If you’ve ever wondered where to find the most affordable deals, hidden treasures, and unique finds, the answer is simple — Goodwill Bins. Also known as Goodwill Outlet Stores or Goodwill “By the Pound” Stores, these special locations are a paradise for bargain hunters, resellers, and sustainability lovers.
Unlike regular Goodwill stores that price items individually, Goodwill Bins sell goods by weight — usually by the pound — which means you can grab high-value items at incredibly low prices.
This detailed guide will help you understand everything about Goodwill Bins near you — from what they are and how they work, to tips for shopping smartly and getting the best deals.
What Are Goodwill Bins?
Goodwill Bins are outlet stores run by Goodwill Industries, a nonprofit organization known for recycling donations and supporting community employment programs.
In these outlets, items that don’t sell at regular Goodwill stores are sent to “the bins” — large blue or gray plastic containers filled with unsorted goods. Shoppers can dig through the bins to find clothing, shoes, electronics, books, and even collectibles.
The best part? Everything is priced by weight, typically ranging from $1.29 to $2.19 per pound, depending on the region and item type.
How Goodwill Bins Work
When you walk into a Goodwill Outlet, you’ll see rows of large bins on wheels. Each bin contains mixed items — from clothing and shoes to household items, books, and sometimes even furniture or electronics.
Here’s how it typically works:
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New Bins Rotate Regularly – Staff bring out new bins every 20–30 minutes.
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No Early Touching Rule – Shoppers wait behind a line until staff allow them to dig in.
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Pay by Weight – You fill your cart, weigh it at checkout, and pay based on the total pounds.
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No Returns – All sales are final, so inspect items carefully before buying.
This system keeps the experience exciting — every visit feels like a treasure hunt.
Types of Items You’ll Find
Goodwill Bins are known for their wide variety of products. You’ll find almost anything, including:
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Clothing and Shoes: Designer brands, vintage wear, jackets, jeans, kids’ clothes, and more.
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Books & Media: Novels, textbooks, magazines, CDs, and DVDs.
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Household Items: Dishes, small appliances, tools, decorations, and craft materials.
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Toys and Games: Children’s items, puzzles, and collectibles.
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Electronics: Radios, keyboards, cords, and sometimes laptops or phones.
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Furniture & Décor: Small chairs, shelves, and art pieces.
Because inventory changes constantly, every visit offers something new and unexpected.
Why Goodwill Bins Are So Popular
Goodwill Bins have become a phenomenon — especially among resellers, college students, vintage enthusiasts, and eco-conscious shoppers.
1. Incredibly Cheap Prices
When items are priced by the pound, you can get multiple shirts or a pair of jeans for under $5.
2. Sustainable Shopping
Buying second-hand helps reduce waste, supports recycling, and lowers carbon emissions.
3. Treasure Hunt Thrill
The excitement of discovering something valuable or rare is what keeps shoppers coming back.
4. Resale Opportunities
Many people flip their finds on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Depop for profit.
5. Community Support
Goodwill uses its sales revenue to fund job training and community programs — so your purchases help others.
How to Find Goodwill Bins Near You
Finding Goodwill Bins near you is easy. Most major cities and many smaller towns have at least one Goodwill Outlet.
You can:
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Search online for “Goodwill Outlet” or “Goodwill Bins near me”.
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Check the official Goodwill website’s store locator.
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Use map apps to find the nearest Goodwill location with “Outlet” in the name.
Some examples of popular U.S. locations include:
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Los Angeles Goodwill Outlet
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Austin Goodwill Bins
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Seattle Goodwill Outlet
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Indianapolis Goodwill Outlet
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Atlanta Goodwill Bins
Every location has slightly different pricing and rules, but the concept remains the same — low-cost treasure hunting.
Tips for Shopping Smart at Goodwill Bins
Shopping at Goodwill Bins can be overwhelming at first, but these DrHomey-style smart tips will help you make the most of your trip:
1. Dress Comfortably
Wear clothes you can move easily in — you’ll be digging and reaching a lot.
2. Bring Gloves
Some items can be dusty or sharp, so light gloves protect your hands.
3. Go Early
Morning hours are best — you’ll find new bins and fewer crowds.
4. Scan Everything
Inspect for damage, stains, or missing parts before adding to your cart.
5. Focus on Lightweight, High-Value Items
Since prices are by weight, small items like branded clothes, books, and collectibles offer the best value.
6. Be Respectful
Goodwill Bins are busy places — be courteous to other shoppers and follow store rules.
7. Bring Reusable Bags
These help you stay organized and make checkout smoother.
The Goodwill Bins Reseller Community
A big reason Goodwill Bins have become famous is because of resellers. Many people visit outlets daily to find branded or vintage items they can resell online.
Popular resale items include:
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Levi’s jeans
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Nike and Adidas sneakers
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Coach or Kate Spade handbags
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Vintage band tees
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Retro electronics and toys
With patience and a good eye, you can turn a small investment into steady income. Some thrifters have even made full-time careers out of reselling Goodwill finds.
Benefits of Shopping at Goodwill Bins
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Low Prices | Items are sold by weight, so you save big. |
| Unique Finds | Every visit is different — you can find rare or vintage pieces. |
| Eco-Friendly | Promotes recycling and sustainability. |
| Supports Communities | Proceeds fund job programs and training. |
| Fun Experience | It’s part shopping, part treasure hunt. |
Things to Keep in Mind
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All sales are final – inspect carefully.
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Not everything is clean – wash or sanitize items before use.
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Bring cash or cards – some outlets may not take all payment types.
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Stay patient – finding good items takes time and luck.
Conclusion
Goodwill Bins near you are more than just discount stores — they’re hidden treasure troves that combine affordability, sustainability, and adventure. Whether you’re a thrifty shopper, a vintage lover, or an online reseller, visiting your local Goodwill Outlet can be both fun and rewarding.
Next time you search for “Goodwill Bins near me,” get ready for an exciting treasure hunt where every pound counts and every find tells a story.
