When and how should I barter for goods?

Have you ever owned something in your house that you knew you would never use again, but it was just too worthwhile to throw away? By bartering, you can transform an outdated possession into a fresh one.

The concept of bartering is the direct exchange of products or services for something desired without the use of money. It can be a wonderful approach to guarantee the flow of vital goods and services into your home without expending valuable money during periods of economic instability or currency depreciation. The majority of bartering transactions in the past took place face-to-face between acquainted persons, but the Internet has created new options for both direct exchanging between individuals and indirect bartering through third parties.

What Encourages You to Barter?

There are several benefits to taking part in a barter. Bartering is an excellent way to get goods and services when times get tough because of the recent recession, which has left many people unemployed or with little money.

Bartering might help you save money for your small business or for yourself. For instance, a hairstylist and a handyman can swap services. In a way, everyone is still getting paid for their labor, and it may result in referrals to clients who are prepared to pay cash. However, the idea of bartering is to easily exchange something you already own for something you want or need; this can be done regardless of your financial situation.

What is exchangeable?

Any product or service that someone else wants can be exchanged for something else. The possibilities for trading are only limited by your creativity, from haircuts and housecleaning to digital audio players and chairs.

In 2010, 17-year-old Steven Ortiz made global headlines when he began a series of exchanges with a cell phone and ended up behind the wheel of a Porsche. Even healthcare is within reach: In 2011, Connecticut resident Matthew Wagner used a barter exchange to trade his photography services for Lasik eye surgery.

The most popular goods that can be bartered include some of the following:

Personal Care Services

Several personal care services, including haircuts, massages, tattoos, and other types of body art, are available for trade.

Technology

Because even "ancient" technology is still quite usable and appealing to many individuals, technology lends itself to bartering. Therefore, the outdated model will be desirable to someone else in a trade when a technology enthusiast wishes to update his or her electronic device.

Clothing

Organizing a wardrobe exchange can prove useful. Set up a "exchange day" where everyone puts their clothes out on a table and chooses from what is available after you and a group of friends have each cleaned out your own closets.

Toys

Some toys may no longer be popular among your kids due to their age or declining interest. To keep "new" toys coming to your kids without spending more money or filling up landfills, start a toy swap with other parents in your neighborhood.

Gifts & Crafts

A gift and craft exchange might help you stretch your budget, especially before the Christmas holiday season. Make contact with those in your network and plan a day for the sharing of handcrafted seasonal decor.