Garage and yard sales move to Internet.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Brief Article

While the average garage or yard sale is a great idea for earning extra money at any time, the critical decluttering phase of the moving process makes getting rid of unwanted items a necessity. The Internet can simplify this undertaking with online auctions, free local classifieds, swap boards, and donation directories. More than just making a little extra pocket change, divesting oneself of large, unwieldy items can make a dent in moving costs.

"Items that require special attentiOn to move can make a big impact on the overall cost of moving," points out Dan Robertson general manager of North American Van Lines, Chicago. "If the exercise equipment old lawn mower or pool table is going to cost a little extra to move and no one in your family uses it, now's the time to sell it, give it away, or donate it. Why move an old sectional if you're planning to buy one for your new home?"

A study by eBay found that most Americans have approximately $2,000 worth of unwanted items that could be auctioned for cash online: A multitude of online resources have emerged in recent years...