As a rummage goer and a rummage doer, I've found that proper signage is very important. BIG arrows are necessary. Matching signs help, so that people know the sign they are following is for the rummage they are looking for. A little sign with your complete address isn't going to do it.
You really don't need the house number until the signs are closer to home. You might just need the street name, or subdivision name with arrows to get people in the general vicinity. Then, be sure to put a sign at the end of the driveway, or streamers on the garage, something so that people know that you aren't just cleaning out your garage. It's embarrassing to look through the garage stuff at the wrong house!
Key places to put signage are: at grocery store exits, freeway exits, health club exits, and main intersections in your area.
The last few years, I've noticed fewer people come because of an advertisement in the paper. Take advantage of the free online advertising: Craigslist, eBay classifieds, TV news station websites (that have rummage trackers), local Bokoo sites. Mention that you're having a rummage sale on Facebook or Twitter or other social media.
Because you don't have to pay by line for the ad, you can include more information about your large ticket items. You can also post a separate ad for a specific item (such as a sofa) and say that it is at your rummage sale. Sometimes people who come to look at something specific will end up purchasing other items as well.
All in all, you can advertise as much as you want, but if you don't have good signage, they won't be able to find your rummage. So, get out your super-huge Sharpie marker, or use black electrical tape and make your arrows REALLY BIG and then get ready for your really big turnout!
By jockocheez from Milwaukee burbs, WI
This page contains the following solutions.
Garage sales are a lot of work to set up and operate. Don't miss out on potential sales because folks can't find you. Follow local ordinances regarding these sales. Prepare carefully. Good luck.
Recycle a large clean white meat tray into an easy to read rummage sale sign. Use permanent markers or crayons to detail the wording.
When having a yard or garage sale, it helps to list a phone number with your advertising in case folks need directions, etc.
When having a garage sale, bright, clear signs are a must. I use neon poster board and paint on it with black paint.
I am team captain for a Relay for Life Team and we have an annual yard sale. We always place an ad in the local newspaper, post flyers at local businesses, and post a notice on our company's website.
I have found that if you really want a successful garage sale, use those bright green posters boards or signs. They really do pop when one is driving around looking for sales. Good luck and happy garage selling!
I don't advertise in the paper because I hate to have super early shoppers. I arrange my stuff the night before, and cover tables with sheets to keep snoopers out!
Use bright neon contrasting posterboard to make your signs (example: hot pink and hot green or flourescent orange). Have a box labeled FREE near the enterance and put a few toys, socks, etc. in it which is free for the taking.
After helping out with several large garage sales in the past, I have some helpful tips. Get family members and friends to help out.
