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mycarboots

West Berkshire's Biggest Boot
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Sellers FAQ

  • What time should I arrive? Sellers can arrive from 07.30 for our Thatcham events and 12.00 for Swindon unless the event page states otherwise, buyers will be allowed in an hour later so you will have chance to set up or grab a coffee/toilet break before the stampede. Please be aware there is an ANPR camara at the entrance at Thatcham that is switched off at 7am so if you get there at 4am (it does happen) it is at your own risk. If you arrive early just wait in the free council car park until 7am.
  • Do I need to book? No just pay on the day.
  • Can I reserve a pitch? All sellers are parked on a first come first served basis - we do not reserve locations (ie end of rows or specific places such as next to entrance etc).
  • Is there anything I cannot sell? Sellers are not permitted to sell food or drink, illegal, hazardous or products that are not suitable to be displayed at a family based event. Prohibited items include alcohol, tobacco products, firearms, fireworks, knives or weapons, explicit material, livestock and counterfeit or stolen items. If such items are found on display they will be asked to remove them from sale. If a seller is found to be displaying counterfeit or stolen items staff will take your registration number and contact the police or trading standards (this is a legal requirement).
  • How much space do I get? We are not strict but generally will allow enough room for 3 pasting tables for a car or 4 for a van. If you need extra space this can be arranged for an additional fee.
  • Can I sell food or drinks? Not without our prior agreement. Anyone selling food or drink without our permission will be asked to leave and no refunds will be given.
  • Do you supply tables? As a rule no. At some of our indoor events tables are available on a first come first served basis. At our outdoor events you will need to bring tables or suitable ground sheets - not essential but recommended.
  • Can I bring my dog? We would not encourage it but Dogs are allowed as long as they are under control at all times. Organisers reserve the right to refuse entry if any animal is not under the owners full control or we deem it a risk to other patrons. Dogs are not allowed at indoor events.
  • Can I sell cakes/sweets? Not without our prior agreement. Anyone selling food or drink without our permission will be asked to leave and no refunds will be given, this is because we need to see proof of insurance etc before agreeing.
  • What if I need to leave early? Let one of the staff know before you are parked and we will try to ensure you have no problems. Let us know when you are leaving and we will guide you off safely - do not drive through a public event without supervision, anyone doing so will be liable for any damage or injury.
  • Its raining, how do I know if you are running? Check this website or our facebook page as it is updated during the day - alternatively sign up for our email updates, if we are cancelled we will email everyone before they set out.

General Information for sellers

  • Take plenty of change with you. Many buyers will have notes and if you don't have change you could lose a sale. Organisers have limited change as they have the same problem - you would be amazed at the number of buyers that only have a twenty pound note!
  • Take a helper with you. You can take a toilet break without leaving your stall unattended and also browse the other stalls (mind you don’t end up spending more than you make). Two pairs of eyes are also better than one when keeping a look out on your items - thefts have been rare, but they do happen.
  • Have an idea how much you want for items, but be prepared to haggle.
  • Keep your car doors/boot locked whenever possible - thefts have been rare, but they do happen .
  • ENJOY YOURSELF!  Car boot sales can be very enjoyable - especially if you have a good day selling.
  • There is no golden rule as to what sells and what doesn't. We have seen people sell every type of item imaginable.

  • Don't spend all your profits - buying at car boot sales can be quite addictive!

  • Take any unsold items home with you please! We are one of the cheapest car boot sales in the area - if we have to pay to remove items left behind we would have to increase the price for everyone.