When moving house one of the most stressful aspects of it seems to be the feeling that it will never be over. With the number of tasks, you have to go through and elaborate plans to do it, everything starts to look too complicated. One of the more tedious tasks is packing for the move. But it doesn’t have to be. The move can be a perfect opportunity to downsize. Downsizing and decluttering can be the key to a stress-free move and it can make the move cheaper. But how to do it? Let’s guide you through the process.
Challenges of downsizing
Well, downsizing is not a simple process of getting rid of the things that you don’t need. The process is much more complicated and requires thought and time. It’s not always clear on how to start and go about the downsizing process. Everyone can do it differently but it always good to:
- Start downsizing on time (well in advance)
- Inventory your belongings
- Sort (what to keep and what not to keep)
- Decide on storage
- Donate, sell, recycle, give away
Start by decluttering
Start in due time
Starting on time is crucial for preparing to downsize in a practical and efficient manner. Starting the process well in advance will allow you to analyze your stuff and make rational decisions. Ample time will also give you the opportunity to decide what you want to do with the surplus belongings. Take the time to also decide where you want to send your stuff.
Inventory your belongings
Moving, packing, and downsizing can’t be done without a proper inventory. We usually lose track of all of the stuff we have. To get the proper picture of all of the belonging we have and inventory is essential. Inventory should be done room by room preferably starting from the room we use the least. Its also good advice to start with the stuff that we are not attached to or that is easily replaceable.
Sort your belongings
Sorting is crucial and is the step in which we categorize what we want to keep and what we want to get rid of. There are no rules and everyone is different but belongings we are attached to are not to be disposed of. Also, one of the conventions is that if we haven’t used some items in a year or more then we probably don’t need them.
Make some sort of arrangement
Decide on storage
Putting things in storage is always an option. You can always decide on which stuff you need and the things you can live without but want to keep. If things are not essential you can choose from a pallet of storage solutions. Furniture, personal items, technical items, etc., can be safely stored affordably and securely. These things can always be taken out of storage and used again if needed. Always know that specialists should deal with heavy furniture so be sure to fire professional help.
Sell, donate, recycle
There are many options for the things you decide you don’t need anymore. Some of them will be ready for trash while some can be put to good use.
The thing ready to be thrown out can probably be recycled so it’s a good idea to contact a local recycling center. They will be able to give advice on an eco-friendly way of disposing of your things.
Other things can be given away or donated. Moving can be an opportunity to invite your friends to help pack and move. It can be also used to give away your stuff to friends that may want or need them. Other than that, all of the other stuff can be donated. There are numerous shelters in Chicago, local church bazaars, charities even animal shelters that can make good use of your belongings. Make sure to make a list of potential contacts and donate your stuff.
Some of the stuff can also be sold. If it is in good condition and working order selling your things may help you a lot during the move. Fresh income can certainly alleviate the cost of moving and help out.
Stress-free moving
After the downsizing, the move should be easier. You should have a lot less to worry about when moving. First, the amount of stuff that you have to pack will be significantly smaller. It will be easier and cheaper to pack. The expenses of gathering packing supplies can be quite high especially when packing fragile stuff. The expenses of moving will also be less. Loading and unloading will be quicker and the whole process can be done more efficiently. Movers will be able to move your house easily ad without problems.
Now it is time to pack!
It is important to know that in any case, you should hire professional movers. Professional certified movers with adequate references and experience will guarantee stress and problem-free move. Many of them like golansmoving.com will also provide additional services. These services can be local or long-distance moving, insurance, commercial and residential moving, storage, packing, and eco-friendly packing supplies. In this way, professional help will make your move a breeze and it will even provide assistance in the process of downsizing.
In conclusion
Moving is always a stressful experience that causes man sleepless nights. It takes time and can cost a lot of money especially if you are moving long distance. It can be much easier and cheaper when it is combined with downsizing and decluttering. A move is a perfect opportunity to do it. Downsizing will certainly lighten your load, help you set your priorities, and make it easier to pack and organize your move. In today’s world, it’s a must. So, don’t skip this step during your move. Plan for it, organize, and execute it. It will not only help you during your move but it will also give you the opportunity of starting new and fresh in a new location. You might find these senior downsizing tips helpful too!
