What to Keep, Donate, or Toss Before a Move
Preparing for a move is the perfect moment to declutter with purpose. A focused room by room approach can lower moving costs by up to 20 to 30 percent simply by reducing the amount of weight and space you are paying to transport. Decluttering before packing also saves time, lowers stress, and helps you start fresh in your new home.
Why Decluttering Matters
Clutter increases moving costs because movers charge based on total volume and weight. Fewer belongings means smaller trucks, fewer hours, and a lower bill. Decluttering before a move helps avoid unnecessary expenses related to transporting items you no longer use.
Marie Kondo’s method supports this idea. She recommends tidying before packing and keeping only the items that serve a purpose or bring joy.
Smart Sorting Strategy
Kitchen
Keep items you use every day.
Donate duplicate cookware, extra dishes, and small appliances you rarely use.
Toss expired food and damaged utensils.
Bedrooms and Closets
Keep favorite outfits and essential furniture.
Donate clothing that no longer fits and linens you do not need.
Toss worn bedding and broken accessories.
Living Spaces
Keep decor you love and furniture that fits your new home.
Donate unread books and decor you no longer enjoy.
Toss broken electronics and outdated media.
Garage and Storage Areas
Keep tools and seasonal items you use regularly.
Donate lightly used equipment.
Toss chemicals, old paint, and unusable items.
Check your city guidelines for safe disposal.
Items Movers Typically Will Not Transport
Most moving companies avoid hazardous materials including chemicals, paint, propane tanks, and certain cleaning products. They also decline perishable food and damaged furniture. Sorting these out early prevents last minute problems.
Donation Tips
Schedule donation pickups early. Popular organizations include Goodwill, Habitat ReStore, and local shelters. Cities also offer drop off programs for electronics and hazardous waste.
Quick Checklist
Keep items you use and love
Donate items in good condition that no longer fit your needs
Toss broken, expired, hazardous, or unusable items
Sort categories one at a time
Confirm donation and disposal options ahead of moving day
