How Do You Decide What to Keep, Sell, or Donate Before Moving

How Do You Decide What to Keep, Sell, or Donate Before Moving

Christy Nichols | March 3, 2025 @ 12:00 AM

Moving can be stressful, but it's also a great chance to get rid of things you don't need and start over. You can make moving more manageable and even save money on moving costs if you decide what to keep, sell, or give away before you move. In this blog, we’ll discuss how to determine what you should keep, sell, or donate.

Organize Your Belongings 

Start by organizing each room into three categories: what you should Keep, Sell, and Donate. Think about whether you use this daily. Does the item hold some sentimental value? Lastly, Is it worth the time and effort of moving?

What to Keep

The items in the keep category should be functional, valuable, or sentimental. These may include essential furniture like a table, bed, dresser, fridge, washer, and dryer. Additionally, think about the clothing you wear frequently. If you have used an article of clothing in less than 6 months, it may be a good idea to sort it in the keep category. Another item that should be saved is personal documents, such as your passport and birth certificate. 

What to Sell

If you have items in good condition that you no longer need, consider selling them to make extra cash before moving. This step should be done a couple of weeks before you move out. Think about this step when you put in your 30-day notice. Some good items to sell are electronics you no longer use, such as a phone you upgraded and no longer need. Another reason why you should sell an item is if it no longer fits in your new place. Oftentimes, furniture only fits in one space a certain way, which isn't adaptable to your new place. It may be a good idea to sell your furniture that does not fit. As you age, you may outgrow some items. People always enter new stages, and some decorations may not fit your new lifestyle.  

What to Donate

Donate items that are still useful but no longer needed. This is a great way to give back to the community while reducing clutter. Some items that fit this description are older or unworn clothing. Another donatable item is books you’ve already finished. The last items are clothes or toys from your children that they have outgrown. Local charities, shelters, and organizations like Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity are great places to donate.

Smart Storage Solutions

Consider renting a storage unit for items you can’t part with but don’t need immediately. StorPlace Self Storage in Brentwood, TN, offers secure and convenient storage solutions to fit your needs. Store seasonal items, family heirlooms, or transitional furniture safely and access them whenever needed.

Decluttering before a move can make the process smoother and more organized. By deciding what to keep, sell, or donate, you can reduce moving costs and start fresh in your new home. If you need flexible storage options in Brentwood, TN, visit us at StorPlace Self Storage at 1006 Flagpole Ct. We’re here to help you store smarter and move easier!

For more moving and storage tips, follow our blog or contact StorPlace Self Storage in Brentwood today!

AUTHOR
Christy Nichols
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