The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Moving is chaotic by nature.
It sounds pretty basic, but the key lies in a rock-solid system.
She’s the queen of creating functional systems that keep everything in order.
The Spruce / Jason Donnelly
Here, Kelly shares her golden rules for labeling moving boxes so you canstay calm and collectedduring the transition.
Meet the Expert
Kathryn KellyofRefresh Organizingis a professional organizer.
Kelly recommends sorting your items by the room they will belong in your new home.
The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo
She also suggests using a color coding system as you start to create the labels for each box.
Purchase a rainbow assortment of colored duct tape or large stickers.
For example, jot down Kitchen - pots and pans or Bedroom - bedding.
The Spruce / Michelle Becker
If a box contains fragile items, clearly label it as Fragile or Handle with Care.
Also, write an instructions label on any boxes that require specific storage conditions.
This will ensure that you have easy access to these items.
These are the things that you’ll use immediately upon arrival, like your coffee supplies and daily medications.
Label these boxes as “Open First” and be sure to note the room location as well.
“There are a number of items to track in a move,” Kelly says.
This comprehensive sheet doesn’t necessarily need to list every item you own.
You’ll need this information for insurance claims if anything goes missing along the way.
One that Kelly has researched and is looking forward to trying out herself isToteScan.
However, Kelly encourages you to consider the following pros and cons of using an app before committing.
You should know exactly what you own and where each item should go when you unpack.
Owning too many items makes this difficult, butdecluttering can help.
So before any packing begins, take the time to examine and pair down what you own.
In the end, you will have fewer items to pack and move, which will streamline the process.
“Begin with the end in mind,” Kelly says.
Moving is a great opportunity to reset your belongings and start fresh in your new environment."
