Every belonging you move adds to the weight of your shipment – and ultimately the cost. That’s one reason it might be a good idea to consider getting rid of some items you no longer need. While preparing to move you have an excellent opportunity to sort through some of the items you've collected over time. You may not only raise some quick cash, but you will definitely save in moving expenses.
What to Sell
Go through your house and list everything you may want to sell. Some of the more popular items sold before a move include:
- Appliances, furniture, lamps, mirrors, linens and bedding
- Audio, video and photography equipment; also compact discs, phonograph records and tapes
- Baby equipment and supplies; also games, toys and bicycles
- Books
- Camping equipment, and lawn and patio equipment/furniture
- China, glassware, flatware and kitchen utensils and gadgets
- Clothes, especially for babies and toddlers
- Sports and exercise equipment
Garage Sale
One of the keys to a profitable garage sale is advertising. Use your local city paper, community newsletter or visit one of the many internet sites which offer free listings for garage sales. Don’t forget to post signs to inform people in your area about your garage sale.
- Allow at least three weeks for preparations.
- Check with local authorities for restrictions applying to garage sales. You might need a special permit, or be required to pay a fee or collect sales taxes. Signs advertising the sale might be limited or prohibited.
- Consider a joint sale with one or more neighbors and share the work and profits. The greater the assortment of items you have to offer, the more potential customers you’ll attract and the more successful the sale will be.
- If the sale will be on your property, let your insurance agent know, and make certain your homeowner’s policy will cover any liability for injuries.
- Start saving shopping bags and cardboard cartons.
- Remember that your items should be reasonably priced, and always be prepared to bargain with your customers.
- Have plenty of change on hand.
Flea Markets
For a nominal fee, local flea markets are a great means for selling secondhand items. Because most markets are advertised, professional secondhand bargain hunters usually attend. Again, have shopping bags and cardboard cartons on hand for your customers’ convenience and don't forget to have plenty of change on available!
Online Auctions & Posting Services
Have something that you think would be of great value to someone else? A great way to earn extra money is by selling your unwanted goods online. When you use online auctions, you are given the opportunity to showcase your items for sale to the world, not just your own neighborhood.
- Visit the individual auction site for specific details on payments and requirements.
- Take extra time to properly describe your item and include a good quality photo to increase your chances of selling.
- Be sure to play up any offbeat merchandise that might intrigue and attract shoppers.
- Most online sites allow you to specify that the purchaser must pick up the items themselves or pay for the cost of shipping – saving you even more time and money!
You can also post items for sale on line at community sites like Craig’s List (www.craigslist.com)
Consignment Stores
If you have any interesting, unique or high value items you may consider placing them for sale in a local consignment shop. Don’t forget to collect any unsold items or money owed prior to leaving your city.
Second hand and Charity Stores
Consider donating any leftover items to charitable organizations such as Goodwill, the Salvation Army and children’s homes or shelters. They generally give a receipt for donations so the value can be deducted on a donor’s income tax return. You can also contribute items to church rummage sales, resale shops, schools or community centers. Make a quick phone call first to make sure they can accept the items you have left.
