Garage Sale Prep Checklist

Print this or keep it open on your phone. It's the short version of our full prep guide, in the same four phases.

3 to 4 weeks out

• Pick your date(s) and apply for your city permit
• Walk every room and flag items to sell
• Start collecting boxes, bags, and a folding table or two

1 to 2 weeks out

• Clean and test anything electronic or battery-powered
• Price everything (see the pricing guide): sticker each item, or use a few labeled bins or tables by price
• Take a cover photo for your listing (and more for Live Updates if you have a Featured Listing)
• Claim your listing once it's imported from your permit, and add a title, description and tags

Sale week

• Round up small bills, coins for change, and an apron or pouch to keep cash on you
• Share your listing link on social media
• Make your one sign for your own property (see the permit rules)

Final 24 hours: the night before

• Set up tables and racks in the garage/driveway
• Group like items together (clothing by size, tools together, etc.)
• Charge your phone for photos, payment apps, and listing updates

Final 24 hours: sale-day morning

• Put out your sign and open on time
• Set up shade and water if it's warm (see our South Texas heat guide)
• Tap Update Your Status in My Listings to tell shoppers you're open
• Keep all cash on you, never in a box on a table