How to Declutter Before Moving: Simplify Your Move

So, you’re getting ready to move, and the thought of packing up your whole life has you feeling frazzled? Let’s take a deep breath together and break this down so it feels doable. How to declutter before moving doesn’t have to be a frantic scramble. In fact, with a little know-how and some simple steps, you can walk into your next chapter carrying less baggage—physically and mentally.

If you want step-by-step support, you’re in the right place. Here are some solid strategies for decluttering so you can say goodbye to overwhelm and hello to a lighter, happier move.

Not too long ago, we downsized into a cozy empty nester home. I thought I was totally prepared for it—after all, I’d been decluttering for over a decade. But wow, reality hit me like a ton of bricks.

What I thought was just a “small amount” of stuff in the attic and basement turned out to be enough to fill several storage units. It took months—many, many months—to whittle that down to just one.

That experience was a wake-up call. I realized the decluttering I’d done before wasn’t quite cutting it. Since then, I’ve completely changed the way I approach decluttering. It’s been a game-changer.

Today’s guide incorporates some of those hard lessons so you can be better prepared for your big move.

How to Declutter Before Moving

Moving is already a big deal making it easy to let stress creep in, especially if you feel surrounded by years (or decades) of collected stuff.

Downsizing your belongings ahead of time allows you to begin with a fresh start. Not only that, having less stuff means fewer boxes to haul, less money spent on movers, and more space to breathe in your new place.

UBoxes Medium Moving Boxes Pack of 20-18 x14 x 12 Inches Cosy Family Plastic Wrap Stretch Film Roll – 1000ft 60 Gauge Industrial Strength 15 inch Wide Clear Plastic Wrap Roll with Handles for Pallet Wrapping Shipping Moving – Clear, Pack of 1 TICONN 6 Pack Extra Large Moving Bags with Zippers & Carrying Handles, Heavy-Duty Storage Tote Moving Boxes for Space Saving

Start Sooner Than You Think

Here’s the deal: the earlier you start, the smoother it’ll go. Waiting until the last minute? That’s like trying to climb a mountain in flip-flops—not fun. Instead, make a simple plan you can actually stick to. Think about which rooms you’ll tackle and when. Not sure where to begin? Try this:

Do a little math. Take the time you’ve got before moving day and divide it by the number of rooms you need to declutter. Start with the most important room and work your way down. Stick to the time you’ve set for each room and work at a pace that feels manageable. This way, you’ll stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.

a calendar with MOVING DAY in red and circled

In a rush? Don’t stress! Grab a box or bag and start with the easiest room. Maybe it’s a closet, the guest room, or even the dining area. Focus on a small space and make quick, no-nonsense decisions. The less you bring with you, the fresher your new start will feel.

Set Up a Donation Zone

Set up a simple donation station so you can work without distraction. Maybe it’s a few large boxes in the garage or bags by the front door. Label them clearly—Donation, Trash, Recycle—so you don’t have to rethink things later.

When you’re out running errands, toss a donation bag in the car and drop it off. If you have lots to give, check if your local center offers pickups.

woman putting donation boxes in the back of her car

Tip: Keeping this spot visible makes it easier to let go. Every time you see that donate pile grow, give yourself a little pat on the back. This is a big job, and you are doing great!

Tackle the Least-Used Spaces First

Start in the rooms you use the least. Why? Because decluttering gets messy before it gets better, and having boxes in lesser-used areas keeps the chaos contained.

Linen closets, guest bedrooms, and storage rooms are all good starting points. Save daily spaces like your kitchen or bedroom for last so your day-to-day life isn’t interrupted.

Try These Decluttering Shortcuts:

Need quick wins or maybe a checklist to help you stay on track? Check out these ideas:

Take it Room by Room

No magic wand here, but you can make it easier on yourself. Focus on trash first—wrappers, broken items, outdated paperwork—that’s the quickest way to clear space and see progress. Next, scan the area for anything you can donate.

Need a bit of motivation? Picture how much lighter your new home will feel without those extras you never use.

If physical limitations make it tough, ask for help. This can be a family effort—kids can sort toys, teens can work in their own rooms, and your partner can tackle their own closets. No family around for support? Hire a teen in your neighborhood or from your local church.

Consider Temporary Storage

Thinking about taking some of your larger items with you? A storage pod or a rented unit near your new place can be a total game-changer. As you clear out rooms, move any furniture and packed boxes you’re keeping into storage to get them out of the way. Just remember, this is a temporary solution, so only store items you’re 100% sure are making the move.

While you’re relocating things to storage, take inventory of what you’ve got. Keep the best, and sell the rest—Facebook Marketplace is great for this. Bonus: the extra cash can help cover moving expenses.

Sometimes, clearing out the big stuff is the only way to uncover what’s been hiding underneath.

Go Through the Pantry

Decluttering isn’t just about clothes and knickknacks—take a look at your food, too. Dry goods, boxed foods, and canned items have a sneaky way of hiding in the back and quietly expiring.

Here’s what you can do: Start using up what you already have and toss anything that’s past its prime. No need to haul food you’re not going to eat—it’s just extra weight (literally).

When moving day rolls around, save your heavy-duty boxes for pantry items since food can get pretty heavy. And don’t forget to keep a cooler handy for cold and frozen items—it’ll make the transition so much easier.

Take It One Step at a Time

Whether you’re neighborhood-hopping to your new Miami rental or planning a coast-to-coast move from Boston to the west coast, planning a move can be a stressful process. The more you let go now, the less chaos you’ll have on moving day and the more breathing room you’ll enjoy in your new home.

Remember, it’s not about getting rid of things just to have less—it’s about keeping what truly serves you. Let your move be the start of a lighter, calmer chapter!

Check out Redfin’s ultimate minimalist moving guide for even more ideas and encouragement. You don’t have to do this alone, and you don’t have to do it all in one day. With each box you pack, you’re moving closer to a space that feels like home.