Preparing for a Move in the Fall Without Losing Your Mind

With the heat it's hard to think about Fall, but if you are planning to move in the Fall, now is the time to start planning. For the most part it can still be a busy time for moving, especially if you're trying to settle into a new space before the holidays or after the kids are back in school.

Whether you're downsizing, relocating for work, or finally making that next-step move, here’s how to make it easier, smoother, and a lot less stressful.

1. Preparing for a Move: Start Decluttering Now!!!

Don’t wait until you’re packing to decide what to keep. Decluttering early makes packing faster, moving cheaper, and unpacking a breeze.

🔹 Focus on one room at a time

🔹 Use the 3-box method: Keep, Donate, Trash

🔹 Be ruthless with duplicates and “just in case” items

🧠 Bonus Tip: If you’re downsizing, measure your new space to be sure everything fits before you pack it.

2. Pack Non-Essentials in Advance

Think seasonal décor, books, extra linens, and off-season clothing. You can start boxing up these items 4–6 weeks ahead of your move date.

📦 Label boxes by room + contents. Use colored dot stickers to code by room (we love this system at Decluttered™!) Keep your handwriting clear and consistent on all boxes.

3. Create a Moving Binder (or Digital Folder)

A dedicated place for:

• Contracts with movers

• Moving checklist

• Receipts (some expenses may be deductible if you are relocating)

• Address change list

• Floor plan of your new home

  
  

This helps you stay on top of the logistics—and keep your sanity intact.

4. Book Professional Help Early

Fall may not be as busy as summer, but pros still book up fast. That includes:

• Movers

• Cleaners

• Junk haulers

• And yes… professional organizers! We are particularly busy every Fall and Holiday season!

  
  

At Decluttered™, we can help you:

• Declutter and prep before your move

• Pack non-breakables and essentials

• Coordinate labeling and move-day logistics

• Unpack & set up systems in your new home

  
  

📍We serve both Dallas-Ft Worth in Texas and Rhode Island (including parts of Connecticut & Massachusetts), and we’d love to support your fall transition.

5. Have an “Open First” Box

When preparing for a move, you must have a survival kit for the first 24–48 hours. Include the following:

• Toilet paper

• Sheets and towels

• Chargers

• Snacks

• Napkins, paper plates & plasticware

• A change of clothes (or more if planning to stay offsite during the move)

• Basic tools and scissors

• Pet or baby essentials

• Laundry basket with cleaning supplies and paper towels

  
  

🧳 Pro Tip: Keep this box in your car, not on the moving truck.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If the thought of moving makes you want to hide under the covers, we get it. A professional organizer can lighten the load and keep the chaos in check—before, during, and after your move.

📦 Let Decluttered™ help make your move smooth and stress-free. We offer personalized move management services in Texas and New England. Reach out now to book your late summer or fall session!