Moving is one of the most stressful life changes a person can experience. Although moving can be stressful, there are ways to approach this challenging task to make it less of a burden. One of the easiest ways to limit your moving stress is by limiting the number of items you have to move in the first place. You don’t want to waste it packing things you won’t need in your new home. So, here are a few tips for how to lighten your load when you pack:
Have a Plan in Place
Start with decluttering. You’ll want to start this process prior to when you start packing so you can focus on the task. Decluttering can take up a lot of time depending on the size of your home and how much stuff you own. Planning ahead will help you tackle your move in the most efficient way possible.
Start Sorting
Begin sorting through your belongings. Decide what items you wish to keep and for each item that you decide not to keep, you’ll want to sort it into one of three piles:
- Donation pile. For new or gently used items that someone else could get use out of. You can donate to places like schools, libraries, community centers, animal shelters, and non-profit organizations.
- Recycle pile. Besides the obvious papers, glass, and plastics, things like batteries, electronics, and appliances can be recycled.
- Trash pile. If you no longer have a need for an item, trash it. There is no use of bringing things you don’t need to your new home.
It’s important to continue sorting as you go, making additional piles as needed.
Consider Temporary Storage
A temporary storage unit may be needed for items that you know you don’t need but you may not have room for in the new home just yet. You don’t necessarily have to rent a storage unit, you can ask a friend if you can store it with them for a couple of months.
Set Goals
To keep yourself on track, set some concrete goals for how much you want to get rid of and then stick to them. Setting goals helps turn packing into less of a chore and more of a game, with the reward for achieving your objective that you have fewer things to bring with you.
Following these tips will reduce your stress levels and allow you to get a fresh start in your new home. For more tips and ideas on how to lighten the load when moving or to find out how we can help when moving day arrives, call Armando Movers today!