Target Salvage Stores: What They Are and How To Find One

Updated October 7, 2024 by Kyle James
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Trying to find some Target steals that are BETTER than what your current Target Clearance section offers? Look no further than the magical world of Target salvage stores. These salvage stores is where Target dumps stuff after they go through their regular “clearance cycle”. It’s also where you can capitalize on major discounts on Target items, often ranging anywhere from 50%-90% off. Being one for a good deal, I wanted to learn how to find these Target salvage stores so I can get stuff at a fraction of the cost. Here’s what I discovered.

Target Salvage Stores: What They Are and How To Find One

How to Find Where Target Sends Their Salvage Items?

The absolute best way to find a Target salvage store near you is by going to your local Target and asking the manager or associate.

Most employees who know where they send liquidation stuff are more than happy to tell you where it ends up.

Stores in your area that are typically great candidates to receive these salvage or liquidation items include Goodwill, Bargain Hunt, Tuesday Morning, Bin Time, Bargain Bins, That’s Cheap, Falling Prices, and even Salvation Army to name a few.

Also, I found a great list from Aubrey Swan of Target salvage stores broken down by state and city which will give you a great idea if you have one in your neck of the woods.

Another great way to find one is to do a simple Google search for “Target salvage stores in your town or “Target liquidation stores in your town.

I did this when writing this article and quickly stumbled upon a “Bargain Bins” store in a neighboring town that sells Target liquidation products for pennies on the dollar.

PRO TIP: NO REALLY…ASK AN EMPLOYEE!

I recently asked an employee at my local Target and they told me about a couple places nearby that they’ll sell liquidated products to, and sure enough one of them was the Bargain Bins store mentioned above. When I visited Bargain Bins, I found a bunch of great deals, especially on toys and home décor at over 90% off the original price. (more on this later). When I compared the prices on the Target app, the savings was in the 60% – 90% range.

See Also: Here’s How to Find an Amazon Salvage Store Near You

What Types Of Items Will I Find at Salvage Stores?

Target price tag at a salvage store

These salvage stores sell much more than just heavily discounted Target items.

You will also find heavily discounted items on other name brands.

The point of salvage stores, or sometimes called liquidation stores, is to essentially get rid of excess inventory on products that aren’t in high demand.

Therefore, don’t expect to find the hottest electronic device here.

Instead, expect to find these items at your local Target salvage store:

  • Furniture
  • Bedding
  • Home Décor
  • Toys
  • Seasonal Décor
  • Kitchen Items

The whole point of why Target sells these types of heavily discounted items to salvage stores is they know they won’t profit from trying to sell them in-store PLUS they are taking up too much room.

Therefore, rather than throw out these items, Target sells them to “salvage stores” by the Pallet at a heavily discounted price.

PRO TIP: THE TOP BRANDS YOU CAN EXPECT TO FIND

From walking into many of these salvage or “liquidation” stores, I can tell you the exact brands I typically find. They include: Ariat, Breville, Cat & Jack, Cuisinart, DeWalt, Huggies, Igloo, Instant Pot, Keurig, KitchenAid, Ninja, T-Fal, Revlon, Room Essentials, and Starbucks to name a few.

See Also: Insider Tips for Saving at Goodwill (From Employees In-The-Know)

When Is the Best Time or Day To Shop?

Target bin store

If you want to hit the jackpot with heavily discounted Target products, shop at your Target salvage store right after Target has a clearance sale.

This is because once the clearance sale is over, Target typically liquidates the remaining inventory to make room for new products.

Although clearance sales can vary from location to location, if you see discounts of 70% or above at your local Target store, start to check out your go-to salvage store.

Your salvage store itself may run special daily sales and deals too for even MORE savings.

For example, the Bargain Bins store that I keep mentioning works like this….

  • Thursday – Everything in the store is $12.
  • Friday – Everything in the store is $8.
  • Saturday – Everything in the store is $4.
  • Sunday – Everything in the store is $2.
  • Monday – Everything in the store is “2 for $1”.
  • Tuesday – CLOSED for restocking.
  • Wednesday – CLOSED for restocking.

Many of these salvage stores work similarly, but may have slightly different days where they’re closed for restocking.

Thursday morning in usually a mad rush to find the great deals that lasts for about 2 hours after opening.

Come in over the weekend and there are still deals to be found.

Come in on Monday, and the stuff is fairly picked over but still plenty of deals if you consider the 50 CENT price tag on EVERYTHING.

See Also: 7 Target “Clearance Tips”: Smart Tips to Save Big

How Much Money Can You Expect to Save?

The short answer: A lot.

Expect to find discounts of 70%-90% off items at your Target salvage store.

This is crazy considering most clearance items at Target range from 15%-30% off.

And, even if you do find 50% discounts on Target clearance items, these types of deals are likely few and far between.

Yet, these 50% and up discounts at your local salvage store are practically the barrier to entry to be in these stores.

Can I Find Cat & Jack Products at Salvage Stores?

Cat and Jack Products at a Target Salvage Store

Yes, and the picture above proves it.

I recently took this picture at my local Target salvage store (Bargain Bins) where I found a slew of Cat & Jack products, which is Target’s kid’s clothing line, in case you weren’t familiar.

Specifically, I found a bunch of shoes, shirts, pants, and even socks at heavily discounted prices.

See Also: Target Return Policy: Here’s Exactly How It Works

Why Not Just Shop Target Clearance Items?

Pretty simple really…you just won’t save as much money.

This is because often Target clearance items range from only 15% to 30% off the retail price.

And, when these discounts do reach the 50% and above mark (on rare occasions) these items are highly picked over.

However, discounts of 50% and above are the norm at salvage stores.

If you just care about getting the most discounted Target clearance items, shop at your salvage store.

This is especially true if you’re an eBay seller and looking to turn a quick profit.

Salvage stores make for a great place to look for inventory that you can resell on eBay.

Keep in mind that if you find a Target clearance item you love, at a good price, consider snatching it up as it probably won’t make it to your local salvage store.

Ask the Reader: Have you been able to find a Target salvage store in the town you live in? If so, how’d you do it and what kind of savings do you get?


By Kyle James

Using EBT at Whole Foods…There Are Many Exceptions

Updated September 2, 2024 by Kyle James
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Whole Foods is a health-conscious grocery store that offers a wide selection of yummy, but rather pricey food options. With Whole Foods’ rise in popularity in recent years, I was interested if they accepted EBT. Not only does Whole Foods offer a wide range of quality foods in their in-store locations, but they have their own app, website, and even sell their own Whole Foods brands and items on Amazon. If you’re looking for where you can and cannot use your EBT card when it comes to all things Whole Foods grocery items, read on to find where and when Whole Foods accepts EBT.

Using EBT at Whole Foods...There Are Many Exceptions

Does Whole Foods Take EBT or WIC?

Yes and no.

All Whole Foods locations accept EBT (electronic benefits transfer) at all in-person store locations.

However, most, but not all physical Whole Foods locations accept WIC (special supplemental nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children).

Be sure to call your local Whole Foods store to verify if they accept WIC.

Does the Whole Foods Website Accept EBT?

Unfortunately, no.

The EBT terms for the Whole Foods online store differ from the policy of their physical store locations.

Whole Foods does not accept EBT for purchases made online via the Whole Foods Market website.

See Also: Whole Foods Return Policy: Here’s Exactly How It Works

PRO TIP: COFFEE BAR PURCHASES

Whole Foods has a very popular coffee and smoothie bar in every location. You absolutely CAN use your EBT card on fresh juices and smoothies, but NOT on hot drinks like coffee and tea. But…if you buy items like a Cold Brewed Coffee, or an Iced Caramel Latte, those are EBT eligible. So if you’re Jonesing for a coffee, just make sure it’s the cold version and you’re good to go with your EBT card.

Can I Use EBT On Whole Foods Purchases Through Amazon?

Yes and no.

You can make some online Whole Foods purchases via Amazon. But… it’s complicated.

Amazon itself allows for the use of your SNAP (supplemental nutrition assistance program) EBT card.

Yet, if you add Whole Foods items to your cart through Amazon’s site, Amazon will not let you use your EBT card for those specific Whole Foods items.

That being said, with a bit of digging and trial-and-error, there are still ways to use your EBT card on Amazon to get your hands on some Whole Foods Items.

If you go to Amazon’s grocery section (Amazon Fresh), and search Whole Foods, you’ll notice Whole Foods’s 365 by Whole Foods Market brand appears.

You CAN buy the 365 by Whole Foods Market brand items on Amazon using your EBT card through this method.

What EBT-Eligible Whole Foods Items Can I Buy In-Store?

Now that you know you cannot use your EBT card to buy Whole Foods items online (unless it’s their 365 brand), what items can you actually buy in-stores?

At all Whole Foods locations, you can buy “grocery items” with your EBT card.

This includes items like:

  • Fruits
  • Vegetables
  • Dairy Products
  • Bread
  • Snacks
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages
  • Frozen, canned, or fresh foods
  • Meats
  •  … and really all grocery food items imaginable.

That being said, this does not mean you can buy everything on your shopping list at Whole Foods.

What Items Are Ineligible To Buy Using EBT?

There are some non-grocery-related items that you cannot buy at Whole Foods with your EBT card.

Although some items are obvious like alcohol and nicotine products, others are less obvious.

For example, a couple head-scratchers that you CANNOT purchase include ready-made “hot foods/meals” and vitamins.

Items that are in-eligible at Whole Foods with EBT include:

  • Ready-made HOT foods/meals
  • Vitamins
  • Pet Supplies
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Tobacco Products
  • Non-Baby Food Related Items (i.e. diapers)
  • Cleaning Supplies

If you wish to buy these products in-store at Whole Foods, be sure to have an alternative payment method with you other than your EBT card.

To be clear on the “hot foods” dealio, you CAN buy premade meals that are cold or frozen, which you then heat and serve at home.

You just CAN’T buy foods that are hot at the time of purchase.

Can I Buy a Sandwich with EBT?

Yes.

I personally asked a Whole Foods employee this question and was told, “Yes, as long as it’s cold.”

So anything that’s on the “fresh pack” wall, including all sandwiches, are eligible.

Many of the items in the “hot bar” section are also sold cold on the fresh pack wall.

So just buy them cold and heat them up at home.

I was also told that if items from the fresh pack wall rings up ineligible, just inform the cashier and they’ll do a manual override.

What About Sushi at Whole Foods?

Yes.

Sushi is absolutely an eligible purchase as it’s always sold cold.

How Exactly Do I Use My EBT Card At Whole Foods?

An EBT card can be used just as you would a debit card or credit card at checkout.

Be sure to follow the checkout payment system’s swipe and PIN instructions on-screen with your own unique 4-digit PIN number.

If you don’t have enough funds on your EBT card to pay for your entire order, you can split your total into multiple payment methods.

Then you can use a debit, credit, or gift card to pay for the outstanding funds.

Or, you can also ask the cashier to kindly return some items of your choice.

You can always check your EBT card balance by calling a customer service helpline at 1-888-328-6399 or checking online at https://www.connectebt.com.

PRO TIP: HAVING ISSUES WITH ELIGIBLE ITEMS?

It seems some Whole Foods shoppers are having trouble paying for EBT eligible items as they come up ineligible within the system. Many shoppers have even verified that they are eligible in-person but not via the Amazon app. Hold Amazon’s feet to the fire and start a Live Chat and complain about the issue. Ask for a $10 credit for the inconvenience and 9 times out 10 they’ll give it to you and hopefully fix the problem as well.

Can I Use EBT in Conjunction With Curbside Pickup?

Yes.

You can use your EBT card with Whole Foods curbside pickup service but it has some kinks that need to be worked out.

Thanks to commenter Mary, some items that are eligible for EBT are not ringing up as such and she’s being charged for them.

In her case, it was butter and Kefir, but I’m sure there are others.

The problem is that Whole Foods corporate doesn’t seem interested in fixing the issue and is passing the buck back to individual stores.

Has anyone else experienced this issue?

Ask the Reader: Have you ever used your EBT card at Whole Food or do you stick to more budget friendly grocery stores?


By Kyle James

Photo credit to Mike Mozart.

Your Starbucks Delivery Options and Is It a TOTAL Rip-Off

Updated September 26, 2024 by Kyle James
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If you’re anything like me, I cannot function without having a strong cup of joe in the morning. I despise the mornings I wake up to find I’m out of K-cups. Rather than driving to the grocery store or my local Starbucks to get my caffeine fix, I was curious to see if I could enjoy my favorite Starbucks Salted Caramel Cold Brew without leaving my house. This led me to look into Starbucks delivery service options. If you’re looking to shell out the big bucks and treat yourself to your favorite Starbucks drink delivered straight to your home, this can be a convenient option for those willing to pay for it.

Your Starbucks Delivery Options and Is It a TOTAL Rip-Off

Does Starbucks Use Any Delivery Services?

Yes.

According to the Starbucks website, they do offer delivery services using the Uber Eats app or DoorDash app.

It’s important to note Starbucks ONLY delivers via these two delivery apps as of now.

Therefore, if you’re a fan of GrubHub, Postmates, or another food delivery app, you WON’T be able to order from Starbucks through these apps.

How Does Starbucks Delivery Work?

Uber Eats delivers Starbucks

Since you can only order Starbucks delivery exclusively through the Uber Eats or DoorDash app, here are the steps you need to follow to get your favorite mocha latte straight to your doorstep or place of work.

1. Download the Uber Eats app or DoorDash app onto your phone.

2. Navigate to Starbucks on the app and verify that delivery is available in your area.

3. Next, simply select the items you wish to order.

4. Before checking out, be sure to look for any Uber Eats or DoorDash promo codes to use. (more on this later)

5. While checking out, provide your address, as well as any extra instructions for your delivery driver if necessary (gate number, office/apartment number, etc.).

6. Pay and wait for your Starbucks delivery to arrive.

Can I Use the Starbucks App or Website To Get Delivery?

No.

Unfortunately, you cannot get Starbucks delivery straight off their app or website.

You must order your Starbucks delivery via the Uber Eats or DoorDash app.

However, you can use your Starbucks app to order ahead and pick-up in store or via the drive-thru.

So, if your jonesing for Starbucks delivered right to your doorstep, you’ll have to go through a third-party service like Uber Eats or DoorDash.

See Also: 9 Smart Ways to “Hack” the Starbucks Rewards Program 

What Are The Benefits Of Using a Starbucks Delivery Service?

Ordering Starbucks via Uber Eats or DoorDash does come with its perks, including:

1. Convenience: The efficiency to order Starbucks and not have to get changed, drive there, wait in line yourself, and drive home is a major advantage.

2. Time-Saver: Similarly, you can save valuable time and focus on completing other tasks without taking time out of your day to go to Starbucks yourself.

3. Easier: Have you ever felt anxious ordering a large order in person or at the drive-thru? With just a couple of clicks, you can effortlessly order all the Starbucks items you want… and then some.

Therefore, if you are willing to shell out a little extra cash, the convenience factor of getting Starbucks delivered cannot be beaten.

What Are the Associated Fees and Additional Costs?

Sadly, all good things tend to come at a higher price.

Expect to pay additional costs for app service fees, delivery fees, and of course a tip for your delivery driver.

These fees are in addition to the amount you’ll be spending on your actual Starbucks order.

Expect to pay the following delivery fees ordering Starbucks delivery:

  • Uber Eats: $2.49 delivery fee
  • DoorDash: $4.99 delivery fee

Be on the lookout for promo codes/special offers and coupons for free delivery or discounts sent to your inbox as effective ways to cut costs.

See Also: The 7 Starbucks Menu Hacks That’ll Make You Feel REALLY Smart

Is The Full Menu Available for Starbuck Delivery?

No.

According to the Starbucks website, “select items are currently unavailable for Starbuck delivery”.

They claim they do this to maintain their “consistency”, whatever that means.

Unfortunately, they don’t stipulate what drinks or food items are NOT available.

If you know, drop the information in the comments, thanks.

Any Hacks to Save Some Money?

Uber Eats coupon code

Yes, glad you asked.

When ordering Starbucks with Uber Eats for the first time, use coupon code COFFEE4U at checkout.

You’ll score $5 off your first 2 orders.

You gotta love free Starbucks.

Can I Customize my Order on Uber Eats or DoorDash?

Yes.

You can still customize your Starbucks order even if you order via a delivery service.

But if you want to get really nutty with your order, and maybe get something off the Starbucks secret menu, you’ll be better off walking in and talking to a Barista as you might need to explain the ingredients.

How Do I Pay For my Starbucks Delivery Order?

You pay for your Starbucks delivery order on the third-party delivery service app itself.

After you’ve selected your items, simply check out, add your debit/credit card information (if you are using the app for the first time), and your card will be charged.

Can I Still Collect Reward Stars on Delivery Orders?

No.

Unfortunately, since you are ordering via a third-party app, not the Starbucks app itself, you cannot collect Starbucks Stars OR redeem your Stars for free drinks or food.

Ask the Reader: Do you ever jump through the hoops required to get Starbucks delivered or is it simply easier to visit in-person?


By Kyle James