How to Properly Dispose of Unwanted Items Before a Move

22 November 2025

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to declutter. Whether you're downsizing, upgrading, or just starting fresh, one thing is certain—there will be items you no longer need. Instead of cramming everything into boxes and hauling unnecessary clutter to your new place, why not take the time to get rid of what you don’t use?

But what’s the best way to dispose of unwanted items before a move? Should you donate, recycle, sell, or toss them? Let’s break it down so you can move efficiently while keeping waste to a minimum.

Why Decluttering Before a Move Is Essential

Before we dive into disposal methods, let’s talk about why you should declutter in the first place.

- Saves Money on Moving Costs: Moving companies charge based on weight and volume. The fewer things you move, the more money you save.
- Reduces Stress: Moving is already overwhelming. Less clutter means fewer boxes to pack, transport, and unpack.
- Gives You a Fresh Start: Moving is a chance to start over. Why carry unnecessary baggage—literally and figuratively?
- Helps Others: Many of your unwanted items could be useful to someone else. Donating or giving away things ensures they find a second life.

Step 1: Sort Through Your Belongings

The first step in disposing of unwanted items is to decide what stays and what goes. A simple way to do this is by using the Four-Box Method:

1. Keep: Items that you regularly use or have sentimental value.
2. Donate/Sell: Gently used items that are still in good condition.
3. Recycle: Items that cannot be sold or donated but can be recycled.
4. Trash: Items that are broken, damaged, or beyond repair.

Go room by room and be honest with yourself—if you haven’t used something in over a year, do you really need it?

Step 2: Sell Valuable Items

If you have valuable items that you no longer need, selling them is a great way to make some extra cash before your move. Here’s where you can sell different types of goods:

- Furniture & Larger Items: Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp
- Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories: Poshmark, thredUP, Depop
- Electronics & Gadgets: eBay, Gazelle, Best Buy’s Trade-In Program
- Books & Media: Amazon, Half Price Books, Decluttr

Make sure to take clear photos, write detailed descriptions, and set a reasonable price. If something doesn’t sell after a while, consider donating it instead.

Step 3: Donate to Charity

Many items that may not sell quickly can still be useful to others. Donating is a great way to give back while lightening your load. Consider donating to:

- Goodwill or Salvation Army: Accepts clothing, furniture, and household items.
- Local Shelters & Charities: Many shelters need clothes, blankets, and personal hygiene products.
- Libraries: Accept gently used books, DVDs, and educational materials.
- Schools & Daycares: Can use toys, craft supplies, and learning materials.
- Food Banks: If you have non-perishable food items that you don’t want to move, donate them instead of tossing them.

Always ensure that donated items are in good condition. If it’s something you wouldn’t give to a friend, it’s probably best to recycle or discard it.

Step 4: Recycle Responsibly

Not everything belongs in a landfill. Recycling is an eco-friendly way to dispose of things that can’t be donated or sold. Here’s where you can recycle:

- Electronics & Batteries: Best Buy, Staples, and local e-waste recycling centers.
- Old Clothes & Fabrics: Some retailers like H&M and Levi’s have fabric recycling programs.
- Paper & Cardboard: Your local curbside recycling program.
- Glass & Plastic: Drop-off at recycling centers if your city doesn’t have curbside pickup.
- Furniture & Appliances: Some junk removal services recycle materials from old furniture and appliances.

Check with your city’s waste management department for local recycling options, as rules vary by location.

Step 5: Dispose of Hazardous Waste Properly

Some household items can’t just be thrown in the trash due to environmental concerns. Items like paint, chemicals, old medications, and batteries require special disposal methods.

- Paint & Chemicals: Many cities have hazardous waste drop-off locations.
- Old Medications: Most pharmacies have medication disposal kiosks.
- Batteries & Light Bulbs: Home Depot and Lowe’s often accept these.

Never pour chemicals down the drain or toss them in the trash—it can be harmful to the environment.

Step 6: Hire Junk Removal Services for Excess Waste

If you have a lot of stuff left over after selling, donating, and recycling, hiring a junk removal service might be the easiest solution. These companies will haul away furniture, appliances, and other bulky items. Some even donate or recycle usable materials.

Popular junk removal companies include 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, Junk King, and College Hunks Hauling Junk.

Step 7: Give Away for Free

If you just want items gone without the hassle of selling them, consider giving them away for free.

- Facebook Marketplace (Free Section)
- Craigslist (Free Section)
- Buy Nothing Groups (Local groups on Facebook dedicated to giving away items for free)
- Nextdoor App (Great for giving items to neighbors)

Sometimes, setting something out with a “FREE” sign works wonders. You’d be surprised how fast curbside treasures disappear!

Step 8: Dispose of Trash Properly

After exhausting all other options, anything that remains will likely need to be thrown away. Be mindful of waste disposal regulations in your area—some trash services won’t accept large items unless scheduled in advance. Consider renting a dumpster if you have a significant amount of trash.

If you're short on time, bag everything up neatly and ensure hazardous waste isn't mixed in—this ensures a smoother disposal process.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering before a move doesn’t have to be stressful. By sorting, selling, donating, recycling, and properly disposing of unwanted items, you’ll lighten your load and simplify your move. Plus, you’ll be helping others and reducing environmental waste—win-win!

So, before you start packing, take some time to go through your belongings. You’ll be glad you did when you arrive at your new home, clutter-free and ready for a fresh start.