Sell at Flea Markets

FLEA MARKETS AND SWAP MEETS
Flea markets, swap meets, bazaars - whatever they're called in your area, they attract huge crowds hungry for bargains and ready to buy. As an BargainRanch affiliate selling directly to the consumer, you can set up your own booth and rack up a substantial income working just two days a week! Or, do what some affiliates do - supply the swap meet vendors with goods! Swap meets and flea markets are fun ways for the whole family to work together and enjoy the excitement of making big money! Over the last several years the flea market and swap meets have become as American as apple pie. According to a recent issue of Swap Meet magazine, over 600 such functions are being held on a regular basis. Most of these
are weekend affairs, but more and more are operating every day of the week. Practically any item imaginable can be - and is - sold at these affairs. Your author has visited several, and talked to hundreds of dealers. The overall average NET INCOME seems to be around $125 per day. Some of the so-called "smart" people are earning as much as $500 per day. Most of the people sell two days per week, while some travel and sell four and five days a week.

If you currently sell or are looking to sell products at your local flea markets then we have an excellent opportunity for you. We will supply you with our products at wholesale prices. We will also supply you with all the necessary tools to help you become a successful sales person even though our products sell themselves. To get started go to our sign up page.

Answers to a Few Key Questions...

Q How much profit should I expect?

Take your cost and add 40%, on the average. Some items, such as used books, will allow for more profit. And then, of course, if you buy smart, you will certainly make more.

Q Do I have to collect a sales tax?

Yes, but most flea markets provide you with a form to fill out; you collect the tax and turn it in at the end of the day. A better way to handle this, though, is to obtain a permit from city hall and collect the tax yourself.

Q What is the average cost of space?

Usually between $3 and $10 per day for an open space. If you are going to be there regularly, it may be a good idea to rent a permanent space, which can run as little as $50 per month. Some markets offer covered buildings, which may be locked at the end of the day (meaning you don't have to lug all your stuff home). Spaces in these buildings average about $150 per month.

Q What equipment will I need?

How high is up? Some types of merchandise require display racks, the peg-board type; others can be stacked in boxes, or on portable shelves. A good folding table is useful for displaying your merchandise, and you will need a few paper bags for your customers. Other than that, a cash box that locks is all you'll need. However, don't forget about yourself! Bring along some creature comforts - a chair, radio, refreshments, etc. During the summer months it's also a good idea to bring along something that provides shade, unless you enjoy having your top exposed to the rays.

Q I can't operate as a salesman - what kind of pressure is required?

Flea markets have become a family outing type of thing these days, and most people are having a good time simply hunting for super bargains. For the most part you should either mark the price on each item, or make up signs stating your prices. Actually, there is very little selling you have to worry about, and certainly no pressure. Pick your merchandise carefully, price it right... and the rest will take care of itself.

This report cannot possibly give you all the facts, but it will get you started earning some bucks at the flea market. The more you get into it, the more you learn. And the more you learn, the more money will come your way. you might give it a try.

Things to Bring

Another person. This is very important. You will not want to leave your table unattended while you go to the restroom or to look at something on someone else's table. You'll also be glad for the company if things get slow.

Plenty of change. You wouldn't want to lose a sale because you couldn't change a given dollar bill, would you?

Be sure to bring chairs or something else to sit on. It can be a very long day if you have to stand.

Check to see if tables are provided or if you are expected to supply your own. Make sure in either case that you have enough display space so that your items are not hidden.

It is also a good idea to bring a thermos or cooler with drinks and food to last you the day. Much of your flea-market profit can be spent at the concession stand if you don't!

Check to see how much of an admission fee there is and be sure to bring it. Also ask if there are any items that are forbidden for sale.

One last thing: Get there early! At some eight o'clock openings, for example, the lines start forming at five a.m. Have a good time!