Moving is the perfect excuse to hit reset. Whether you’re planning a local move, a long-distance relocation, or just preparing your home for the new year, decluttering now will save you money, time, and stress on moving day. At Movers USA, we see it every day — the lighter you move, the smoother everything goes.
If you’re starting your relocation plans, get your free moving estimate and stay ahead of the chaos.
1. Old Clothes You Haven’t Worn in a Year
If it hasn’t touched your body in 12 months, it’s time. Donate gently used items to your favorite charity. For general donation guidelines, check the Goodwill donation overview.
2. Broken or Unused Electronics
Cables, chargers, old phones, outdated laptops — recycle them. They’re heavy, they take space, and they do nothing but add to moving costs.
3. Expired Pantry Items
Canned goods past their date, spices older than your kids, and mystery jars… toss them. If you want a cleaner kitchen before your movers pack, now is the time.
4. Old Towels, Blankets, and Linens
Animal shelters love these. Donate instead of packing.
5. Books You No Longer Read
Books are deceptively heavy and increase the load fast. Keep what you love. Sell or donate the rest.
6. Furniture That Won’t Fit Your New Home
Oversized sofas, old dining sets, and cheap IKEA items that won’t survive another move — list them for sale now. Decluttering saves truck space and labor time.
If you need storage while planning your layout, see our full-service storage options.
7. Old Kids’ Toys and Baby Gear
If your children have outgrown them, pass them on. These items pile up quickly.
8. Half-Used Cleaning Supplies
You can’t move them across state lines anyway. Toss or give to a neighbor.
9. Holiday Décor You Never Use
Everyone has that one box they never open. Sell or donate before the new year brings even more stuff.
10. Random “Just in Case” Items
Extra vases, piles of gift bags, old chargers, duplicate tools — if you forgot you had them, you don’t need them.
Why Decluttering Helps Your Move
Decluttering before your move means fewer boxes, lower moving costs, and a cleaner start in your new home. If you want professional help packing and moving after you purge, explore our packing services.
Start fresh, move lighter, and make the new year feel truly new.
