Moving is the perfect (and necessary) opportunity to go through your belongings and really evaluate what you need and what you don’t. We admit, getting rid of things is a lot easier said than done. After all, your belongings aren’t just stuff. They’re personal items filled with memories and often have sentimental value. However, on the other hand, moving every single thing you own can get pricey. To help you decide whether you should keep or toss a particular item, we’ve created this flowchart to help make the tough calls.
Keep or Toss?
Here are some more questions and criteria to consider when you’re debating whether to keep or toss an item.
- Have you used it in the past year?
- Does it have sentimental value?
- How much does it cost to replace the item with a new one?
- Do you love it?
- Do you need it?
- How much space does it take up?
- Do you own anything similar?
- Will it fit into the aesthetic of your new home?
Commonly “toss-able” items include old books, furniture you don’t want, clothes you don’t wear anymore, old toys, and old electronics.
What to Do With the Toss Pile?
Now that you’ve sorted out what you’re moving and what you’re getting rid of, it’s onto the next question. What should you do with everything that’s in your toss pile?
Well, you have a few options. If you have anything valuable, you should try to sell it. You can do this by hosting a garage sale or selling online on a site like Craigslist, Nextdoor, Varage Sale, or your neighborhood Facebook group.
Your next option is to donate. Let your friends and family dig through your stash, then bring the rest to a donation center like Goodwill.
Lastly, some of your things just have to go to the garbage can. Don’t sell or donate anything that is moldy or water damaged. Throw away books with ripped-out pages, broken toys, CDs and DVDs that don’t work, and anything else that doesn’t function. You should also trash broken or cracked dishware and musical instruments in bad condition.
Need Movers?
If you’re moving in the Houston area and need help packing, loading, or moving your stuff, contact Ameritex Movers. We understand the value of all of your belongings, and we don’t take for the granted the trust you place in your moving company. We care about your move and want to make it a stress-free experience. Fill out the form above for a free moving quote.
Related content: Should You Move Your Furniture or Buy New?
