Managing a thrift shop is no easy feat, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out.
There are countless tasks to juggle, from donation pickups and inventory management to delivering exceptional customer service, processing payments, and organizing promotions or discounts — all while supporting your nonprofit’s mission and keeping thrifters coming back for more.
The ideal point of sale (POS) solution should offer comprehensive features and functionalities to help you manage everything efficiently. Check out the three top thrift store POS systems below, which will keep your customers engaged while freeing up more time to focus on your nonprofit’s goals.
1. ThriftCart
ThriftCart is a top-rated POS software solution and one of the few built explicitly for thrift stores. It was designed with input from thrift industry professionals and includes a unique range of functions to build a better and more engaging thrifting business.
Features
As one of the few dedicated thrift store POS systems on the market, ThriftCart offers unique features and options that include:
- Built-in drop-off tracking: Drop-off donations are among the most common inventory sources for thrift stores. Many thrifters and donors appreciate the simplicity of visiting a dedicated drop-off point and giving away unwanted items. With ThriftCart, you can install self-service kiosks, issue eReceipts, and easily track where each donation is coming from.
- Automated pickup scheduler: Leave the inconvenient spreadsheets and manual donation pickup schedules behind with ThriftCart! Use the integrated pickup scheduler and route optimizer to make picking up donations faster, save fuel, and maximize staff availability.
- Customized inventory manager: While many retail POS systems include inventory management features, few are specifically designed for thrifting operations. ThriftCart lets you update and track your entire range of items in real time, regardless of category, condition, and origin. The system automatically synchronizes all inventory information between your physical and online stores to avoid overstocking or selling items ordered online.
ThriftCart’s functionality is also backed by a real-time analytics and reporting engine. You always have instant access to sales, inventory, and customer data, making it easy to adjust your thrift store’s marketing strategy on the fly.
Pros
ThriftCart isn’t just feature-packed — every feature is tailored to your needs as a thrift shop owner. You don’t need to rely on ill-fitting business management systems intended for standard retail outlets.
ThriftCart also features an intuitive interface and easily readable menus. Take advantage of everything ThriftCart offers, whether you have years of experience using POS systems or this type of software for the first time.
Cons
ThriftCart is a specialized POS software solution designed exclusively for businesses in the thrifting sector. If you’re switching to ThriftCart from another POS system, you may need to learn new workflows and understand every customization option.
Pricing Plans
ThriftCart has two pricing plans: a Core plan with essential features starting at $249/month and the fully featured Plus plan with additional integrations and marketing options. Contact a sales representative for Plus plan pricing.
2. Thrift Works
Thrift Works is another POS solution made specifically for thrift shops. The software is built to operate with Thrift Works’ plug-and-play hardware systems, creating a POS network across large thrift shops and stores with multiple locations.
Features
Thrift Works integrates unique hardware and a full range of software tools. These can help you oversee sales data, manage your inventory, and improve your customers’ shopping experience.
- Numerous integrated apps: Thrift Works packages its features into different app-like modules. Manage your thrifting outlet efficiently and precisely, from the cash register to inventory management, donation tracking, and loyalty program configuration.
- Hardware compatibility: The Thrift Works POS system is compatible with various bespoke hardware solutions, including registers, tagging stations, price tag printers, and gift card printers.
- Remote consulting features: Businesses that adopt Thrift Works can benefit from the advice of remote consultants at any time.
Thrift Works is advertised as a complete business management package for thrift stores. The hybrid cloud-based thrift store POS system comes with automatic updates, giving you access to the latest features for as long as you use the software.
Pros
Business owners ordering Thrift Works POS with compatible hardware will receive pre-configured equipment, reducing setup time. Remote support can access your data reports and provide relevant advice and insights if you need assistance with any module or app within Thrift Works.
Cons
Thrift Works is not a standalone POS solution and only works with its compatible hardware. It may not be the right solution if your thrift shop already has its own equipment.
Pricing Plans
Thrift Works POS starts at $100/month for the first register and $25/month for every additional register.
While these plans include cloud hosting, software updates, remote support, and gift and discounted item programs, they do not include hardware. Hardware prices and leasing plans are available on demand only; contact Thrift Works sales representatives to learn more.
3. RetailEdge
RetailEdge is a POS system for retail businesses in various industries, including thrift stores and consignment shops. Versions of RetailEdge have been available since 1989, making it a well-established, reliable software solution.
Features
RetailEdge is a thrift store POS system built for easy organization. It packs all the essential features your shop needs to make everyday operations as simple as possible.
- Extended inventory support: RetailEdge’s inventory management tool includes a generous 250-character limit for all items. Describe every unique and one-of-a-kind item in your inventory in as much detail as you need, regardless of vintage or condition.
- Flexible barcode labeling system: RetailEdge lets you create and apply several types of labels to keep track of your items. The system supports standard stickers, removable labels, hang tags, and jewelry labels.
- Free and paid support: With over 20 years in the market, RetailEdge offers two types of support and resources: free access to community forums and paid technical support services. You have multiple ways to troubleshoot software issues or learn the most efficient ways to run your thrift shop with RetailEdge.
RetailEdge also includes configuration options to support flexible pricing, making it a good choice if your thrift shop offers consignment.
Pros
RetailEdge is a long-running software solution with an established user base. Resources and training materials are widely available, making learning easy and quick. If you are new to using RetailEdge, they offer one hour of free training, with additional hours available for a fee.
Cons
Although RetailEdge offers some features for thrift stores, it is primarily a general-purpose retail POS system. It may lack certain features, analytics, or customization options to run your store well
Pricing Plans
RetailEdge is available as a single purchase for $495. It gives you access to the complete POS system and 90 days of free tech support. Support for additional client workstations is available for $225 per terminal.
Find the Perfect POS System for Your Thrift Store Today
Today, thrift store owners can access a wide range of software tools to help manage their nonprofit stores. While many promise to simplify operations with various features, only a few truly deliver all the functionality needed for effective management.
ThriftCart was designed from the ground up to be the complete thrift store POS system you can rely on. Schedule a demo today and discover why ThriftCart is the tailored software solution your thrifting business needs to meet customer demand and support your nonprofit.
