Moving is often described as one of life’s most stressful events – but with a little planning and organization, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. As a certified organizing coach (and someone who’s preparing for my own move right now!), I’d love to share some practical tips to help you stay on top of things before, during, and after moving day. And don’t miss the handy declutter checklist at the end of this post to keep your move on track!

Before the Move: Prepare and Declutter

Declutter first. The less you take with you, the easier (and cheaper) the move will be. Go room by room and let go of anything you don’t want to start fresh with in your new home. Be ruthless!
Gather supplies early. Stock up on moving boxes, tape, markers, labels, and bubble wrap so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
Pack by category, not just by room. Grouping similar items (like books, clothes, or kitchen tools) makes unpacking so much smoother.
Label everything. Use bold markers or even a color-coded system so you know at a glance where each box belongs. A simple trick I love is using painter’s tape to write on and then stick to the boxes. That way you don’t have to write directly on the box – and you can reuse, sell, or give them away after the move.
Create a “first night” box. Pack bedding, toiletries, a change of clothes, phone chargers, coffee or tea supplies – and anything else you don’t want to dig for on that first night.

During the Move: Keep It Flowing

Prioritize. Decide which rooms or items should be set up first in your new home – usually beds and kitchen basics.
Assign roles. If you have helpers, be clear about who’s lifting, who’s directing movers, and who’s unpacking.
Avoid last-minute chaos. Try not to toss random items into boxes at the end. Future you will be so thankful!
Keep energy up. Have water, snacks, and maybe even a playlist ready to keep everyone moving and in good spirits.

After the Move: Settle In with Intention

Start with the essentials. Focus on the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen so you can live comfortably right away.
Unpack fully. Don’t let boxes linger for weeks. Set a realistic goal for when you want everything unpacked.
Organize as you go. Instead of just putting things away, use the chance to set up smart storage solutions and systems that will work long-term.
Create routines. Give everyday essentials – like keys, mail, or school bags – a “home” from the very start. It makes settling in so much smoother.

Moving Declutter Checklist

Want to make the decluttering part of your move easier? Here’s a simple timeline to help you stay on track.

6–8 Weeks Before Moving Day

Start with storage spaces: basement, attic, garage – these often hold the most “just in case” items.
Sort seasonal items: holiday decorations, sports gear, outerwear.
Decide on large furniture: Will it fit in the new place? Do you want to take it?

4–6 Weeks Before

Clothes & linens: donate or recycle anything worn out or unused.
Books & media: keep only what you truly love or will read/watch again.
Kitchen extras: duplicate gadgets, chipped mugs, unused appliances.

2–3 Weeks Before

Toys & kids’ items: involve kids in choosing what to keep.
Bathroom supplies: use up products, toss expired ones.
Office papers: shred or recycle what you don’t need, digitize important files.

1 Week Before

Pantry & fridge: eat down food supplies to avoid moving them.
Everyday essentials: streamline to what you’ll actually use in the last week.
Last sweep: walk through each room and do a quick “keep, donate, toss” check.

Final Thoughts

Moving is a big transition, but it’s also a fresh start. With thoughtful planning and a bit of structure, moving day can become an opportunity to reset and simplify your home life.

And if you’re in the middle of your own move – know that you’re not alone. I’m right there with you, packing boxes and looking forward to unpacking them in my new home!