When currency is in short supply, trading for goods (bartering) is another method by which you can secure goods. Another benefit of bartering is that traded items can help you generate goodwill from others and secure needed services. Being prepared to barter is the first step towards a successful trade.

When determining the best items to have on hand, consider these guidelines.

LOOK FOR MEDIUM QUALITY AT LOW PRICES
Try to keep in mind that the items you use for trading are not necessarily the same items you would use yourself. Your outlay of funds now is an investment designed to generate a high profit for you later. This means you want to purchase bargain items, but not junk.

Tools are an example of this principle. For your own personal use, you want the best tools you can afford, but for trade, a discounted or used item will do just fine. Collecting junk won’t help you secure good trades so you should learn the art of finding quality products at consignment shops, garage sales, estate sales, flea markets, yard sales and other outlets.

WHEN NEEDED, REPAIRED ITEMS ARE JUST AS GOOD AS NEW
Take inventory of your skills as you consider items for trade. Slightly worn and used items can be restored to full functionality if you have the know-how to make repairs.

MULTIPLE USE ITEMS
Look for multi-purpose items. This will increase your trading opportunities and save storage space. Blankets, buckets, twine, rubber bands, basins, assorted fabrics, soap and duct tape all fall into this category.

CREATE YOUR OWN BARTER GOODS
It’s a good idea to learn a skill that will allow you to make your own goods for trade. A helpful skill is knowing how to manufacture ammunition. Research bullet swaging for more information on what you’ll need. Creating your own products for trade allows you to make items as they are needed using skills such as masonry, metalworking, pottery, candle making, foraging, sewing, soap making, and foraging.

INFORMATION
Books on self-sufficiency are a valuable resource. Consider books that provide individuals with entertaining ways to pass the time. Even more valuable is literature that teaches while it entertains. Shop for used books offered at a discount.

Of course, your creative mind is your most valuable resource. Many items can be had for free by those who are able to convert useless items into useful goods. The ability to perceive opportunities is a skill that can be learned now. THE VISION by best-selling author Debi Pearl is one of those books which will help spur your creative juices. The main characters in this book are called upon to use all of their skills to survive social, political and economic upheaval. Get a copy and enjoy the adventure of learning today.