Packing up and moving can be overwhelming on its own, but the unpacking always seems to be the hardest of all. It’s usually late and you’re exhausted from the process. After stressing about the entire moving process and the big move, unpacking is just about the last thing anyone wants to do and boxes are often left unpacked long after the move for this very reason.
You can eliminate some of the overwhelm if you plan well and set time aside for the task. Here are a few unpacking tips we give our clients when faced with a room full of moving boxes.
Get Organized
Before you dive into arranging boxes and unpacking, get organized by creating a plan. Take a few minutes to create some checklists. Use one checklist to keep track of the boxes, the rooms, and the overall progress. The second should be a list of items you might realize you now need in your new space. This can be anything from storage and organizational items to a new set throw pillows for that fab couch you bought. Finally, keep a list of items you might want to store elsewhere or donate (so you have a record come tax season).
Set a Date
It’s important to remember that unpacking is a process. You shouldn’t spend one night quickly unpacking everything just so you can say you’re unpacked. This will create more of a disorganized mess. Instead, set aside a specific day and time to unpack. Turn off the cell phone, turn off the TV, put on your favorite playlist and get moving. Let the friends and family know you are unavailable during that time. Making a set day and time will allow you to work uninterrupted and avoid getting disorganized.
Put Your Boxes in the Appropriate Rooms
Our #1 tip here is to be sure and have the boxes set into their appropriate rooms upon delivery. Whether it is by a moving company or yourself. Don’t just pile random boxes in the entryway, you will quickly become overrun by packing boxes. Doing this will also make it easier to find items without having to stack and unstack boxes continuously.
Discard Unused Items as You Go
While you’re unpacking, it’s okay if you find a few items which you should’ve left behind. If this happens, simply discard the item. Avoid putting the item back in the box or throwing it in a random drawer. Instead, create a donation pile. You can use one of the unpacked boxes to store all the items for donation and get them out the door all at once.
Organize as You Go
The worst thing to do is just dump everything out of the boxes and then try organizing it as one big pile. Instead, simply organize as you unpack. For example, as you unpack your clothes, hang each item in your closet, or fold and put it in your dresser. Create ‘like-item’ areas and categorize along the way. It may take a bit longer, but you’ll have a well-organized space when you are done by using these simple unpacking tips.
And don’t forget…if you just don’t have the time, a Professional Unpacking Service can get the job done for you!
