Moving abroad is an exciting new chapter, but it can also feel overwhelming starting to think about packing up the entire house. One of the best ways to make the process smoother, and even save money on transport, is to declutter before moving. Sorting through belongings helps homeowners decide what to take, what to sell, and what to leave behind, making the move far more manageable. Decluttering will not only lighten the load but also ensure the new home feels fresh and organised from day one. Here, we’ll share practical tips on how to declutter a home before relocating, and how the expert team at Algarve Removals is here to help ensure a stress-free move to Portugal.
Start Early and Plan Ahead
Decluttering takes time, so the earlier planning starts, the less stressful it will be. Ideally, start at least a couple of months before the big move. Create a room-by-room checklist and set aside specific days to tackle each area. Breaking the job into smaller chunks helps avoid that last-minute rush, ensuring homeowners feel confident and organised as moving day approaches.
Focus on Bulky Items First
Large furniture, old appliances, or items that are rarely used often take up the most space and cost the most to transport. Selling or donating bulky items that aren’t needed can significantly cut down on shipping costs. At Algarve Removals, we’ve helped countless families relocate, so we are confident in offering advice on what’s practical to bring and what’s better to replace once upon arrival in Portugal.
Be Ruthless With Clothing and Personal Items
Clothes, shoes, and accessories are easy to accumulate over the years. When decluttering, be honest about what items actually get worn. If something hasn’t been worn in over a year, it’s probably best left behind. The same goes for books, toys, and home décor. Consider what will truly be useful in Portugal and what will just take up unnecessary space. Remember, moving abroad is a fresh start, so embrace the chance to simplify.
Organise Important Documents
When decluttering, don’t forget about paperwork. Moving abroad requires easy access to passports, medical records, financial documents, and property papers. Gather these together and store them in a secure folder that can be kept on your person rather than packing them away with household items. This prevents stressful searches later and ensures all the paperwork is ready and to-hand when they’re needed along the journey.
Make Use of Storage Options
If there are belongings that are wanted but aren’t needed immediately in Portugal, storage is a great option. At Algarve Removals, we offer secure storage facilities for both long and short term storage options, meaning personal belongings can be held securely whilst homeowners complete the admin of moving and then move their items in at a later date. This flexibility is especially useful for those downsizing or waiting to move into their new home abroad
How Algarve Removals Can Help
Decluttering is just the first step in a relocation. Once items have been organised and sorted through, choosing the right removal partner makes all the difference. At Algarve Removals, we provide a complete service for those moving to Portugal, including:
- Full and part-load packing services tailored to your needs.
- Door-to-door delivery from the UK to Portugal.
- New furniture delivery direct from the store to your new home.
- Secure storage solutions in both countries.
As one of the leading international moving companies in Portugal, we specialise in making moves smooth, reliable, and stress-free. Whether you’re relocating a few boxes or an entire household, our experienced team ensures everything arrives safely at the new home.
Make the Move With Today with Expert Help
Decluttering before an international move might seem like hard work, but it’s one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and make relocating simpler. By carefully deciding what to keep, sell, or donate, homeowners not only save on transport costs but also enjoy a fresh start in a new home abroad.
For those looking to make the move from the UK to Portugal, Algarve Removals is here to help. With our professional packing, shipping, and storage services, we’ll make sure your relocation is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our experts are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to start planning your move, and take the first step towards your new life in Portugal with confidence.
