Okay, so you want to thrift huh? Maybe you’re apprehensive of the “rules” or what to expect? For beginners, the chain thrift store is your first stop.
Goodwill, Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity are the first three that come to mind. These are your commercial chains that your bound to find no matter your location. The quality and selection really varies by store- I have two Goodwills in my area that are so different yet only miles apart. Also, if your area doesn't have a ton of other second hand options then these tend to have robust selections- because, well, where else would donated items go? On the other hand, if you do have a ton of thrift stores and antique malls in your area then your chain stores may seem a little picked over (the antique/thrift vendors are shopping too!) Either way, a chain store will be a safe starting place for someone new to thrifting.
The "rules" are rather straightforward and similar to any retail store- shopping carts/baskets, items are tagged, no neogitating, check out with cash/cards and have your items bagged.
Rarely can you negotiate prices, unless maybe you find damage that is obviously not reflected in the price- in which case you’d just go to the counter and say something like “I’m really interested in this mirror but the price seems high considering the hanging hardware is broken off.” Sometimes they will offer a discount, sometimes they won’t. Never hurts to ask!
The thing about chain thrift stores is they are constantly bringing in new inventory, as they accept donations all the time. As a general rule, thrift stores seem pretty picked over on the weekends but nothing beats a mid week stop!
If you’re in the chase for true antiques or olden treasures, you’ll likely find less of these at chain stores. Often times the items in chain stores come from the families in that local area and their “spring cleanings” so to say. So, if you’re looking for used brand name clothes- try a store in an upper scale community or the Goodwill “on the nice side of town.” You can also find old stuff but from my experience it’s more rare.
Chain stores may not be the most thrilling place to shop, but definitely don’t write them off. It only takes a few minutes to run in and scan the aisles and you never know when you’ll spot your next treasure!