Moving is one of the best excuses to go through every single one of your belongings and decide what you should keep or toss.

It’s a great opportunity to clear out your basements, attics, and garages. Also, the amount of time you spend going through your stuff in advance, the less time you will have to spend packing and unpacking come moving day.

Even though everybody has stuff that they can eliminate, here is a list of belongings you should get rid of before you move across the country:

What to Get Rid of When Moving Across CountryClothes

Clothing remains to be the number one thing that people hold on to for way past its expiration date.

You truly must evaluate each and every item of clothing and decide whether or not you actually wear something to its full potential or it is just taking up space.

A good rule of thumb for this is if you haven’t worn it in the past year, toss it! And by toss, we mean donate to your local church, clothing drive or charity organization.

Miscellaneous Junk

Ever received a gag gift that you’ve held onto but never used or needed?

Sort through all of your excess belongings and there are probably more unnecessary items hidden away than you would expect. Especially if you haven’t done a deep cleaning in the last several years.

Books

It’s fair to say that the average person has more books that they ever plan on reading again.

There are some diehard books that one can never part with. But if you have already enjoyed reading them, consider donating them to your local library so someone else can get some good use out of it, too!

Also, books are heavy and take up a lot of room in boxes, which could be used for the rest of your belongings.

Recommended Blogs

Stressed out by the move? Read our suggested blogs for more relevant tips and tricks on your long-distance move!

Things You’ve Borrowed

Don’t make the mistake of moving across country without returning anything you’ve borrowed.

Sort through your possessions to look for things you have borrowed from your friends, family or neighbors. Even if it means that you need to clean or repair something, make sure to return borrowed items in their original condition.

Excess Appliances

Appliances are heavy, prone to damage, and take up a lot of room.

Sell or donate old or unused microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners, blenders, toasters or heaters to make space during your move. Also, this can incentivize you to buy new appliances after settling into your new home.

Cupboard Items

The cupboard is the holy grail of clutter.

Great for storing food, drinks, dishes, toiletries or office supplies. Perfect for collecting dust and things you never end up using. Take some extra time to clean this piece of furniture while setting aside items that are worth keeping or donating.

Plan Your Long Distance Move with West Coast Moving & Storage

No matter how clean or minimalistic you may feel you are with your belongings, you can always increase the efficiency of your move by donating or tossing out unnecessary items.

At West Coast Moving & Storage, we provide local and long-distance moving services to the Portland metro area and along the West Coast.

Contact our professional movers today request a free quote.