What to Take When You’re Moving and What to Leave Behind 

As you’re getting ready for your big cross-country move, one thing you may have overlooked is that move costs are usually based largely on weight, volume and distance, with weight being a key factor. Which brings up one of moving’s most common questions: Do you load up the moving van with everything you own, or would you be better off downsizing?  

Remember, any extraneous items add weight — and with extra weight comes extra cost. Here are a few tips to help you decide what should go with you and what shouldn’t. 

Larger Furniture 

Your overstuffed sofa or recliner may be a comfy old “friend”; however, moving it cross-country can be expensive. In general, if your upholstered furniture has worn spots or you sink down into that sofa a bit too deeply, toss them and buy replacements at your new location. That said, there are antiques, high end pieces and relatively new purchases that will definitely make the trip. For these, we suggest a service such as United’s Full Value Protection which provides the option to repair items that have been damaged and replace items that are not repairable or have been lost, up to a minimum amount that you declare. For everything else, see our list of charities that offer free pickup.  

The Bed 

Let’s start with the obvious: Mattresses and box springs are awkward, difficult to move, and heavy items that take up lots of space in the van. Unless you’ve recently purchased your mattress, it’s one of the things most experts agree is better left behind. Why? Besides all that weight and bulk, mattresses also quickly accumulate dust mites, dead skin cells and allergens that trigger respiratory issues. That said, do your best to respect the environment by finding an eco-friendly disposal option near you. See whether your city has a mattress recycling program or use a reputable service. 

Used Clothing  

A lot of closets are chock full of fond memories and good intentions, i.e., clothing one hopes to fit into again, prom outfits, varsity jackets, old letters and other items more sentimental than practical. Keeping in mind that you’re starting a whole new chapter in your life, these worn-out, ill-fitting and out of style items are now literally “excess baggage.” If your long-distance move takes you to a different climate, most experts agree you should keep one or two items you might need (such as a coat) for a visit back. For items in good condition, consider gifting them to friends, selling them to a secondhand or thrift shop or donating them to a local charity.    

Old Appliances 

Moving that old fridge or deep freeze can get pricey very quickly. By the time you factor in professional moving costs, possible damage during transport, and the age of these and other large appliances, you may be better off buying new. The same goes for washing machines, dryers, ovens and ranges. Unless they’re high-end or basically brand new, the moving costs will likely outweigh their value. And there’s a real possibility they won’t fit neatly into your new décor or will require special hookups or venting. If you’re selling your home, you could do both yourself and the new owners a favor by including these appliances with the sale. 

Accumulated Etceteras 

We’ve covered a lot of the basics, now let’s deal with the nitty gritty. Be honest: If your kids don’t want their old toys, why should you move them? The same goes for the contents of “junk drawers,” the chipped dishes in the cupboard, that lawn mower you never had fixed and really anything that’s still packed away in the box in the cellar or attic since the last time you moved. These items are just collecting dust and should be tossed, given away or donated. 

Put the Rest Up for Sale 

Still have stuff you want to get rid of? Turn these extra items into extra cash by holding a porch or garage sale. Check out our guide to organize a successful one. 

Is a Cross-Country Move in the Works?     

Why not let a professional moving company, United Van Lines, take care of the heavy lifting? United’s full-service moving packages provide flexibility to mix and match the services you want and need, from packing and unpacking to standard furniture placement.        

Get a cross-country moving quote from United Van Lines today.        

Want to get ahead of planning your move? Check out our week-by-week moving checklists and packing tips. If you prefer access to these pro-tips on-the-go, our exclusive House Key magazine is for you.   

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