address (note: you can also agree to meet a freecycler in a public place). You can also attend the swap shop when you have time.
How a swap shop works
Shoppers at a swap shop are encouraged, though usually not required, to bring items to swap whenever they are ready to shop. This ensures that there will be a good inventory going at all times and that no one takes advantage of the free price tag to make off with all of the goods. Usually, this isn’t a problem anyway, since most swap shops are community based. Having a shop manned by volunteers can also discourage greed.
How to start a swap shop
If you can’t find a swap shop in your area, consider starting one. First you will need to make sure that this is okay with your town board or local government. That is a good place to start, since these are the people most closely connected to your community. They may be able to help you find a space and volunteers to make the swap shop a success. Other sources in your community that might help to organize or sponsor your swap shop include local businesses, your library and local civic organizations.
You can read more blog posts by Mary Ann Romans here! or subscribe to this blog using the subscription box on the right.
Favorite Deal Websites:
Related Articles:
Your Thrift Store Purchases Can Affect Your Credit Cards
A Frugal Secret: Bakery Thrift Stores
Thrift Store Bargain Worth $250,000!