Top Goodwill Items to Resell for Profit

Top Items to Resell from Goodwill for Maximum Profit (Beginner’s Guide)

Top items to resell from Goodwill for maximum profit is one of the first things new resellers want to know. Whether you’re starting a side hustle or just looking to make some extra cash, knowing what to pick up — and what to skip — can make a big difference in how much you earn.

Goodwill stores are full of donated items. Some are worth very little, while others can sell for 5 to 10 times their price — or more. If you’re just getting started, this guide will help you spot the best flips and avoid wasting your time or money.

Why Goodwill Is a Great Place to Source Items

Goodwill sells secondhand items at low prices, and their inventory changes daily. Because donations come from all kinds of people, you’ll often find brand-name, vintage, or collectible items mixed in with everyday goods. That’s where smart resellers win.

Top Items to Resell from Goodwill for Maximum Profit

1. Branded Clothing and Shoes

Well-known brands often resell fast. Look for:

  • Nike, Adidas, Patagonia, Levi’s, and Lululemon
  • Vintage t-shirts or band tees
  • Jackets or coats from The North Face or Columbia
  • Sneakers in good condition

Even used clothes can sell well online if they’re in good shape. Check for stains, rips, and wear before buying.

2. Books and Textbooks

Some used books are worth more than you think, especially:

  • College textbooks
  • Rare or out-of-print books
  • Complete series (like Harry Potter or Twilight)
  • Niche topics (like cooking or personal finance)

Scan barcodes using your phone to check prices on Amazon or eBay.

3. Electronics and Small Appliances

People donate working electronics all the time. Items to look for:

  • Cameras (especially vintage film cameras)
  • Headphones or speakers
  • Video game systems and games
  • Kitchen gadgets like bread makers or blenders

Always plug in electronics (if possible) before buying to test if they work.

4. Vintage Mugs, Dishes, and Home Décor

Some mugs or glassware can sell for surprising amounts, especially:

  • Starbucks city mugs
  • Disney or cartoon character mugs
  • Pyrex or Fire-King bowls
  • Mid-century modern vases or wall art

Use your phone to look up patterns or makers’ marks on the bottom.

5. Toys and Board Games

Look for:

  • LEGO sets (even if incomplete)
  • Vintage toys from the 80s and 90s
  • Action figures (Star Wars, Marvel, etc.)
  • Board games (sealed or complete)

You can often piece together game sets or sell parts individually if something is missing.

6. Handbags and Accessories

Genuine leather bags or recognizable brands like Coach, Fossil, or Vera Bradley can resell well. Watch out for fakes, though. Check stitching, labels, and hardware before buying.

7. Sports Equipment and Outdoor Gear

Helmets, camping gear, yoga mats, or even baseball gloves can be flipped for profit — especially in the right season. Look for items in clean, gently used condition.

8. Collectibles and Niche Items

Some of the biggest profits come from rare or niche finds. Examples include:

  • Old magazines or ads
  • Vinyl records
  • Vintage tools or hardware
  • Old license plates
  • Cameras or watches

You may need to do a little research here, but the rewards are worth it.

Where to Resell These Items

  • eBay – Best for collectibles, electronics, clothing, books
  • Facebook Marketplace – Great for bulky items or local sales
  • Poshmark – Focused on clothing, shoes, and accessories
  • Mercari – A mix of everything, especially smaller items
  • Amazon – For books, DVDs, or new/unopened items

Real-World Resource

Want to learn how to list items like a pro? Check out the eBay Seller Center — it offers free tips for product photos, shipping, and customer service.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the top items to resell from Goodwill for maximum profit is the first step toward building a reliable reselling business or side hustle. With a little research and a good eye, you can turn secondhand finds into serious cash — even if you’re starting with just $10.

Start small, learn from each trip, and track what works best for you. The more you flip, the better you get — and the more profitable it becomes.

FAQs

Look it up on eBay and filter by “sold listings” to see what people actually paid. If many similar items have sold recently, it’s a good sign.

Many people make $100–$500 per month as a side hustle. Some advanced resellers earn full-time income. It depends on your effort, item quality, and consistency.

Visit once or twice a week for the best results. Inventory changes daily, so the more often you go, the better your chances of finding valuable items.

It happens to everyone. You can try lowering the price, bundling it, or donating it back. Over time, you’ll learn what sells best.

Yes, it’s perfectly allowed. Just make sure you follow each platform’s rules and accurately describe used items.

Not in most cases. If you’re selling casually or part-time, you can start without one. But check your local tax laws if you plan to scale up.

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