Planning a long-distance move? One of the most important—and often overlooked—steps is downsizing. Reducing your belongings before an interstate move can lower moving costs, streamline packing, and help you settle into your new home with less stress.
At American Van Lines, a nationwide leader in long-distance moving services for over 25 years, we’ve helped thousands of families and individuals simplify their relocations. In this guide, we’ll show you how to downsize before a move with actionable tips and smart strategies.
Why Downsizing Before a Long-Distance Move Is a Game-Changer
Moving across state lines is priced based on distance, weight, and volume. The fewer items you move, the lower your bill. But the benefits go far beyond cost savings:
- Save money on packing materials and transportation
- Streamline your move by making packing and unpacking easier
- Start fresh in your new home without clutter
- Reduce stress by simplifying the moving process
Step 1: Create a Pre-Move Decluttering Plan
The best time to start downsizing is about 8 weeks before your move. This gives you plenty of time to sort through your belongings without feeling overwhelmed.
Use the 3-Box Method
Tackle one room at a time with these three categories:
- Keep – Essentials and items with genuine value
- Donate/Sell – Gently used items others can benefit from
- Discard – Broken, expired, or unnecessary belongings
Pro Tip: Invite a friend or family member to help you make objective decisions.
Ask yourself:
- “Have I used this in the last year?”
- “Does this item fit my lifestyle in my new home?”
- “Is it worth the cost and effort to move?”
Step 2: Manage Sentimental Items Thoughtfully
Letting go of items with emotional value is tough—but it’s not impossible.
- Digitize keepsakes: Take photos of trophies, childhood artwork, or letters.
- Set limits: Keep one box of sentimental items per family member.
- Repurpose creatively: Turn old T-shirts into quilts or photo albums into digital slideshows.
This way, you keep the memory without the mess.
Step 3: Sell What You Can – Fast
Selling unwanted items can boost your moving budget. Here’s how:
Online Platforms
- Facebook Marketplace
- OfferUp
- Craigslist
These apps make listing and communication easy, even for first-timers.
In-Person Options
- Garage sales for quick cash
- Consignment shops for furniture, antiques, and designer items
Step 4: Donate or Recycle Responsibly
Some items may not sell—but that doesn’t mean they should end up in a landfill.
Donation Options
- Goodwill
- The Salvation Army
- Local shelters or churches
Many organizations offer free pickup services for large items. Be sure to ask for a donation receipt for possible tax deductions.
Recycle Smart
Check your city’s guidelines for:
- Electronics
- Batteries
- Paint or chemicals
- Paper shredding services
Step 5: Downsize Bulky Furniture the Smart Way
Before moving large furniture, verify it fits in your new space.
- Measure doorways and room dimensions
- Sell or donate oversized pieces that won’t work
- Schedule early pickups with local charities to avoid junk removal fees
Being proactive can save you hundreds in last-minute moving costs.
Step 6: Declutter Paper & Digital Files
Don’t forget to downsize your documents.
Keep
- Birth certificates
- Social Security cards
- Passports
Digitize
- Tax records
- Medical files
- Important correspondence
Shred
Dispose of outdated files securely to protect your privacy and free up space.
Let Professional Interstate Movers Help
American Van Lines offers services designed for clients who are downsizing:
- Expert packing services to handle fragile or hard-to-pack items
- Short- and long-term storage solutions for items you’re not ready to part with
- Efficient moving logistics to minimize downtime and maximize peace of mind
Lighten Your Load with American Van Lines
Whether you’re downsizing for retirement, moving to a smaller home, or just want a clutter-free start, American Van Lines is here to help. We perform over 10,000 successful interstate moves annually, and we understand what it takes to make downsizing work for you.
Ready to start fresh in your new home?
Get a free quote from American Van Lines today and let us help you move smarter, lighter, and with less stress.
