How to Donate During a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide

1Step 1: Sort and Declutter

Before packing, go through your belongings and separate items into three categories:

• Keep: Essentials and sentimental items you plan to move.
• Donate: Items in good condition that others can use.
• Discard: Broken, expired, or unusable items.

2Step 2: Know What You Can Donate

Most charities accept:

• Gently used clothing and shoes
• Furniture in good condition
• Kitchenware and small appliances
• Books, toys, and electronics
• Unopened non-perishable food

3Step 3: Find Local Donation Centers

Here are some popular donation options:

• Goodwill & The Salvation Army: Accept clothing, furniture, electronics, and household goods.
• Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Great for furniture, building materials, and appliances.
• Local Shelters & Charities: Women's shelters, homeless shelters, and veteran organizations often need clothing, household essentials, and hygiene products.
• Libraries & Schools: Donate books, school supplies, or educational materials.
• Food Banks: Give away non-perishable food items to help reduce waste.

4Step 4: Schedule a Pickup for Large Items

If you're donating furniture or bulky items, some organizations (e.g., Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity) offer free pickup services.

5Step 5: Get a Donation Receipt

For tax deductions, request a receipt when you donate. Keep track of what you've given and its estimated value for tax filing purposes.

6Step 6: Plan Donations into Your Moving Schedule

To avoid last-minute stress:

• Start decluttering 3–4 weeks before moving day.
• Schedule donation pickups at least a week in advance.
• Drop off smaller items when running errands.

7Step 7: Consider Digital Donations

If you have items that can't be physically donated, consider selling them and donating the proceeds to a charity of your choice. Online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or eBay for Charity make it easy to turn unwanted items into cash for a cause.