Written By Phil McLendon

Thanksgiving is the time of year when our homes feel the fullest—both in heart and in headcount. The scent of roasted turkey fills the kitchen, laughter bounces off the walls, and new memories are made in familiar spaces. For many families, it’s also the time when decluttering, organizing, and even a little “pre-move” packing becomes essential to make room for guests and gratitude alike.

At Absolute Moving Service, we believe that smart packing isn’t just for moving houses—it’s a mindset that helps you create space for what truly matters. Whether you’re prepping your home for visiting family or getting ready for a big relocation after the holidays, these practical packing and organizing strategies will help you host like a pro while keeping the season stress-free.

Start with Gratitude—Then with a Plan

Before diving into boxes and bubble wrap, take a moment to appreciate the space you have. Thanksgiving is about gratitude, and that begins with being thankful for the roof over your head and the memories made under it. Once you’ve taken that pause, it’s time to get practical.

Start with a room-by-room game plan. Identify which rooms your guests will use and which spaces can be temporarily repurposed for extra seating or sleeping arrangements. Packing up nonessential items ahead of time—like off-season clothes, extra décor, or old paperwork—frees up space while keeping your home tidy for company.

Pro tip: Label your boxes clearly by category and location. If you’re planning a move soon, these labels will save a ton of time later when unpacking in your new home. If you’re just organizing, labeling helps ensure things find their way back after the festivities.

Declutter to Make Room for Thankfulness

Hosting for Thanksgiving can make even the most minimalist family realize how much “stuff” has accumulated throughout the year. This is the perfect season to declutter with purpose. Adopt the “one-year rule”: if you haven’t used it or missed it in the last year, you probably don’t need it.

Donate gently used kitchenware, home décor, or kids’ toys to local charities or shelters. Not only does this make your home more guest-ready, but it also reflects the true spirit of Thanksgiving—sharing what you have with those who might need it more. Plus, if a move is around the corner, you’ll have fewer items to pack and transport later.

For items you can’t donate but don’t need right now, consider using a storage unit or asking Absolute Moving Service about short-term storage options. The goal is simple: create breathing room so your guests—and your gratitude—have space to thrive.

Pack Smart, Not Hard

Prepping your home for Thanksgiving guests doesn’t mean turning it upside down. A few smart packing strategies can make a world of difference:

• Use clear bins for items you might need access to soon—like extra table settings or board games for family night.
• Pack heavier items like books or appliances at the bottom of boxes and lighter ones on top to prevent damage.
• Keep essentials—like cleaning wipes, napkins, and batteries—in a “holiday helper box” so you’re not searching mid-dinner.
• Use soft items, like towels or blankets, as padding for fragile decorations or glassware to save space and protect items.

Packing with intention turns what can feel like chaos into a simple system that works both for the holidays and any upcoming move.

Kitchen Chaos: Taming the Heart of the Home

The kitchen is the social hub of Thanksgiving—and often the most packed with clutter. To stay sane and efficient, do a mini “kitchen move” a week before guests arrive.

Start by clearing off countertops and storing small appliances you won’t need, like the slow cooker or food processor. Then group your cooking supplies by function—baking items together, serving dishes within reach, and ingredients organized by meal.

If you’re traveling for the holiday or planning to move soon after, this is a great time to pack your least-used kitchen gadgets or seasonal glassware. Wrap them neatly, label the boxes clearly, and you’ll be surprised at how much calmer your kitchen feels when Thanksgiving prep begins.

Guest Room Goals: Comfort Meets Order

A comfortable guest room sets the tone for your visitors’ Thanksgiving experience. Whether you have a dedicated guest room or you’re converting a multi-use space, a little organization goes a long way.

Start by removing personal clutter to create an inviting and neutral environment. Pack away off-season clothing, rarely used furniture, or nonessential décor in sturdy boxes labeled for storage.

Fresh linens, a small basket with toiletries, and a touch of fall scent—like a cinnamon candle—make guests feel welcome. That’s the true mark of Southern hospitality, something we at Absolute Moving Service know our community values deeply.

Making Space for What Matters

Thanksgiving isn’t only about clearing out your physical space; it’s also about making mental space for appreciation. When your home feels organized and intentional, it’s easier to slow down and enjoy the people who fill it.

Take a moment during the holiday hustle to reflect on what you’ve accomplished this year—whether it’s a big move, a home project, or simply creating a space that nurtures peace and connection. At Absolute Moving Service, we’re grateful for all our clients who allow us to be a small part of their journeys toward new beginnings.

We’re not just a moving company; we’re a part of your story. Every box, every load, every home means something to us, because we know it means everything to you.

A Thanksgiving Message from Absolute Moving Service

As this season of thanks unfolds, the Absolute Moving team extends our warmest wishes to all our clients, partners, and friends. We know that moving—whether across town or across the country—can be one of life’s biggest transitions. But it’s also a fresh start, full of new opportunities and memories waiting to be made.

This Thanksgiving, we encourage you to fill your heart with gratitude and your home with laughter. We’ll be here to help whenever you’re ready to make your next move, whether that’s unpacking new possibilities or simply packing away the old with care and confidence.

From our family to yours, have a joyful Thanksgiving filled with love, comfort, and the kind of moments that remind us all why home will always be the sweetest place to be.