Use the “Move-Out-Method” of Organizing (Even Before You Move)

Decluttering your living space can seem like an overwhelming task, but a popular approach called “the moving method” can help simplify what at first glance seems a complicated process. To give credit where it’s due, we didn’t invent the concept ourselves. “The moving method” is actually the brainchild of Katie Holdefehr, a decorating and organization expert and author of Embrace Your Space. 

The basic premise of “the moving method” is to pretend you’re downsizing as part of prepping for a real move. Getting into this mindset automatically turns decluttering from “I’ll get to it eventually” into a situation where you’re compelled to make strategic decisions about what stays and what goes. This advantage to this approach is that it helps you avoid getting in the weeds about every small item or detail.  

If you’re thinking about making a move but have no set plans yet, “the moving method” is a wonderful exercise for prepping in advance, giving you that much less to do once you’ve set a specific date. Even better, the process is scalable because it establishes a structured process for efficiently decluttering every part of your home — whether it’s a broom closet, a bedroom or even your garage.   

According to Holdefehr, there are six key steps needed to execute “the moving method” successfully: 

1. Set a Hypothetical Move Date 

Establish a specific deadline and objectives for completing your decluttering project, just as you would when planning a move. 

2. Clear Everything Out 

Remove all items from the designated space and place them far enough away so as not to interfere with the task at hand. 

3. Decide What to Keep 

Evaluate each item critically, asking yourself whether it would make the cut if you were really moving. Whatever passes the test goes in your “keeper” pile.  

4. Get Rid of What’s Left 

Sort the remaining items into piles for tossing, donating, or selling. Consider holding a porch or garage sale. For larger items, here’s a list of charities that offer free pickup.  

5. Clean the Empty Space  

Cluttered spaces tend to accumulate a lot of dust and dirt. Take advantage of the newly cleared space and give it a thorough cleaning before putting items into it. 

6. Move the “Keepers” Back In 

Place what’s left back into the space in an organized, clutter-free manner that will be easy to maintain. 

Not Sure About Certain Items? 

If you’re still anxious about letting go of some of your things, try Holdefehr’s “cardboard box test.” Just pack items you’re not sure about keeping into a box, set a specific date to revisit them, and if you haven’t needed the items by that time, toss or donate.  

Remember, the beauty of this approach is you don’t have to declutter your entire house at once. The trick here is to keep the momentum going, room by room and space by space until your home is rid of all the excess items you no longer use or need. By embracing the “Moving Out Method” and its professional approach to decluttering, you can create a more organized, efficient and enjoyable living space long before any moving van arrives.  

When Moving Time Comes…  

Get a no-obligation quote from Mayflower, the nation’s most trusted mover. Count on us for expert full-service moving packages, packing and unpacking services, and other moving solutions. 

We also hope you’ll check out the useful content we have available on subjects like packing your belongings and settling into your new neighborhood as well as our guides to regional cuisines, cities and more. And our digital magazine, Welcome HOME, is a must-read for any savvy mover!