Hey there and welcome to the final installment of the moving series (catch up on parts one, two and three here). This week we’re chatting all about unpacking. I hope you will dogear this for the next time you move (or maybe even share with a friend who is doing the same!). For this last part of the moving 101 series, I’m downloading all of my best unpacking tips including where to start, the one thing you should ask your movers and how long it should actually take you to unpack (its longer than you might think!).

Where to start

Unpacking is the total opposite of packing. Instead of packing from least used to most, you are going to unpack from most used areas to least used. If you are using movers, make sure to ask them to place boxes in their designated rooms as they unload (or do this yourself!). This will make it so much easier to unpack and start enjoying your new home.

Set a goal to unpack all boxes within the first 30 days.

Your first day goal:

1. get the beds set up (most movers will help with this)

2. ensure kitchen and bath essentials are accessible.

These are also things you will want to unpack from your “first day” box(es). Here are a few common items:

• Toiletries for each family member

• Pet food and water plus bowls

• Coffee maker and coffee

• Fridge and freezer items

• Sheets for beds

• A change of clothes and pajamas

If you’re able to tackle these things on the first day, you will set yourself up for success. From there, focus on key areas that you use most. Generally, this is the kitchen, closets, a drop zone and bathrooms.

A key part to successful unpacking is setting up organized systems from the start. If you purged before you packed (read more about that here), then you've already done the hardest part. Way to go!

Be methodical. Think about how you want to use the space and the flow. Allow yourself to make tweaks to your systems as you figure out how you use your space. But whatever you do, don’t unpack for the sake of unpacking.

Unpacking the Kitchen

For the kitchen, use post its to outline where you want everything to go BEFORE you start unpacking. I like to use the following zones in kitchens:

• Cooking:

  • Think pots, pans, and oils, vinegars, spices and cooking utensils

  • Pick an area that is near and around the stove

• Baking: mixing bowls, flours and sugars, cookie sheets, cookie cutters

• Small appliances:

  • Think small appliances that are not used daily

  • Choose a lower large cabinet and avoid high shelves for safety (they can be heavy and bulky)

  • Store all the accessories near the associated appliance

• Pantry: food and backstock food, paper products

• Kids drawer: kid cups and plates, snacks

• Food storage (tupperware and ziplocs). Make packing lunches and storing leftovers easy by putting this all in one area

• Everyday:

  • Think everyday china, silverware and cups

  • Place in an area convenient to the dishwasher to make unloading even easier

  • Don’t be afraid to use drawers for your plates and bowls

• Coffee and Tea

  • Coffee maker likely on the counter

  • Don’t forget items like your Coffee grinder, chemex, tea pot, and frother if you have those

  • Coffee mugs in a cabinet next to the coffee maker

• Entertaining + Barware

  • Think fine china, serving platters, wine glasses, and crystal

  • Paper plates and cups may also land here

  • Group party napkins, table linens and runners in this area if you have room

  • If you don't have room in your kitchen, this is the category that can find a spot elsewhere

Establishing a drop zone

In my last move, I prioritized our drop zones and it made a big difference. You might be thinking, I have so many boxes to unpack! Why should I stop and do this? A drop zone sets the tone for organization from the moment you walk into a house. It also keeps clutter from getting into the living spaces.

First, think about which door you will use most for coming in and out of your home. Next, create a makeshift spot for shoes, jackets and bags. This will go a long way in keeping clutter at bay as you work to unpack. You will also be able to see how you use your space and make a plan for a more permanent drop zone later down the road. Read more about my drop zone journey here.

Donate Bin

Last but not least, go ahead and set up a donate bin. As you unpack, you will continue to find items that don’t have a place in your new place or that you no longer need. Use an old moving box, label it and place those things there.

Catch up on the Moving 101 series here: