Moving can be an overwhelming experience, but one of the best ways to ease the burden is by decluttering before you pack. Not only does reducing the volume of items you need to move make the process smoother, but it can also save you money on transportation costs. The less you move, the less you pay. At Checkmate Moving, we understand the importance of a streamlined move, so here are ten professional tips to help you declutter effectively.

1. Start Early

Decluttering is not something you can do in a single day. Start the process as early as possible to give yourself ample time to evaluate your belongings. Begin with small areas, such as a single drawer or closet, and gradually work your way through your home. The earlier you start, the less stressful it will be as your moving date approaches.

2. Use the 12-Month Rule

When deciding what to keep, consider the 12-month rule: if you haven’t used an item in the past year, it’s time to let it go. This rule helps eliminate items that have become more cluttered than necessary. Evaluate each item critically, and if it doesn’t serve a purpose or hold significant sentimental value, it may be time to part with it.

3. Create Separate Piles

As you declutter, create distinct piles for items you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Labeling these piles helps you stay organized and makes it easier to track your progress. The clearer you are about your decisions, the more efficient the decluttering process will be.

4. Consider Your New Space

Keep in mind the size and layout of your new home. Will your existing furniture fit? Are there items that won’t have a place in your new space? Assess your belongings with your new environment in mind, and let that guide your decisions on what to keep and what to discard.

5. Digitize Important Documents

Paper clutter can quickly accumulate, making it difficult to keep track of important documents. Before you move, consider digitizing documents such as tax records, medical files, and personal papers. Scanning and storing them in a secure cloud service not only reduces physical clutter but also makes them more accessible.

6. One Room at a Time

Decluttering an entire house can be daunting. To make the process more manageable, focus on one room at a time. This approach allows you to see tangible results and keeps you motivated to continue. Once a room is completed, you can move on to the next one with a sense of accomplishment.

7. Involve Family Members

If you live with others, involve them in the decluttering process. Discuss which items are truly essential and encourage family members to evaluate their belongings. This collective effort not only fosters teamwork but also ensures everyone’s priorities are considered, making it easier to let go of unnecessary items.

8. Host a Garage Sale or Online Sale

One of the best ways to declutter while also making some extra cash is to host a garage sale or sell items online. Utilize platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Craigslist to sell unwanted items. Not only does this help you declutter, but it also provides you with funds that can be used toward your moving costs or new home essentials.

9. Donate to Local Charities

If you have items in good condition that you no longer need, consider donating them to local charities or shelters. Many organizations will even pick up large items, saving you the hassle of transporting them yourself. Donating not only helps you declutter but also gives back to the community. One of our favorite organizations is Knock Knock Angels Colorado.

10. Stay Disciplined

Decluttering requires discipline. It can be tempting to hold onto items for sentimental reasons but remember that the goal is to reduce what you move. Stick to your plan, trust your instincts, and remind yourself of the financial benefits of moving less. A lighter load translates to lower transportation costs, making your move more economical.

Simplify Your Move with Decluttering

Decluttering before your move is a strategic way to simplify the process and save money on transportation costs. By following these ten professional tips, you can effectively reduce the volume of items you need to move, making the entire experience more efficient and less stressful.

At Checkmate Moving, we are here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need assistance with packing, loading, or transportation, our team of experts is dedicated to ensuring your move is seamless. If you’re ready to make your upcoming move easier, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you with your moving needs.

Checkmate Moving and Storage based out of Denver, Colorado adheres to the highest moving company industry standards. We deliver full-service moving and storage services for all your residential, commercial, and industrial needs with the highest industry standards, and that is reflected in our Better Business Bureau A+ Accredited Business Rating. Because we are family owned and operated moving company, we are personally interested in maintaining our reputation. Contact us for a free quote.