Decluttering before moving: what to keep, give away and dispose of

Key answers

After decluttering, decide the destination of large furniture and low-use items first, then start packing; keep separate records for items to keep, give away, store and discard.

Check whether it will fit in the new home first, not just whether you like it

Measure the usable space and main passages in the new home, then compare them with the size of the existing bed, wardrobe, dining table and sofa. Being able to move them in does not mean they are suitable to place there; draw a simple floor plan first, so it is easier to deal with than discovering after the move that items are duplicated or too large.

Deciding on large items first can reduce repeated changes to the inventory and route assessment. Do not force an item onto the move just because it has already been included in the estimate, and do not buy another set before confirming whether the new home needs it.

Classify by destination, with one decision for each item

Separate items into those to take, give away, store and discard. Set aside a small area for items still to be decided on and set a final date. Commonly used items and items of sentimental value cannot be judged only by a 'throw it away if unused for a year' rule.

• Take away: confirm it has a use and the location in the new home
• Give away: first confirm the condition and collection date with the recipient
• Storage: there is a definite future use, and the period and cost have been considered
• Disposal: confirm the method of handling; do not leave items in common areas

Documents, devices and items containing personal data are handled separately

Separate the parts of ID documents, bills and confidential files that need to be kept, then dispose of the unneeded data in an appropriate way. Before handing over computers, phones and other devices, back up first and handle personal data and accounts according to the product instructions.

Do not rush and mix documents containing identifiable personal data into general disposal bins, and do not pile valuables and items to be sent out in the same area. Have the person who clearly knows the purpose make the final check to reduce the chance of family members moving the wrong items.

Arrange a collection date, rather than only sorting the items

Whether items are to be given away, collected or otherwise handled must be confirmed with the actual recipient; do not assume anything will definitely be taken. For large items, also ask clearly about dismantling, floor from which they will be moved, and collection conditions, to avoid them being left in the unit at the end.

If disposal or clearance is arranged by the company, list the items, quantity and on-site conditions, and confirm the process and quote separately. Do not assume a move automatically includes all unwanted items, and do not leave them on the stairwell or in the refuse room as if that counts as completion.

Update the moving list immediately after deciding

After each area is completed, update the packing list and box numbers, remove items already sent away, and separately list items still to be discarded or stored. Let family members, the old home contact and the moving company see the same version to avoid moving the wrong items on the day based on outdated photos.

Finally, reserve time to check inside cupboards, on the balcony and in storage spaces. Organising earlier helps reduce unnecessary items to move, but the actual charge is still based on the confirmed list and written quotation. It cannot be assumed that moving out a few fewer boxes will definitely reduce the cost by a set amount.

Frequently Asked Questions