Moving is a time for new beginnings. It is also a time for endings and for getting rid of stuff you no longer need.
Letting go lightens your load, saves you money, and makes it easier to unpack once you’ve reached your destination.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to get rid of when moving cross-country.
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Why Decluttering Before a Move Is Essential
Discarding household goods is not always easy, especially if you’ve had them for a long time. You may experience a sense of sentimentality and urge to cling to your belongings.
Though this hesitation and low-key separation anxiety is normal, decluttering before a move offers real benefits:
- You save: Reducing the load you take with you means lower moving expenses. Moving companies charge based on the weight or volume of your belongings, and if you’re moving cross-country, cutting down on excess weight can significantly reduce shipping costs.
- You simplify packing and unpacking: Fewer items make the packing process quicker and unpacking in your new home more straightforward. With less clutter, organizing your new space becomes easy, especially with the fatigue that sets in after long-distance relocation.
- You allow yourself a fresh start: Letting go of unnecessary items allows you to set up your new space exactly how you envision it — free from clutter and filled with only the things you truly need and love.
Items To Consider Letting Go Of
After deciding to declutter, you need to decide what to keep and what to toss. Our straightforward and comprehensive guide below can help you with the decision-making process.
Duplicate Kitchenware
It’s easy to accumulate multiple kitchen gadgets and utensils over the years, and chances are you haven’t even noticed how much you’ve been stashing in your kitchen cupboards and drawers.
Start by evaluating your collection, keeping only what you regularly use.
Examples: Extra spatulas, duplicate measuring cups, or that second blender collecting dust. Also consider chipped plates and cups, Tupperware with missing lids, and gadgets you bought but never ended up using.
Is it worth paying to transport these items, or is it more cost-effective to replace them after the move if you need to?
Outdated Electronics
Old and outdated electronics take up space and can be recycled or donated if they’re still functional. Bulky and obsolete gadgets often cost more to move than to replace.
Examples: Obsolete laptops, VCRs, or phones you’ve replaced with newer models. Look for donation centers or electronics retailers who offer trade-in or recycling options.
Unworn Clothing and Accessories
The general rule of thumb for clothing is that if you haven’t worn them in the past year, they probably won’t be missed. Moving cross-country gives you the perfect opportunity to reevaluate your wardrobe and lighten your suitcase.
Tip: Donate gently used items to local charities, sell high-end pieces online, or host a garage sale a week or two before moving day.
Expired or Unused Beauty Products
Cosmetics and toiletries have a shelf life. Moving is an excellent time to dispose of expired or unused products that will end up cluttering your new home.
Tip: Some beauty products and containers are recyclable and help reduce environmental impact. Consider switching to multi-use or travel-sized products to save space.
Old Books and Magazines
While some books hold sentimental value, consider donating or selling those you’ve already read or won’t read again.
Tip: Digitalize important documents and favorite reads to save space. Get rid of old textbooks, magazines, and books you’ve never read and probably won’t to reduce the load.
Unused Sporting and Exercise Equipment
Fitness and sports gear can be bulky. If you haven’t used certain equipment in the last season, it might be time to let go.
Examples: That treadmill-turned-clothing rack or the bicycle gathering dust in the garage. If you’re relocating to a smaller home, prioritize compact and versatile exercise gear.
Outdated or Excessive Home Decor
Interior design trends change, and your new space might have a different aesthetic.
Tip: Keep versatile pieces and consider selling or donating items that no longer fit your style. Get rid of holiday decor, run-down carpets and reevaluate the need to move heavy potted plants.
It’s the ideal opportunity to create a fresh new space that better reflects your current taste.
Old Paperwork
Sort through documents and shred what you no longer need. Paper clutter piles up quickly and can become overwhelming, especially with long-distance moves.
- Keep: Essential records like tax documents, legal papers, and medical records.
- Discard: Outdated bills, old receipts, and manuals for appliances you no longer own.
A great way to reduce the load is digitizing important files for space-saving and accessibility.
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How To Decide What To Keep & Sustainable Disposal Methods
Making decisions about what to keep can be challenging. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Functionality: Have I used this item in the past year?
- Space: Will this fit in my new home?
- Condition: Is it in good condition, or does it require repair?
- Sentimental value: Does this item hold significant sentimental value, or am I keeping it out of obligation?
Sustainable Ways To Dispose of Unwanted Items
Once you’ve decluttered your space, you can do your bit for the environment by disposing of unwanted items responsibly.
Donate
Many organizations accept gently used items.
Examples: Clothing, furniture, and kitchenware can be donated to local shelters or thrift stores. If you’re moving cross-country, research donation centers in your area that accept pick-ups for large items.
Sell
Hosting a garage sale or using online marketplaces can earn you extra cash while lightening your load.
Platforms: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace are great for selling unwanted items. Selling locally before a cross-country move can make your relocation more affordable.
Recycle
Properly recycle electronics, paper, and plastics to reduce environmental impact.
Tip: Check local recycling programs for specific guidelines. Many communities offer special collection days for hazardous waste or electronic disposal.
Dispose Responsibly
Some items, like certain electronics or hazardous materials, require special disposal methods.
Note: Consult local waste management services for instructions to ensure safe and legal disposal.
Tossing things you don’t need lightens the load for your cross-country move
Choose Imperial Movers and Relocate With Peace of Mind
A long-distance move is challenging and stressful enough as it is. Imperial Movers offers comprehensive moving services designed to take the load off and help you relocate with ease.
With Imperial Movers, we guarantee:
- Experience and expertise: With years of experience in the moving industry, we’re equipped to handle moves of any scale, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and on time.
- Comprehensive services: From packing and loading to transportation and unpacking, Imperial Movers offers a full suite of services tailored to your needs.
- Competitive pricing: Quality service doesn’t have to break the bank. Imperial Movers offers transparent and competitive pricing, ensuring you receive excellent value.
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Moving Cross Country FAQs
What items are prohibited from being moved cross-country?
Certain items, such as hazardous materials, perishable foods, and plants, are often restricted. It’s best to consult with your moving company for a comprehensive list.
How far in advance should I start decluttering before a move?
Ideally, you should begin decluttering at least four to six weeks before your move. This allows ample time to sort through your belongings, donate, sell, or recycle items, and pack efficiently.
Where can I donate unwanted items before moving?
Many organizations accept donations, including Goodwill, The Salvation Army, local shelters, and Habitat for Humanity. Some charities even offer free pick-up services for large furniture or bulk donations.
How can I estimate moving costs based on the items I’m keeping?
Moving costs are typically based on weight, volume, and distance. To get an accurate estimate, declutter first, then request a quote from a moving company like Imperial Movers, which provides customized pricing based on your specific needs.
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