Recently, we’ve been flooded with requests for organizing services to help with the transition of moving to a new home. And we understand why: there is so much to think about – from keeping new home documents organized to decluttering and downsizing your current home in preparation for the big day.
After some deliberation, we decided that the best way impart our best moving tips would be to help you think like an organizer as you prepare to move. And if you can’t get us inside your head, you can at least grab some tips that may help you navigate this journey.
Create a Moving Binder
Organizers love binders, since they allow you to keep everything pertaining to an event in one place and stay transportable. We like Avery big tab folders with slash cut pockets for these. For more info on putting your moving binder together, check out our newest blog article on the topic, How to Create a Pro Organizer Moving Binder. You may also want to check out our free downloadable moving notification checklist (below).
Plan Backwards
With a large looming deadline like a move date, planning backwards can help you get and stay on track. Print off a blank calendar to add to your binder and start by writing the moving date on the corresponding calendar day. Then think about how much time you need to do certain things in order to be ready for moving day, working backwards until today. Consider how much time it will take you to pack each room, and write those days in too. Be sure to use a pencil so that you can adjust your scheduling as you discover the realistic amount of time that things take.
Pack based on category, not room.
Most people pack by placing everything from a room into a box and then labeling the box with the room name. But pro organizers know that what fits into your current home may likely NOT fit into your new home in the same way. For instance, put all decorative items together, and label them “decorative” (extra points for noting specific items on the boxes), rather than “living room”. The extra benefit of this is that it allows you to see what you have and declutter before the move. By putting all like items together, you are much more able to see the volume of your possessions and pare down as needed.
Call an organizer!
If you get stuck, we are here to help! We offer full moving and packing services, and have an awesome team who would love to help you get started. If you are not in the Portland Metro area, give us a call anyway! We are members of the National Association of Professional Organizers, and can get you connected with a licensed, bonded professional in your area.
For more moving tips, check out our blog, A Professional Organizer’s Tips for a Stress-Free Move.
Happy Organizing!
Planning backwards is such a good point, whether for moving or writing a paper or whatever. The binder is just handy to have, especially because you may not have wifi access consistently throughout your move. Having documentation in an easy-to-find spot is stress relieving!
Thanks Seana! Planning backwards on big projects has worked really well for me and certain clients. It’s also a great tip to teach kids as they learn how to time manage big school reports. A kanban board is also great for this. Thanks for commenting!