By Affiliate Rosemary McLean, Owner of A Move Matters
Preparing for your move is the key to a successful move. It is never too early to start the downsizing process – even before the packing begins. It is an opportunity to not only organize, but eliminate items you no longer need so there will be fewer items to move. In other words – lighten your load!
Start your moving checklist today. Go through your home room by room with a notebook. The best way to start is to pick a room that is seldom used. For each room write down the five categories listed below and start jotting down items.
#1 KEEP ~ Obviously there are things that you will absolutely need in your new place. And of course there are going to be things to keep that you absolutely love. The only other question to address with these items is WILL THEY FIT? Keep in mind the floor plan of your new place and where the items will go. It’s not so much about how much stuff you keep, but about making a conscious choice to keep the right stuff. Don’t let possessions overtake your new home.
#2 GIFT ~ Pass along the possessions. It is easier to part with things when you know they are going to someone you care about. Sometimes it is difficult to get family (or friends) to take things that are being passed on to them, so tell them that you are in downsize mode and that they simply cannot leave empty handed! When they come for a visit, have items ready and waiting by the front door. Enjoy the gifting!
#3 SEND ~ You’ve collected some great stuff over time or you may have kept things for years out of sheer habit or obligation – knickknacks you don’t even like, dish sets you’ll never use. Although not everything old is valuable some of it may be, and could provide an opportunity to raise some cash to offset moving expenses. There are many fine auction houses and high-end consignment shops in our area that you may want to consider. Time to let others enjoy it and get something for it, so send it off!
#4 DONATE ~ Anything that is not being used right now, probably won’t be used in the future …or things you simply don’t want anymore, now is time to put them to good use at your favorite charity to benefit rehabilitation and training programs such as Blind Industries of MD, Goodwill, Salvation Army. Tax receipt!
#5 TRASH or RECYCLE ~ You don’t want it, you don’t need it, and neither does anyone else. Time to recycle the butter tubs, plastic bags and rubber bands. Need I say more?
You’ve accumulated a lifetime of possessions and it is not easy to pare down. But consider the other side of this process of de-cluttering. How you feel. Honestly, it can be so liberating. You will just feel lighter. Outer order does indeed contribute to inner calm. Plan and prepare for a fresh start in your new home.
It is never too early to start the downsizing process – even before the packing begins.