Downsizing Tips Before a Move:

Our Guide to a Stress-Free Transition

Moving to a new home is always an exciting experience, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to downsizing. Whether you’re moving into a smaller space or just looking to streamline your life, downsizing before a move can save you time, money, and stress. So, how do you start? Let’s explore some essential tips for a smooth and efficient downsizing process.

1. Declutter and Purge Unnecessary Items

Downsizing is the perfect opportunity to declutter your life. Start by sorting through your belongings and getting rid of items you no longer need. Purging unnecessary possessions before you pack them up is a great way to:

• Reduce moving costs (fewer items = lower cost)
• Simplify the packing process (less to pack, less to worry about)
• Create a fresh start in your new home (only bringing the things you truly value)

Where to Start:

• Clothing: Is your wardrobe filled with clothes that no longer fit or that you haven’t worn in ages? Donate or sell these items to make more room for what truly matters.
• Books and magazines: If you haven’t read them in the past year, it’s time to say goodbye.
• Old electronics and appliances: If they’re outdated or no longer functional, it’s time to recycle them.

Pro Tip:

Take a moment to measure your new space before deciding what to keep. You may find that your large furniture just won’t fit, or your artwork is too big for the new walls. Need help making tough decisions? Consider getting an in-home proposal for a fixed price estimate that includes all the downsizing advice you need.

2. Sell or Donate Unwanted Belongings

Not only does selling or donating unwanted items help you reduce the volume of things you need to move, but it can also give you extra cash for your move or support a good cause.

Benefits:

• Generate extra cash for moving expenses (because, let’s be honest, moving isn’t cheap).
• Help others in need by donating gently used items to charity.
• Reduce the number of items you need to pack and move.

Where to Sell:

• Furniture: Sell used furniture on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp.
• Clothing: Use apps like Poshmark or ThredUp to sell gently used clothes.
• Electronics: Sell old gadgets or appliances on eBay or through local buy-and-sell groups.

Tip: Don’t forget to keep track of any donations, as these may be tax-deductible. Want to know more about tax breaks during a move? Check out our moving tax guide.

3. Digitize Documents and Photos

In today’s digital age, there’s no reason to keep piles of paper around. Digitizing important documents and photos can save space, keep your memories safe, and make them easier to access.

Why You Should Digitize:

• Save space: Your new space may be smaller, and reducing physical clutter is crucial.
• Protect memories: Photos and documents are at risk of damage during a move, so backing them up is a smart idea.
• Easy access: With digital files, you can quickly retrieve important documents when needed.

How to Do It:

• Scan documents using a scanner or a mobile app like CamScanner.
• Store digital files in cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive) for easy access.
• Digitize photos by scanning or taking high-quality pictures with your smartphone.

Pro Tip: Keep your digital files organized! Use a consistent naming system to make everything easy to find later.

4. Use Multi-Purpose Furniture

Maximize your space with multi-purpose furniture. If you’re downsizing to a smaller home, consider investing in pieces that serve multiple functions, like:

• Sofa beds: Perfect for hosting guests without sacrificing space.
• Storage ottomans: Double as seating and storage for extra pillows or blankets.
• Dining tables with built-in storage: A great way to store dishes, linens, or other essentials.

By opting for furniture that performs more than one job, you can reduce the total number of items you need to move and make your new home feel more organized and spacious.

Need More Inspiration?

If you’re unsure how to choose furniture for your downsized space, check out our custom furnishings service for expert advice and options.

5. Pack a Separate Essentials Box

Packing a separate essentials box for moving day is a game-changer. This box should contain everything you need for the first day or two in your new home, ensuring that you don’t have to dig through dozens of boxes just to find your toothbrush.

What Should Be in Your Essentials Box?

1. Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo)
2. Important documents (IDs, moving contracts, etc.)
3. Bedding and towels
4. Basic kitchen items (mugs, snacks, paper towels)
5. Chargers for your phone, laptop, etc.

By packing this box separately, you’ll make your first few days in your new home less stressful.

6. Host a Garage Sale

A garage sale isn’t just a way to get rid of unwanted items—it’s an opportunity to earn extra cash before your move. Here’s why hosting one can be beneficial:

• Clear out clutter: Get rid of things you don’t need while making a little money.
• Get the community involved: Make the sale a social event—invite neighbors or local friends!
• Reduce the load: Less to move means less hassle during the packing and moving process.

Pro Tip:

Schedule your garage sale ahead of time, so you don’t end up holding on to things until the last minute. It’s one of the easiest ways to simplify your move and make some extra cash.

7. Color-Code or Label Boxes by Room

Efficient unpacking begins with smart labeling. Organize your boxes with color-coded labels or markers that indicate which room they belong in. This will help:

• Direct movers accurately during the move.
• Speed up the unpacking process—everything will be in its designated room.
• Prevent items from getting lost or misplaced.

How to Label:

• Color-code each box based on the room (e.g., blue for the kitchen, green for the bedroom).
• Use large, clear labels to mark the contents of each box.

8. Consider Renting a Storage Unit

If you have a lot of items that you won’t need immediately but don’t want to part with, renting a storage unit can be a smart move.

Why Use Storage?

• Temporary storage: Store excess items during the transition to your new home.
• Gradual unpacking: Unpack in stages without the overwhelming clutter.
• Keep your new home organized: Avoid overcrowding by keeping non-essential items in storage.

Before you pack your boxes, consider what you can store temporarily and leave behind. Need help finding storage? Check out our moving protection services.

Final Thought: Downsizing Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

The key to a smooth, stress-free move is to start early, be organized, and tackle each task one step at a time. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, following these downsizing tips will help you save time, money, and energy—and make your new home feel like it’s already yours.

Ready to Get Started?
If you want personalized advice, schedule an in-home proposal today. Our team can help guide you through the downsizing process and offer you the most efficient moving plan tailored to your needs.

Good luck with your move—let the downsizing begin!