Moving is an exciting yet stressful time. The milestone of purchasing a house and moving in is eagerly anticipated by most, but few people enjoy the process of packing and moving to get there. It can be a headache to slog through your items, ask friends and family for help, and schedule things like truck arrival and meal brigade so that everyone can eat while working. You might be asking yourself if your new location is worth the headache of this transition.
Fortunately for you, there are several who had gone before and streamlined the process for us. Follow these tips for an organized and stress-free move. Enjoy your new home!
1. Give yourself plenty of time.
Leaving things till the last minute as moving day approaches will most certainly add stress to your already full plate. Take steps to prepare for your move ahead of time – like collecting boxes, organizing things according to room, and emptying closets and cupboards. Doing a little each day will be more efficient in the long run than trying to cram everything in on a weekend or evening move.
2. Donate!
Chances are, if you haven’t used or looked at an item for six months, you don’t need it. Consider going through closets, storage rooms, and cupboards to see what can be thrown or donated. The less you have to pack, the more streamlined moving day will be.
3. Make and use checklists.
A checklist is one of the best ways to keep you organized during a move. Write down your “to-do” list, your schedule that you will adhere to, and things you need to accomplish leading up to the day of your move. The more you can cross off ahead of time, the more relaxed the moving day will be.
4. Schedule ahead of time.
If you have people coming to help you pack boxes and label items, schedule their help before moving day arrives. Making sure that you have a truck and needed help on the assigned day is essential for a smooth moving experience as well. All you should have to do on the day of the move is point and direct traffic, if you’ve done your job right!
5. Pack the essentials last.
Moving is a messy business; there is no getting around having to figure out what to pack for last-minute needs. Whether it is just you or your whole gang, make a list of the things you will need for that last night in the old home while you transition to your new home, and you’ll usher in this next chapter of life a little more smoothly.
6. Keep a positive mental attitude.
We know that moving is stressful, but it should also be exciting! Look forward to the new home you will soon inhabit, and all of the wonderful times you will create with friends and loved ones there. Focusing on what is to come and following these tips will make your next move a breeze!