Tips for Decluttering Before Moving House
Planning a move is the ideal time to take stock of your belongings and decide what you really want to take with you. Decluttering before you move makes packing easier. It can also lower moving costs and help you settle in with less stress.
At NZ Van Lines, we’ve helped thousands of New Zealanders move house with confidence. No matter where you are moving, these expert tips can help. Whether you are moving nearby, to another city, or to a different country, you can prepare better. These tips will make your move easier.
Why Decluttering Before a Move Matters
Decluttering is more than just tidying up. It’s an important part of preparing for your move and comes with clear benefits:
- Lower moving costs – The fewer items you take, the less you’ll pay in transport, packing, and storage.
- Less stress – Decluttering helps reduce decision fatigue when packing and makes the unpacking process easier.
- A fresh start – You’ll arrive at your new home with only the items that are truly useful and meaningful.
How to Declutter Before Moving
- Start Early and Plan Ahead
Begin at least four to six weeks before your moving date. Work room by room and allow extra time for storage spaces such as garages, wardrobes, and lofts, which can take longer to sort through.
- Use the Four-Box Method
Have four boxes or bins on hand as you go through each room:
- Keep – Essential items you’ll need in your new home.
- Donate or Sell – Items in good condition that can go to others.
- Recycle – Materials like paper, plastics, or electronics that can be recycled.
- Dispose – Anything broken, outdated, or no longer usable.
- Ask Yourself the Right Questions
- Have I used this in the past year?
- Do I really need or value this item?
- Is it worth the cost and effort of moving?
- Will it fit or suit my new home?
If the answer is “no” to most of these, it may be time to let it go.
Focus on High-Clutter Areas
- Wardrobes and drawers – Donate clothing you no longer wear or that no longer fits.
- Kitchen cupboards – Clear out expired food, unused appliances, or duplicate items.
- Garage and shed – These often collect tools, sports gear, and other seldom-used items.
- Children’s rooms – Involve your kids in choosing which toys and books they’d like to bring along.
Other Decluttering Tips
- Go digital – Scan and store important documents or photos electronically.
- Be realistic – Avoid keeping items just because you “might need them one day.”
- Sell what you can – List items online or hold a garage sale for anything in good condition.
- Make use of storage – If you’re unsure about certain items, short-term storage may be an option.
Decluttering Makes Moving Day Easier
Once you’ve decluttered, packing is far more manageable. Be sure to:
- Label your boxes clearly.
- Pack a ‘first night’ essentials box.
- Keep important items easily accessible.
If you relocate with NZ Van Lines, our experienced team can assist with professional packing and moving solutions that take the pressure off every step of the way.
Next Steps
As New Zealand’s most trusted moving company, NZ Van Lines offers a full range of services to support you relocate local, inter-island, or internationally.
Our skilled teams offer quality packing, safe storage, and transportation. This lets you focus on what matters most: moving into your new home.
Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you move with ease and peace of mind.
