Moving house is an ideal time to reduce what you own. Every item you keep needs to be packed, transported, unpacked and given a place in the new home.
Decluttering before moving can reduce removal costs, make packing easier and help you begin life in the new property without boxes of unwanted belongings.
Begin as early as possible. Even a few weeks can feel short once viewings, paperwork, work and everyday life are added to the schedule.
Start before packing. Decluttering and packing at the same time can lead to rushed decisions or unwanted items being moved simply because the deadline is close.
Use floor plans, measurements and photographs to understand the new space.
Ask:
Build momentum with items that involve little emotion.
Good starting points include:
Choose one room or defined area at a time. Completing a small area is more encouraging than creating piles throughout the whole house.
Use clear categories:
Keep the decide-later group limited and give it a review date.
Measure large furniture before paying to transport it. Consider doorways, staircases and the space needed to use it properly.
If something will not fit or suit the new property, arrange its next destination early.
Moving generates additional paperwork, so reduce older files first.
Keep important documents together, including:
Shred confidential papers that are no longer required.
Selling can recover money, but it also takes time. Photographing items, writing descriptions and arranging collections may become another source of pressure.
Set a deadline. If an item has not sold by that date, decide whether to reduce the price, donate it or use another route.
Once you have decided what is moving, pack similar items together and label boxes clearly.
Include:
Keep the items you will need during the first day and night separate.
This may include:
Do not leave bags and boxes in the hallway until moving day.
Book charity collections, recycling visits and bulky waste services early. Check what each organisation can accept.
Friends and family can help with practical tasks, but they may have strong opinions about what you should keep.
A professional organiser can provide neutral support, create a plan and help keep the project moving without taking decisions away from you.
Unpack the most important rooms first and avoid filling cupboards without a plan. Give everyday items clear homes and leave some storage space available.
If you need support before or after moving, browse home organisers on SortedHome and our property and moving experts.
