Pre-Move Decluttering: How to Lighten Your Load Before a Big Move
Decluttering saves you time on both ends because there’s less to pack and move; it also allows you to purge items you no longer use. You might even save a bit of money because the less you have to move, the less it will cost. You might also consider having a garage sale to make a little extra cash for your moving expenses.
So, let’s talk about pre-move decluttering, why do it, how to do it, and what to do with the stuff you no longer want or need.
The Benefits of Decluttering Before a Move
No matter how calm and chill you consider yourself to be, moving is a very stressful time in one’s life. However, the better organized you are, the easier it will flow. Fortunately, you can do many things to reduce the chaos of a move. Good planning is critical, and a purge to declutter your life is a great place to start.
As mentioned above, decluttering is a great way to reduce moving costs and perhaps make a little money in the process. Less stuff means less to pack and unpack, so you can get moving and get settled more quickly and with much less stress.
Not sure where to start? We’ve got some tips that will help!
Tips for Effective Decluttering
Not to go all Kon Mari, but it’s best to take a systematic approach. If you know your moving date, try to start decluttering a few months in advance. It could be a long process, depending on how much stuff you have and how long you’ve lived in your current abode. The more time you give yourself, the more options you’ll have for what to do with the things you want to get rid of.
Go room-by-room
Decluttering one room at a time helps you avoid being overwhelmed. It will also reduce stress and help you focus.
Sort your belongings
Decide what your sort categories will be, have boxes for each, and pack the things you want to keep as you go. If you choose to have a garage sale, that can also be one of the categories.
Most people use several categories:
- Trash
- Donate
- Keep
- Shred
- Store
- Recycle
- Sell
Start with non-essentials
You’ll want to pack your essential items last, so focus on what you use the least. Go through closets, cupboards, dressers, etc.
How to Decide What to Keep
We like to think that if you haven’t missed an object, you don’t really need it. Of course, that’s not always the case, but don’t be too sentimental. If you’re conflicted about what to do with an item, think about what it adds to your life. You might have an emotional attachment to something, but if it’s not practical or you don’t use it regularly, think about giving it to someone who will.
Lingering on nostalgic feelings often slows down the decluttering process. If you find yourself distracted by memories, pack up the box and move on. You can always dive back in once you’ve moved into your new place.
What to Do with Unwanted Items
Garage sales are a great way to shift stuff that still has value, although you no longer want it. But hosting a garage sale can also be a lot of work, and it’s not for everyone. Ultimately, you don’t want to send these items to a landfill if they can be used by someone else.
- Donating your used goods and clothing is a great way to give your things new life. Value Village accepts donations for most items. Your local Habitat for Humanity Restore is also excellent for donating furniture, appliances, and electronics.
- Your local food bank or emergency shelter may accept non-perishable food items.
- The Restore may also accept hazardous waste, such as old computers and TVs, but ask first before you drop them off. Above all, be sure to recycle and donate responsibly.
You should also think about people you know who might want some of the things you don’t want. If you don’t want to have a garage sale, organize a get-together with friends so they can come and choose the items they want. That way, you don’t have to shift all that stuff yourself—and it’s a great reason to see the people you love before you move.
Another idea is to contract an auction house like MaxSold to take on the task of selling your unwanted stuff. They do all the work of taking photos and listing your property online, and people can bid while the auction is live. You’ll likely make a little less than you would if you were to sell your stuff privately, but it’s an easy, low-stress way to declutter and make a little money you wouldn’t otherwise have.
How to Stay Organized Post-Decluttering
Now that you’re all decluttered, we’ll bet you feel much lighter in many ways! Here are some tips for keeping the clutter at bay in your new digs:
- Only purchase things you really need.
- Go through your closets regularly and donate clothes you no longer wear.
- When you bring new items into your home, be sure they are built to last. Don’t buy cheap stuff that will end up in a landfill!
- Encourage your kids to donate toys they don’t play with anymore.
- Declutter regularly to keep things neat and tidy.
- View your home as a visitor would. What do you see?
Final Thoughts
Moving to a new home is a fresh start! Decluttering before a move is an excellent way to eliminate things you no longer need, reduce moving stress, and save money on moving costs.
Start decluttering about six months before you plan to move, if possible. Gather your moving boxes and go through the house room-by-room to decide what to keep, toss, donate, or sell, and you may just find your move to be a lot less work.
Moving is hard, just give it to us
The impact of moving stress can vary depending on the person. Some common ways it can affect you include trouble sleeping, increased anxiety, and feeling disconnected or out of sorts.
It’s vital to address these feelings and find healthy ways to cope. If left unchecked, moving stress can have long-term implications, leading to depression, relationship problems, and physical health issues.
Relevant for your move
An Ultimate Checklist for Change of Address in Ontario
Toronto Neighborhood Guide: Choosing the Right Area for Your Move
Incorporating Mindfulness into Your Move: A Stress Reduction Strategy