Clearing out a home is not an everyday task. It involves organizational, emotional, and often time-consuming challenges. Perhaps you’re planning to move, a loved one has passed away, or two households are merging. In all these cases, there’s a lot to consider and plan—from sorting through belongings and disposing of items to the question: Who will actually help with this?
In this article, we’ll provide you with some solid guidance: How do you plan a household clearance? What costs can you expect? Which tips are actually helpful? And when is it worth bringing in professionals like Intermove?
A household clearance involves clearing out an entire living space or even an entire house. Unlike a standard decluttering service, which typically involves removing and disposing of unused items, a household clearance involves careful sorting and evaluation. Households often contain items of personal, sentimental, or even significant material value.
There are many reasons to clear out a home: moving abroad, to a smaller apartment, or to a care facility; selling or handing over a property; or a death in the family. At times like these, it’s especially important to proceed in an organized and sensitive manner—and to take the time to make sound decisions.
Careful planning is essential. If you start too late or dive in unprepared, you’ll quickly find yourself under pressure—and end up making decisions you’ll regret later. So start organizing early and get a clear overview of what needs to be done.
First, you should take stock: Which pieces of furniture and items should you keep? What can be given away, sold, or thrown out? It’s important to approach this in an organized way—ideally, room by room. This will not only help you sort things out, but also make packing and moving easier later on.
Also keep track of which documents, contracts, and subscriptions need to be canceled or updated. This includes electricity, gas, and internet contracts, as well as insurance policies or memberships, and canceling or updating your GEZ license fee registration. You should also set up a mail forwarding request with the post office in a timely manner.
If your household contains high-value or unusual items—such as antiques, collectibles, or designer furniture—it’s worth getting an expert appraisal. At Intermove, we take these items into account during the planning process and, if necessary, develop customized solutions, such as specialized packaging or climate-controlled storage options.
The cost of clearing out a home depends heavily on the specific work involved—and can vary widely. Key factors include:
– the size and location of the household,
– the accessibility of the rooms (e.g., floors, no elevator, narrow stairwells),
– the quantity and type of items,
– as well as any special services such as gutting or the proper disposal of hazardous waste.
In many cases, the price range extends into the high four-digit range—depending on the scope and requirements. This is often underestimated. That’s why we at Intermove typically offer a personal on-site visit. This allows us to realistically assess the actual effort involved and provide a transparent, customized quote.
.png)
Another key issue is waste disposal. At Intermove, we use reusable disposal boxes instead of traditional moving boxes. These not only enable a structured workflow but also ensure proper sorting on-site—such as separating paper, bulky waste, or hazardous waste. This conserves resources and boosts efficiency.
Another common misconception is the assumption that furniture can still be sold. In most cases, this is not possible. The resale value is usually very low or nonexistent—so furniture should be treated as waste.
By planning ahead and seeking advice, you can avoid surprises—and ensure that the house clearance goes smoothly, reliably, and at a clear cost.
Even though it may seem tempting to clear out a home on your own, in reality it’s often harder than you might think. In addition to the physical strain and logistical challenges, there are usually emotional factors to consider—especially when it comes to the home of a loved one.
A professional service provider like Intermove takes the pressure off you at every stage: We handle the planning, packing, transportation, proper disposal, and—if necessary—temporary storage of your belongings. We work with trained staff and modern equipment, always treating people and their belongings with the respect they deserve.
Our experience shows that entrusting the process of clearing out a home to professionals saves you time, provides clarity, and offers emotional relief—while helping you avoid costly mistakes or unnecessary detours.
Every household clearance is unique—but there are some basic principles that almost always help. These include seeking help early on, avoiding hasty decisions, and organizing the individual steps in a logical manner.
It’s also helpful to use checklists, clearly label boxes, and consciously let go of items that no longer serve a purpose or hold any significance. At the same time, you should take the time to set aside cherished mementos and personal documents and store them safely.
Important: Be sure to seek advice before accepting an offer. At Intermove, you’ll receive a transparent assessment, customized solutions, and support that goes far beyond the norm—including, upon request, moving services, international transport, and on-site follow-up care.
Clearing out a home is no easy task—but with the right preparation and an experienced partner by your side, it becomes much simpler. Intermove guides you through every step with expertise, discretion, and a clear plan. Whether you’re dealing with a sensitive estate, moving abroad, or managing the practical details while juggling a busy schedule—we take charge and make room for what lies ahead.
Want to know how we can help you with your household clearance? Then get in touch with us. We’ll provide you with personalized, one-on-one advice, treating you as an equal.
Global Move Management
Parsdorfer Weg 10
85551 Munich / Kirchheim
Germany