Cash
Still the #1 garage sale payment method.
Tips:
- Start with at least $75–$150 in change
- Have:
- $1 bills
- $5 bills
- quarters
- Use a cash box, apron, or waist pouch
- Keep large bills hidden separately
Mobile Payment Apps
Many shoppers don’t carry cash anymore.
Popular options:
- Venmo
- Cash App
- PayPal
- Zelle
Setup Tips
- Print your QR codes and tape them near checkout
- Put signs like:
- “Cash, Venmo & Cash App Accepted”
- Test your apps before sale day
- Make sure your phone is fully charged
Accepting Credit/Debit Cards
If you expect larger purchases (furniture, tools, bikes, electronics), card payments can dramatically increase sales.
Easy Card Readers
- Square
- Stripe
- PayPal
Most connect to your phone and let people tap cards or phones.
Make Checkout Fast
Create a Simple Checkout Area
Use:
- a folding table
- chair
- calculator
- bags or boxes
- tape and markers
Price Everything Clearly
Customers buy faster when prices are obvious.
Use:
- colored stickers
- masking tape
- printed labels
Prevent Problems
Watch for Counterfeit Bills
Especially $50s and $100s.
A counterfeit marker is cheap and useful.
Keep Electronics Charged
Bring:
- portable charger
- extension cord
- backup battery pack
Have Internet Backup
If cell service is weak:
- connect to home Wi-Fi
- use hotspot backup
Smart Sales Tricks
Bundle Deals
Examples:
- “Fill a bag for $5”
- “3 books for $2”
- “Everything after noon half off”
Put Expensive Items Near Checkout
People impulse buy while paying.
Helpful Sign Ideas
- “Cash Preferred”
- “Cards & Mobile Pay Accepted”
- “Exact Change Appreciated”
- “No Holds”
What Usually Sells Best
Popular garage sale items:
- kids toys
- tools
- video games
- small furniture
- home décor
- brand clothing
- kitchen gadgets
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