How to Downsize Before a Move: What to Keep, Sell, or Donate

You are excited and nervous at the same time as you will be moving to a different place. But one of the most helpful things you can do is to make more room for yourself before you pack.

Whether you’re downsizing to a smaller living space or just trying to get your house in order, decluttering has more benefits than just saving the mess. Here’s how to decide what to keep, sell, or donate — and how this can make your move easier.

Start With What You Want to Save

One of the simplest places to begin: toss the stuff you’re absolutely positive you need or love. Keep only what you use routinely and something with true sentimental meaning. Furniture that works in your new space, kitchen items you use, and clothes you wear often.

If something’s a question mark, you can ask yourself: “Have I used this in the last year?” And if the answer is no, it might be time to let go. It’s also wise to measure your new space before moving in so you don’t drag a sofa that won’t fit into your cramped living room. With fewer things, packing is simpler, and you have a fresh start in your new space without clutter.

If packing feels insurmountable, A2B Moving and Storage can help you sort, pack, and label anything you’d like to be stored. Read more about our packing service.

Sell Items You No Longer Need

Now that you’ve decided what to keep, focus on the items that no longer serve a purpose but still have value. Selling these things can help you recoup your moving expenses.

For example, you can sell your extra furniture on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and local apps like OfferUp. A gently used couch could fetch roughly $100 to $300, and a dining table around $150. Electronics — like televisions, speakers, and video game consoles — can be anywhere from $50 to $400, depending on how old they are and what condition they’re in. Designer clothing, shoes, and bags can also earn you a surprising amount of cash through sites like Poshmark or eBay.

It takes time to sell, so if you’re concerned about cash flow, it’s best to start earlier rather than later. And, if you’d like to avoid potential buyers and listings altogether, we can also help haul and organize items for donation or disposal. Just get in touch — we love to help you do the heavy lifting.

Donate What You Can’t Sell

Some of it is not going to sell, but that doesn’t mean to trash it all. Donating is a great option for items that still have some life in them but aren’t worth selling. Local charities and thrift stores will usually accept clothing, books, and small furniture, even kitchenware. Some organizations, like Habitat for Humanity or the Salvation Army, will even come to your home and take larger items at no cost.

Perhaps you have an old but functional microwave or a coffee table with some scratches. Those things might not bring in any money, but they could provide valuable assistance to someone who needs it. Greater donations also result in less going to the dump and more going to goods for the community.

A2B Moving and Storage can assist you with storage if you have a busy schedule. Check our storage services. We’re here to assist in your own move, from beginning to end.

Final Thoughts: Make Space for a Better Move

Sure, pre-move downsizing is about decluttering, but it’s also about carving out a space in your life to live more fully. It’ll make you feel 10 times more organized and stress-free on moving day, save money, and move around a lot lighter by stockpiling your stuff to keep, sell, or donate!

A2B Moving and Storage is never more than a phone call or click if you need our help while on the go! If you need help packing, moving, or organizing, we are there to help every step of the way! Obtain your quote now to help make your move smooth and simple.