What Equipment You Need (No Tech Terminology)

Your Store Equipment Checklist Simple and Straightforward

Setting up a consignment, thrift, or resale shop does not require a computer science degree or a big hardware budget. The right equipment lets you serve customers efficiently, keep records organized, and make your daily work easier. Here’s what you really need on day one.

Essential Equipment for Every Resale or Consignment Shop

Computer or Laptop: Almost every modern shop uses a basic Windows PC or laptop. Any recent, reliable model works as long as you can run management software.
Cash Drawer: Metal or heavy-duty, locking drawers store bills and coins safely during business hours. Most connect under your counter/register and pop open only when needed.
Receipt Printer: Thermal (no-ink) receipt printers are affordable and connect directly to your computer. Some shops use inkjet for full-page receipts, but thermal saves money on supplies in the long run.
Barcode Scanner: Makes ringing up sales and sorting inventory much easier. Plug-and-play models start under $50 and require zero technical setup just plug in and scan.
Label Printer: For printing price stickers, barcode tags, or special “sold” or “clearance” labels. Consider Dymo, Zebra, or Brother models that are proven for small retail.
Credit Card Reader/Terminal: Most payment processors supply simple tap/swipe readers, or you can use small countertop machines that integrate with your management software or work standalone.
Backup/Storage Device: An external hard drive or USB thumb drive helps you secure your data backs up are quick, and no internet or IT skills required.

Nice-to-Haves and Special Equipment for Growth

Extra barcode scanners at intake or sorting stations if you do high volume.
Tablet or touchscreen for speedier checkouts if you have the budget.
Customer-facing display (a small screen) so buyers can see totals and scan items in real time.
Safe or locking cabinet for cash and sensitive paperwork overnight.

Equipment Buying Tips for Beginners

Start with basic, proven models. Avoid fancy “cloud” systems if they lock you into monthly fees or require constant internet.
Bundle equipment and software together if possible to ensure compatibility many trusted consignment software providers suggest compatible models and offer setup help.
Buy only what you need to open; add extras as your shop grows and your workflow changes.
If buying used, test every device before using for customers, or buy from a trusted supplier that offers a return policy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Shop Hardware

Getting “locked in” to subscription-based POS rentals or equipment with monthly service contracts.
Using only free or home-use software, which lacks secure backups, tagging, and payout tracking features.
Over-complicating your equipment should make life easier, not require ongoing calls to tech support.
Skipping labels or barcodes. Handwriting tags is slow, causes more mistakes, and confuses staff.

FAQ: Shop Equipment for Consignment & Resale Owners

Do I need a brand-new computer?

No any reliable, recent Windows PC or laptop will do, especially if you only run your consignment management software with it. Avoid very old, unsupported machines for security reasons, and always keep a backup.

Can I use my own home printer for receipts and labels?

Basic inkjets or lasers work for opening week, but for speed and savings, a dedicated receipt and label printer is best. Thermal label printers save money and make professional tags.

What about Wi-Fi and internet do I need them for my shop?

Internet makes credit card processing, inventory lookups, and software updates easier, but many feature-rich consignment software packages work offline as well (especially for backup and sales tracking).

Do I have to use barcodes?

You can run a shop using only printed or handwritten tags, but barcodes boost accuracy, speed up checkout, and reduce pricing errors. Most beginner-friendly systems make barcode printing very easy.

Quick Equipment Starter Checklist

PC or laptop (Windows, recent version)
Cash drawer
Thermal receipt printer
Barcode scanner
Label printer and labels
Credit card terminal or reader
External drive or flash drive for backup
Basic surge protector / extension cords

Next Steps and Getting Help

Ask your consignment software company which equipment they recommend
Compare bundled hardware/software packages for starter deals
Check your local business supply for sales on printers, drawers, and cables
See our guide to POS vs cash registers for more

Best Consignment Shop Software: Trusted Equipment Guidance Since 2002

Reliable shop equipment is easy when you start with the right software. Best Consignment Shop Software has helped resale, thrift, and consignment stores choose and use affordable, compatible hardware since 2002 no monthly fees, no forced contracts. Enjoy lifetime use with a single payment, get personal, practical support (no prepayment required), and know your shop will always run smoothly. See why hundreds of shops rely on BCSS for fast, stress-free intake, pricing, barcodes, and sales.

Get a free demo or view recommended hardware now