Moving is a major life event. It represents the upheaval not only of our routine, but also of the place where we typically find rest and stability. Still, moving doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Proper planning can help avoid many of the common pitfalls associated with a relocation.
PHASE ONE – ANTICIPATION
As an organizer, I always begin by suggesting you do all you can to declutter before the move. After all, why spend money and invest the energy to pack, move, and unpack unwanted belongings? The decluttering process cannot begin too early, as the more time you have to review your possessions, the less stressful it will be. Of course, there are times when the need to move emerges suddenly. In these situations, don’t start unpacking the boxes of photos! Instead, move on to the second phase of the move.
PHASE TWO – PREPARATION
In the month before your move, there are many things you can do to make “move day” go more smoothly:
- Familiarize yourself with what the moving company will not pack/move. Examples include chemicals, perishables, plants, and pets. You can request a list from your moving company in advance. Once you know what can’t go on the truck, decide whether you will take it yourself or pass it on.