How to Donate During a Move: A Step-by-Step Guide
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and give back to those in need. Instead of packing and hauling items you no longer use, consider donating them to charities and organizations that can put them to good use. Here’s how to donate efficiently during your move.
- 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.
- 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
However, some items (e.g., mattresses, heavily used furniture, or outdated electronics) may not be accepted, so check with the charity first.
- 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.
- 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. Schedule in advance to ensure they can accommodate your move date.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
By donating during your move, you’re not only lightening your load but also making a meaningful impact on others. Happy moving and giving!