Like many industries, e-commerce and retailers are facing crippling snafus in the supply chain.
Check Your Local Thrift Stores
Is that special item not expected to arrive on time?
Checking local thrift stores is a smart way to find less expensive and unique gifts.
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Thrift stores bypass the supply chain headaches plaguing other retailers.
They dont need to order products from overseas or anxiously await deliveries from clogged U.S. ports.
Instead, thrift stores take donations from the local community to keep shelves stocked.
Thrifting also cuts down on waste by eliminating shipping envelopes and other packaging that clogs landfills.
Shop thrift stores, consignment boutiques or even pawn shops for eco-friendly gifts.
The possibilities are endless, said Haviland Cardinal, a 30-year-old thrifting regular in Evansville, Indiana.
To score great gifts, check out a few different stores around town.
Inventory moves fast, so dont hesitate if an item catches your eye or you might miss out.
A final tip: Many thrift shops have days when inventory tagged with certain colors are discounted.
Check out the schedule before you shop to maximum savings.
Online Secondhand Stores Are Worth a Look
The online resale industry is booming.
Like brick-and-mortar thrift stores, these online resellers promote clothes and shoes sitting in peoples closets.
They largely avoid the chaos of backlogged ports and other supply chain woes.
Gen Z and millennial shoppers have really flocked to these companies, especially during the pandemic.
Plus you get the convenience of browsing items from the comfort of your home.
However, these online sellers still rely on shipping to get goods to your door.
Check shipping details before buying, especially as Christmas draws closer.
An alternative to trendy online secondhand stores isGoodwills online store.
Registration is free, and Goodwill accepts all major credit cards.
You get the option to pick up your items in-store or select from available shipping options.
Craft, gift and vendor shows crop up in every community this time of year.
Check your local events calendar or Facebook for pop-up markets and Christmas bazaars.
it’s possible for you to purchase items on-site and avoid shipping concerns altogether.
Just be mindful of delivery times, especially for custom orders from small vendors.
Plan ahead and get your orders in sooner rather than later.
Sellers who live nearby are often willing to deliver purchases to you for a few extra bucks.
Be careful, of course.
Scammers and con artists love the internet, so check that to vet sellers.
You Cant Go Wrong With E-Gift Cards
E-gift cards can be sent virtually without relying on the post office.
Amazon and Walmart let you buy digital gift cards and send them directly to your favorite persons inbox.
So if you buy a $50 participating gift card, your recipient will actually receive $60.
Wrap Up an In-Person Experience
Finally, ditch a physical gift altogether this year.
Rachel Christian is a senior staff writer at The Penny Hoarder.
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