Trader Tots is always looking for ways to improve our store. We listen to you, watch our inventory and constantly try new things. Our latest change has been a bit of a face lift. Stop in soon to see our fresh paint job and new floor plan.
Another change has to do with how we get our merchandise. In addition to consigning, we have begun to buy items outright. The process of selling outright works similarly to our consignment process. You may bring items Mon - Sat between 10 - 5 or by appointment. We do ask that everything be freshly cleaned and in boxes, tubs, baskets or shopping bags (not in garbage bags), current styles with no stains or tears. We do our best to go through your items while you wait and ask that you allow 15-30 minutes in your schedule.
The difference comes in the amount of money you receive and when you receive it. When consigning you receive 50% of the selling price when the item sells. It is a 60 day consignment period with a 20% markdown every 20 days. If any of your items do not sell, they are returned to you or you may choose to have them donated. Your money is put on your account as soon as the item sells and is available to pick up at that time.
When we buy outright you receive a lesser amount. In consignment you share the risk that something will not sell or will be marked down, in buying outright we take all the risk. We are more particular, taking only items that we know will sell quickly such as brand names in excellent condition. While you do receive the money right then and there the amounts are more like "garage sale" prices (30%-40% of the expected selling price).
- Why do we buy outright?
The reason is two-fold. First, we want to be able to offer you the very best selection of clothes and toys year round. We realized that sometimes sizes or categories were thin, but we were turning down dozens of people because they were not interested in consigning. The second reason is that many people want or need cash now. Maybe they are moving or want the money for a special event, they just don't care to take the chance of getting more money later. We like to be able to offer that option. Our goal is to satisfy as many customers as much of the time as possible.
- Why do consignors consign?
To get the most money out of their items as possible. You paid top dollar for it so why not get top dollar out of it? If you don't need the money today, why not take the risk with us to make more?
- What percentage of the consigned items do we sell?
We sell on the average of 80%-90%. This varies with how early in the season items are brought in, what size they are and what they are. Of course, the busier we are the higher the percentage of items sold and it has gone up significantly since last year. With consigning, we will take chances. We will take something that we can probably sell, but customers are unpredictable. If we buy outright we are less flexible, we have to be much more confident of a sale.
- Are there any benefits to selling outright other than quick cash?
We will buy off season clothing size 18 month and up, but items must be GREAT enough for us to store until its season arrives. This works very well for people who are moving and won't be around to consign the next season. With consigning it's just not possible to pack away consignors' things and keep track of the things we have.
Debbie Keri Brown, author of Bargain Hunting in Columbus, wrote "Trader Tots bends over backwards to try to please their customers with the most options available", in her last newsletter. Debbie is a valued customer for us and we feel privileged to receive this complement and acknowledgment from her. Thanks Debbie!!
So pull out all those well cared for but outgrown items and give us a try. We are certain that we have an option that will work for you. And while you're in check out our extensive selection. We are sure that you will agree, no children's store, resale or retail, has a better selection.
