Knowing Which Things to Keep and Throw Away When Moving

Moving can be a stressful time. You’d have to worry about logistics, settling in your new home, and other things. But perhaps one of the hardest things to do is to sort which things you wish to keep and which ones to get rid of. Your current place is home to a lot of things you’ve collected over the years, such as furniture, clothes, jewelry, ornaments, and appliances. It could be overwhelming to choose which ones to let go.

Although there’s a variety of de-cluttering techniques you can read up on, you can simply opt to follow this basic cheat sheet of things you need to keep and items you can ditch. Before you call the removalists for your move to or from Sydney, here’s a practical list to help you:

Things to Keep

Clothing and Footwear

Be sure to bring all the clothes that you regularly use and those that are reserved for special occasions, such as tuxedo and winter coat.

Documents

Never throw old personal documents, such as passports, medical and school records, marriage certificate, etc. If there are sensitive documents (or even old bank cards) that you no longer need to bring, make sure you dispose of them properly by shredding them. When you’re moving, make an inventory of all the documents you’re bringing.

Jewelry and High-Value Objects

Be sure to pack, label, and keep a list of the jewelry and valuable objects (paintings, collectibles, custom-made decanters, expensive bags and shoes) you’re bringing along to your new home.

Sentimental Items

One could argue that everything with memories and the people associated with it are sentimental items. But you do have to decide which ones you can’t part with and which ones you can let go. You also might want to consider bringing your family photo albums and personal scrapbooks, as well as heirlooms and keepsakes.

Everyday Electronics (and their chargers)

Naturally, you’d bring laptops, desktops, and other electronics that you’d be using in your daily life and at work.

High-Quality Furniture and Silverware. Furniture and silverware may be a pain to transport (and could be costly), but they’re worth bringing along. Besides, you can always opt to sell them at your new place.

Medication. Bring all your medication. It’s even advisable to stock up on them, just in case your new place doesn’t have a nearby pharmacy.

Things to Get Rid Of

Clothing and Footwear You No Longer Use

If you have clothes or shoes that you no longer use, don’t fit anymore, are altered/damaged, or you’ve simply outgrown, it’s time to sell or donate them. If you’re moving to a place that’s warm throughout the year, then bringing winter clothes may not be a good idea.

Sentimental Items (That You’re Ready to Part With)

It’s indeed hard to let go of things that have memories tied to them. However, you can always opt to rent out a storage space or give the item to family or friends.

Anything That’s Broken, Damaged, Expired, and Things You’ll Never Use

Check for furniture or other items that can no longer be used (as well as consumer products that are beyond expiration). There’s also no point in bringing things that you’ve decided not to use.

Old Blankets, Towels, and Bedsheets

These bulky items take up space and some could simply be used as cushioning material for when you’re transporting fragile furniture. Other than that, you’re better off buying new sets for your new home.

This practical list is simply a suggestion. At the end of the day, it’s you who will decide which stuff you’re willing to bring and let go. If the next place can accommodate all the things you have now and you’re able to pay for the cost of moving all those stuff, then go for it. But if your space is limited or you want a fresh start in a new place and only wish to bring the most basic of things, then this list could be perfect for you.