Things to Consider if You're Downsizing During a Move

Are you moving to a smaller place? If so, downsizing your belongings can seem an overwhelming chore, but by keeping some simple tips in mind, you can cross this task off your list.

The experienced, highly trained moving professionals from Covan World-Wide Moving offer some of our best advice for customers who need to downsize ahead of a relocation.

Downsizing Temporarily

Sometimes circumstances create a need to downsize temporarily. This could be due to a temporary employment assignment or because you’re spending time in an apartment while waiting for a larger home to be completed. If you are downsizing temporarily, finding secure storage solutions is the easiest way to handle it.

You’ll have your choice of portable storage, self-storage, and warehouse storage. No matter which you choose, be sure to verify that your belongings will be kept in secure conditions where they will be protected from fire and theft.

Downsizing Permanently

If you’re downsizing permanently, the decision about what to keep can be taxing emotionally. For this reason, be sure to give yourself enough time to sort through your belongings, so you can make careful decisions about what you want to keep. If applicable, consider sorting through some of your belongings with your children, allowing them to keep items that may be meaningful to them.

This type of downsizing is often done by seniors who are moving into a small apartment or senior living situation. If you’re helping an older person with this task, be sure to consider that this could be an emotional time for them. For this reason, you shouldn’t try to rush them through the process or pressure them into getting rid of things to which they feel an emotional connection.

Disposing of Items

Once you’ve made a decision about which of your belongings you no longer plan to keep, you’ll have to decide what to do with them. Here are some of the options:

  • Selling: If you have the time and inclination, sell items at a yard sale or by listing them on Craig’s List or Facebook Marketplace. If you are selling a lot of items, talk to a local company that handles estate sales, and they may be able to handle all the details for you.
  • Donating: Many thrift stores are happy to pick up items, especially if you’re donating larger items, such as furniture.
  • Recycling: Learn about what types of items can be recycled in facilities near you.
  • Giving Away: Give away some items to your family, friends, and neighbors.
  • Tossing: Items that are in very poor condition can simply be thrown away.

Contact Our Experienced Moving Professionals to Learn More

When you’re planning a move, the experienced residential moving pros from Covan World-Wide Moving are who you want on the job. Contact us for more information about our highly reviewed services, or fill out our online form to request a free relocation consultation.