When it is time to part with a large volume of belongings, the question quickly becomes: what is the best way to do it? The answer depends on what you have, how much of it there is, and what matters most - maximizing what you recover, donating to causes you care about, or simply getting things cleared efficiently.
This article covers the main options: estate sale companies, donation organizations, and alternatives when neither fits.
Estate Sale Companies
An estate sale company handles the entire process of selling household contents - pricing items, advertising the sale, staffing it, managing the money, and cleaning up afterward. For households with a significant volume of furniture, collectibles, tools, kitchenware, or other goods, this is often the most practical option.
What they typically do:
- Evaluate and price items (this is a skill; good companies know what things are worth)
- Advertise the sale locally and online
- Run the sale over one to three days
- Handle payment collection
- Remove or donate remaining items if arranged in the contract
What they typically charge: Estate sale companies generally work on commission, taking a percentage of total sales rather than a flat fee. Commission rates commonly fall in the range of 25 to 40 percent, though this varies by company, location, and the size and complexity of the sale. Get a clear picture of the commission structure and what services are included before signing anything.
How to find a reputable company:
- Ask for references from recent clients and follow up on them
- Check for membership in professional associations such as the American Society of Estate Liquidators
- Read the contract carefully before signing - understand what happens to items that do not sell and who is responsible for removal
- Get quotes from more than one company when possible
Timing matters. Estate sale companies are often booked weeks or months in advance, particularly in busy seasons. If you are working toward a move date, contact companies early.
Donation Options
Several national organizations accept household donations and, in many cases, will pick up large items. Policies on what they accept and whether pickup is available vary by location, so it is worth calling your local branch directly to confirm current policies before hauling things to the door.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore Habitat ReStores accept furniture, appliances, building materials, and home goods in good condition. Many locations offer free pickup for large items. Donated goods are sold in the ReStore to fund Habitat housing projects. Find your nearest location at habitat.org/restores.
Salvation Army The Salvation Army accepts a wide range of household items including furniture, clothing, and small appliances. Many locations offer pickup scheduling for large donations. Visit salvationarmyusa.org or call your local branch to arrange.
Goodwill Goodwill accepts clothing, small household items, electronics, and more. Pickup availability varies by location. Visit goodwill.org to find your nearest location and check current acceptance policies.
What most charities do not accept: Mattresses and box springs, heavily worn or stained items, large appliances in poor condition, and items with safety recalls are typically declined by most donation organizations. If you are unsure, call ahead.
Tax deductions for donations: Donated items to qualifying nonprofit organizations may be tax-deductible. To claim a deduction you will need a receipt from the organization and a reasonably detailed list of items donated with estimated fair market values. A tax professional can advise on documentation requirements and how to value donated goods. For more on taxes and recordkeeping, see our article on how to find benefits you qualify for.
When Neither an Estate Sale Nor Donation Fits
Some items will not sell and will not be accepted as donations. For these, several options exist:
Junk removal services handle pickup and disposal of items that cannot otherwise be placed. They charge by volume or truck load. Get a quote before committing.
Municipal bulk pickup - many municipalities offer scheduled bulk item pickup for large items like furniture and appliances. Check with your local sanitation or waste management department for availability and scheduling.
Buy Nothing groups and Freecycle - local online community groups where items are offered free to neighbors. Useful for items that have value but are difficult to sell or donate through formal channels.
Putting It Together
Most home transitions involve a combination of approaches: an estate sale for the bulk of household contents, targeted donations for items the sale does not cover, and junk removal for whatever remains. Starting this process early - well before a move date - gives you the most flexibility in finding the right fit for each category of belongings.
If the volume feels overwhelming, a senior move manager can coordinate the entire process. Our article on senior move managers explains what they do and when that level of support makes sense.
Where to Learn More
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore - habitat.org/restores Find a ReStore location near you and learn what items they currently accept.
- Salvation Army Donation Center Locator - salvationarmyusa.org Locate your nearest Salvation Army and schedule a donation pickup if available.
- IRS - Charitable Contributions - irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-contributions IRS guidance on documenting and deducting charitable donations.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax or financial advice. Donation acceptance policies vary by organization and location - confirm with your local branch before donating. A tax professional can advise on deduction eligibility and documentation requirements.