The Ultimate Guide to Moving and Organizing Your New Home

We all know spring is the season for fresh starts – that’s why we talk about decluttering, getting organized, and cleaning out.  But what if your fresh start is a little bigger than that?  Every year about this time, we start seeing “FOR SALE” signs popping up in neighborhoods across our community.  With the end of school in (distant) sight, folks oftentimes begin gearing up for a summer move.  And while summer may still seem a ways off, it’s never too early to start planning to ensure your move goes as smoothly as possible. 

Moving into a new home is an exciting chapter, but it can also be a daunting task. From packing up your old space to organizing your new one, the process requires careful planning and smart strategies to ensure a smooth transition. One of the key challenges after moving is optimizing storage in your new home, especially in areas like the closet, pantry, and garage. This ultimate guide will provide you with tips and tricks for moving and organizing your new home efficiently, with a focus on maximizing storage in these critical areas.

Step 1: Pre-Move Decluttering

Before you even start packing, take the time to declutter your belongings. Moving is the perfect opportunity to assess what you really need and let go of items that no longer serve a purpose. Go through each room, including your closet, pantry, and garage, and create three categories: keep, donate, and discard.

By decluttering before the move, you’ll reduce the number of items you need to pack and unpack, making the process more manageable. Plus, you’ll start your new home with a clean slate, free from unnecessary clutter.

Step 2: Create a Moving Plan

A well-organized move begins with a solid plan. When we moved into our hoe 4 years ago, my husband was thoroughly amused at the level of spreadsheets, flow charts, diagrams and reference guides I had created so we could be move-in ready.  We were combining two households and several storage units so it was a three-ring circus, but we got it done!

Create a moving checklist that outlines all the tasks you need to complete before, during, and after the move. This includes scheduling movers, gathering packing supplies, and labeling boxes for easy unpacking.

When packing, label each box by room and include a brief description of its contents. For items that will be stored in specific areas like the closet, pantry, or garage, make sure those boxes are clearly marked. This will help you prioritize unpacking and make it easier to set up these spaces efficiently.

Step 3: Organizing Your Closet

Once you’ve moved into your new home, start by organizing your closet. A well-organized closet not only makes it easier to find your clothes but also maximizes storage space.

• Invest in Custom Closets: If your new home’s closet space is limited, use this planning time to investing in custom closets. Given the required lead time, the timing can work out perfectly between now and when you’re ready to move it.  These spaces can be designed to fit your specific needs, with adjustable shelves, built-in drawers, and hanging space tailored to your wardrobe.
• Use Vertical Space: Don’t forget to utilize vertical space by installing additional shelves or using stackable storage bins, and wall-mounted storage. This is particularly useful for storing seasonal items or accessories that you don’t need every day.
• Organize by Category and Color: You’ve heard me say this before… Group similar items together and arrange them by color for a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate closet. This method will save you time when getting dressed and keep your closet looking neat.

Step 4: Setting Up Your Pantry

They say you’re not truly settled until you’ve got pictures hanging on walls; but for the the true test of being “home” means a fully functioning pantry.  An organized pantry is essential for efficient meal preparation and maintaining a clutter-free kitchen. After moving, focus on setting up your pantry in a way that maximizes storage and keeps everything within reach.

• Use Clear Containers: Transfer pantry staples like rice, pasta, and cereals into clear, airtight containers. This not only keeps your food fresh but also makes it easy to see what you have on hand.
• Label Everything: Label your containers and shelves to maintain order in your pantry. Group similar items together, such as baking supplies, snacks, and canned goods, to create a logical flow.
• Incorporate Baskets and Bins: Use baskets and bins to corral smaller items like spices, packets, or snacks. This keeps your pantry tidy and prevents items from getting lost in the back.

Step 5: Organizing Your Garage

The garage is often the last area to get organized, but it plays a crucial role in your home’s overall functionality. A well-organized garage can serve as a storage hub for tools, outdoor gear, and seasonal items.  Or even for parking a car!  A novel idea here in Texas - haha

• Install Shelving and Cabinets: Maximize your garage’s storage potential by installing sturdy shelving units and cabinets. Use these to store items that you don’t need every day, like holiday decorations, sports equipment, and gardening tools.
• Use Wall Space: Hang tools, bikes, and other equipment on wall-mounted hooks or slatwall. Motorized overhead storage is a handy way to clear the floor of bikes, kayaks and other larger items you want to access regularly but are too big to lift.  This frees up floor space and keeps your garage organized and clutter-free.
• Create Zones: Divide your garage into zones based on how you use the space. For example, designate one area for tools and DIY projects, another for outdoor gear, and a third for car maintenance supplies.

Moving into a new home isn’t just a fresh start in a new place, it can be an opportunity to start fresh creating new habits for an organized living space. By starting early and coming up with a plan of action that includes before, during and after, with a focus on those critical utilitarian spaces in your home, you can ensure a smooth transition and a well-organized home. Wishing you all the best in your new home for a haven of efficiency and order!