You've gathered all your items, set your prices, and advertised like crazy. But here's the thing: even the best merchandise won't sell smoothly if you're scrambling for supplies on sale day. Trust us, there's nothing worse than making change from your personal wallet or watching a buyer walk away because you can't bag their purchase. Avoid the chaos with these 12 essential supplies that'll keep your garage sale running like a well-oiled machine. 
1. Cash Box with Plenty of Change
2. Plastic and Paper Bags
3. Pricing Supplies
4. Sturdy Tables
5. Packing Tape and Masking Tape
6. Permanent Markers
7. Extension Cords and Power Strips
8. Comfortable Chairs
9. Blankets, Sheets, or Tablecloths
10. Scissors and Box Cutters
11. Calculator or Smartphone
12. Notebook and Pen
Set Yourself Up for Success
1. Cash Box with Plenty of Change
This is non-negotiable. Start with at least $100 in small bills: twenty $1 bills, ten $5 bills, and four $10 bills, plus a roll of quarters. Keep it in a lockable cash box or fanny pack that stays on you at all times. Nothing kills sales momentum like telling customers "I can't break a $20." Pro tip: hit the bank the day before your sale—don't wait until Saturday morning when you're already stressed.
2. Plastic and Paper Bags
Buyers need a way to carry their treasures home. Stock up on grocery bags, plastic shopping bags, and paper sacks in various sizes. Reuse bags from your own shopping trips or ask friends to save theirs. For larger items, have a few sturdy reusable totes available. When people can easily transport what they buy, they're more likely to browse for "just one more thing."
3. Pricing Supplies
You'll need bright, easy-to-read price tags or stickers. Grab colorful sticker dots from the dollar store (assign each color a price tier), masking tape, and a thick black Sharpie. For clothing, use safety pins to attach tags without damaging fabric. Consider making a few large poster boards with pricing categories: "All Books $1," "Clothes $2 Each or 3 for $5." Clear pricing means fewer questions and faster sales.
4. Sturdy Tables
Tables elevate your merchandise (literally) and make browsing easier. You'll need at least 2-3 tables depending on your inventory. Folding tables, card tables, or even plywood on sawhorses work great. Don't have enough? Borrow from neighbors or rent inexpensive ones. Display items at waist or eye level so shoppers don't have to bend down constantly—it makes everything more appealing and accessible.
5. Packing Tape and Masking Tape
Keep both on hand. Packing tape secures boxes, reinforces bags, and can even repair broken items on the spot. Masking tape is perfect for price tags, bundling similar items together, and quick fixes. You'll use both more than you think, especially when someone buys multiple small items and needs them packaged together.
6. Permanent Markers
Buy a pack of thick permanent markers in black. You'll use them to price items, create last-minute signs, update sold items on your inventory list, and write on tape. Keep at least three on hand because they always disappear at the worst possible moment. Bold, clear pricing is everything, so don't rely on that dying pen you found in your junk drawer.
7. Extension Cords and Power Strips
If you're selling any electronics, lamps, or appliances, you need power access. Run heavy-duty outdoor extension cords to your sale area and add power strips for multiple items. This lets buyers test products before purchasing, which dramatically increases electronics sales. Label your testing station clearly and keep cords organized to prevent tripping hazards.
8. Comfortable Chairs
You'll be on your feet a lot, but having 2-3 chairs near your cash station is essential. You need a place to sit during slow periods, and if you have helpers, they'll appreciate it too. Plus, tired sellers make mistakes with change and pricing. Stay sharp by taking sitting breaks throughout the day.
9. Blankets, Sheets, or Tablecloths
Cover your tables with old sheets or tablecloths to create a cleaner, more organized look. Use blankets to display breakable items with cushioning or to lay out jewelry and small collectibles. They also protect furniture you're selling from getting dirty or scratched during the sale. Light-colored fabrics make items stand out better than dark ones.
10. Scissors and Box Cutters
You'll need these for opening boxes, cutting price tags, trimming tape, and separating bundled items. Keep them within reach but secure—don't leave sharp objects where kids or distracted shoppers might grab them. A small utility knife or quality scissors can solve dozens of little problems throughout the day.
11. Calculator or Smartphone
Mental math gets fuzzy when you're making change all day. Keep a calculator or use your phone to quickly total purchases, especially when people buy multiple items or you're offering bundle discounts. It prevents mistakes, speeds up transactions, and helps you track your earnings as the day progresses.
12. Notebook and Pen
Keep a small notebook for tracking big-ticket sales, writing down phone numbers for hold items, or jotting notes about interested buyers who might return. You can also use it to track your total earnings throughout the day—nothing feels better than watching those numbers climb! Some sellers like recording what sold best for planning future sales.
Set Yourself Up for Success
Having these supplies organized and ready before your first customer arrives transforms your garage sale from chaotic to professional. Pack everything in a designated bin the night before so you can grab and go on sale morning. When you're prepared, you'll spend less time problem-solving and more time making money. Now get out there and sell!
