Adams Thrift Store in Columbia: Furniture, Housewares, and Affordable Finds for Your Move
What Adams Thrift Store offers and where it is
Adams Thrift Store is located in Columbia and carries used furniture, housewares, clothing, and other items at prices well below retail. If you are moving to South Carolina and furnishing a new place, or downsizing before a move, this is a practical stop for basics—beds, tables, chairs, kitchen equipment, and décor. The store buys and sells secondhand goods, so inventory changes regularly.
The store operates as a traditional thrift shop where you browse in person, select what you need, and pay at checkout. Unlike online marketplaces, you can see condition and size before buying, which matters when you are choosing furniture for a specific room or apartment.
Key Takeaways
- Adams Thrift Store sells used furniture and household items at lower prices than new retailers, making it useful for people furnishing a home after moving to South Carolina.
- You shop in person and can inspect items before purchase, which helps you avoid shipping costs and return hassles common with online secondhand sales.
- Inventory rotates constantly because the store buys used goods from the community, so what is available changes week to week.
- The store accepts donations and also buys items from people, so you can sell furniture or housewares you no longer need before or after your move.
Types of items you will find
Furniture makes up a large part of the inventory—couches, dressers, nightstands, dining tables, and chairs appear regularly. Quality and condition vary; some pieces are nearly new while others show wear. Prices reflect condition, so a solid older couch costs far less than a newer one in better shape.
The housewares section includes dishes, glassware, cookware, small appliances, and kitchen tools. Bedding, lamps, wall décor, and storage containers rotate through as well. Clothing and books are also stocked, though furniture and home goods are the main draw for people setting up a household.
How to use Adams Thrift Store when moving
If you are moving to Columbia and need to furnish an apartment or house quickly and affordably, visit in person to see what is available that day. Bring measurements of your space—doorways, room dimensions, and furniture placement—so you can confirm a piece will fit before you buy. The store does not typically hold items, so if you find something you want, purchase it then or risk it selling to someone else.
If you are moving out of South Carolina or downsizing, you can sell items to Adams Thrift Store rather than throwing them away or paying to haul them. Bring clean, usable furniture and housewares during business hours. The store will assess condition and make an offer on the spot or decline if items do not meet their standards.
Pricing and what to expect
Prices are significantly lower than new furniture retailers but higher than you might pay at an estate sale or online from a private seller. A used couch might run $150 to $400 depending on condition; a dining table $50 to $200. Smaller items like dishes, glasses, and kitchen tools cost a few dollars each. Exact prices depend on what the store paid for the item and its current condition.
Payment is cash or card at checkout. The store does not typically offer layaway or hold items without payment, so bring money or a working card when you shop.
When to shop and what to bring
Visit during regular business hours, which you can confirm by calling ahead or checking the store's hours online. Weekday mornings are often less crowded than weekends, so you can browse more easily. Bring a measuring tape, a list of what you need, and a way to pay.
If you are buying large furniture, confirm whether the store delivers or whether you need to arrange your own pickup or delivery. Some thrift stores offer this service for a fee; others do not. Ask before you purchase so you know the full cost and logistics.
Selling items to Adams Thrift Store
If you have furniture or housewares to sell, bring them during business hours in clean, working condition. The store buys items outright rather than taking them on consignment, so you receive payment immediately if they accept your goods. Bring multiple items if possible, as the store is more likely to make an offer on a group of things than on single pieces.
Items must be functional and reasonably clean. Broken furniture, stained upholstery, or non-working appliances are typically declined. If the store does not want your items, you can ask about donation options or look into other local thrift shops or charities that accept household goods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Adams Thrift Store deliver furniture?
Delivery policies vary by store and item. Call ahead to ask whether delivery is available and what it costs. Some stores offer it for large purchases; others require you to arrange your own pickup or hire a separate moving company.
Can I return something I bought if I change my mind?
Return policies at thrift stores are typically stricter than at retail shops. Ask about the store's return window and any conditions—such as items being unopened or unused—before you leave the register. Many thrift stores do not accept returns on used furniture.
What condition do items need to be in to sell them?
Items should be clean, functional, and free of major damage. Furniture with broken frames, deep stains, or torn upholstery is usually declined. Appliances must work. If you are unsure, bring the items in and ask; the staff can tell you on the spot whether they will buy them.
How often does the inventory change?
Inventory rotates constantly as the store buys from the community and sells items. If you are looking for something specific, you may need to visit multiple times or call to ask if they have it in stock before making a trip.
Is Adams Thrift Store a good option for someone moving on a tight budget?
Yes. Used furniture and housewares cost a fraction of new retail prices, which helps keep moving and setup costs down. The trade-off is that selection is limited and you must shop in person to see what is available on any given day.