Garage sale ads and signs often use shorthand to fit the details into a few words. OBO means "or best offer": the listed price is negotiable, so a buyer can politely offer less.
Abbreviations decoder
| Abbreviation | Meaning | Example in an ad |
|---|---|---|
| OBO | Or best offer; price is negotiable | Vintage lamp, $20 OBO |
| FCFS | First come, first served | Two bikes, FCFS |
| AS-IS | Sold in its current condition, with no promise it works | Table saw, AS-IS |
| ISO | In search of | ISO folding tables for Saturday |
| PPU | Porch pick-up; collect from the seller's porch | Bookcase $25, PPU in Oak Park |
| NWT | New with tags | NWT jacket, $8 |
| NIB / NIP | New in box / new in package | NIB toaster, never used |
| EUC / GUC | Excellent used condition / good used condition | Kids' snow pants, EUC |
| VTG | Vintage | VTG Pyrex bowls |
| MCM | Mid-century modern | MCM side table, $30 |
| FIRM | Price is fixed; offers are not being considered | $15 firm |
| $1 TABLE / FILL-A-BAG | Items cost $1 each / fill a bag for the stated price | $1 table; fill a bag for $5 |
| NO EARLY BIRDS | Please do not arrive before the advertised start time | 8am–2pm, no early birds |
| CASH ONLY | Seller accepts cash, not electronic payment | Cash only; small bills appreciated |
| XFER / e-Transfer | Electronic bank transfer (common in Canada) | Cash or e-transfer accepted |
| MULTI-FAMILY | Several households are selling together | Multi-family sale, 7am–1pm |
| RAIN OR SHINE | The sale will happen even if it rains | Saturday, rain or shine |
| CURB ALERT | Free item placed at the curb for pickup | Curb alert: free desk, first come |
Using OBO and FIRM in your own ad
Use OBO when you are open to a reasonable offer, especially on a larger item or near the end of the sale. Use FIRM when you have set a price and do not want to negotiate; make sure the amount feels fair so buyers know what to expect. See garage sale ad examples for ready-to-use wording, or make a handout with the flyer maker.
Sign wording buyers understand
On a roadside sign, spell out the key information: SALE, day, hours, address or arrow, and a few headline items. Short terms such as "cash only" or "rain or shine" are clear when written in full. Browse garage sale signs for examples, then create one with the sign maker.
More garage sale terms
For definitions of sale types, visit the glossary. You can also read about an early bird, a bag sale, a curb alert and an estate sale.
Frequently asked questions
What does OBO mean at a garage sale?
OBO means "or best offer." The seller is open to negotiating, so you can politely offer a lower amount; the seller may accept, counter or decline.
What does FCFS mean?
FCFS means "first come, first served." The item goes to the first buyer who arrives and completes the purchase, so contact the seller promptly if you want it.
What does PPU mean?
PPU usually means "porch pick-up." The buyer collects the item from the seller's porch, often after arranging a time and payment in advance.
What does AS-IS mean?
AS-IS means the item is sold in its current condition, with no guarantee that it works or that the seller will repair or refund it. Ask questions and inspect it before buying.
Is it rude to offer less than an OBO price?
No. OBO invites offers, but keep yours respectful and reasonable. The seller can accept, suggest another price or say no; honor a FIRM price instead of bargaining.