Moving can be very stressful. One of the biggest challenges can be realizing that whether you gained space or downsized, your possessions just don't fit the way they did in your old home. Most people want to unpack and get settled in as soon as possible. When things don't fit where you expect them to it can be tempting to just get rid of them. Before you donate half of your stuff keep in mind that it takes some time to get to know your new home. You may change your mind several times in those first few weeks and months about what fits and what doesn't. We're not suggesting that you dodge boxes. Keep reading for some tips on what to do with your stuff while you decide and how you can use Stockpile to help.
Start with the Essentials
There are certain things that you know you'll need, clothes, silverware, cookware, electronics. Find homes for those things first. It'll give you a great sense of accomplishment and help you start to see how much room you have in your new home. For more on using Stockpile during a move check out our previous post.
Deck It Out
Those first few nights in a new place can feel a little strange. It's almost like you brought everything you own to a hotel. It's nice but it doesn't feel like home. There's nothing like some photos and decorations to make your house feel like a home. Start with something simple. You shouldn't try to do everything at once. It may be a cherished photo that deserves a place of honor or just a favorite knick knack. Whatever you choose, take some time to try it out in a few spots before you choose one. Some pieces may work in several different places but there may be others that will only work in a particular spot. You don't want to paint yourself into a corner by making a rushed decision.
Homeless Leftovers
Once you start decorating you're going to find some items that just don't seem to fit. Designate a box, bin, or shelf somewhere to hold all those misfits. Before you shuffle them away take a photo and create an item record in Stockpile. Adding items is quick and easy so it won't take you long at all to account for all the pieces. Because Stockpile is customizable you choose which fields to include in item records. Record the important details such as size, color, and any requirements such as how something has to be hung. You can also include specifics like coordinating pieces, sentimental reasons for keeping it, or anything else that you might like to be able to look up later. Having a photo will definitely jog your memory down the road so that you don't have to pull the item out of storage until you're sure have an idea of what to do with it.
As you create records be very specific about where the items are stored. You'll want to use both areas and locations. This may seem like overkill but, trust us, you'll be glad that you did when it comes time to find something. The best part is that you can view your data even when you're away from home. All you need is a mobile device and an internet connection. This can really come in handy when you're in a store debating a new purchase.
Good luck getting unpacked and settled in. Ready to get started? Try Stockpile today!
