The topic on a lot of people’s minds this New Year’s Day is how they can organize and declutter their personal spaces and that goes for for the over the road truck drivers as well in their commercial trucks. It can and is a daunting task for home or truck but I hope the following information will help or at least get you thinking in the right direction to save time and money by being more organized!
I have compiled a checklist of sorts to help you declutter and organize your home or your truck. I made this list for myself first and thought that you all could probably use this list also to help get your new year started off right. I’m sure these are not the only tips, but some very useful ones. Happy cleaning and organizing!
- Declutter Regularly
– Schedule monthly decluttering sessions. At the beginning of the month or pick a time to do this step but it is very important when you get started.
– Use the “one in, one out” rule: when you buy something new, get rid of something old. This is just a rule of thumb that could be very helpful if you have trouble parting with things. In a truck you have limited space anyway so plan carefully what you actually need in your truck. (below I will list some things specifically truck related)
- Use available Storage methods
– Invest in bins, baskets, and shelves. (to suit your needs; if your storage space is viewable, you might want the more stylish baskets)
– Always label your baskets or bins, storage containers. Use clear containers when you can. It’s easy to determine what’s inside.(this will save time later when you need to find something in a hurry)
- Create Activity Zones
– Designate certain areas for different activities (e.g., work, relaxation, hobbies, reading).
– Keep related items together. (creating these zones will keep your items somewhat separated)
- Utilize all Closet Space
– Use vertical space with shelving (for things such as purses, shoes, hats that tend to end up on the floor or falling off hooks)
– Consider under-bed storage for seasonal items.(seasonal clothing, shorts, or winter attire. Or any items that you see fit)
- Organize a Cleaning Routine
– Set a weekly cleaning schedule.(whether it be a housekeeper or your family)
– Involve the whole family to share responsibilities. (this way no one person is overwhelmed by chores)
- Digital Organization
(In this modern tech world we live in, we now have this)
– Organize digital files and photos. (clean out any duplicates or files you don’t need anymore) – Use cloud storage for easy access and backup.
5 Tips for Organizing Your Truck
I know there are a million more but here are the 5 I thought most important or necessary.
- Keep Essentials Accessible
– Store items you use the most in the glove compartment or center console, within a hands reach.
– Use seat covers with pockets for easy access to things such as your wallet, or sunglasses, chapstick, gum or mints, phone chargers, snacks, or a cooler for your drinks.
- Use Organizers
– Put trunk organizers or cargo nets to keep items secure.
– Use small bins to separate your tools such as a hammer, screwdrivers, sockets and wrenches, and another bin for emergency supplies including a poncho and an umbrella, a flashlight and extra batteries just to name a few.
- Routine Cleanouts
– Schedule regular cleanouts to remove unnecessary items like receipts or extra jackets and clothing or items purchased or dirty laundry.
– Dispose of trash and recyclables right away as a precaution against pests such as ants or flies.
- Emergency Kit
– Keep an emergency kit with essentials (first aid items, flashlight, extra batteries, and water).
– Make sure it’s easily accessible but secure.
- Maintain your Routine
– Be sure to keep good habits and clean each day
– Keep a checklist for items to replenish such as paper towels, hand sanitizer, sanitary wipes, or cleaning supplies.
Below I have included a basic checklist to help you keep your home and or truck in tip top organization. There are certainly other methods of creating a good environment to complete our day to day without it being a 3 ring circus to when we have to spring into action on the job or at home. You will thank yourself later when you can find everything and save yourself so much valuable time.
P.S.I am currently decluttering my own things, my car for one, my closet and my outdoor building so there will probably be part 2!
Cheers to your organization journey in 2025, Happy New You!
2025 Organization checklist
CHECKLIST:
1. Assess Your Current Space
- [ ] Evaluate each room for clutter.
- [ ] Sort items into:
- [ ] Keep
- [ ] Donate
- [ ] Trash
- [ ] Identify problem areas that need attention.
- Create a Systematic Organization Plan
- [ ] Choose a room to start with.
- [ ] Make a checklist of tasks for that room.
- [ ] Designate specific zones for different activities.
3. Utilize Smart Storage Solutions
April
- [ ] Identify furniture with built-in storage.
- [ ] Install wall-mounted shelves or hooks.
- [ ] Purchase clear containers for easy visibility.
4. Implement Daily and Weekly Routines
- [ ] Set a daily tidying time (10-15 minutes).
- [ ] Create a weekly deep cleaning schedule.
- [ ] Rotate weekly cleaning tasks.
5. Embrace Technology
- [ ] Download organization apps (to-do lists, inventory).
- [ ] Set up reminders on smart devices.
- [ ] Explore smart home features for automation.
6. Involve the Family
- [ ] Discuss organization goals with family members.
- [ ] Create a chore chart with assigned tasks.
- [ ] Schedule family organization days.
7. Set Realistic Goals for 2025
- [ ] Plan monthly organization challenges.
- [ ] Track progress and celebrate achievements.
- [ ] Adjust goals as needed based on progress.
8. And finally,
- [ ] Remind yourself that organization is an ongoing journey.
- [ ] Take immediate action on a small task today
9. Additional Resources
- [ ] Compile a list of recommended books on organization and find one that suits your needs
- [ ] Research local workshops or online communities for additional methods of organization
