How to Get Rid of Unwanted Items in Your Home Before a Move

Moving to a new home is exciting, but let’s face it—it can also be a bit of a hassle. The packing, the planning, the endless bubble wrap… and all the stuff you’re not even sure if you want to move or not. 

Over the years, we all collect more than we realize, and suddenly, it’s time to deal with it. So, what do you do with all the things you don’t want to take to your new place? Let’s break it down.

Garages tend to be the place we store items we may not want to keep.

Step 1: Take Inventory of Unwanted Items

Before you pack anything, go through your belongings room by room. Be honest with yourself. Do you really need that waffle maker you used once in 2015? Or the stack of magazines you’ve been meaning to read for three years? Probably not. 

Create three piles: keep, donate, and toss. It’s like Marie Kondo, but with a moving deadline breathing down your neck.

Try to keep items organized.

Step 2: Donate What You Can

Some things are still in good shape but don’t belong in your new chapter. Clothes, furniture, books—they could all find a new home through donations. Check with local charities, thrift stores, or even friends and family who might need a hand furnishing their own places. It feels good to give, and you’re lightening your load in the process.

Old toys are popular donation items.

Step 3: Sell What’s Worth Selling

Got items that are still valuable but not worth packing? List them online! Websites and apps like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or even a good old-fashioned garage sale can help you turn your clutter into cash. 

A little extra pocket money never hurts, especially when moving costs start piling up.

Who doesn't like a garage sale?

Step 4: Call in the Pros

When it comes to the actual moving process, don’t do it alone. We specialize in making your move smooth and stress-free. From packing and loading to transportation and unloading, they’ve got you covered. Our team is efficient, professional, and we know how to handle your belongings with care. Live in Chattanooga? Let River City Moving do the heavy lifting while you focus on settling into your new place.

Now, what about the junk? We all have it—the broken lamps, old exercise equipment, or that mystery box in the garage no one’s opened in years. For all your junk removal services, call Haul Away Guy!

River City Moving

Haul Away Guy

River City Moving

Step 5: Recycle Responsibly

Before tossing items in the trash, consider what can be recycled. Many household items—like electronics, old batteries, and even some furniture—can be disposed of in an eco-friendly way. Check with your local recycling center to see what they accept, or look for special drop-off locations for hazardous materials like paint or appliances. Some cities even offer curbside pickup for bulk recycling.

Not only will you cut down on waste, but you’ll also be doing your part to keep unnecessary junk out of landfills. A little effort now can make a big impact on the environment.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Fresh Start

Once you’ve cleared out the things you don’t need, moving feels so much easier. Your new place won’t just be a home—it’ll be a clutter-free zone filled with the things you actually love. And isn’t that the dream?

Decluttered to perfection!