METCALF MOVING BLOG
4 Tips for Planning a Garage Sale Before a Move
Do you have a relocation approaching? Perhaps you’re moving across the country and need to reduce your load. Or maybe you’re downsizing to a smaller house. In any case, you are probably looking for a fresh start in your new home, and what better way to start anew than with less stuff bogging you down?
There are many great reasons to have a garage sale before your move, but you want to be careful not to create additional anxiety on top of your moving stress.
Here are some ideas to help you plan for a pre-move garage sale.
1. Do Your Research
Conduct some research and develop a plan before hosting your garage sale. For instance, find out if your city or homeowners association requires a permit for you can have a garage sale.
Consider joining forces with a neighbor and hosting it at their home, particularly if you are also selling your house. This would reduce the foot traffic, clutter, and potential chaos if you had both events simultaneously — keeping your home tidy for any possible showings.
2. Take Inventory
Set a date for your sale, then create an inventory of your belongings.
Creating an inventory list will help you keep track of and organize everything you have before, during, and after your garage sale.
Go through each room one at a time and place old and unused items in a box. Check the condition and usability of each item as you move through your inventory.
As you review each item, take the time to clean it off. They will be more desirable to buyers in good, clean condition. In addition, the more stuff you have to sell, the better, so use that as motivation to eliminate more! Finally, customers are likelier to stop at your sale if you have a good inventory and selection.
3. Collect Your Supplies and Price Your Items
Ensure you have markers and stickers so that you can price each item. Then, when determining a price, leave plenty of room for bargaining and be ready to strike a deal. Your goal should be to sell all your unwanted items to avoid hauling your old stuff to the charity donation bin.
Decide how you will display your merchandise. How many tables, chairs, and blankets will you need to present your stuff? A rack to hang clothes would be handy and a box to display books is also a wise idea.
Garage sales operate on a cash basis, so have cash available to make change during the sale.
4. Advertise Your Sale
Use social media, advertisements, apps, local newspapers, yard signs, and good old word of mouth to let people know about your upcoming garage sale.
Ensure you include complete information about the event — including the dates, times, and location.
Moving Preparation
Clearing out your old stuff and having a garage sale before the relocation is a great way to start the moving process. The next best step is to secure an experienced, knowledgeable moving company that can help with the rest of the challenges. Contact us for a free quote.
