Moving house is one of the most stressful things we can do. There are a million things to think about and organise in the lead up to such a big change, but thoroughly decluttering before you go can make the world of difference.
Here’s why we think decluttering is the number one thing you should put on your to-do list before you move to save your money, your time and your sanity!
1. Saves money on moving costs
Using a removal company to move house can cost hundreds, if not thousands of pounds. More, if you use them to do the packing for you. Quotes are based on the number of rooms in your house, and the volume of things you have. Decluttering before you move means you’re only paying to move those things you want to, or need to keep.
2. Cuts down on packing time
There’s enough to do before you move house, without wasting time on packing things you don’t want. Whether it’s you doing the packing, or professionals, time is the most valuable thing you have, so spend it wisely!
3. Makes unpacking simple
When you have too many things, and packing takes longer than expected, it’s all too easy to just start throwing things in boxes the night before the move. Allowing time to declutter, well in advance of the move date, not only reduces the amount of things you have, but creates a system which will benefit you when it’s time to unpack.
When you declutter, you gather like with like, so it’s much easier to pack in an ordered, and structured way. Art supplies with art supplies, kitchen equipment with kitchen equipment. Nothing tucked away unseen in the shed or the attic, and nothing hiding in storage under the beds. If you’re fairly near your move date, and know you won’t need these things before you go, you can use the process of decluttering as an opportunity to start packing, and put the things you want to keep in clearly labelled boxes, ready for the move.
Fewer things, packed in a more considered and organised way makes the process of unpacking so much simpler!
4. Gives you new options
Needing more space is probably the number one reason for people to move house. Children get bigger, lifestyles change and suddenly we’ve run out of room. Decluttering won’t change this in all circumstances, but being aware of what you want to, and need to, keep can give you more options. Maybe you don’t need that extra storage space so can afford a smaller home in the area you’ve only dreamt of living in. Or maybe you can put the money you would have spent on a bigger home towards something else you’d love to do or experience.
5. Creates clarity of mind
Plate-spinning is an understatement when it comes to moving house. Knowing that you’re only moving what you need to move, that you’re only spending what you need to spend, and that you have a plan for unpacking quickly and easily, can relieve some of the pressure, and allow you the space to enjoy the process and look forward to your new home.
If you’re interested in having some help to declutter before a move or renovation, please get in touch. We can also help with the unpacking too!
