Moving? Get organized for a happy move

Between contents and clutter, packing up a home is a huge job. Most people underestimate how much stuff they have and how long it will take to sort through it all!

Fortunately there are some easy techniques to help you get a jump-start on decluttering. The following steps will help get your home organized and ready for a summer move. We recommend the following tips:

1. Start by sorting and organizing closets.

It’s time to get serious – if you don’t wear it, get rid of it. There is no point to moving unwanted items, it’s just extra work, time and money. Wardrobe boxes offer excellent space for hanging coats, sweaters and snow pants.

2. Sort out items no longer used.

Families outgrow things, styles change, needs change too. If it hasn’t been touched in more than a year, then it probably won’t be again. Set aside a couple of empty boxes for donations or items to sell.

3. Use sturdy boxes with dividers for packing breakables.

Make sure cardboard boxes are structurally sound. Dish-pack boxes with adjustable inserts that form individual cells are a great option for fragile items.

4. Think Green.

Survey local recycling options to find the most convenient solution for recyclables. Organize recyclables by category: plastic, glass, aluminum, paper, cardboard, etc. Earth911.com can help you find recycling dropoffs for different materials and products.

5. Care for hazardous materials.

Be conscientious about the materials being disposed. Toxic items such as paint, batteries, house cleaning products, automobile oils, pesticides, and fertilizers are dangerous to transport and should not be thrown away with nontoxic garbage. These items should be taken to specialized depots.

6. Pack it up if it’s out of circulation.

Start packing. Box up those things that won’t be used – like fall and winter equipment and clothing, mementoes and fine china. The stuff at the back of your closet that you’re keeping, but don’t use regularly. If you start packing in spring you’ll be ready for that summer move.