What Should Move With You — and What Shouldn’t

You’re getting ready for a big cross-country move. The date for your long-distance move has been set, the boxes and cartons are being packed, and you’re now surveying all your possessions.  

But wait: There’s an awful lot of stuff. And some of it has definitely seen better days. Is it worth schlepping these items thousands of miles? Before you capitulate, cave in and start packing up the whole house, take a deep breath — and a hard look — to decide whether it’s worth the cost and effort of moving all this stuff cross-country. 

Is It Truly Worth the Weight?  

One factor you may not realize is that most move costs are based largely on weight, volume and distance — with weight being the most important. That said, is it important to move that set of old Britannica’s, those dog-eared James Patterson paperbacks and unwieldy stacks of scratchy vinyl albums — or would you be better off selling or donating them? The same goes for the ratty old recliner in the basement rec room and even that bread maker cluttering up your kitchen cupboard.  

Remember, all these items add weight, and with extra weight comes extra cost. Be prudent about what should be packed. And downsize aggressively. 

Don’t Take This One Lying Down 

The number-one item you should seriously consider paring down from your packing list is your collection of mattresses. After all, they’re heavy, bulky, difficult to move and take up precious cargo space.  

But if this rationale doesn’t resonate with you, consider the yuck factor: In less time than you might imagine, mattresses accumulate dust mites, dead skin cells, and allergens that can trigger respiratory issues. Plus, the sagging and loss of support from an old mattress can eventually cause problems with your back and joints. Many cities and towns have mattress recycling programs that keep old beds out of landfills. Do some research to find an eco-friendly disposal option near you. 

Say Bye Bye to Bulky Furniture 

That old sofa or armchair may be comfortable, but is it worth the cost of moving it across state lines? Moreover, does it look a bit bedraggled and, for that matter will it even fit into your new home’s décor or floorplan? It’s one thing to move a precious family heirloom (and for items like these we suggest Full Value Protection); however, that sagging fake wood bookcase or TV cabinet from the picture tube era might be better off being given away or donated. See our list of charities that offer free pickup.  

Deep Six the Deep Freeze and Other Large Appliances 

Speaking of items that aren’t worth moving long distance, you’re probably better off leaving that old fridge or deep freezer in the basement or garage. The cost of moving large, heavy appliances gets pricey very quickly. By the time you factor in professional moving costs, possible damage during transport, and the age of the appliance, you may be better off buying new.   

Washers, dryers, ovens and ranges also fall into this bulky, heavy and probably not worth transporting category, especially since you may also need special hookups or venting at your new place. Unless they’re high-end or basically brand new, the moving costs will likely outweigh their value. 

Ditch Dust Collectors and Other Non-essentials 

Take a break from packing and have a long hard look at what you’re considering moving long distance. Is sentimentality outweighing common sense? Do kids’ toys from a decade ago belong in your brand-new space? What about those knickknacks you’ve been accumulating on the top of the bedroom closet? Face it, these items are just collecting dust. Anything you haven’t used, or for that matter though about, in over a year can probably be tossed or donated. 

Make a Clothes Call on What to Shed From Your Wardrobe 

Chances are you have more clothing than you really need (or fit into). Go through everything on the clothes rack, toss the worn-out or out of style items and donate what you haven’t used recently, especially if your long-distance move involves relocating to a different climate. Chances are you’ll find the experience therapeutic — and just think of all the unpacking time you’ll save. 

Have a Garage Sale 

Once you’ve pared down your possessions, have a garage sale to earn some cash from your former junk. Anything that doesn’t sell can be donated or tossed. Check out our guide for having a successful one. 

Move With a Trusted Professional 

Trust Mayflower to take the hassle out of your cross-country move. Our customized, full-service moving packages can cover all your moving needs. Mayflower’s experienced agents can manage storage, packing, unpacking, car shipping, debris removal and more.  

When you’re ready to make a move, our blog offers a wealth of ideas to streamline your move and help you settle in. And our digital magazine, Welcome HOME, can help simplify and streamline your move.  

Get a no-obligation quote today.