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Packing do’s & don’ts: How to prepare your drop-off
Why preparation matters
Whether you’re dropping off a TV, a bag of tools, or your old fridge, knowing how to prep your donation can make a huge difference, not just for our team, but for the lifespan of your items. At the Resource Collective, we’re all about keeping the good stuff in use, creating local jobs, and reducing waste in landfills. Here’s how to help make your drop-off smooth, safe, and sustainable.
The do’s
✔ Sort before you load
Group like items together:
- Cables with electronics.
- Tools in a separate box.
- Batteries in their own container.
- Household items away from outdoor gear.
- This helps us sort faster and reduces the risk of damage.
✔ Clean it up
Wipe down dusty surfaces, rinse off grime, and make sure items are free of food, mould, or pet hair. Clean goods sell quicker and stay out of landfill.
✔ Label or bag small parts
Bringing in something like a stereo with its remote? Or a flat-pack item with its screws? Bag or tape accessories to the item so they don’t get lost.
✔ Tape battery terminals (if you can)
While it’s not required, taping battery terminals (especially for lithium types) helps with safe handling. Place all batteries in a container, not loose in bags.
✔ Prep your whiteware
We only accept clean, working whiteware with no rust or mould.
Please:
- Wipe down inside and out
- Remove any food or lint
- Ensure the plug is intact (no exposed wires)
✔ Use sturdy boxes or tubs
Reusable storage tubs or strong boxes help keep items safe during transport and easy for our team to carry. Avoid flimsy plastic bags or overloaded boxes.
The dont’s
✘ Don’t bring broken whiteware
If your fridge or dryer “was working” but now isn’t, unfortunately, we can’t take it. We don’t have the capacity to repair or degas broken units.
✘ Don’t bring wet or dirty items
Wet cardboard boxes, soiled linen, or rusty items won’t make it to the shop floor. If it’s been stored in the shed for a year, give it a once-over first!
✘ Don’t drop off loose TVs or screens
TVs and monitors are fragile. Bring them in upright and packed securely (e.g. blanket-wrapped or in their original box if possible). Broken screens may be accepted for recycling, but charges apply.
✘ Don’t dump & dash
We assess all donations on arrival. Please wait for our team to approve your items before unloading. Anything not accepted will need to go to the transfer station next door.
Need help with a pick-up?
If you have large items like furniture or whiteware, we may be able to collect them for free. Just email us a photo first so we can check condition and plan space on the trailer.
Together, we’re making a difference
By preparing your items before dropping them off, you’re helping us work smarter, reduce waste, and provide meaningful employment for our crew. Thank you for being part of the solution!
Find us: Corner of Wills & Tetley Road, Katikati
Drop-off days: Thursday & Saturday, 9am–4pm
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