March 1, 2025

How to Declutter Before a Move: Tips for a Stress-Free Transition

Moving can be stressful, but getting organized ahead of time makes a huge difference. One of the most effective ways to prepare is by decluttering before a move.

Moving can be stressful, but getting organized ahead of time makes a huge difference. One of the most effective ways to prepare is by decluttering before a move. Cutting down on what you pack lightens your load, saves money, and helps you settle into your new space faster. A bit of planning now can mean a smoother, easier move later. Why Decluttering Before Moving Matters Decluttering before you pack helps reduce what you have to carry, unpack, and organize in your new home. It also creates a chance to simplify your surroundings and focus on what truly matters. View our self storage tips for ways to make the most of your storage unit.

Save Money on Moving Costs

The fewer items you move, the less you may pay in moving expenses. From moving truck size to labor hours, extra belongings can add up quickly. Cutting clutter before your move can help reduce these costs.

Reduce Stress and Chaos on Moving Day

Every unnecessary item adds to the workload. Decluttering helps you avoid extra boxes and makes it easier to stay calm and organized when moving day arrives. If you need more time to decide on certain items, place them in a self storage unit to reduce pressure.

Make Packing and Unpacking Easier

When you declutter first, packing becomes faster and simpler. Unpacking is also smoother when you’re not sorting through boxes of things you didn’t actually need.

Step-by-Step Decluttering Guide

If you’re not sure how to begin, break the process down into steps. This helps it feel more manageable and gives you small wins along the way.

Start With One Room at a Time

Don’t try to declutter your whole house in one day. Choose one room and work through it fully before moving to the next. This keeps things from becoming overwhelming and helps you see your progress clearly.

Sort Into Keep, Donate, Trash, and Store

You can save time by sorting through your belongings as you pack. A short-term storage unit can hold seasonal décor, off-season clothes, or sentimental items you’ll revisit later. Use four piles:

Keep: Items you use regularly and want in your new home
Donate or sell: Useful items in good shape that you no longer need
Trash: Broken, worn-out, or unusable items
Store: Items you’re not ready to let go of but don’t need right away

Ask the Right Questions: Do I Use It? Do I Love It?

Before packing something, ask: Do I use this? Do I love it? If not, it may be time to donate, toss, or place it in short-term storage until you’re ready to decide.

What to Get Rid of Before a Move

Some types of clutter show up in nearly every home. These are great places to start trimming down.

Outdated Electronics and Cords

If it’s tangled, dusty, or hasn’t been used in years, it’s probably safe to recycle. Don’t waste time packing old electronics you won’t use again.

Unused Kitchen Gadgets

Be honest about what you really cook with. If you haven’t used the sandwich press or spiralizer in a year, it may be time to donate it.

Extra Linens, Towels, and Clothes

Moving is a perfect time to slim down your closet and linen cabinet. Donate or store what you don’t need day to day.

Furniture That Won’t Fit the New Space

Check the layout of your new home. If certain pieces won’t fit or feel out of place, sell them, give them away, or place them in storage until you decide what to do.

Storage Solutions for Items You’re Not Ready to Part With

Some things are worth keeping—just not necessarily moving right now. Self storage offers flexibility when space is tight.

When a Storage Unit Can Help

A storage unit is ideal when you’re not ready to make final decisions. Whether you’re waiting to move into a new place, clearing space to stage your home, or just want a break from the clutter, storing items temporarily can relieve a lot of pressure.

Choosing the Right Size Storage Unit

Think about what you plan to store. A small unit may work for boxes or small furniture, while a larger one can hold full rooms. Elite Self Storage offers multiple size options, and staff can help you choose the best fit for your situation.

Climate-Controlled vs. Standard Units

If you’re storing items like wooden furniture, electronics, or photos, a climate-controlled unit helps protect against heat and humidity. For items like basic furniture, clothing, or kitchenware, a standard unit may be all you need.

Book A Self Storage Unit In Sioux City

If you need more space, Elite Self Storage can help. Book your Sioux City self storage unit online and start your decluttering process.