How to Organize Before a Move

There aren't enough pizzas and adult beverages in the world to make up for a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad move.

Moving can be a stressful time, but with the proper organization, it doesn't have to be. Here are some tips and tricks to prepare for your big move.

Planning makes perfect.

No one wants to be the person on moving day frantically dumping the contents of drawers into moving boxes, or the person on the other end having to unpack it. The preparation process should ideally begin at least 6-8 weeks out, even longer depending on the size of your home and amount of belongings. If you are booking movers, schedule them at least 4 weeks out. Put in your vacation time at work. Make any necessary arrangements for children or pets. Submit your change of address with the postal service and schedule any service changes with utility providers. The sooner you can build out your plan and start checking items off your list, the more prepared you'll feel when the big day arrives.

Sort it out now, not later.

The more organized you can be before the move, the better. Start by grouping like items together. Think about what you need and don’t need and where these items will live in your new home. If you truly don't think an item will work in your new space, then consider selling, donating, or giving to a friend or family member.

Lighten your load before you go.

If you don't need it, want it, or use it, then don't pack it. Purging before move day can save you time, energy, and money. Donate or recycle items that no longer serve you. Also, avoid buying new items or replenishing your pantry in the weeks leading up to your move.

Buy extra supplies now, save time later .

It's always better to have too much than not enough when it comes to your moving supplies. You can always return what you don’t use. When it comes to boxes, be sure to get a variety of sizes. Remember that bigger is not always better, especially when it comes to heavier items like books, so medium-sized boxes are often the most useful. You can always get specialty boxes for your wardrobe, dishes, or flat screen television. You’ll also need tape, packing paper, labels, permanent markers, and a box cutter. Don’t forget a mattress bag if you’re moving longer distances with movers or will be using temporary storage.

Make a list, check it twice.

As you start the packing process, it's helpful to create an inventory of your boxes. You can use a paper-based system to keep it simple or track things digitally using programs like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. We like to use Airtable to manage our move projects but it’s a bit more advanced. Categorize your belongings by room or function, whichever makes the most sense for you. Label the contents in your boxes and assign a number to each box so you can easily cross reference your items.

Pack a "go" bag.

I'm not suggesting you flee the country, though an island getaway may sound more enticing. What I am suggesting is that you bring certain items with you to help with your transition. Pack some commonly used items, like toilet paper, paper towels, toiletries, prescriptions, and charging cables, so you don’t have to scramble to locate them when you arrive. Keep any valuables or important documents with you, just in case.

Save your muscles and reserve some extra muscle.

Hire movers in advance or enlist some really, really, really good friends to help you.

Be prepared to discuss how many rooms, furniture items, and boxes will be part of your move, as well as the number of stairs, distances between locations, and parking availability. If you're hiring movers, they often charge by the number of items or hours, so that's another benefit to completing the sort and purge process in the weeks leading up to your move.

Don't be afraid to call a lifeline.

Moves can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go it alone. We can help. Schedule a consultation to learn more about our move management services. We can work with you to declutter, organize, and efficiently pack your belongings at your current home and then meet you at your new home to help you unpack, arrange, and settle into your new space even faster. No pizza necessary!