Unpacking Strategies

So you’ve packed all of your belongings, loaded the truck and headed to your new living quarters. You’re excited, proud and relieved to have achieved these first steps of your relocation. Be sure to hold on to some of that excited energy because now it’s time to unload and unpack. For some, this is the joy of moving; a chance to reorganize and start with a clean slate. For others, unpacking is a never-ending nightmare. Here are some pointers for common situations that get in the way of the unpacking process.

“There’s too much to get done – I don’t know where to start!”

You will probably feel overwhelmed at the thought of all you have to do. You may even stand in the living room for a few blank moments, just staring at the wonderment of it all. Your first instinct will be to put everything away as quickly as possible. Now think about practicality. What will you need first? Bedding? A shower? Chances are you won’t need the sewing supplies or your collection of 20th century novels right away, so leave those things for later. Remember, you don’t have to do all the unpacking in one day! Once you’ve decided on the order of importance, start in one room and stick with it until it’s finished.

“The kids are driving me crazy – I can’t get anything done!”

If possible, think ahead and arrange for small children to be cared for during the bulk of your unpacking. Maybe Grandma would like to take them for a day or two! If childcare isn’t possible (because all of your relatives are helping you move!), think about ways that the children can help you without getting in the way. Create games for them that will keep them entertained. For example, boxes are always fun toys; send the kids out in the yard to build their own houses, tunnels and forts. When they’re done playing, they can flatten the boxes for you. Or have them start in their own bedrooms, unpacking their clothes and toys. If they complain, find a way to make a game of that too!

“This place is a mess – I can’t live like this!”

You’re tripping over boxes, running into furniture, and losing your mind. Stop the unpacking for a moment, and take some time to reorganize the mess. If you didn’t do it when you unloaded the truck, make sure the biggest, bulkiest furniture is where you want it to be. Next, stack boxes against walls and out of the way as much as possible. You should only be unpacking one box at a time so there’s no need to have six open boxes in the middle of the room. Finally, get rid of packing materials – boxes, bubble wrap, newspaper – as soon as it is unpacked. Keep garbage bags handy and find a place outside or in the garage to stack your boxes.

Unpacking can certainly be overwhelming, but it can also be a chance to start fresh and organized. Make sure to take breaks often and celebrate your achievements – you’ll be relaxing in your new home before you know it.