How to Declutter Before Moving

Do You Have To Much Stuff To Pack and Move?

Do You Need to Declutter Before Moving?

If you are like most people, the thought of packing up your entire household is like a nightmare come to life.  Where do you even begin? Years of accumulated belongings tucked away in closets, the garage, in kitchen drawers, or still in boxes from your last move.  We are here to tell you that moving doesn’t have to be the event bad dreams are made of.  When you are packing for a move, you touch every item in your home. So, why not take the time to get rid of the items that you no longer need, use, or want before you pack them. If you declutter before moving, you will save both time and money, during the move and while you are unpacking. 

How to Declutter Before Moving

Below are tips on how to declutter before moving

Start Early

For many people, going through years of accumulated belongings and deciding what to keep can be challenging.  The more time you give yourself, the better off you are. If you wait until the last minute, you will feel rushed, won’t have the time to make thoughtful decisions, and could pack and move items you don’t want, need, or use.  When going through your home ask yourself the following questions:

If you answered no to any of these questions, it’s time to say goodbye and determine whether to sell, donate, give it away or toss it.  Remember the goal is to declutter, purge the items you no longer need or use.  Don’t waste money if you can help it.

Get Rid of Items You Can Throw Away

We all have items that should have been thrown away years ago. From expired food to unmatched socks, some items can be tossed. Start your decluttering process by getting rid of items that need to go, such as: 

• Old Linens & Towels
• Old Magazines
• Old Receipts and Bills
• Old Shower Curtains
• Pens that don’t work
• Puzzles, Games, or Toys that are Missing Pieces

Additionally, if you are hiring movers, there are several non-allowable items that moving companies will not transport.  It is very important to request a list of these restricted items and for you to decide whether to sell, donate, give it away, recycle it or toss it.  Common restricted items include:

• Pesticides
• Petroleum products
• Pool Chemicals
• Propane Tanks
• Weed Killers

Sort Through the Rest of Your Belongings

Now that you have thrown away the items that needed to be tossed you can begin sorting through the rest of your belongings.  As you are going through your home divide the items you no longer want, need, or use into 4 categories: donate, sell, recycle, give to relatives.

Sell – Items that are in good condition can be consigned, auctioned, sold on line, or sold at garage sales.

Donate – Items that are not worth selling, but in good condition should be donated.

Recycle – If you have old electronics that you do not want to move, they can be taken to the local recycling center.  Common recyclable items include smartphones, laptops, televisions, and tablets

Give to Relatives or Friends – If you are downsizing, all your items may not fit in your new home. If you don’t want to donate or sell items with sentimental value, give them to family or friends. Common items include photographs, antiques, artwork, collectables, and jewelry. Keep the items that you would miss if you didn’t have them.

Ask For Help If You Need It

If you are feeling overwhelmed, there is help available. Senior moving managers and professional organizers are ideal for people who find the thought of sorting through their belongings overwhelming. If you are a senior, senior move managers understand the challenges that arise when moving and sincerely care about their clients.  They have a wealth of experience and will compassionately help you organize you household.  Learn More Here>

If You Declutter Your Home Before Moving

You will Save Time, Effort and Money!

For More Information Contact Frank and Sons Moving and Storage

If you are relocating locally, or to another city or state, call Frank and Sons Moving and Storage, the movers that care about you, your family, and your belongings. We understand that moving can be a stressful process. At Frank and Sons Moving and Storage, our goal is to work with you to help minimize your stress by providing reliable, professional, efficient moving services. With over 38 years of experience, we have successfully moved thousands of families in Southwest Florida. If you need help with your relocation, contact us today.

Our Services Include

• Residential Moving
• Senior Move Management
• And More