What Should I Do with Unwanted Items Before Moving? A Guide by Highway Men Moving

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, including deciding what to do with unwanted items. As you prepare for your move, it's the perfect time to declutter and get rid of things you no longer need. At Highway Men Moving, a licensed and insured moving company based in Greenville, South Carolina, we understand the importance of a streamlined move. In this blog, we’ll guide you through what to do with unwanted items before moving, including where you can donate or dispose of them in Greenville.

Why Decluttering is Important

1. Reduce Moving Costs

• Moving fewer items can significantly reduce your moving costs. Fewer boxes mean less time and effort required from your movers, and potentially lower transportation costs.

1. Simplify Packing and Unpacking

• Decluttering makes packing and unpacking easier and faster. You’ll only be moving items that you actually need and use, which can make settling into your new home more efficient.

1. Create a Fresh Start

• Moving is an opportunity to start fresh. Getting rid of unnecessary items can help you create a clutter-free environment in your new home.

1. Environmental Responsibility

• Donating or recycling unwanted items instead of throwing them away is an environmentally responsible choice that reduces waste.

Steps to Declutter Before Moving

1. Start Early

• Begin the decluttering process as soon as you know you’ll be moving. This gives you ample time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed.

1. Sort by Category

• Instead of going room by room, try sorting items by category (e.g., clothes, books, kitchenware). This method helps you see how much you have and makes it easier to make decisions about what to keep.

1. Use the Four-Box Method

• Label four boxes as “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash.” As you go through your items, place them in the appropriate box. This system helps you stay organized and focused.

1. Ask Yourself Key Questions

• When deciding whether to keep an item, ask yourself:

• Have I used this in the past year?

• Does this item have sentimental value?

• Is this item worth the space it will take up in my new home?

1. Be Ruthless

• It can be difficult to part with possessions, but remember that the goal is to reduce clutter and simplify your move. Be honest with yourself about what you really need and use.

Donating Unwanted Items in Greenville, South Carolina

Donating unwanted items is a great way to give back to the community while reducing your load. Here are some local donation centers in Greenville where you can drop off items:

1. Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands South Carolina

• Location: 3214 Augusta Rd, Greenville, SC 29605

• What They Accept: Clothing, shoes, accessories, household items, electronics, and furniture.

1. Salvation Army Family Store

• Location: 203 Rutherford St, Greenville, SC 29609

• What They Accept: Clothing, furniture, household goods, and appliances.

1. Habitat for Humanity ReStore

• Location: 1659 Woodruff Rd, Greenville, SC 29607

• What They Accept: Furniture, appliances, building materials, and household items.

1. Miracle Hill Thrift Store

• Location: 118 Hwy 183, Piedmont, SC 29673

• What They Accept: Clothing, furniture, electronics, books, and household goods.

1. Safe Harbor Resale Shop

• Location: 2111 N Pleasantburg Dr, Greenville, SC 29609

• What They Accept: Gently used clothing, furniture, and household items.

Selling Unwanted Items

Selling items is another great way to declutter and make some extra cash before your move. Here are some options for selling unwanted items in Greenville:

1. Online Marketplaces

• Facebook Marketplace: A popular platform for selling items locally. You can list everything from furniture to electronics.

• Craigslist: Another useful site for selling larger items like furniture and appliances.

1. Consignment Shops

• Consign & Design Interiors

• Location: 1818 Augusta St, Greenville, SC 29605

• What They Accept: High-quality furniture and home decor.

• Kid to Kid

• Location: 1175 Woods Crossing Rd #7, Greenville, SC 29607

• What They Accept: Gently used children’s clothing, toys, and baby gear.

1. Garage Sales

• Hosting a garage sale is a great way to sell multiple items at once. Advertise your sale in local newspapers, on social media, and with signs around your neighborhood.

Recycling and Disposal

For items that are not suitable for donation or sale, consider recycling or proper disposal. Here are some local options in Greenville:

1. Greenville County Recycling

• Location: 495 Garlington Rd, Greenville, SC 29615

• What They Accept: Paper, cardboard, plastics, metals, and electronics.

1. Twin Chimneys Landfill

• Location: 11075 Augusta Rd, Honea Path, SC 29654

• What They Accept: General waste, bulky items, and yard waste. Note that some fees may apply.

1. Household Hazardous Waste Collection

• Location: 660 Mauldin Rd, Greenville, SC 29607

• What They Accept: Hazardous materials such as paint, chemicals, batteries, and electronics. Check with Greenville County for specific collection dates and guidelines.

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Tips for Efficient Decluttering

1. Stay Organized

• Keep track of your progress by making a checklist of areas to declutter and setting deadlines for each task.

1. Involve the Family

• Encourage family members to help with the decluttering process. This can make the task more manageable and ensure everyone has a say in what items are kept or discarded.

1. Take Breaks

• Decluttering can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Take regular breaks to rest and recharge.

1. Be Patient

• Decluttering is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress along the way.

Decluttering before a move is an essential step that can save you time, money, and stress. By donating, selling, recycling, or properly disposing of unwanted items, you can simplify your move and start fresh in your new home. At Highway Men Moving, we’re here to help make your move as smooth and efficient as possible. Our team of licensed and insured movers in Greenville, South Carolina, is ready to assist with local moves, long-distance relocations, packing, storage, and corporate moves.

For more information on our services and to get a personalized moving quote, contact Highway Men Moving today. Let us help you make your next move the best one yet!

Feel free to visit our website or give us a call to discuss your moving needs and get started on your journey to a new home. With the right planning and preparation, your move can be a smooth and successful experience. Trust Highway Men Moving to handle your move with care and professionalism.