Moving to a new place is often exciting, but also exhausting when you start thinking about all the things you have to pack, then unpack and organize. Decluttering before moving can save you time, money, and energy by reducing the number of items you need to pack and transport.

Here are some ideas to help you get started:

Create a Plan: Before you start to declutter, create a plan outlining which areas of your home you’ll tackle first, what items you’ll prioritize, and how much time you’ll dedicate to decluttering each day or week leading up to your move. I have created a simple checklist (with an approximated time limit for each area) for you to download – it is totally free and you´ll find it here.

Set Goals: Establish clear goals for your decluttering process. Decide how much you want to downsize or what items you absolutely need to keep. Setting goals can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the decluttering process.

Start Early: Begin decluttering well in advance of your move. At least 3 months before but more preferrable is 6-12 months before the moving date. Starting early gives you more time to sort through your belongings thoughtfully and prevents last-minute stress.

Sort Room by Room: Break down the decluttering process by tackling one room at a time. Start with less sentimental areas like storage closets, the basement, the garage or attic before moving on to more sentimental spaces like bedrooms and living rooms.

Sort into Categories: As you go through each room, sort items into four categories: Trash, Donate, Sell and Keep. This method helps streamline decision-making and keeps you organized throughout the decluttering process.

Be Ruthless: When deciding what to keep or discard, ask yourself if each item serves a purpose or brings you joy. Be ruthless in letting go of items you no longer use, need, or love.

Consider the 6-Month Rule: If you haven’t used or worn an item in the last six months to a year, consider letting it go. This rule can help you part with items that are simply taking up space.

Digitize Paperwork and Photos: Scan important documents and sentimental photos to reduce paper clutter. Digitizing these items allows you to preserve memories while minimizing physical clutter.

Sell or Donate Unwanted Items: Host a garage sale, list items for sale online, or donate gently used items to charity. Not only does this help declutter your home, but it also gives your belongings a new life with someone else who may need or appreciate them.

Pack Strategically: As you declutter, start packing items you plan to keep. Label boxes clearly with their contents and the room they belong in to make unpacking easier in your new home.

Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask friends or family for help with decluttering. Having an extra set of hands can make the process more efficient and enjoyable. I have a new service within Home Organzing with Ordna, where I help you declutter before your move. If wanted, I can also help unpack and organize in your new place. For more about this service, go to my website ordna.ch or send me an email to [email protected].

Remember, decluttering before a move is an opportunity to start fresh in your new space. By simplifying your belongings, you can create a more organized and stress-free environment for the next chapter of your life. Leave NO thing unturned, unopened or unsorted before you move and only bring the things you love and need to your new home.

Like I mentioned in the beginning of this article – there are multiple benefits of decluttering before your move:

• You’ll save valuable time and energy during the packing and unpacking process.
• Moving fewer items means lower moving costs, as you won’t need as much packing material or transportation space.
• Decluttering allows you to start anew in your new home, free from unnecessary clutter and with a more organized space.

Good luck and I hope you´ll love your new place!

/Malin