The Ultimate Guide to Decluttering Before Moving

—
July 4th, 2024

Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter in life, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when you start packing and realize just how much stuff you have. Decluttering before a move can significantly reduce stress, lower moving costs, and simplify the unpacking process. Here’s how you can efficiently declutter your home and why considering a storage unit might be your best move.

Why Declutter Before Moving?

Decluttering before you move can bring several benefits that streamline the entire process. By reducing the amount of stuff you take with you, you'll need fewer boxes, which can significantly cut down on moving supplies and overall costs. Additionally, when you arrive at your new home, the unpacking process can be much quicker and more organized if you’re only handling items you actually use and love. Most importantly, moving with only the essentials gives you the chance to better organize and design your new space, providing a fresh start in an uncluttered environment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Decluttering:

Start Early: Begin at least a month before your move. This gives you ample time to sort through everything without feeling rushed.
Create a Sorting System: Use categories like 'keep', 'donate', 'sell', and 'store'. This will help you organize items as you go.
Tackle One Room at a Time: Focus on one area or room at a time to avoid clutter spread and to see progress.
Be Ruthless: If you haven’t used an item in the last year and it doesn’t have sentimental value, it’s probably time to let it go.
Sell or Donate: Plan a garage sale or list items online to sell. Donate items that are in good condition but won’t sell.
Recycle and Dispose: Properly dispose of items that aren’t fit for use. Check local regulations for recycling electronics and hazardous materials.

How a Storage Unit Can Help

A storage unit can serve multiple purposes during your move. For example, it's perfect for tucking away seasonal clothing, decorations, or sports equipment that you want to keep but don't need immediately. It also provides a secure space for sentimental items, allowing you to keep these precious belongings safe without cluttering your new home. If you’re downsizing or still deciding on which pieces of furniture and appliances to keep, a storage unit offers a pressure-free zone to store these items until you're ready to make a decision. Additionally, it can act as a staging area for items you plan to sell or donate, giving you the flexibility to remove them from your home when the time is right without adding clutter during the transition.

Choosing the Right Storage Unit:

Size Matters: Assess how much you need to store and select a unit size accordingly. Don’t pay for space you don’t need.
Location: Choose a facility that is conveniently located near your old or new home to make accessing your belongings easier.
Security: Ensure the facility has adequate security measures like surveillance cameras, gated access, and on-site personnel.

Ready to Declutter and Move Stress-Free?

Decluttering before a move is about making your relocation smoother and starting fresh in your new home. A storage unit can be an invaluable resource for keeping your belongings safe and your new home uncluttered. Contact Lockaway Storage today to find the perfect storage solution for your needs. Give us a call to learn more about our options and special offers and to schedule a tour!