Decluttering Tips Before a Big Move
Smart Strategies to Lighten the Load and Simplify Your Relocation
Whether you're relocating across the country or just across town, decluttering before a move can save you time, money, and stress. Moving is the perfect opportunity to hit the reset button and eliminate the things that no longer serve you. The less you move, the easier and more affordable your transition will be—and the easier it will be to settle into your new space with a clean slate.
At Goodfellas Storage, we understand how overwhelming the moving process can feel. That’s why we’ve compiled this ultimate guide to decluttering before a move—plus how our convenient storage solutions can help every step of the way.
Why Decluttering Before a Move Matters
There are several reasons why tackling your clutter before a move is a smart move:
- Lower Moving Costs: Most moving companies charge by weight or volume. Less stuff = smaller truck = lower bill.
- Less Time Packing and Unpacking: Do you really want to spend hours wrapping up that third coffee maker you never use?
- A Fresh Start: Decluttering allows you to set up your new space intentionally and efficiently.
- More Space to Stage Your Home: If you're selling your current home, a cleaner, more spacious look can improve its appeal and value.
Start Early and Strategize
The key to successful decluttering is starting early—ideally at least 4–6 weeks before your move date. Begin by creating a game plan:
1. Make a Room-by-Room Checklist
Outline every area in your home you need to go through. Tackle one room at a time so the process feels manageable.
2. Use the Four-Box Method
Label four boxes or bins as: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Trash. As you go through your belongings, put each item in the appropriate box.
3. Set Mini-Goals and Deadlines
Break up the decluttering process into weekly goals. For example, “This week: Kitchen and pantry. Next week: Bedroom closets.”
What to Declutter (and How to Decide)
Not sure what to part with? Use these guiding questions:
- Have I used this in the last year?
- Would I buy this again today?
- Does this item have a home in my new space?
- Does it bring me joy or serve a clear purpose?
Common Items Worth Letting Go:
- Old electronics you haven’t touched in years
- Outgrown clothes or anything you haven’t worn in a year
- Kitchen gadgets collecting dust
- Duplicate items (Do you need four sets of mixing bowls?)
- Old paperwork (Shred what you don’t need)
Decluttering By Category
Here’s how to approach the process based on specific household areas:
Kitchen
- Toss expired pantry items and spices
- Donate unused appliances or duplicates
- Recycle mismatched Tupperware sets
Closets
- Follow the “one-year rule” for clothes
- Try the hanger test: turn hangers backwards and only flip them when you wear an item
- Donate gently used shoes and handbags
Living Room
- Get rid of DVDs, books, and magazines you don’t love or plan to reread
- Simplify decorative items and wall art
Garage and Storage
- Discard broken tools, paint cans, and random cords
- Downsize outdoor equipment you no longer use
Sell, Donate, or Store?
Once you’ve pared down your belongings, decide what to do with the excess:
Sell It
Make some extra moving cash by selling high-value items through:
- Facebook Marketplace
- OfferUp
- Craigslist
- Yard sales (great for smaller, local moves)
Donate It
Give gently used items to:
- Goodwill
- Habitat for Humanity
- Salvation Army
- Local shelters or churches
Store It
If you’re not ready to part with something, or if your move is temporary, self-storage is a flexible solution. Goodfellas Storage offers secure, affordable storage options for every scenario. Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or staging your home for sale, we’ve got you covered. Explore Our Locations to find a facility near you.
Smart Packing After Decluttering
Once you’ve pared down your belongings, packing becomes much simpler. Here are some bonus tips to pack like a pro:
- Label Everything: Include the room name and a brief description.
- Use Clear Bins for Essentials: Easy to identify and access when you move in.
- Pack a First-Night Box: Include toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, and basic kitchenware.
- Take Photos of Electronics: Remember how your cords are arranged.
How Self Storage Can Help With Decluttering
A short-term storage unit can be a huge help when you’re:
- In Between Homes: Moving out before your new place is ready? Store your essentials safely until you're settled.
- Staging Your Home: Make your space show-ready by moving extra furniture and clutter into storage.
- Downsizing: Hold onto valuable or sentimental items while adjusting to a smaller space.
Not sure what size unit you need? Check out our Size Guide to find the perfect fit.
Why Choose Goodfellas Storage?
At Goodfellas Storage, we know every move is different—and every customer needs something a little unique. That’s why we offer:
- Convenient, drive-up access
- Clean, secure facilities
- Affordable month-to-month rentals
- Flexible options for household, furniture, and seasonal storage
With facilities across multiple states and more on the way, we’re here to support your move—wherever you’re headed. View our FAQ and find the location closest to you on our Our Locations page.
Got questions? Need help picking the right unit or planning your move? Reach out through our Contact Us page and a team member will be happy to assist you.
Final Thoughts: Decluttering Before a Move Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful
Decluttering before a move isn’t just about tossing junk—it’s about preparing for a fresh start. With the right approach, you’ll lighten your load, save money, and enter your new home with a greater sense of clarity and purpose.
Need somewhere to store your things during or after the move? Goodfellas Storage has the flexible, affordable storage solutions to help make your transition smoother. Contact Us today and let’s make your next chapter your best one yet.
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Let us help you make moving feel less like a chore—and more like the exciting new beginning it should be.
