Moving to a new home is the perfect opportunity to declutter and start fresh. By sorting through your belongings before the big day, you can reduce moving costs, save time, and create a more organised space in your new home. But knowing what to keep, sell, or donate can be tricky. Here’s our simple tips for decluttering before a move to help you make those big decisions with ease.

Step 1: Assess Your Belongings

Before you start packing, go through each room and take stock of what you own. Ask yourself:

• Have I used this in the last year?
• Does it have sentimental or practical value?
• Will it fit or suit my new home?
• Is it in good condition?

If an item doesn’t pass this checklist, it might be time to part ways.

Step 2: What to Keep

Some things are worth holding onto, including:

• Essentials – Everyday items like clothing, toiletries, and kitchenware.
• Sentimental Items – Family heirlooms, photos, and meaningful keepsakes.
• High-Quality Furniture – If it fits your new space and is in good condition, take it with you.
• Important Documents – Keep passports, birth certificates, and legal papers safely stored.
• Electronics & Appliances – If they’re functional and will be useful in your new home, keep them.

Once you have your keep items sorted, save yourself precious time by having the team at Hire A Packer come to your home and meticulously pack with care. Get a quote here.

Step 3: What to Sell

Selling unwanted items can help offset moving costs. Consider selling:

• Furniture You No Longer Need – If it doesn’t fit your new space, it may be better to sell.
• Electronics – Gadgets and appliances in working condition can fetch a good price.
• Designer Clothing & Accessories – High-end items can be resold online or at consignment stores.
• Collectibles – Rare books, antiques, or memorabilia could be valuable.
• Fitness Equipment – If it’s gathering dust, give it a new home by selling it to someone who will use it.

Where to Sell:

• Online Marketplaces – Sucha s, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Gumtree.
• Garage Sales – A quick way to clear out multiple items at once.
• Second-Hand Stores – Some local shops buy gently used items.

Step 4: What to Donate

If you have items in good condition but don’t want to go through the hassle of selling, donating is a great alternative. Consider donating:

• Clothing – Clean, gently used clothes can go to charities or shelters.
• Furniture – Many organisations accept furniture for those in need.
• Books & Toys – Libraries, schools, and hospitals often welcome donations.
• Kitchenware & Home Goods – Plates, utensils, and small appliances can help families in need.

Where to Donate:

• Charity Shops – Such as, The Salvation Army, Vinnies, or Lifeline.
• Community Centres – Some local organisations accept donations for families in need.
• Shelters & Non-Profits – Women’s shelters, refugee organisations, and crisis centres.

Step 5: Dispose of the Rest Responsibly

For items that aren’t worth selling or donating, dispose of them properly:

• Recycle – Electronics, old papers, and certain plastics can be recycled.
• Council Clean-Up – Check your local council for bulk waste collection days.
• Waste Disposal Centres – Drop off large or hazardous items at an appropriate facility.

By following these tips for decluttering before your move, you can make packing easier, reduce costs, and help those in need. By sorting your belongings into keep, sell, or donate categories, you’ll ensure a smoother and more organised move. And if you need professional packing or moving assistance, Hire A Mover and Hire A Packer are here to help. Get in touch today to make your move stress-free!