Key takeaways
- Moving costs are often driven by weight and volume, so every item you sell saves money.
- Start selling big items six to eight weeks out; garage sale three to four weeks out.
- If it costs more to move than to replace, sell it.
- Schedule donation pickups early; they book up around month-end.
Eight weeks out
- Walk each room and tag items: keep, sell, donate, or toss.
- List large, valuable items online now: furniture, appliances, exercise equipment.
- Measure your new home so you know what furniture will actually fit.
Four to six weeks out
- Hold a garage or moving sale for mid-value items.
- Price everything to sell, because carrying it to the new place costs money too.
- Book donation pickup and junk removal for the week before your move.
The last two weeks
- Use up food and cleaning supplies.
- Give away anything left via Buy Nothing groups or free curb listings.
- Pack only what you have decided to keep.
Frequently asked questions
What should I sell before moving?
Large, heavy items that are cheap to replace, furniture that won't fit the new space, duplicates, and anything you haven't used in a year.
Prices and tips in this guide are general guidance for U.S. sellers based on typical resale markets. They are not a certified appraisal or a guarantee of what an item will sell for. For insurance, legal, tax, or high-value items, consult a qualified appraiser.