Downsizing Before a Move: What to Keep, Donate, and Toss

The average American household contains over 300,000 items, and a move is the ideal opportunity to reset. Start the decluttering process at least four to six weeks before your move date. Tackle one room at a time and sort everything into four categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Be honest with yourself — if you have not used something in a year, you probably do not need it.

For items in good condition, local organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity's ReStore will pick up furniture donations. Books can go to the Boston Public Library's book sale program. Clothing in good shape is welcomed at Boomerangs, a local thrift shop that supports AIDS Action Committee. These donations are often tax-deductible, so keep receipts.

For items you want to sell, list them on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Nextdoor for quick local sales. Higher-value items like furniture, electronics, and collectibles often do well on these platforms. Host a yard sale for smaller items — even if each item sells for just a few dollars, the total adds up and saves you from moving things you do not need.

For items that cannot be donated or sold, check your city's bulk pickup schedule or visit a local transfer station. Electronics should be recycled through certified e-waste programs — many Best Buy locations accept old electronics for free. The less you move, the faster your move will go, the less it will cost, and the more organized your new home will be from day one.