Leave It Behind

There are several ways to make your move a less stressful event. As you know from previous posts, these include getting organized, finding the right movers (or rental truck), and "packing smart." However, one of my favorites has to be reducing the number of "moving parts" (pardon the pun) by cutting down on what you take with you.

When I was living in Hawaii, I found out that I was going to have to pack our house by myself and make sure the total didn't exceed 12,000 pounds, including a 4-door sedan. Now I don't know about you, but threats that all my belongings would be abandoned on the dock if it didn't meet the weight restriction did wonders to "focus the mind" on reducing the number of belongings I took. I also had several boxes left unpacked from my move to Hawaii, which didn't help.

If you're not facing a weight restriction on your next move, it's still a good idea to reduce the quantity you take with you. Here are just a few reasons to try to cut back on what you move:

• Save time. Anything you don't take doesn't have to boxed, sealed, labeled, inventoried, carried, tracked, loaded, arranged, unloaded, unpacked and put away. That's a lot of steps saved!
• Save money. You can save on the truck rental (get a smaller truck) or movers' fees (many charge by the pound) by getting rid of the "dead weight."
• Save stress. Fewer things packed means fewer things requiring organization and worry.
• Make money. Anyone who's ever watched "Clean House" realizes that a well-planned, well-executed yard sale can often top $1,000 in proceeds. That's some serious cash. Even if you donate items, you can usually take a deduction (consult your tax professional).
• Help others. There are millions of families in need who might be thrilled at the prospect of receiving gently used items.
• Go green. "Reduce, reuse, recycle" applies to home items as well. Items getting a second life reduces greenhouse gases from being carried on the truck and from manufacturing, distributing and selling replacement items.
  

So how do you decide what stays and what goes? Here are some guidelines on what to leave behind:

• The 18-month rule: If you haven't actively used it in the past 18 months, chances are that the item can be parted with.
• If it's broken, missing pieces or unusable, it's time to let go.
• Out of size or out of style clothing should not be heading to your new home's closet.
• If it would mean more to someone else, consider donating it.

What about you? What have you been able to part with during moving, and how did it work out?

As always, check for our "101 Best Moving Tips" and "Ultimate Moving Guide" at http://www.Movers-Edge.com.