Moving to something smaller doesn't mean letting go of everything
Whether your parents are moving from the family house into a condo, a smaller home, or a senior community, there's always more stuff than space. The dining set that hosted every holiday, the hope chest, the framed photos, the tools in the garage. Much of it has a story, and many parents would rather see it go to family than to a stranger.
We help make that possible. We pick up the items, sort them by recipient, pack them carefully, and arrange shipping and delivery to each family member's home, near or far.
How downsizing shipping works with us
- Talk with us first. We'll meet with you at no cost to understand what you'd like to accomplish.
- Get a personalized quote based on the items, how they need to be packed, and where they're going.
- We pick up and sort so each person's items stay together.
- We pack and ship with care, with delivery arranged to each destination.
See the full step-by-step on our how it works page.
A downsizing checklist for adult children
If you're helping a parent downsize, these steps keep things moving without hurting feelings:
- Measure the new space first. Knowing what fits makes it clear what needs a new home.
- Ask family members for their wish lists. Encourage each person to name the few things that matter most to them.
- Make a shipping list. Write down the item, approximate size, recipient, and destination. It's exactly the information we need for a quote.
- Separate "ship," "keep," "donate," and "sell." We focus on the "ship" pile, and we're glad to advise on what's practical to send.
- Leave time. A downsizing move goes more smoothly when shipping is planned a few weeks ahead rather than the week of the move.
Furniture, fragile items, and everything in between
Downsizing often involves larger pieces like sofas, dressers, tables, and cabinets, along with fragile things like china, crystal, and framed art. We handle both. Read more about furniture shipping and antique and art shipping, or about sending small keepsakes.
When several people are receiving items
If items are going to more than one household, we'll organize the shipment so each person receives the right things at the right address. Our page on shipping to multiple family members explains how that works.
Making it easier on your parent
Downsizing can stir up a lot of feelings, even when the move is a happy one. Parents may worry that their things will be forgotten, or that they're becoming a burden. Knowing that a favorite chair is going to a grandson's home, or that the family china will be on a daughter's table next Thanksgiving, can make letting go much easier. Shipping those pieces to family is one way to honor what they mean.