Moving is a lot. There are boxes upon boxes to pack and so many things to do. With the right storage and moving solutions like those available from PODS, paired with a little strategic decluttering, you can truly make a move, whether across town or the globe. Beyond having extra space, decluttering makes moving easier and it gives you space to breathe.
Decluttering: The Pre-Move Game Changer
Moving requires time, money, and energy. However, before you pick up an item, put it in a box and haul it to a new place, consider this: each thing you own costs you. This cost is not just monetary but also in time and energy. Declutter before you move and you’ll only make room for what really matters.
Think about opening the front door of your new home. Rather than seeing a disarray of things to move, you see a collection of items that spark happiness. It’s more than just moving things; it can also be moving on to better things.
How Storage Can Help You Declutter
Sometimes, it feels impossible to say goodbye to things you own. You might be moving from a larger house to a smaller one, but you’re not sure if you’ll need that particular piece of furniture one day. Maybe you’re not ready to part with that bridesmaid’s gown, dress, or suit. Everyone has been there, but that’s where storage enters the equation.
Storage containers, particularly portable storage containers, like those available from PODS, let you pack at your own pace. Put aside the things you’re just not certain about and store them temporarily. There’s no need to make hasty decisions when there’s a whole house awaiting your attention. While making room for your new life, you can keep seasonal gear and a few keepsakes on hand without the new space looking like a hoarder’s basement.
Simple Steps to Declutter Effectively
Get out four boxes and label them: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Toss. Go room by room and put everything in the appropriate box. This system makes the process less painful (and quicker) because it doesn’t allow you to double-back on your decisions.
Start with the Easiest Items: Choose rooms that don’t hold many sentimental items, like your bathroom and pantry, and declutter those areas before moving onto larger spaces, such as a living room and garage.
Adopt the “One-Year Rule”: There are some items you haven’t used in a year or more. If that is the case, it’s likely you won’t use them anymore. Look around you and decide which should go and which should stay. This doesn’t apply to seasonal gear and sentimental items.
Digitize Your Memories: Flashback to high school, college, or old workplaces. If you have stacks to go through, scan them and back them up on the cloud or other digital places.
Moving with Intention
Once you’ve made a dent in your decluttering game, the fun packing part begins. You should weigh what you want to move and pack the PODS container in shifts. You can group items together by need and room.
Pro tip: This might include toiletries, bedding, and basic dishes, cookware and eating utensils. Now you can relax knowing your basic needs are taken care of when you spend your first night in a new place.
The Emotional Benefits of Decluttering
Decluttering is more than just tidying up; it’s a powerful mood booster. Studies show that clearing away physical clutter can help reduce stress and boost productivity. Plus, as you sort through your stuff, you naturally pause and appreciate the things that really make you happy.
Imagine downsizing to a small house. To help make the move easier, think about storage and moving options to give yourself extra time to choose your favorite things and part ways with the rest. By getting rid of old furniture and dusty electronics, you can create a space that truly works.
Sustainability Meets Decluttering
Giving away your unneeded stuff is another great reason to declutter. If something’s still in good shape, consider donating it to a local charity or giving it away online. You’ll help someone in need and save the item from the landfill. Plus, selling a few things helps you pad your moving budget.
So, as you look to your next move, look forward to the experience. Savor each box, each choice, and each step. Every single thing you leave behind means there’s lots of good stuff ahead.
Every Move is a New Chapter
Evaluate your belongings mindfully and use storage and moving resources strategically. By doing so, you move toward a more meaningful existence. Picture yourself moving into a clutter- and stress-free home where every item delights or serves a need. You can, and you don’t even need to be a professional to come through on moving day.
Portable moving containers strike a balance and you can find industry leaders like PODS in your neck of the woods. As you tackle your next move, embrace the decluttering process. By approaching each box, decision, and step one at a time, you welcome more of the good stuff.
