Bin stores let you hit the jackpot

I hit up a bin store the other day. It’s where returned and overstock items find a second chance. I spotted a sealed 2-by-2-foot mystery box for 10 bucks. Naturally, I had to buy it. What was inside?
Four pairs of men’s black socks, a cat bell, two potato peelers, an iPhone stand and a women’s tee that said, “Cowboys in my veins. Jesus in my heart.”
What the heck is a bin store?
These are usually small, independently owned shops packed with random Amazon, Target and Walmart returns, overstock inventory and liquidated goods. Some stuff is junk, but you can score deals.
How do you find one?
Easy! Try one of these methods:
🔎 Google it: Search for “bin stores near me,” “Amazon return stores” or “bargain bin stores.” They go by a ton of names.
📍 Facebook Marketplace: Many store owners list their hauls here. Look for listings with warehouse-style photos. Those are your jackpot.
📸 Social media sleuthing: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc. are full of bin store hauls. Use these hashtags: #[YourCity]BinStore (e.g., #DallasBinStore), #[YourState]BinStore (e.g., #FloridaBinStore), #LocalBinStore and #BinStoresNearMe.
💬 Reddit recon: Type in “bin store [your state]” and see if anyone has shared a hidden gem near you.
No returns at bin stores
That’s important to know and so are these tips.
- Know the discount days: Many stores offer deeper discounts on certain days. Also, find out when new inventory arrives, so you can be first in line.
- Test electronics before buying: Some are broken, some are knockoffs. Remember, no take backs.
- Avoid the chaos: Check the store’s Google Maps listing for peak hours. This way, you can skip the crowds and score the best deals when it’s less busy.
🛋️ Oh, and speaking of shopping … Last weekend, I went to a furniture store to buy a living room set. I told the salesman I needed two couches to seat eight people. He pointed to a set and said, “These couches will seat eight people, no problem.” I smiled and asked, “Now, where am I going to find eight people with no problems?” 😆 I laughed, Barry shook his head, and the salesman? He just walked away.