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So, you’re all set to move apartments? Good for you! Now, repeat after me: Decluttering over packing, always. I know, I know. There is a lot to pack. But take it from a hassled mover who has learnt the hard way – the less you actually have to pack, the smoother and calmer your packing and moving process is. Believe it or not, there is a method to the madness – and in this article I’m going to share a simple Declutter Checklist for Moving so you can get a fuss-free head start.
A few years back, when I was to move into my new apartment, I had no idea what was coming. It was my first time moving – and boy, was I miserable. I had done some prep before the movers actually came in, but no amount of prep could prepare me for what was to come.
As forgotten drawers started getting opened, the most random things I never even knew I had started popping up. After a point, I went into decision-paralysis. I couldn’t take a call on what to do with stuff. It was super stressful.
The three big things I learnt from me moving apartments:
- Always, always declutter before starting to pack
- Start early – as early as a month before moving date
- It’s better to work in smaller increments everyday over a longer period – rather than leaving everything to the last week.
Why Declutter Before Moving?
Saves Time and Money
The less you have to move, the less you spend on packing materials and on supervising the movers.
Reduces Stress
Having less clutter makes working and packing less overwhelming and easier to manage.
Clean Slate
Moving to a new space is an opportunity to start with a blank canvas, free from unnecessary items.
The Ultimate Declutter Checklist for Moving
Having a ready declutter checklist for moving can just help you focus on the action, rather than worrying about strategizing or missing something.
This list below covers the steps you’d need to take to clear out clutter before your moving process:
1. Gather Supplies
2. Go Room-by-Room
A. Living Room
B. Kitchen
C. Bedroom
D. Bathroom
E. Home Office
F. Garage/Basement/Attic
Need a More Detailed Checklist For Rooms?
For a detailed Room-by-room Declutter Checklist – down to the last item to trash, check out my Complete Home Declutter Checklist
3. Prepare for Moving Day
FAQs
Q: How soon before moving should I start decluttering?
A: Ideally, start at least two months before your moving date.
Q: What should I do with items I’m unsure about?
A: If you’re undecided, place them in a “maybe” box to revisit them later. If you haven’t missed the items after a few weeks, it’s time to let them go.
Q: Can I declutter on a tight schedule?
A: Yes, you can. Use smaller chunks of time like 15-20 minutes a day to declutter designated areas. Prioritize high-impact areas like the living room and kitchen.
