NASA knows what it’s like to move after being in the same place for a long time.  They’re ending their space shuttle program after 30 years.  Just like anyone who’s trying to clear out a home or office, it can be a daunting task. They are starting off on the right foot by separating the good stuff from the space clutter, and are in the process of finding a home for all the things that are considered valuable.

How can you be like NASA when it’s time to move?

1. Start the process early. When the folks at NASA realized the program would be ending in 2010, they started going through their inventory back in 2006.  They began to identify the pieces that were special enough to give a way.

2. Identify “The Getters.” NASA has three space shuttles and they’ve already figured out that one of them, Discovery, will go to the Smithsonian.  Bonus:  “the getters” will have to take care of transporting/delivery of the shuttles.

3. Use the Internet. NASA has posted several items with photos in specific categories (e.g., clothing, shuttle parts, etc.) on the web so that museums, universities, and other institutions can browse and choose the things they want.  You can use websites, like Craig’s List or Freecycle, to sell/give away items that you will not be keeping.