Take or Toss – A Guide to Reducing Your Personal Inventory
Moving your home is not only the start of a new life, it’s the perfect opportunity to declutter and reduce your ‘stuff’ which has accumulated unchecked through the years. While it can be a liberating experience, many agonize over the decision, so as you begin sorting through your worldly possession, we offer tips for decluttering and deciding what to take when you move.
The One Year Rule
If you’ve not used an item in over one year, or in the case of clothing, worn an item – chances are it’s not going to be used next year either. This is also true of unwanted gifts. If an item has little value or is in disrepair, throw it away. Even donation centers have standards, and they simply can’t handle broken goods or stained clothing.
If the item has a value of more than $20 (or a threshold of your choosing), consider selling or consigning it. If an item is a one-of-a-kind collectible, consider consignment to an auction house. That old train set in the attic may look like junk but it’s worth a second look in this instance.
The Replacement Rule
For outdated electronics and household items, including appliances, is it worth the cost of moving only to replace it within the next few months? Appliances in particular can be costly and heavy to move, now just might be the time to upgrade and have it delivered to the new home. Improvements in energy efficiency may also make new appliances more cost-effective than moving them.
The Book Ban
Books are normally the heaviest boxed items, and dust-gatherers as well. Old textbooks are the worst offenders. Pare down the book collection, ask your local library if they accept donations, and if so, what type of books they prefer. Normally paperbacks and outdated guides aren’t in demand anywhere, and they can be thrown away or recycled. Old textbooks should be thrown away, the information can normally be found online should you ever need to reference the information. Try selling books at a yard sale and thin the herd significantly.
Household Plants
If you are planning a long distance move, it’s best to give them to friends or family members. For local moves, you can place them on the truck or transport them yourself.
The One Touch Rule
As you’re packing for your move and deciding what to take on moving day, it’s tempting to put items aside for a later decision. Institute the ‘one-touch rule’. Either it must be packed, thrown away or put in a pile for donation or sale. Do not skip over items or move them to another location, your first instinct on an item’s fate is usually correct.
Your household move is the perfect time to free yourself from clutter. Not only will you reduce your personal inventory, but you can save on moving costs as well!
