How to Unpack After Moving:

1. Purge Before and After the Move

Purge on both ends of moving. Doing an edit of what you are really truly using as you pack up, AND as you unpack after moving, helps to set your home up for success. For example, if you haven't used your second set of kitchen utensils in over a year, don't waste time or space by taking them to your new home. While unpacking, if you find yourself forgetting about certain items as you take them out of the box, that may be a sign to let them go.

2. Break Down Boxes As You Go

There is nothing worse than feeling like your house is unpacked and ready, only to have a mountain of boxes looming in the basement or garage. Have a specified destination for boxes to be donated or recycled once broken down. Keep box cutters in designated areas (I suggest one on each floor of the house) so they don't get misplaced.

3. Map Out Your New Home

Be intentional about where things get placed. Doing this before you unpack will save you from having to go in and reorganize a few months down the road. Take advantage of the empty space! Map out the areas of your home that make sense to you (especially if you have helpers). Prioritize the items that are the most important to you and require prime real estate in your closets and cabinets. For example, use Post-its to signify where you want your dishes and silverware to go ahead of time. Once dressers are placed in the right bedrooms, use Post-its to lay out what clothing items go where.

4. Work in Zones

Unpack in zones. Tackle the kitchen first, then bedrooms and bathrooms. I recommend doing this because the kitchen is the hub of the house - you'll feel more settled and at home once it's done. It's easier to live out of suitcases and boxes in the bathroom and bedrooms. Once a space is close to completion, create a punch list and shopping list for immediate needs, then move on to the next space.

5. Take Your Time

Don't get overwhelmed. Unpacking after moving takes hundreds of hours. When we unpack our clients, we come in with a team of organizing professionals and it takes multiple days. If you are doing it on your own, it will take a significant amount of time and that is ok. Celebrate the little victories. Have a bag packed with essentials to get you through the first few days (think toilet paper, cleaning supplies, toiletries, and clothing), and recognize that getting settled takes TIME.