Big items, such as that 1979 like-new station wagon, are best sold other ways. But if you have old dishes, toys, small appliances, clothes, games, sports equipment, and books, you probably have the right stuff. If in doubt about the value of an item, get an appraisal or put it aside until you have time to check on it. With jewelry, use a magnifying glass and look for a karat or sterling mark before you put it in the sale box. The best time to have a sale is spring through fall.
Bad weather can keep people at home in winter.
Finally, consider the weather. Weekends are better than weekdays for a sale, with the exception of Fridays. Fridays are popular sale days in many communities. Two-day sales can be attractive if you have lots of merchandise to sell. Dedicated garage sale shoppers get up early, so expect the biggest crowds at 8 a.m. or even earlier.