The Parkers guide to selling at a car boot sale: what you need to bring
Planning to sell some products at a car boot sale? We've found everything you'll need to bring along to make the most of the day.
There are two surefire signs that spring has arrived and both can be viewed at a typical roundabout. The first will be the council-planted flowers coming into bloom, the second is the large sign advertising a local car boot sale. The car boot sale is possibly the best way to get rid of excess stuff that’s built up in your shed, garage and loft and we think that properly preparing for one will net you more sales.
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There’s nothing wrong with racking up with a plastic tarp to place your nicknacks on and a swear jar’s worth of pocket change, but it won’t be the most effective or comfortable experience. We’ve put together what we’d bring along to a car boot sale to hopefully help you make a bit more cash at your next sale.
Loading the car up:
If you’re planning to sell larger objects it’s a sensible idea to invest in a set of ratchet straps to keep everything secure. Not only does the DVLA require it for items weighing over 400kg, in the event of an accident you’ll appreciate not having a sideboard free to slam into you. Each of these budget straps from Amazon Basics can secure 635kg and is fitted with plastic-coated S-hooks to reduce any scratch risk. For more information about ratchet straps, read our guide here.
In order to maximise a car’s storage space and save loading time, robust plastic storage boxes can be invaluable. No longer will you need to perilously pile crockery on the rear seat, keep everything contained and sealed for a stress-free journey to the sale. Once unloaded a storage box can also double as a storage bin for categorising items for sale and because they’re clear, you and potential customers will be able to see what’s inside. This 42-litre example could easily be to separate books, DVDs, toys and even shoes for a quick sale. It’ll also make clearing away unsold goods a quick task.
After a little extra storage? A roof box will add litres of extra storage perfect for cramming in more clothes, books and other trinkets for sale. This 320-litre option from Halfords is well made, affordable and could practically double the storage space of a small family car. Just remember you’ll need to be able to access the box to remove your bric-a-brac (and potentially put it back in there if you don’t manage to sell anything). You’ll also be needing a roof rack to install a roof box.
The basics:
The classic of any car boot sale, the folding table is easy to erect, easy to store and offers plenty of tabletop space for selling goods. At 120cm long when assembled and able to hold 20kg, this table is good value for money and ideal for a car boot sale. This particular example is also lightweight aluminium and comes with a carry handle too.
Car boot sales can be long and it’ll be a good idea to have somewhere to sit down during the quieter periods. While it’s not uncommon to see people sit in their car or perched on an open tailgate, a collapsing camping chair like this one will allow you to keep an eye on your stall and should be comfortable. It takes up next to no space when folded away and comes with that most important feature, the cup holder.
No need to fumble for spare change with this tidy-looking cash box. Made from steel and lockable, this cash box features a neat tray with dividers for coins and a lower portion for strong notes. It ships with two keys and comes with a handle for easy transportation. It’ll also add a tiny element of professionalism to your stall, potentially helping sales.
Selling clothes:
Hanging clothes from a rack will make selling them a lot easier than leaving them in a pile for people to rifle through. This rack features wheels for easy movement once assembled, has an adjustable height and the bottom rails can be used to store shoes.
Not essential by any means but a clever way of potentially getting more sales. A full-length mirror will allow potential customers to model clothing against their bodies like they would in a retail shop. You don’t need anything fancy (and some may think it’s for sale) but a mirror will be a handy addition if you’re offloading old clothes.
For your comfort:
Even though car boot sales are usually held in the summer months, those early starts can still leave you feeling a little nippy. A Thermos full of hot tea or coffee will keep you alert during trading and is a sensible item to own no matter what.
Don’t fancy risking the nearest burger van but want to keep hunger at bay? A food flask like this FACE one is basically a larger drinks flask into which you can add soups and keep them warm during the day. This stylish example is made from stainless steel to keep food warm for 24 hours and comes with a folding spoon for even more convenience.
Rrp: $20.72
Price: $17.95
A good idea to have in your car no matter what, a bottle of water will keep dehydration at bay. This eco-friendly option is made from stainless steel and is designed to keep water as chilled as possible. It’s also easy to clean, light and cuts down on any need for single-use plastics.
Read next:
The best USB car chargers
The best roof racks for your van
How to stream music in an old car
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