Why Sourcing at the Bins is Actually So Much Fun!

If you’re part of the reseller or thrift-loving community, you’ve probably heard of “the bins.” But if you haven’t been yet—or you’re unsure whether it’s your thing—let me tell you why I genuinely love sourcing at my local bins (and why you just might, too!).

For starters, my bins are connected to our local St. Vincent de Paul thrift stores. Once clothing and other items go unsold at the regular retail thrift shops, they get sent to what’s called the “outlet,” or what most resellers refer to as “the bins.” Here, items are sold by the pound instead of individually priced—and at my local bins, it’s just $1.50 per pound. That means I can walk out with a bag full of clothing for the cost of a single fast fashion top from a big box store.

But it’s not just about the savings—it’s the thrill of the hunt.

The bins are like a giant, chaotic treasure chest. Clothes are dumped into large blue bins and rotated throughout the day. You never know what you’re going to find, which keeps the experience exciting and unpredictable. I’ve scored everything from vintage Levi’s to Anthropologie dresses, designer denim, and even rare Y2K pieces—all for literal pocket change.

Here’s why sourcing at the bins is genuinely FUN:

✨ It feels like a game.
You have to dig, scan quickly, and trust your instincts. It’s competitive at times, but once you learn your way around, it becomes a fast-paced challenge you’ll start looking forward to.

🎯 It sharpens your sourcing skills.
The bins teach you how to spot good quality quickly, feel fabrics with your hands, and understand what sells. You become faster, savvier, and more confident in your reselling game.

🌎 It’s sustainable.
These are clothes that didn’t sell at thrift stores and could be headed for the landfill. Giving them a second life through reselling or personal use helps reduce waste—and that feels good.

🤑 It’s incredibly cost-effective.
Even if you only find a few solid pieces during a haul, your cost of goods is so low that your profit margins are huge. If I grab 10 lbs of clothes, that’s just $15—and I’ve often turned those $15 into $150+ in sales.

🎉 You meet the best characters.
Whether it’s fellow resellers or vintage lovers, the bins attract a wild mix of people. Some are competitive, but many are friendly and full of tips, stories, and energy. It adds to the whole vibe.

Of course, it’s not for everyone. It can get messy. Your hands will get dusty. You might go home empty-handed some days. But for those of us who love a good deal, have a sharp eye, and don’t mind digging, the bins are the ultimate playground.

So next time you're looking to restock inventory or want to spend a morning on a mini treasure hunt—don’t sleep on your local bins. Throw on some gloves, bring a reusable bag, and see what gems you uncover. You just might fall in love with it like I did.