What to Bring When Visiting a Bin Store: The Ultimate Checklist

BySarah Mitchell
Two smiling women standing behind shopping carts filled with boxes, shoes, household items, and various merchandise at a bin store, with stacked pallets in the background.

Bring Your Own Bags or Rolling Cart

Many bin stores operate with a no-bag policy, meaning you won’t be handed a shopping cart at the door. Reusable bags with wide openings or a foldable rolling cart will make it easier to carry your finds as you dig through bins. They also help speed up checkout and reduce the risk of damaging fragile items.

Gloves for Safety and Sanitation

You never know what you’ll uncover in a bin store—while most items are in good condition, you’ll often be handling open-box or liquidation goods. Lightweight work gloves can protect your hands from sharp packaging edges or dust. Plus, they make it easier to grip items quickly and confidently.

Smart Shopper Tools

Fully Charged Smartphone

Your phone is your best friend in a bin store. It allows you to look up product values, compare prices, read reviews, and determine whether an item is worth grabbing. Keep your Wi-Fi or data connection active and be ready to search on platforms like Amazon or eBay.

Barcode Scanner App

Speed up your research with a free barcode scanning app. It’s especially useful for sealed electronics, tools, or household products. Some apps can even estimate resale value or average market pricing instantly.

Portable Power Bank

A dead phone is a deal-breaker—literally. Pack a portable charger so your research tool stays powered throughout your visit, especially if you’re planning a long dig.

Dress the Part

Comfortable Shoes

Expect to be on your feet, leaning over bins and walking around. Supportive sneakers or cushioned slip-ons are ideal for comfort and durability.

Practical Clothing

Leave your dressy clothes at home. Wear flexible, breathable attire that you won’t mind getting dusty. Consider layers in case the store is chilly or overly warm.

Bonus Items for Pro Shoppers

Measuring Tape

If you plan to buy anything that needs to fit a space—like shelves, mirrors, or small furniture—a compact measuring tape will save you from second-guessing.

Flashlight or Phone Light

Bin stores can have dim corners or deep bins. A small LED flashlight helps you inspect the condition of items, especially those at the bottom of the pile.

Water Bottle and Snack

If you’re in for a long hunt, stay hydrated and energized. Many bin stores don’t allow food inside but having a snack or drink in your car ensures you’re fueled before or after your spree.

Optional But Handy Additions

Notebook or Digital List

If you’re sourcing items to flip or have a shopping list for your household, bringing a written list helps you stay focused. Note item types, brands, or categories you want to target.

Hand Sanitizer and Wipes

Quick cleanup is essential after sorting through hundreds of items. Sanitizer helps maintain hygiene before eating or handling personal items.

Know Before You Go

Before heading out, take time to search online for a bin store near me and review their policies. Some locations have unique rules about restock days, maximum quantities, return policies, or even restricted bag sizes. A few minutes of research can prevent frustration and wasted time.

Final Thoughts

Bin stores are fast-paced, exciting places where preparation pays off—literally. By equipping yourself with this ultimate checklist, you’ll improve your chances of uncovering hidden gems and reduce the stress that often comes with high-energy shopping environments. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or hunting for resale opportunities, the right gear makes all the difference.