How To Make The Most Of Your Free Home Pickup
By Alana Sesow
Most people know that Goodwill’s retail stores accept gently used donations year-round. But, what about items that cannot fit in your vehicle? Whether you’re decluttering after a garage sale, moving across the country, or anything in between, Goodwill can pick up large donations for free within the Lincoln/Waverly city limits. Follow these seven steps to schedule your home pickup and make the most of this opportunity:
Step 1: Check Donations
Round up your items and double-check that they meet our donation guidelines. If the donations are in gently used or better condition and are too big to fit in your vehicle for one trip to our retail store, you qualify for a free home pickup. Click here for a list of items that Goodwill accepts.
Step 2: Make a List
Make a list of the items you’re donating, and keep it handy. When you schedule your pickup, you’ll be asked to provide this list, which ensures that our drivers reserve enough room in the truck for your donations. Plus, the list will help you estimate the value of your donations next tax season. If you need help estimating the value of your donations, click here for Goodwill’s online guide.
Step 3: Schedule the Pickup
Call 402-438-2022 or fill out our online form to schedule your pickup. All home pickups must be scheduled at least one business day in advance, but we encourage you to book the pickup earlier, if possible, to ensure availability. Spring and summer are especially busy!
Step 4: Move Donations
Move your donations to the location listed in your home pickup entry. When the truck arrives, your donations must be outside at ground level or in a garage if someone is there to open the door. If you are unable to move the items outside and would like someone to enter your home to pick up the items, Goodwill’s partnership with College H.U.N.K.S. offers a 10% discount for this service when you mention “Goodwill” at the checkout. To schedule a College H.U.N.K.S. pickup, click here or call 402-805-4411.
Step 5: Check the Weather
If there is rain or snow in the forecast, we suggest moving your items inside a garage or under an awning to prevent weather damage. If you need to make a last-minute change to your pickup, call 402-438-2022.
Step 6: Save the Receipt
After the pickup, save the Goodwill donation receipt that will be supplied to you. You only need one receipt per year, but if you misplace it, you can email donate@lincolngoodwill.org for an electronic copy.
Step 7: Celebrate!
Not only did you successfully declutter your home, but you also made a difference in the community. The sales from your donations will help fund local employment services programs, including Goodwill’s free downtown Job Connection Center. Goodwill also partners with other nonprofits in Lincoln that help advance our mission of “Willing workers employed and community resources maximized.” Additionally, your donations make Lincoln greener by reducing the size of our local landfill.
