Whether you realize it or not, you accumulate a lot of things over time. Many people reach this epiphany around the time they start the packing process before a move. However, the truth is that you simply can’t (or shouldn’t) bring every single item you own with you when you move. Every item translates to space occupied during moving, which means extra money and time you spend moving it. We understand this can be a stressful and overwhelming process, so here’s a helpful collection of tips on how to get rid of stuff.
How to Get Rid of Stuff
First of all, you should not attempt to clear out your inventory all in one day. Ideally, you should begin the purging process at least a month before your move. Start with one closet or room at a time — don’t work all over the house at the same time because this will overwhelm you. You need to sort the belongings in your designated areas into three categories: keep, sell, and donate. Try to limit your “keep” pile to only things you cannot live without.
Selling Stuff You Don’t Want
Selling the belongings you don’t want to take with you when you move is a great way to make some extra money to put toward paying your movers or decorating your new home. Here are some ideas for selling what is not in your “keep” pile:
- Host a garage sale. Click here for some tips on hosting a great garage sale.
- Sell online. Try: eBay, Craigslist, neighborhood Facebook pages, or VarageSale online garage sales. If you’re selling online, write thorough descriptions and include the brand, how long you’ve had the item, its condition, and whether it’s under warranty. Be honest.
- Bring clothes and some household goods to consignment stores.
- Trade in electronics at stores like Walmart and Best Buy.
Donating Your Stuff
Whatever is leftover from your garage sale or other selling efforts should go straight to the donate pile.
But before you bring your haul to Goodwill or your thrift store of choice, invite your friends over to pick through your pile. This is a great way to make your friends and happy and to lighten your load.
Click here for a list of donation drop-off locations in Houston.
What to Keep and Toss
Here are some guidelines to help you determine what you should and shouldn’t bring with you when you move, plus what you should think about before making a final decision.
Toss:
- Kitchen appliances you don’t use
- Clothes you haven’t worn in a year or more
- Books you’ll never read again
- CDs and cassettes
- Perishable food items
- Toys your children don’t play with anymore
- Return any items you may have borrowed
Keep:
- Items with sentimental value
- Items that are not easily replaceable
- Your favorite books
- Photo albums
Consider:
- Appliances like washers and dryers. Consider the cost and convenience of moving these appliances versus buying new ones, or even picking up used ones on Craigslist at your new location.
- Some items are not allowed in moving trucks, so if you have an unusual item, call ahead and ask the movers.
Are you getting ready for a move? Call Ameritex today to book your stress-free move!
