Streamlining Your Move: What to Leave Behind

Published: July 15, 2024

Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter in life, but it can also be daunting. Among the myriad of tasks involved in moving, one of the most challenging aspects is deciding what to keep and what to discard. Over time, we accumulate possessions that may have sentimental value or seem essential, but realistically, they can weigh us down. To make your move smoother and more efficient, it’s crucial to consider what items you should discard before packing. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this process.

Unused or Duplicate Items: 

When you start packing, you’ll likely come across items you haven’t used in ages or forgot you even had. These could be clothes, kitchen gadgets, or home decor. If you haven’t used them in the past year or more, it might be time to let them go. Similarly, if you have duplicate items, such as multiple sets of dishes or tools, consider keeping only the ones in the best condition and donating or selling the extras.

Worn-Out or Broken Items: 

Moving provides an excellent opportunity to assess the condition of your belongings. Take a critical look at items that are worn-out, damaged, or broken beyond repair. Holding onto them will only take up valuable space in your new home and could potentially cost you more in the long run if you need to repair or replace them later. Dispose of these items responsibly by recycling them or arranging for proper disposal.

Outdated Electronics and Appliances: 

Technological advancements mean that gadgets and appliances become outdated relatively quickly. If you have old electronics gathering dust or appliances that are no longer efficient, it’s time to part ways with them. Consider recycling them or donating them if they’re still in working condition. Not only will this declutter your space, but it will also prevent these items from ending up in a landfill unnecessarily.

Paper Clutter: 

Paper clutter is a common problem in many households. Old bills, receipts, magazines, and paperwork accumulate over time, taking up space and adding unnecessary weight to your move. Take the opportunity to go through your documents and shred or recycle any that are no longer needed before you move. Consider switching to digital alternatives for bills and statements to minimize paper clutter in the future.

Sentimental Items With Little Meaning: 

Sentimental items can be the hardest to part with, but it’s essential to differentiate between items that hold genuine sentimental value and those that don’t. While it’s natural to attach memories to objects, holding onto too many sentimental items can clutter your space and make it harder to appreciate the ones that truly matter. Choose a select few meaningful items to keep and consider photographing the rest.

Clothing and Accessories: 

Clothes and accessories are another category where decluttering can make a significant difference prior to your move. Take stock of your wardrobe and donate or sell items that no longer fit, are out of style, or haven’t been worn in a long time. Not only will this free up space in your new home, but it will also make it easier to organize your closet and find outfits you love.

Unused Furniture: 

Furniture can take up a considerable amount of space and add to the cost of moving services. Assess each piece of furniture and if it serves a purpose in your new home. If you have pieces that don’t fit your new space, it may be time to sell, donate, or dispose of them.

When you move, it presents an opportunity for a fresh start, but it also requires careful consideration of your belongings. By decluttering and discarding items you no longer need or use before you move, you can streamline the moving process, save time and money, and create a more organized and functional living space in your new home. So, before you start packing, take the time to assess your possessions and consider what you truly need and cherish. Your future self will thank you for it.

For help with the move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Seattle or call us at (206) 347-8201.