How To Use Freecycle

What is Freecycle?

Originally started on Yahoo Groups, freecycle is an online posting for items people are giving away -- for free!  You can also ask for things you need.

Here's how it works:

1. Go to Yahoo groups. --> http://groups.yahoo.com/

2. In the search field type in "Freecycle {your city and state}" and hit enter.

3. A location close to you should pop up.

4. Go to that location and click "Join this group".  You then have to be accepted.  This is usually a time to enter your zip code in order for the manager of the group to know that you are actually local.

5. Once you are approved, you will be given instruction on how the freecycle community works.

Here are some basics:

• EVERYTHING IS FREE! You nor should anyone else ask for money.


• It is the recipients' responsibility to pick up the item(s).


• No services or living things (only tangible non-breathing items...plants are usually okay though)


• Nothing should be left in public. (i.e. "I will leaving in a brown paper bag by Wal-Mart entrance" = no. no.)


• Lingo: OFFER = I have something I want to give away, and I'm located near [area near your pick up location] NOTE: If you are uncomfortable letting stranger's know where you live, most people hide in the house and leave items tagged with recipient's name/e-mail on their front porch and/or doorway to eliminate the waiting for the recipient or an awkward recipient/stranger meeting...


• Lingo: WANTED = I really need this, if you have it lying around in your home I'll gladly come by and pick it up.


• Lingo: PPU = Item I offered is pending pick up but if the person doesn't show, I'll offer it again soon.


• Lingo: TAKEN = My item is bye-bye to its new home! (and out of my house/garage/life).


• Lingo: RECEIVED: The item I wanted, I got it. Yay!

Remember to be safe! You don't have to give your phone number if you don't want. Schedule pick ups when you know someone will be home with you or when you can leave items at your door without having to open the door to strangers.

I've used Freecycle now for about 4 years and I love it.  Hopefully you will have the same great experiences of giving and receiving and keeping things useful out of our landfills.

Happy Freecyling!