While preparing to move for the first time in nearly 12 years I realized that there are many easy ways to cut down the mountain of possessions I own to a more manageable molehill. I figure the less I have to actually pack and move the less stress the process of moving will be.

The last time I moved I wasn’t prepared. I packed everything and anything I owned, including items I hadn’t used in years. This time, I’m moving from a 2 story house into a small 2 bedroom apartment. There’s no way I can bring everything with me so it’s time to declutter.

1. Ebay – Going room by room I’ve made a list of items I feel I could sell on ebay quickly and easily.

2. Craigslist – some items such as appliances, furniture, etc. are just too large to consider selling on ebay. These items and many others will be listed on craigslist. I think I’ll even list some items of clothing (suede jackets, pants, dresses, shoes, etc.) on craigslist as well. I’d rather purge the old than pack it and have it cluttering up the back of the closets at the apartment.

3. Freecycle – There are always a few items that you have around that you figure you’d rather just give away and get them out of the way rather than hope to make a few pennies from selling. Freecycle is a great resource to help keep items out of landfills. One man’s trash really is another man’s treasure sometimes.

4. Secondhand and consignment shops – I’ll be bringing cds, books, and household decor items to local secondhand shops. Many will buy your items outright or give you a store credit. Others will sell on consignment sending you money when your item sells.

5. Charity – Goodwill, Amity and other charities will often take your used clothing, furniture and household items to assist in their fund raising. Many times they’ll even come pick things up!