Failing to sell unwanted furniture and appliances is costing UK home movers millions every year, according to new research by credit card company Capital One.
Around £280 million of items are discarded every year – the equivalent of £156 per moving household – as a result of poor planning and last-minute packing.
Curtains were the item most likely to be left behind by movers, followed by wardrobes, fridges, garden furniture and sofas.
Of the 2,000 people polled, 46% admitted either selling items for less than they’re worth or giving them away due to being in a rush.
One in four people has thrown away money by taking all their belongings to a dump, with fridges among the most commonly abandoned items, despite costing an average £172.
Only one fifth of movers (19%) sold items to cover the cost of moving or at least break even, though the research did reveal that smaller possessions such as toys and clothes could make a handy profit of up to £100.
Over a third (3%) of the nation takes their belongings to charity shops to raise money for good causes.
Richard Rolls, head of customer operations at Capital One, said: “Most people have experienced the pressures moving home, and recognise how quickly costs can escalate. Selling your unwanted possessions is a clever way of helping to recoup some of the money you spend on other parts of the move.
“The smaller items such as toys and clothes are often overlooked as they are not deemed valuable but it’s interesting to see these are exactly the types of items that can help movers make money. There are many options available such as selling belongings online or the more traditional car boot sale.”
