If you're an American, then you can expect to move over 11 times in your lifetime! Even if your numbers are nowhere near 11, chances are, you've moved at least once or a few times already.
But that doesn't necessarily mean that you're a pro at it. In fact, you might be getting more and more anxious with every relocation that comes up!
However, you don't have to panic. Here are some helpful moving tips so moving will be a lot less stressful!
Start Early
This is probably the most important tip we can give you!
Many people underestimate just how long it takes to get everything sorted out for their move. Plus, unexpected things come up, such as family emergencies, extra shifts at work, illnesses, and just lack of energy sometimes. All these things can delay your moving plans!
So the best thing you can do for yourself is to start as early as possible. Even if you think you only need a few weeks to get everything done, double the time you think it'll take.
By doing this, you'll have more wiggle room for error. And if you finish all your moving tasks early, then you'll have more time to spend with your loved ones before you move away.
Have a Game Plan
You can't just dive into things without a game plan, even if you start early. You might forget something or things just might not align right.
The best thing to do before tackling your moving tasks is to sit down and create a list and/or schedule. Think about what needs to be done, and when.
When you have a list you can refer to, this can ease a lot of your anxiety. You'll have a general overview of your timeline so you know if you're on track or not. Plus, checking things off while you move along can give you a sense of accomplishment and the motivation you need to get things done.
Sort Your Stuff
Chances are, you aren't going to bring everything with you. So don't wait until the last minute to sort through your things. Otherwise, you might end up tossing them all in moving boxes and dragging them to your new place, which can create clutter right off the bat.
You've probably heard of the KonMari Method for decluttering. If you haven't, basically, if something doesn't spark joy, you should get rid of it.
Go about sorting room by room. That way, it's not this huge monumental task you're afraid of.
While in each room, create 4 piles: keep, donate, sell, trash. For the keep pile, you might want to kill 2 birds with 1 stone by either prepping and/or boxing them up. This leaves less work for later!
For an easier time, considering donating instead of selling your items. You can drop everything off with an organization, plus you'd be helping out those in need. But if you need some extra cash for your upcoming move, selling your belongings can definitely help.
It's worth it to take a look at your piles at the end of sorting to determine whether selling or donating is the better choice.
Have a Good Labeling System for Your Boxes
You might be tempted to move through each room packing as quickly as you can. But this can backfire in the end when you're in your new house and can't figure out what's in each box!
So take the time to properly label your boxes. You can even color-code them for better efficiency!
Get a sheet of paper and create an inventory. For instance, label your boxes by room and number (Bath 1, Bath 2, etc.), then write these boxes down on your paper and list what's in these boxes.
Creating an inventory helps in several ways. For one, you know exactly what's in a box so you don't have to tear through a bunch to find what you want. Also, you'll know for sure that you've packed away the things you need at the new place.
Hire Movers
It can be cheaper to move on your own, but most likely, it'll eat up a fair bit of your time. Not only can this create stress, but it can also take away time that's better spent with your loved ones before you leave.
It's true that hiring movers will cost a little extra, but it's money well spent. Some offer extensive services, such as packing and unpacking, as well as storage services.
Professional movers will save you tons of time, and you know what they say: time is money!
Don't Forget a Survival Kit for the Big Day
Don't make the mistake of packing away absolutely everything! You'll need some things to get through your first days at the new house, before you tackle unpacking.
A survival kit can make all the difference! Make sure you include things like:
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Medications
- Toiletries
- Phone chargers
- Some changes of clothes
- Cleaning supplies (including garbage bags)
You might even want to bring some sleeping bags if you won't have beds set up in the first couple of days.
Use Our Moving Tips for an Easier Time
Now that you've read our moving tips, we hope that relocation won't be as scary and stressful as you think it might be. If you start early and have a game plan for what needs to be done when, then it can take a lot of the burden off of your shoulders.
So keep our moving tips in mind when you need to relocate. They'll definitely come in handy and it's advice you can use for all your future moves too!
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