Moving Advice for a Smooth Process

Moving is a part of life. Whether you move often or are packing up your bags for the first time, it can be a stressful process. Fortunately, there are some ways to reduce the amount of work, and ultimately make the process smoother. 
moving advice

Try these moving hacks for yourself and discover creative ways to improve your move!

 

1. Get Organized Before You Move Out 

Do not wait until the last minute to pack up your belongings. The sooner you start the moving process, the easier it will be. Begin by selling or donating any unwanted items. Consider the move-out process as a spring cleaning.

Also, set a realistic moving budget. Think ahead and reach out to friends and family to help you with your move. Finding moving boxes and packing materials, such as bubble wrap, tape, and Sharpies, can be done beforehand as well. 

The moving day itself will be here before you know it, so make sure and request needed time off of work if necessary. 

2. Narrow Down Who You Should Notify About Moving

Consider the list below of possible contact points to send your new address to. This is crucial during the moving process to keep everyone in the loop.

  • Friends and family members
  • Utility companies 
  • Phone company if you have a landline 
  • Internet (and any streaming companies)
  • Trash services
  • Health insurance company
  • DMV
  • Your employer
  • Voter registration
  • Physicians and dentists
  • Delivery services
  • Home and car insurance
  • Banks, lenders, PayPal, etc.
  • Cleaning services
  • Subscription services 
  • Financial advisors/accountants
  • Daycare centers/schools
  • Veterinarian

3. Be Strategic With Packing 

When prepping for a move, it is helpful to be organized when you are packing. Consider giving each room a different color packing label. Or, label the box clearly on the outside with where it will go in the new house. 

Also, label the outside of the box with a description of what is packed inside the box. Use the right-sized boxes from the start. Heavier items should go in smaller boxes, while lighter items should go in bigger boxes.

4. Get Creative 

Look around your space and use what you already have. Repurpose household items for packing to take up less space. This can include hampers, suitcases, and laundry baskets to store items. Make sure to tape these and other boxes well to avoid mishaps during the move.

Bundle all breakable items to prevent breakage. Use kitchen or bathroom towels for extra padding.

Also, take pictures of the back configuration of electronics so you remember which cord goes where!

5. Pack a Moving Kit

With the moving date coming closer, it is necessary to pack a moving kit. This can be for one or two days worth of necessities. It can be a life saver and reduce stress during the first few nights at your new home!

Moving Kit Essentials:

  • Medication
  • Important documents
  • Phone, laptop, and chargers
  • Toilet paper 
  • A change of clothes for each family member
  • Toiletries and towels
  • Pet food and supplies
  • Trash bags
  • Small toolkit with scissors to open boxes
  • Snacks (especially if you have kids!)

6. Ask For Help

There’s a lot to do on moving day, so you want everything to run as smoothly as possible. If you’ve hired movers, they will pack and unpack the trucks for you. Be sure to take a few minutes to show them around and discuss any concerns before they get started.

If you ask friends and family to help you move, make sure you show your appreciation to them. Take water and food breaks regularly. You may also want to consider assigning tasks to individuals so everyone knows how they can help.

7. Move-In Day Musts

Everyone moves differently, but there are some things that you cannot avoid. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep before the big day. Also, wear comfortable clothes and shoes on move-in day, you won’t regret it. 

Consider having a plan for pets and children to relieve stress and keep everyone safe during the move-in. And, be packed up before moving day. Don’t wait until the last minute! Pace yourself and don’t overdo it. 

Once you have your belongings in your new home, it doesn’t mean you’re done just yet. But, you’re close, so hang in there! Setting daily goals for the first few days will help you keep the moving momentum going.

Bottom Line

No matter how much your prep and plan, you’ll likely hit a few bumps along the way during move-in, and that’s okay! These moving hacks won’t necessarily make moving more fun, but the goal is to be best prepared and ready for what’s to come.