You never realize how much you’ve accumulated until it’s time to move. That’s when you start wondering, “When did I accumulate so much stuff??” Our Minneapolis movers recommend lightening your load (and consequently, saving money on your relocation) by getting rid of unwanted items before your big move.
1. Give to Charity
Donating to charity can lighten your load and provide a tax break. Some charities have bins and thrift stores that accept donations. Charities such as Goodwill, Red Cross, or Salvation Army may have a use for your items. Also, look for homeless shelters, shelters for women and children, and other charitable organizations that accept donated items. Some charities will arrange a pickup for larger items, such as furniture or appliances.
Make sure any items you donate are worth donating. Charities often get useless junk that they can’t use. Remember, charities don’t want your useless junk.
2. Throw Junk Away
Some items are just junk. It’s true that one person’s junk is possibly another person’s treasure. But it helps to take an honest look at your items. Anything that no longer serves its purpose is probably just trash.
Tattered socks with holes in them are basically useless. Who wants a dirty t-shirt with tears everywhere and missing sleeves? Someone might have a use for these things, but don’t donate them to a charity or try to sell them. Some things deserve to get thrown out.
3. Sell Your Items Online
There are several options for selling unwanted items online. Ebay and Craigslist are two of the most popular online marketplaces. Are you selling something that’s handmade, like a doll or a blanket? Then Etsy is possibly an option.
You can sell just about anything online. Toys, furniture, electronics, you name it. Just keep in mind you’ll have to ship anything that doesn’t sell locally. You’ll also have to give a percentage of your sale to the website. For that reason, you might want to try local online classifieds. That way you won’t have to worry about shipping. Simply tell the buyer to come to you. There are also apps, such as Let Go, that allow you to post items to sell locally.
4. Have a Yard Sale
Yard sales are still a popular way to get rid of unwanted items. Advertise your yard sale in as many places as possible. Place notices on community bulletin boards, college bulletin boards, and anyplace else that allows posting flyers. Online social websites such as Facebook and Twitter are also places where you can mention your sale.
5. Use the Recycling Bin
It’s possible that some of your items can go into a recycling bin. Search online to find recycling programs in your area. Some auto shops accept used car batteries in exchange for store credit or cash. Call local auto parts stores to see if any of them have this deal. Additionally, office supply stores, such as Office Depot and Staples, recycle used ink cartridges.