Bin Stores vs. Thrift Stores: Where Should You Shop for Deals?

ByDanielle Brooks
Shoppers browse through bins overflowing with secondhand clothing in a well-lit retail space. One man in the center holds up a dark jacket for inspection, while others search for deals. Most people are wearing face masks.

In today’s inflation-driven economy, shoppers are on the hunt for ways to stretch their dollar further than ever. Whether you’re a budget-conscious parent, a savvy reseller, or simply someone who loves a good treasure hunt, you’ve probably come across both bin stores and thrift stores in your deal-finding adventures.

While both offer deeply discounted products, the shopping experience and inventory you’ll find in each are quite different. So which one is better for scoring great deals? Let’s break it down.

How Bin Stores Work

Bin stores operate by selling liquidated inventory—often from big-box retailers like Amazon, Target, or Walmart—that includes returned, overstocked, or unsold merchandise. Items are dumped into large bins, and shoppers dig through to find treasures. Prices typically decrease each day, starting at around $10–$7 on restock day and dropping as low as $1 by the end of the week.

The unpredictable nature of bin store inventory makes shopping there feel like a high-stakes game of retail roulette—sometimes you’ll leave with a brand-new pair of wireless earbuds for $3, other times with nothing but a phone charger and a measuring cup.

If you’re searching online for the bin store near me, chances are you’re ready to join the wave of shoppers who are embracing this chaotic yet rewarding style of bargain hunting.

What Thrift Stores Offer

Thrift stores, on the other hand, primarily rely on community donations. You’re more likely to find gently used clothing, home décor, books, kitchenware, and occasionally vintage or rare items. Many shoppers turn to thrift stores for sustainability reasons or because they enjoy vintage aesthetics.

Unlike bin stores, thrift shops are usually a bit more organized, with items sorted by category. Pricing can vary depending on brand, condition, and location, and while deals are common, you’re less likely to find brand-new, sealed products.

Comparing the Shopping Experience

Inventory Type

  • Bin Stores: Mostly new, returned, or liquidated retail items (some may be damaged or open-box)
  • Thrift Stores: Primarily used and donated goods, including vintage and one-of-a-kind items

Organization

  • Bin Stores: Minimal organization; expect to dig
  • Thrift Stores: Shelved and categorized by type, size, or brand

Pricing

  • Bin Stores: Flat pricing by day, typically ranging from $10 down to $1
  • Thrift Stores: Varies by item; some offer half-off days or color-coded discounts

Who Should Shop Where?

Go to a Bin Store If You:

  • Enjoy the thrill of the hunt
  • Want brand-new or unopened products at a steep discount
  • Are reselling on platforms like eBay, Mercari, or Facebook Marketplace
  • Have the patience to dig and inspect products

Stick to a Thrift Store If You:

  • Prefer a more organized and slower-paced shopping experience
  • Are looking for furniture, clothing, or home goods with character
  • Enjoy supporting charitable causes (many thrift stores fund nonprofits)
  • Are into upcycling or vintage fashion

Conclusion

At the end of the day, both bin stores and thrift stores offer great deals—you just need to know what you’re looking for. Bin stores are ideal for new products and high-turnover inventory at shockingly low prices, while thrift stores are perfect for unique finds, sustainable shopping, and gently used essentials.

Want to experience the fun for yourself? Use our USA Bin Store Map to find the bin store near you and start comparing the deals firsthand!