Five ways to downsize your possessions before you move

"I'm sure it will all fit," is a common refrain but the reality is that everything isn't going to fit. Often the hardest part of moving to a smaller residence is not the actual move, but understanding the importance of downsizing your possessions beforehand.

So if you're planning a move, here are five tips to get you started:

• Mark your calendar for a weekly 'decluttering' session.You'll be surprised what you can accomplish in 15 minutes. Clear out a sock or underwear drawer. Do a shelf in your linen closet. Do a bookshelf. This is a good weekly habit that will help you rightsize your move.


• Trim your Fall and Winter gear.Think about what you've actually worn this winter so far, and then trim your Fall and Winter clothing and your boots or skis to what you need. Plus, if your children have left home, they may have left all their old gear behind too.


• Recycle old cups and saucers.With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's a great time to recycle some of those old cups and saucers and pass along a few memories. Put a sticker on the bottom of the saucers to say when you received them and why and then start filling them with chocolates to hand out to your grandchildren and friends.


• Spring clean your closet in March.You may be holding onto something because you have gained or lost weight and hope it will fit later. It's better to recycle it and give it to someone else now. Then you can treat yourself to something new that fits perfectly.


• Say 'yes' next time you get a call from a local charity.You may not think you have anything to donate this month, but take a look around for something you don't really need. Someone less fortunate might find it useful.

 

Remember, a little decluttering and downsizing now will ensure that "it will all fit" when it comes time to move.