15 Tips Professionals Recommend for Downsizing
Frequent movers know that no matter how hard we try we end up gathering stuff that ends up of no use to us in the long term. Studies show that as little as ten months of stay in one place can accumulate extra stuff as much as two full suitcases. When you plan to move from one place to another without downsizing or decluttering you end up spending money on moving things which is of no use to you.
Thus, at Kingdom International Movers one of the oldest moving companies in Saudi Arabia, we always suggest our clients downsize before they move. This not only helps in reducing the moving cost but also helps in saving the time required for moving. In this blog, we are sharing 15 of the most recommended professional moving tips for downsizing your home before you move. Do share this blog, with all your friends and family even if they aren’t planning to move they may downsize their home and get some extra storage space.
1. The right Mindset is the First Thing
When downsizing your home recognize that you are in control of your belongings. When it no longer benefits you, you have the option to discard it or keep it and nothing should force you into keeping things you find no use of. While getting rid of stuff, a lot of emotions might surface, with dread being a common one. The dread that something will be missed once it’s gone, that a loved one will discover you didn’t retain their gift, which you never really liked anyway, or that you will eventually need something you got rid of in the future. Top international movers in Saudi Arabia say that the majority of things aren’t needed that we hoard and if you like something very much you should retain it.
2. Declutter Before You Downsize
Most people confuse downsizing and decluttering as the same thing. In reality, most of the packers and movers in Saudi Arabia say that downsizing and decluttering are two different things. Downsizing is you choose to reduce the number of things you have like furniture, clothes, and other things you own. Whereas decluttering means you organize everything that you own. As a thumb rule, most movers including Kingdom International Movers suggest decluttering before you downsize. By doing so it becomes easier to decide what you want to get rid of and downsize efficiently before you move to your new place.
3. Choose Your Downsizing Partner Carefully
When you are mercilessly decluttering your stuff, you don’t want your nice friend who always agrees with you by your side because he or she will agree to everything you say. Having someone by your side for a task like this can greatly lift your spirits; just make sure it’s someone who will help you stay focused and who is not only positive but also realistic, practical, and objective. The best thing would be to hire reputable movers and packers in Riyadh like Kingdom International Movers.
4. Break larger tasks into smaller tasks
If it seems overwhelming, pick a few tasks from your to-do list and then go ahead. For instance, you can decide to focus only on the cutlery drawer and glass cupboard on day 1 rather than cleaning the entire kitchen. The happiness of finishing little tasks will build up and provide you with the drive to continue.
5. Categorize
This is the tried-and-tested method by various moving companies in Saudi Arabia for organizing any area. Categorize things into boxes or containers like donating, trash, selling, and gifting. This will make downsizing easier and less cumbersome.
You may also find interesting to read about “Pros and Cons of Moving to an Unfurnished Home.”
6. Deal with One Room at a Time
When you begin decluttering one area, ensure you complete it before moving on to the other areas. It is far too simple to become sidetracked, become absorbed in other areas, and never truly finish one area before moving on to another.
7. Take Frequent Breaks
Downsizing your possessions takes a lot of mental strength. In a brief amount of time, you are making numerous selections regarding numerous topics. To keep up with the task, your brain requires breaks and refreshments. You know it’s time for a break when you feel like you’re hitting a brick wall and can’t decide on anything. Some of the top movers in Riyadh suggest taking a mini break of 10-15 minutes every couple of hours. In these ways, you will efficiently complete downsizing without having burnout.
8. Decide Where You Will Donate Beforehand
If you have decided to donate your stuff then it is wiser to decide a place before you begin downsizing. You don’t want to end up being in a situation where your stuff is ready to go but no one is ready to accept the donation. This will waste your time and energy at the last moment.
9. Plan a Fun Activity at the End of the Day
All professional movers in Riyadh relax and have a little bit of fun time at the end of their shift. All would go for the evening tea or relax in the office post finishing their moving tasks. This gives them energy and rejuvenation to come the next day and look forward to the work. Similarly, if you are doing DIY downsizing plan a fun activity at the end of the day. Like a walk with your pet, playtime with your kids, or simply a movie night with your spouse. It will be refreshing to add this.
Do read our tips to fill extra space in your new home after moving.
10. Always Remember Why You Decided to Downsize
Why did you decide to walk the path of decluttering, remind yourself often of the purpose of this work and the satisfaction you will have upon doing it. Imagine yourself happily living in your new house. Going to the office every day because your dream career began and all of this was possible because you decided to downsize and get rid of extra unwanted stuff.
11. Create a Memory Box
Ask any moving company in Riyadh and the staff will say that keeping memories is a great thing. A memory box might be the best option if you have sentimental objects that you are finding hard to part with.
12. Shred Personal Information
If you have excess copies of documents that contain your personal information then it is the best idea to shred them and discard them properly. Shredding will ensure that all your essential information is discarded and won’t reach any unwanted hands.
Also read our blog titled “Essential Cleaning Checklist for Moving Out of Your Home.”
13. Don’t Forget Food and Medicine
While downsizing before you relocate to Saudi Arabia, make sure you take care of your food items, eatables, and medicines as well. Some food items with a long shelf life may not remain good during transit, so it is best to either dispose of them if they are nearing their expiration date or donate them.
14. Measure Your New Space
Whenever you are making decisions on furniture pieces it is always a good idea to measure your new space and then decide to keep or let go of a furniture piece.
15. Don’t Be Harsh On Yourself
If you have amassed a large collection of possessions over your lifetime, downsizing may be quite a task. Recall that it took you a lifetime to acquire it all, and sorting through it will likewise take some time. It’s okay if your downsizing doesn’t proceed as smoothly or quickly as anticipated. It’s more important to stay real and to finish something at a reasonable speed.
