August 2011 Packing and unpacking when moving to a new residence The packing stage is one of the most stressful times in a person's life. If you can, give yourself plenty of time. De-clutter items in categories in short increments and keep only things you use and love. You won't get burned out if you just spend one half hour a few times a week months in advance of your move going through your: • Health and beauty products • Craft supplies • Purses • Decorative household items • Shoes • Clothes • Kitchen items • Memorabilia • Paperwork, Etc. ONLY PACK AND MOVE ITEMS YOU USE AND LOVE. It's costly to move so even a few boxes you don't move will save you money! Many of my clients end up immediately donating up to 1/3 of items moved to their new locations as soon as they come out of the moving boxes. If you de-clutter first and are honest with yourself, you won't move unnecessary items. I know your thinking process: "It cost a lot of money to buy this"; "It was given to me as a gift"; "I should use this." Be realistic and honest with yourself. You're not using it so there must be a reason. LET IT GO! At the unpacking stage, you're surrounded by boxes and it's very overwhelming. Especially when moving to a new city or area where you're not familiar with the local store to walk over to, planning is required. Pack separately in a clearly labeled box or hand carry essential supplies such as: large garbage bags, dual purpose cleaning product, rags, paper towels, toilet paper, soap, tape measure, screwdriver, pad of paper and pen. Unpack boxes and break them down and clear out the abundant packing paper as soon as you can. Often you can post boxes for give-away or a low price per box on Craig's List and within hours, someone has come by to take them away and reuse your perfectly good moving boxes. Set up your kitchen, child's room and bathrooms first. Using the services of a Professional Organizer can expedite the unpacking process tremendously to have another set of hands helping; get the focus you need; get physical help when you're probably drained from working so hard to pack and move; AND getting the right systems set up from the beginning.