What to Store and What to Toss: A Guide to Decluttering Before You Move

Moving is a fresh start, but the process can be overwhelming. As you pack, you’ll inevitably face a mountain of belongings. Deciding what to keep, what to store, and what to get rid of is the most crucial step. Decluttering saves you time and money on moving and makes your new space feel organized from day one. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.

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woman looks through old photos while packing

Sentimental Items

You don't need to keep every ticket stub or childhood drawing. The "one-in, one-out" rule works wonders: for every box of old photos you keep, consider digitizing a handful. For items you can’t part with but don’t need in your new home, a secure storage unit is a great option.

collection of VHS tapes on top of VCR

Duplicated and Outdated Items

Take a hard look at your belongings. Items that are broken, outdated, or duplicates of things you already own are prime candidates for the trash or donation pile. Clearing these out will make packing much faster and lighter.

woman looks at loveseat while moving

Bulky Furniture

Moving large, heavy furniture can be surprisingly expensive. Before you pay to transport that old couch or bookshelf, ask yourself if it's truly needed. Compare the cost of moving it versus the cost of buying a new piece. Sometimes, starting fresh is the most cost-effective option. If you're keeping a bulky item but need temporary space, consider a storage unit to keep it safe during your transition.

person shredding and digitizing documents

Important Documents

Paperwork is a major source of clutter. For important documents like medical and financial records, consider digitizing them and storing them in the cloud. Shred old bills or sensitive information to protect your identity. You’ll save valuable box space and make organization a breeze.

Moving is a chance to reset. By following these simple steps, you can avoid a chaotic moving day and walk into a new home that feels organized and spacious. For the items you choose to keep but don't need right away, Iron Self Storage is here to help. Our secure, well-maintained units are the perfect place to store your belongings and keep your new home clutter-free. Visit our website today to reserve your unit!

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