Firstly, congratulations for making it to the end of the semester! As you begin to think about your summer plans, what are you doing with everything that won’t fit in your suitcases, as you leave campus? Once the packing process begins, many students realize that they’re leaving with A LOT more stuff than they brought to school! It can be difficult (if not impossible) to bring everything back home just for them to stay in boxes for the whole summer. Ann Arbor has a wide selection of safe, inexpensive self-storage units that will safeguard your belongings for the summer.
The City of Ann Arbor has an ordinance that all curbside trash must fit in city-issued trash and recycling bins. Breaching the ordinance by leaving bulky items such as desks, chairs, couches, and TV stands are subject to a minimum fine of $100.
If you have items that are still in good condition, but you can’t take it home, then consider donating it locally. There are many organizations in the city that accept donations of furniture, household goods, appliances, clothes, and non-perishable food. Some organizations offer the option to contact them ahead of time, to schedule a pick-up from your residence:
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Habitat for Humanity Restore, 6241 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor MI, 734-276-0599
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The Share House, 5161 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor MI, 734-222-0876
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Ann Arbor PTO Thrift Store, 2280 S Industrial Hwy, Ann Arbor MI, 734-996-9155
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Kiwanis Thrift Sale, 100 N Staebler Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, 734-665-0450
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Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center, 1621 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI, 734-332-3948
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Scrap Creative Reuse, 4567 Washtenaw Ave. Ann Arbor, MI, 734-800-4137
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Friends in Deed, 1196 Ecorse Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48198, 734-484-4357
There are also donation bins in neighborhood areas and in many grocery store parking lots.
Additionally, these Ann Arbor area services will dispose of bulky waste:
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1-800-GOT-JUNK
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Big Time Services: 734-330-9000
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Calvert’s Roll-Off Containers, Inc: 734-426-2280
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Honeymoon Hauler: 734-971-740
If you are planning to live in the same house next year, you may be leaving personal items in Ann Arbor over the summer. Make sure to unplug your appliances, turn off the lights, and lock the doors and windows to keep your residence safe for the summer. You can also ask a friend or neighbor to check on your residence, and let you know if they have any concerns.
For a full list of where you can donate your unwanted items, small or large, view this Donations City Guide in from the Ann Arbor Observer. Look for donation bins in your neighborhoods or in grocery store parking lots!