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10 Things You Might Regret Tossing When Moving

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Moving is a stressful time, and it often leads to hurried decisions when decluttering. While minimizing clutter can help simplify your move, tossing away certain items can result in long-term regret. Before you pack up and ship off to your new home, take a moment to think twice about these 10 things that people commonly regret tossing away during a move.

1. Sentimental Items

Old photos, letters, and mementos from significant moments may seem unimportant in the chaos of moving, but these are irreplaceable. Once these items are gone, they can’t be replaced. Even if you aren’t displaying or using them now, you may cherish them more in the future or pass them on to the next generation.

2. Family Heirlooms

That old jewelry box from your grandmother or the vintage vase that’s been passed down may seem unnecessary at first glance. However, family heirlooms hold sentimental and often monetary value that can’t easily be replicated. If it’s a part of your family’s history, it’s worth saving.

3. Old Electronics

While it’s tempting to toss those old gadgets into the “donate” or “discard” pile, think twice. Some vintage electronics can become valuable, and even older, working equipment like cameras, game consoles, or first-generation smartphones can hold nostalgic value or be repurposed in the future.

Additionally, don’t forget about cords and chargers. It’s easy to toss them thinking they’re obsolete, but they often come in handy when trying to revive old devices or assist friends and family with their gadgets. Even if you’re no longer using the original device, many chargers and cables are universal or can be repurposed for newer technology. Before discarding any, consider labeling and storing them for future use. Sorting through cords can save you the hassle of purchasing replacements later.

4. Important Documents

It’s easy to overlook important paperwork when sorting through piles of paper. Birth certificates, tax documents, medical records, and warranties are essential and should be kept in a safe place during the move. Even outdated documents may be needed for future legal or financial reasons.

5. Artwork

Whether it’s your children’s drawings or a piece of art you’ve collected over the years, artwork often carries sentimental and aesthetic value. You might find yourself wanting to decorate your new space with personal or meaningful pieces. Before discarding, consider if it can be reframed or repurposed.

6. Books

Books can be heavy and bulky, which is why they often end up in the discard pile during a move. However, some books—whether they’re first editions, signed copies, or out-of-print novels—can be hard to replace. If a particular book holds special meaning, it’s worth the extra space in your moving boxes.

7. Tools and Hardware

That drawer full of screws, nails, and random tools may seem like an easy thing to toss, but you never know when you’ll need a screwdriver or wrench in your new place. Moving to a new home often requires unexpected repairs or adjustments, and having tools handy can save you a trip to the hardware store.

8. Furniture That Fits

While it’s tempting to start fresh in your new home with all-new furniture, some of your current pieces may still have a place. Before donating or tossing furniture, measure your new space to see if any of your current furniture can be repurposed or reupholstered to match your new style.

9. Costume Jewelry and Accessories

Although you might think old jewelry or accessories are out of style or too worn to be useful, trends often come back. That chunky necklace or unique belt could add character to future outfits. Plus, some costume jewelry can be resold or repurposed.

10. Hobby Equipment

That guitar gathering dust in the corner or the art supplies you haven’t used in years may be the first things you think to get rid of, but don’t be too hasty. Moving to a new place can inspire you to pick up old hobbies or try something new, and having these tools on hand might save you from having to buy them again.

Moving and Decluttering Tips

Moving can be the perfect opportunity to declutter, but it’s important to strike a balance between letting go and holding on. Here are some practical tips to help with the process:

Create Categories: Divide your belongings into “keep,” “donate,” “sell,” and “toss” piles. This method helps you visualize what you really need.
Start Early: Begin the decluttering process weeks, if not months, before your move. This will give you time to thoughtfully go through your belongings without feeling rushed.
Use the 12-Month Rule: If you haven’t used an item in the past 12 months and it holds no sentimental value, it might be time to part with it.
Digitize Important Documents: Scanning your documents and storing them digitally can free up space and ensure that you don’t lose anything important during the move.
Test Items First: Before discarding electronics or gadgets, test them to see if they still work. You may realize that you still have a use for them.
Consult with Family: Before discarding family heirlooms or sentimental items, consult with family members. They may want to keep these items or share stories that change your perspective on their value.

For a more organized move, you might want to consider hiring professional services. Roadway Moving is specialized in efficient and stress-free relocations. We offer custom packing services, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally discarding something valuable in the moving process.