Complete Bin Store Shopping Guide for 2026
Everything you need to know about bin store shopping — pricing, strategy, what to buy, and what to skip.
Key Takeaways
- Bin stores sell Amazon, Walmart, and Target customer returns at 70-95% off retail prices
- Restock day is the most important day — arrive early for the best selection
- Electronics and home goods offer the best value for beginners
- Always test electronics and inspect items before buying — most stores have no-return policies
- Prices typically drop throughout the week, from $15 on restock day to $1 on the last day
What Are Bin Stores?
Bin stores are the final stop in the retail return pipeline. When you return an item to Amazon, Walmart, or Target, it usually can't be resold as "new." Instead, these returns are sold in bulk to liquidation companies, who then distribute them to bin stores across the country.
The result? Brand-new products — from electronics to clothing to toys — available at 70-95% off retail prices.
How Bin Store Pricing Works
Most bin stores follow a declining price model:
| Day | Typical Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Restock Day (Day 1) | $12–$15 | Electronics, tools, premium brands |
| Day 2 | $8–$10 | Home goods, name-brand items |
| Day 3 | $5–$7 | Clothing, accessories, books |
| Day 4 | $3–$4 | Bulk buying, gifts, personal items |
| Day 5 | $1–$2 | Everything — the treasure hunt day |
The strategy trade-off: Higher prices = better selection. Lower prices = better deals on what's left. Most experienced shoppers visit on restock day for high-value items (electronics, tools) and return on $1 day for everything else.
Types of Bin Stores
Amazon Return Bin Stores
The most common type. These exclusively sell Amazon customer returns and typically have the widest variety — electronics, home goods, toys, clothing, beauty products, and more. Inventory quality is generally high since Amazon has a generous return policy that results in many barely-used items entering liquidation.
Goodwill Outlets (The Bins)
Goodwill Outlet stores sell items by the pound rather than individually. Clothing, books, shoes, and housewares are placed in large blue bins that rotate every 15-30 minutes. Prices are typically $1.49-2.49 per pound for most items. These are the original "bin stores" and offer the deepest discounts.
Mixed Liquidation Stores
Some stores source from multiple retailers (Target, Walmart, Lowe's, Home Depot) and may include overstock alongside returns. These often have more variety but less consistency in quality.
Your First Bin Store Visit: What to Expect
Before You Go
- Find your local bin stores — search "[your city] bin store" or check our store finder
- Check the restock schedule — call ahead or check their social media
- Pack your kit: batteries, USB-C cable, phone charger, measuring tape
At the Store
- Arrive 15-30 minutes early on restock day — lines are real
- Grab a cart immediately — claim items first, inspect second
- Work through bins systematically — start with your priority category
- Inspect everything before heading to checkout
- Return unwanted items to the bins (this is expected and encouraged)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying without inspecting — no-return policies mean you keep what you buy
- Ignoring the restock schedule — showing up on the wrong day means picked-over bins
- Not knowing retail prices — use your phone to verify you're actually getting a deal
- Getting overwhelmed — have a plan, focus on 1-2 categories per visit
- Spending more than you planned — set a budget and stick to it
Most bin stores post their restock schedules and fresh inventory teasers on Facebook and Instagram. Follow your local stores to see what's coming before you visit.
What to Buy (and What to Skip)
Best Bets for Beginners
| Category | Why It's Great | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth speakers | Easy to test, high retail value | Low |
| Kitchen gadgets | Usually unopened, easy to inspect | Low |
| Board games | Verify completeness quickly | Low |
| Phone accessories | Small, cheap, high markup | Very Low |
| Home decor | Visual inspection only needed | Very Low |
For Experienced Shoppers
| Category | Why It's Great | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Power tools | Huge savings, test required | Medium |
| Designer clothing | Brand knowledge needed | Medium |
| LEGO sets | Verify sealed bags | Medium |
| Collectibles | Market knowledge required | Medium-High |
What to Skip
- Opened food items or supplements — safety concern
- Car seats and helmets — safety certification may be compromised
- Mattresses and pillows — hygiene concern
- Items with missing key components — missing power cords, lids, or essential parts
- Anything that smells burnt — internal damage is likely
Building a Bin Store Routine
The most successful bin store shoppers develop a weekly routine:
- Monday: Hit restock day for high-value electronics and tools
- Wednesday: Check for home goods and clothing at mid-week prices
- Friday/Saturday: $1-3 day for bulk buying gifts, household items, and experiments
Not every trip will yield amazing finds — that's normal. Consistency beats intensity. The shoppers who go regularly develop an eye for value and build relationships with store staff who can tip them off about incoming inventory.
What the Experts Agree On
After analyzing multiple expert sources and experienced bin store shoppers:
- Start small: Focus on 1-2 categories until you develop your eye
- Restock day matters: The best items are gone within the first hour
- Test everything: No-return policies make inspection non-negotiable
- Know your prices: The Amazon app is your best friend at a bin store
- Be consistent: Regular visits yield better results than occasional marathon trips
Sources We Reviewed
Bin Store Shopping Intelligence
Condition Notes
- •Item condition ranges from brand new sealed to slightly damaged — inspection is essential
- •Most items are Amazon, Walmart, or Target customer returns in working condition
- •Packaging is typically opened or damaged, but contents are usually intact
- •Electronics and tools require testing; clothing and home goods need visual inspection
Inspection Checklist
- Arrive early on restock day for the best selection — lines form before opening
- Bring your phone to scan barcodes and check retail prices
- Carry AA/AAA batteries, a USB-C cable, and a measuring tape
- Work systematically through bins — don't skip any just because they look picked over
- Check every item before adding to your cart — returns are rarely accepted at bin stores
- Talk to staff about restock schedules and which bins have fresh inventory
Our Verdict
Bin store shopping is one of the best-kept secrets in retail. Whether you're looking to save money on everyday items, build a reselling business, or just enjoy the thrill of the hunt, bin stores offer unmatched value. Start with electronics and home goods — they have the best risk-to-reward ratio for beginners.
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