The first thing to ask yourself is: "Do I really need to bring it all with me?"
Moving is an excellent opportunity to declutter and start fresh in your new space.
First thing is to do is have a clear vision of what you want your new place to be, will it be a continuation of the same thing, or will you start with something new.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to dealing with unwanted items and clutter before a move:
- Start Early
Begin the decluttering process well in advance of your move. This gives you time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed.
- Create a Sorting System
Set up a system with categories such as “Keep,” “Sell,” “Donate,” “Recycle,” and “Trash.” Use bins, boxes, or designated areas for each category.
- One Room at a Time
Tackle one room at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed. Completely finish decluttering one area before moving on to the next.
- Question Each Item
For every item, ask yourself:
- Have I used this in the last year?
- Is it functional or does it bring me joy?
- Would it fit well in my new home?
- Is it worth the cost and effort to move?
- Sell Unwanted Items
List items of value on platforms like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or have a garage sale. This can offset some moving expenses.
- Donate to Charity
Give items in good condition to charity shops or non-profit organizations. Some organizations will even pick up items from your home.
- Recycle Properly
Electronics, batteries, and certain plastics need to be recycled properly. Check with your local waste management facility for guidelines.
- Dispose of Trash Responsibly
For items that can’t be sold, donated, or recycled, make sure you dispose of them properly. Renting a dumpster might be a good option for a large volume of trash.
- Digitize What You Can
If you have a collection of CDs, DVDs, or even paperwork that can be digitized, this could save a lot of space.
- Use Up Consumables
Try to use up items that aren’t worth moving, like cleaning supplies or perishable food.
- Get Help
If you find it difficult to let go of things, consider hiring a professional organizer or asking a friend to help you make decisions.
- Pack a “First-Day” Box
Include essentials that you’ll need on your first day in the new home. This prevents you from packing things “just in case.”
- Avoid Storage Units if Possible
Renting a storage unit for items that you’re unsure about can be a waste of money if you never end up using those items. Think of the cost of the unit and the value of the items, and ask yourself: is it worth it?
- Be Conscious of What You Acquire
In the weeks leading up to your move, be mindful of new purchases to prevent adding to the clutter.
- Reflect on the Cost of Moving Items
Sometimes the cost of moving an item, especially for long distances, is more than replacing it, which can inform whether it's worth taking along.
By following these tips, you'll ensure that you bring with you only the items that serve a purpose or bring joy into your life. This can significantly reduce the burden of moving and help you to enjoy a clutter-free start in your new home.
Feeling overwhelmed by it all? We can help!
AAA Rousse has been helping folks like you for decades. Our Professional junk removal service can take a big load off your shoulders during the moving process, particularly when it comes to decluttering and disposing of unwanted items. We offer a hassle-free solution to one of the most challenging aspects of moving: getting rid of the stuff you no longer need or want. We'll take care of all the heavy lifting, hauling, and proper disposal of your unwanted items, cutting down on the time it takes to get you ready for the big move. You can read more about our Services, or if you're already sold on the idea of not having to deal with this nightmare yourself, use the form below to book a free consultation and take the first step to getting it all done proper like.
