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When you’re getting ready to move, there’s always a bit of parsing, purging, sorting, and organizing that happens. However, if you are moving into a smaller space, it can downright make you want to pull your hair out. What do you keep? What do you actually have room for? How do you go through everything to figure out those answers? We’re here to help with this short and sweet guide with tips for downsizing during a move. 

Step one is to consider how much square footage you actually have. If your dining room is now a nook off your kitchen, perhaps that 10 ft. solid wood table just won’t fit. Perhaps you have a spare room that’s going to be functioning as a home office, so you don’t want that queen guest bed in there. Consider a futon or sleeper sofa instead to multipurpose the room. There’s a level of evaluation that simply has to happen when considering what furniture and belongings to bring with you.

Another aspect to evaluate is what your new home’s style and aesthetic will be. If you’re trying a more minimalist approach, perhaps that oversized, brown couch isn’t going to fit the vibe anymore. Maybe some of your furniture is also just ratty and it’s time for some fresh pieces. Now is a good time to reevaluate what you love and what you’re sick of. And this is a good way to downsize and get rid of items. You can then purchase and invest in pieces for your new space that fit better, don’t overwhelm the rooms, and adhere to your style. 

As you go through closets, dressers, wardrobes and extra storage nooks, consider what you haven’t used in a year or more. If there are clothes that have past that 1-year mark, donate them. You likely won’t come back to them. Same with random kitchen supplies, junk drawer items, and kids clothes and toys they’ve outgrown. With electronics, it there are items that stopped working and you didn’t really miss them, ditch them. (But make sure to recycle those electronics responsibly). Basically, the golden rule is if you’re not using things on a regular basis, you likely won’t and those things are just taking up valuable space. 

Finally, once you’ve gone through and sorted your belongings into keep, sell/donate, and trash piles, you’re ready to pack. Keep in mind when packing what items you will want out first. Create a box (or two) and label “Open First” or something like that. You’ll want to put items like towels, bedding, pillows, shower curtain, toilet paper, and paper plates and utensils. Perhaps you need to put the coffee maker in this box too. Don’t forget scissors, a trash bag, beloved kids stuffed animals they can’t sleep without, chargers, and a lamp or two. You don’t want to get to your new space exhausted and without these basic, necessary items easy to access. 

Start with this simple guide to help you downsize for a move. And keep us in mind for all your storage needs as you move as well! We’re here to help.