2 Must Do Things Before You Start Even Packing for a Move!

So we decided now that I have a new job that has been giving me an hour long commute that it is time to really put our money where our mouths are and finally figure out where we're going to move next. We started out the process thinking we'd rent again but with the rental prices being ridiculous now we're looking to buy! Besides that whole crazy part we're starting to get ourselves ready to move. There is so much that needs to be done beforehand it's crazy. 

Before we can even begin to pack there are a two major things that need to be worked on. Trust me it's going to be so much easier in the long run if you do these two before anything else. 

Move less

Since we're taking a step back and taking a little more time because we're buying we are now able to take some time to do some more heavy decluttering. If you've got the time decluttering before you move is the way to go. Besides not having to deal with it when you get to your new place it can actually save you money if you don't have to move as much stuff. Be sure if it's in good shape to donate or sell it before you leave don't just pitch it. If you don't have time to declutter before because of sudden job relocation or something else take time to do it as you're unpacking those boxes in the new place. 

Since I'm a bit of a stock pile type of person we're working on using up things too. Especially when it comes to food in our pantry and freezer. Not that we can't move that type of stuff but it's going to make things easier. Be sure to go through your food stuffs and get rid of things that are expired or need to be pitched before you move. Why move those 6 cans of expired corn if you are just going to pitch them? Work on eating through your freezer and pantry too. I've been trying hard to make recipes and meals that include mostly items we already have. 

Make a plan

Not having a plan is the perfect way to make yourself super stressed, spend way too much money on the move and make things way more difficult then they need to be. I cannot tell you how overwhelmed I'm feeling right now about buying a place and moving. I can't imagine having to do it across country or to another country all together. So having a plan is critical! We're working on planning how we're going to pack the next couple of months, what changes we want to make to the town home before we even move in and the move itself. That's a lot to keep track of. 

Starting to think through all of the little parts of a move will really make sure you're not stressed and it's the best way to save money too. Just thinking through the supplies has made me start asking friends, family and co-workers to save boxes and packing materials. Since then we've gotten tons of everything so I don't think we'll have an issue not buying any of those items. If I wasn't planning I wouldn't have thought to start pulling those items together now. 
I've got a printable worksheet to help you with the pre-planning! I've got the main areas you need to think about for your move and plenty of room around for all sorts of notes. I always am writing notes in the margins and next to lists. What are your tips when it comes to the planning phase of a move? 

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