The following article is excerpted from beijingkids Home and Relocation Guide 2011. Download a PDF copy here or visit this page to order a free print copy for home delivery.
It’s amazing how easily we accumulate stuff. This is the lesson we learn when it comes time to move and you face the prospect of transporting all that stuff. Here is a guide to purging your junk before you take off.
Getting rid of the little things in your life (toys, clothes, gadgets) will really take the weight off your shoulders. It’s recommended that you start this process two months in advance.
There’s nothing wrong with going the old-fashioned route and hosting your own garage sale. If convenient, you can host one from your apartment or apartment garden if suitable. Otherwise, many schools have garage sales. To find out the latest events, visit beijingkids.com.
Or give your small things a new lease on life and donate them. Roundabout Charity Distribution Store accepts toys, clothes, home electronics, kitchen supplies – pretty much anything that can be carried. The charity asks that everything should be in good, clean working condition.
There is also Freecycle Beijing, a Yahoo group open to all who want to pass on their goods to others in the community. Everything posted must be available for free.
Regarding recycling, people will actually pay you for your excess cardboard, paper and plastics. They won’t pay you much, but at least they’ll take it off your hands. Simply seek out one of these people on the street and arrange for them to come and get your stuff, or ask your HR department if they can help arrange a collection for you.
