Moving abroad can be an exciting new chapter, but it’s not without challenges, especially when it comes to packing and organising your belongings. Decluttering before a move abroad isn’t just about keeping things simple; it’s about reducing stress, saving time, and ensuring that only the things are really needed to make the journey. Here, we share some tips for decluttering and packing ahead of an international move so you can enjoy a smoother transition to your new home.
Start Early and Make a Plan
The key to a successful move is organisation. Start as early as possible, ideally two to three months before the move date. Create a timeline with key tasks like sorting through your belongings, deciding what to take, organising travel documents, and finalising the move with a removal company, such as Moving Home Made Easy. Early planning gives you time to declutter properly and avoid last-minute panic.
Sort Through Each Room Methodically
When decluttering, it’s important to tackle one room at a time. Go through current living spaces and sort everything into categories: items you want to keep, things you can donate or sell, and items that should be thrown away. Don’t be afraid to be ruthless. Do you really need that stack of old magazines or those clothes that you haven’t worn in years? If you haven’t used something in the last year, it’s probably time to let it go. Sorting by room helps to focus on small tasks, making the whole process more manageable.
Donate, Sell, or Recycle
Don’t forget to dispose of things responsibly once you’ve decided what you no longer need. Donate gently used clothing, furniture, or kitchen items to charity shops, organise a garage sale or sell items on free resale websites to make some money for unwanted items. If something is beyond repair, take it to a recycling centre rather than throwing it away. This is a great way to declutter while helping others and reducing your carbon footprint.
Use the ‘Four-Box Method’
The ‘Four-Box Method’ is a simple technique that involves setting up four boxes for each room: one for things to keep, one for items to sell or donate, one for things to throw away, and one for items to store for later. This method helps keep everything organised and prevents you from getting overwhelmed by the sheer volume of belongings. It’s also useful for those tricky items and things you’re unsure about. Once you’ve filled the boxes, it’s easier to see what you really need to keep.
Use the Right Packing Supplies
For an international move, proper packing materials are essential. Invest in strong high-quality boxes, tape, and bubble wrap to ensure your belongings stay safe during the journey. Use storage boxes or suitcases to make packing clothes easier. Take advantage of any existing bags or containers, like laundry baskets or storage bins, to save on buying extra supplies. Labelling boxes is also crucial. Write clear descriptions on each box and note which room they belong to, making it easier to unpack once you arrive.
Don’t Overpack
When packing for a move abroad, it’s easy to get carried away, but it’s important to remember that you’ll have limited space in your new home and that shipping costs for large items can add up quickly. Be selective about the items you choose to bring. It’s often cheaper and easier to buy new furniture or household items once you’ve settled in, rather than paying for the shipping of bulky items. Why not plan ahead and order furniture online before you move, to have it delivered once you’re settled in? This could save shipping costs and time delays.
Keep Important Documents and Valuables Separate
When packing for an international move, keep your most important documents, such as passports, visas, and insurance papers, in a safe, easily accessible place. The last thing you want is to rummage through boxes to find these crucial items when you arrive. Similarly, any valuables like jewellery, heirlooms, or electronics should be packed separately and safely, ideally with you, rather than in the moving shipment. This way, you can be sure they’re secure and won’t be lost in transit.
Use a Professional Removal Company
One of the best ways to reduce the stress of the whole process is by hiring a professional removal company. Moving Home Made Easy specialises in international removals, offering expert services that make moving abroad as smooth and seamless as possible. We can assist with everything from packing to transportation and delivery, ensuring your belongings are securely shipped and arrive on time.
We can assist with packing services if you’re short on time or want to ensure your items are packed safely and efficiently. Our team is also trained to handle delicate items, large furniture, and all types of belongings. Having a team of professionals on your side can make a huge difference when moving abroad.
Ready to Make a Move Abroad?
Decluttering and packing for an international move can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be stressful if you prepare. Start early, declutter wisely, and pack carefully to ensure everything arrives safely and securely. With international removals, hiring a professional service like Moving Home Made Easy can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth, stress-free move abroad. Contact us today for more information on our packing and shipping services.
