Sell
Expat publications like the Beijinger (beijingkids’ sister magazine) and City Weekend have classifieds sections on their websites with categories like bikes, clothing, electronics, furniture, and more. Though a login is needed, the service is completely free.
Many people advertise on Yahoo groups like Beijing Mamas or Beijing Cafe. You’re more likely to find baby and child gear like used strollers, car seats, nursery furniture, toys, etc. on Beijing Mamas, though many users post ads to both groups.
Craigslist Beijing has never been very active, but a quick check showed a number of fairly recent “for sale” ads, many of them reposts from the Yahoo groups or expat publications. Though it probably won’t be necessary, it never hurts to post ads in more than one place.
Donate
Founded in 2008, Roundabout China is the oldest charity store in mainland China. Well-known among expats for its various charity projects, Roundabout sends collected funds and donations to those in need, including sick children and under-resourced orphanages. The social enterprise accepts a range of items for its store and projects, including gently-used clothing, toys, blankets, storage containers, and baby equipment. Roundabout keeps an updated list of currently-needed items on its website. Drop-off points in the city include Links Relocation Company (Dongzhimen), China Culture Center (Liangmaqiao), and Citywise Property (Sanlitun). Visit www.roundaboutchina.com to find out more.
The city of Beijing runs a network of donation sites that accept everything from money to used clothing and electronics. Material donations are sometimes sent to disaster areas. The donation sites are usually located within local community centers. For addresses, call the government hotline at 95156 (Chinese only) or search “Beijing Donation Centers” in our directories at www.beijing-kids.com.
Recycle
Founded in 2005, Freecycle Beijing is a Yahoo group that “matches people who have things they need to get rid of with people who can use them.” By following a few simple rules, members can post ads for things they no longer need and others will claim them for free. The goal is to promote community involvement, reduce consumerism, and keep viable items out of landfills. Join the group at groups.yahoo.com/freecyclebeijing.
Founded in July 2009 by Nathan Zhang, brandnü is a charity store that works with disadvantaged women to upcycle donated clothes into stylish, ready-to-wear pieces. The shop accepts donations of clean, gently-used clothes. Call the donation hotline at 153 1300 8571 (Chinese only) to find out more.
This article originally appeared in the 2015 beijingkids Home and Relocation Guide. Click here to read the issue for free on Issuu.com. To find out how you can get your own copy, email distribution@truerun.com.
Photos: Courtesy of Roundabout
