Purge items you haven't used in 6+ months; sell, donate, or discard excess. Weeks 6–8 before move Preparation
Gather supplies (boxes, tape, markers) and pack non-essential "storage" items (attic, garage). Weeks 3–4 before move Heavy Packing when to start packing when buying a house
Start boxing infrequently used rooms (guest rooms, library) and out-of-season clothing. Week 1 before move Essentials Only Purge items you haven't used in 6+ months;