There’s something about packing up your life into boxes that hits differently. It’s not just about bubble wrap and brown tape—it’s about deciding what stays, what goes, and what you’ve somehow held onto since 2006 for no good reason. But before the chaos of moving day, there’s a golden opportunity: decluttering. If you clear the clutter first, you’re already ahead.
And here’s the thing—decluttering isn’t just about logistics. It’s therapy in disguise. You’re not just clearing your shelves; you’re clearing your headspace. It’s about showing up to your new place a little lighter—physically and emotionally.
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, getting your stuff sorted early makes everything smoother. That’s why working with trusted professionals like BoxStars Movers can be a lifesaver once your things are ready to go. But first, let’s dig into how to declutter, destress, and prepare like a seasoned pro before the big move.
Why Decluttering Before a Move Feels So Good
Let’s start with the emotional part. Decluttering before a move is like doing a mental reset. You’ll:
- Feel more in control when everything else feels chaotic.
- Ditch the “I’ll deal with it later” guilt pile (you know the one).
- Reduce decision fatigue during packing.
- Save on moving costs by not dragging junk to a new postcode.
Psychologists even link clutter to anxiety and decision paralysis. So by giving yourself a clean slate before the move, you’re also giving yourself a mental breather.
Start Sooner Than You Think You Need To
The biggest mistake people make? Waiting until the week before moving to start sorting things out. Decluttering isn’t a task—it’s a process.
Give yourself:
- 4–6 weeks for a full house.
- 2–3 weeks for an apartment or flat.
Aim for short, focused sessions. One drawer. One closet. One room. That’s it. You don’t have to Marie Kondo your entire life in one weekend.
Create Three Core Zones
Before diving into anything, set up three areas:
- Keep (must-haves, frequently used, or things you truly love)
- Donate/Sell (good condition, someone else can use)
- Toss (damaged, expired, or worn out)
If it helps, keep large labeled boxes or bins for each category. Physically separating them keeps your mind clear too.
Pro tip: Use sticky notes or masking tape to label decisions in real time. Future-you will thank past-you.
Tackle the Easy Stuff First
If you start with sentimental clutter, you’re setting yourself up for stress. Ease into the process:
Start with:
- Bathroom products (expired = toss)
- Kitchen gadgets you forgot you owned
- Clothing you haven’t worn in a year
- Books you’ll never re-read
- Old paperwork (hello, shredder!)
Quick wins build momentum. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about tossing out a half-used bottle of tanning lotion from 2018.
Be Ruthless With the “Maybes”
You’ll hit items that make you hesitate: the “just in case” tools, jeans that almost fit, or that fancy glassware you used once.
Try the 12-Month Rule: If you haven’t used it in the last year, you probably won’t in the next.
Still unsure? Ask yourself:
- Would I buy this again today?
- Would I pack, carry, and unpack this if I were moving alone?
- Do I like this—or am I just used to seeing it?
Trust your gut. It’s usually right.
Sort Sentimental Items Last
These slow you down, and that’s okay—but only after everything else is done. By then, your decision-making muscle is warmed up.
Photos, letters, kids’ artwork, and souvenirs all deserve thoughtful attention. Limit yourself to a memory box or two. Take digital photos of items you don’t need to keep physically.
Bonus: Less stuff = more space in your new place to make fresh memories.
Use the “Packing Preview” Trick
Once you’ve sorted your belongings, try this technique: pack a “mock move” box from each room with just the essentials.
Think of it like packing for a two-week trip. This trick helps you:
- Identify what you actually use daily
- Spot duplicates or extras you don’t need
- Reduce overpacking on the real moving day
It’s a great reality check that also makes the final packing phase much easier.
Sell or Donate Responsibly
If your local charity shops are overwhelmed, get creative:
- Use apps like Olio, Freecycle, or Facebook Marketplace.
- Schedule a donation pickup for larger furniture.
- Check if shelters or community centres need specific items.
You’re not just tossing things—you’re giving them a second life.
And if you’re selling, give yourself a deadline. If it hasn’t sold in a week, donate it. You don’t want clutter holding you hostage until moving day.
Prep Your Packing Supplies Early
Don’t wait until you’re knee-deep in boxes to realize you’ve run out of tape.
Stock up on:
- Quality moving boxes in multiple sizes
- Packing tape (always more than you think)
- Markers and labels
- Bubble wrap or old towels for breakables
Organize as you pack—label boxes clearly and note which room they’re for. You’ll be grateful when it’s time to unpack and settle in.
Leave a “Last-Minute” Zone
No matter how organized you are, some things will need to stay out until the final hours.
Create a bin or box for last-minute essentials:
- Chargers
- Daily toiletries
- Medications
- Coffee/tea setup
- Cleaning supplies
- A change of clothes
- Important documents
This box should travel with you, not in the moving truck.
Call in the Pros—But After You Declutter
Hiring movers doesn’t mean skipping the prep. In fact, decluttering first makes their job easier and more efficient—and it saves you money.
Once your stuff is sorted and packed, that’s where experts like BoxStars Movers come in. They can handle the heavy lifting and logistics while you focus on settling into your new space—minus the junk.
Think of it as a team effort. You handle the curation, and they handle the transportation.
Moving Mindfully: The Emotional Payoff
Decluttering before a move isn’t just practical. It’s empowering.
You’ll feel:
- Lighter, mentally and physically
- More intentional about what surrounds you
- Less anxious about the chaos of moving day
- Excited for a clean start—without baggage from your last postcode
And let’s be honest—there’s no better feeling than walking into your new home knowing everything in it earned its place.
Final Thoughts: Pack Less, Live More
Moving is a chance to reset. Not just your address—but your mindset.
So take the time to declutter with purpose. You’re not just getting rid of stuff. You’re making space for a new chapter.
Start early. Go easy on yourself. Make it fun where you can. And remember: every item you leave behind is one less box to unpack.