Moving is stressful enough without lugging boxes of junk you don't want or need. The time before a move is the perfect opportunity to declutter—why pay to move things to your new home just to throw them away later? Here's how to handle unwanted items before you go.

Why Declutter Before Moving?

Save Money

Moving companies charge by volume or time. Less stuff means lower moving costs. Even if you're doing it yourself, fewer trips save fuel and effort.

Easier Unpacking

Moving only what you want means unpacking only what you want. Your new home starts organized, not cluttered with boxes you never open.

Fresh Start

A move is a natural transition point. Take advantage of it to reset your relationship with your possessions.

The Pre-Move Sort

Start the sorting process at least a month before moving day—earlier for larger homes.

For Each Room:

1. Keep and Move: Items you use regularly and love

2. Sell: Valuable items worth the effort of listing

3. Donate: Usable items in good condition

4. Dispose: Broken, worn, or unwanted items

What to Get Rid Of

Be honest about what you're actually going to use in your new home:

  • Furniture that won't fit or match
  • Duplicate kitchen items
  • Old electronics collecting dust
  • Books you'll never reread
  • Clothes that don't fit or you don't wear
  • Hobby supplies for hobbies you've abandoned
  • Exercise equipment doubling as clothes hangers
  • Old documents and files
  • Worn linens and towels

Selling Options

For valuable items worth the effort:

  • Facebook Marketplace
  • Kijiji
  • Garage/yard sales
  • Consignment shops

Set a deadline. If it doesn't sell before your move, donate or dispose.

Donation Options in Ottawa

Get items to those who can use them:

  • Salvation Army (furniture, household items)
  • Diabetes Canada (pickup available)
  • Habitat for Humanity ReStore
  • Local shelters and charities
  • Buy Nothing groups

Schedule donation pickups or drop-offs early—spots fill up.

Handling the Rest

After selling and donating, you'll have items destined for disposal. Options include:

Bin Rental

For substantial cleanouts, a roll-off bin lets you load at your own pace. Ideal when you have a weekend to sort and dispose.

Junk Removal

When you want items gone with minimal effort, our team handles everything. Point to what goes, we do the rest.

Curbside Pickup

Large items may qualify for Ottawa's special pickup program, but waits can be long during peak moving season.

Timeline Tip

Don't leave disposal for the last minute. Book your bin or junk removal service at least a week before moving day. The last thing you want is piles of junk remaining when the moving truck arrives.

Ready to declutter before your move? Call Base Bins at (613) 518-1508.