free pre-owned items: one man's trash is another man's treasure

                There are several sites on the internet today that aim to facilitate the ‘recycling’ of pre-owned items that individuals no longer want.  Other terms for this concept include freecycling, freerecycling, freeuse, freesharing, freegiving, reuse, and good karma.  Normally, these types of items would either be discarded or stored in attics and closets for perhaps decades.  Today, one has the option of listing an item to be given away to anyone who is interested.  This ensures that the item will go to where it is needed and will continue to be used appropriately. Also, it saves money for both parties.  Recently, the environmental impact of the movement has been publicized; it promotes sustainability and reduces waste.

 

                You can take full advantage of these sites by replying to ads or posts for items that you need or want.  Not only can you respond to post, but many sites also allow you to post wanted ads for items that you need.  Other than saving money by getting items for free that you might normally have to pay for, you can obtain items and then sell them on an online auction site or other venue.  I have personally obtained many items from sites such as this including DVDs, CDs, books, a portable DVD player, computer hardware, clothing, and even items such as a paddle boat and a running 1988 Nissan pickup truck.  You can also obtain items such as furniture and pets.  Everything must be 100% free with the exception of a very small, optional adoption free for some pets. 


FreeUse Yahoo group with several items being offered.  You generally need to request membership and be approved for these groups.

Recommended Free Pre-Owned Item Sites

 

  1. FreeUse.org – (http://www.freeuse.org/) This site is a network of local forums that allowed locals to connect with one another and give and receive items.  The regions it features are U.S. Central, Northeast, Southern, Southwest, West / Pacific, and International.  Site specific rules: they discourage adult usernames, posts must be approved and in proper format, no political items, no commercial promotional items, no ‘Seek’ posts for pets.

  2. The Freecycle Network  - (http://www.freecycle.org/) This is one of the original pre-owned item giveaway sites.  It is also the largest collection of local networks.  Site specific rules: no pornography, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or firearms; no religious or political items; no trading; no personals ads.

  3. FreeSharing.org – (http://www.freesharing.org/) Site allowing users to give away items provided that they are 100% free, legal, and appropriate for all ages.  Site specific rules: no spam, political items, personal rants.  Local sites must serve their community.

  4. Craigslist Free Section – http://www.craigslist.org/) Select your state, city, or country then browse to the ‘For Sale’ section, and click on ‘Free.’  People will post individual ads for stuff that they are giving away.  Be forewarned, however, that Craigslist is not nearly as closely moderated as the other freerecycling sites.

  5. The ReUseIt Network – (http://www.reuseitnetwork.org/) Specializes in the regions including United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, but it also has other regions (if you are from Ghana, you are in luck).  Site specific rules: no politics or spam.

 

 

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