Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Moving is an adventure—new beginnings, fresh spaces—but let’s be real, sorting through unwanted stuff isn’t the highlight. I’ve been there, staring at piles of things I no longer need, wondering where to start. The key? A solid plan to clear out unnecessary belongings without stress. I’ll walk you through a simple, smart approach to lighten your load and make the transition smoother.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
How to quickly decide what stays and what goes
Smart ways to get rid of excess belongings responsibly
When to do it yourself and when to bring in help
How to keep your space clutter-free throughout the move
Let’s get started.
Step 1: Start Early—Your Future Self Will Thank You
The biggest mistake? Waiting until the last minute. Packing is already overwhelming, and dealing with excess belongings at the last second only adds chaos. I always recommend starting at least four weeks ahead to stay in control.
Here’s a simple system I use:
- Set up three categories – Keep, donate, and discard.
- Go one room at a time – Focus on smaller areas first, like closets or cabinets.
- Use the ‘One-Year Rule’ – If it hasn’t been used in a year, it’s probably not worth taking.
Feeling stuck? These 7 easy decluttering tips can make the process smoother.
Step 2: Sell, Donate, or Recycle—Clear the Clutter Responsibly
Not everything needs to go to the landfill. I always try to sell, give away, or recycle before tossing anything.
Turn Clutter Into Cash
Some things still have value—why not make a little extra money? The best platforms for selling include:
Facebook Marketplace – Good for local sales.
Craigslist – Ideal for furniture and bigger items.
eBay – Works well for smaller, shippable goods.
Pro tip: Price items fairly. A $500 couch won’t sell for $400 after years of use.
Give Items a Second Life
Charities and donation centers are always looking for gently used goods. Some great options include:
Goodwill – Accepts clothing, household items, and small furniture.
Habitat for Humanity – Great for donating furniture and building materials.
Local shelters – Often need blankets, kitchenware, and essentials.
Recycle When Possible
Certain materials, like electronics and appliances, need to be disposed of properly. If you’re unsure where to start, check out these common recycling mistakes to make sure you’re doing it right.
Step 3: Renting a Dumpster for Major Cleanouts
If you’re dealing with a large amount of unwanted stuff, renting a dumpster can be a smart solution. It keeps everything in one place, saving you multiple trips to a disposal site.
Here’s a quick breakdown of size options:
15-yard container – Great for small home cleanouts.
20-yard option – A solid mid-range choice for decluttering.
30-40 yard sizes – Best for whole-house cleanouts or renovations.
Before renting, make sure to check what can and can’t be disposed of. If you need guidance, this guide to hiring professionals is a great resource.
Step 4: Know When to Call the Experts
Sometimes, handling everything on your own isn’t practical. If you have heavy furniture, large appliances, or just don’t have the time, bringing in professionals can make life easier.
Signs You Need Professional Help:
You have bulky or hard-to-move items.
There’s limited time before your move.
Some things require special disposal (like hazardous materials).
Looking for reliable help? This guide to choosing a quality service breaks down what to look for.
Step 5: Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Move
Even with a plan, things can go sideways. Here are some missteps I’ve seen (or made myself):
Waiting too long – The more you put it off, the more overwhelming it gets.
Overloading curbside bins – Cities have pickup limits, so check local guidelines.
Tossing recyclables in the trash – Many household items can be reused or repurposed.
Skipping donations – What’s useless to you might be valuable to someone else.
Step 6: Staying Organized for a Smooth Move
A clutter-free move is more than just getting rid of things—it’s about keeping everything organized.
Label your boxes – Helps avoid confusion when unpacking.
Pack by category – Keep similar items together to save time later.
Set aside essentials – Don’t pack things you’ll need immediately.
Bonus tip: If you own a business and want to cut down on unnecessary waste, here’s a great resource on reducing waste while saving money.
Final Thoughts
Clearing out unnecessary items before a move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategy, you can make the process much smoother.
Start early.
Sell, donate, or recycle before throwing things away.
Rent a dumpster if needed.
Get help when necessary.
Stay organized.
And if you’re curious about where everything actually goes, check out this breakdown of the recycling process—you might be surprised!
Now, take a deep breath, grab those boxes, and get started. A lighter, clutter-free move is just a few steps away!
