Putting together a successful rummage, garage or yard sale.

Dear Heloise:

When your church is going to have a rummage sale, some of the people in the church work all week to unpack all the donated merchandise, set up tables and price everything.

What are some people thinking when they bring a car full of donated items the day before the sale?

A Reader, Youngstown, Ohio

You’re absolutely right! Rummage sales are hectic enough without having to sort and price items at the last minute. Here are some hints for putting together a successful rummage, garage or yard sale:

Organize like pieces together. Set up a vignette that tells a story: a chair with a blanket, a book, a big iced-tea glass and a table looks cozy, and people will be inspired to buy the setup.

Have plenty of change on hand. Price things expecting that people will haggle. That’s OK. The goal is to clear out clutter, and people are always looking for bargains.

Dear Heloise:

Heloise

I work for the post office. Many people don’t understand how to address or wrap their mail items. Here are some hints:

• Do not put artwork, doodles or stick-ons on the envelope. Our machines run flat pieces (usually two pages or one card) best.

• Leave 1 inch clear at the bottom of the address side — that is where the bar code goes.

• Make sure you include the proper ZIP code.

• Remember, “gel” pens run when wet, which can happen in bad weather.

• Make sure to use the proper stamp.

• Parcels are about the same: no string, clear address, proper postage, no confusing artwork. Even parcels are machinable these days.

Often, your letter is touched only by the carrier who delivers it. When in doubt, ask a window clerk at your post office. That is why they are there.

Postal Worker in Arkansas