1. Create a moving checklist and budget.
Draft a moving checklist that includes a timeline. Everyone’s timeline will look different depending on how much notice is given before the move. By visually organizing your move, you can keep a handle on events as they unfold.
2. Look into hiring professional movers.
If you don’t have access to willing family and friends or you are moving to another state, it makes sense to hire professional movers. The amount of work they take off your plate during this stressful time might be well worth the added cost.
3. Send out notices before you’re stressed.
Make a list of who you need to notify when you move. There are a lot of loose ends to tie up before you move to a new area. You should determine when and how you will accomplish these tasks in your moving checklist.
4. Declutter so you can pack less.
A crucial packing tip is making sure you don’t move anything that you no longer need. Lighten your stress and workload by decluttering before you enter the packing stage, which means figuring out what to toss, keep, sell, or donate. Take measurements of your new home and get rid of any furniture that won’t fit or you know you won’t use.
5. Invest in quality moving boxes.
It’s tempting to go to your local grocery store and try to score some boxes for free. However, moving boxes are relatively inexpensive, and the added durability can be worth the cost in the end.
6. Set a timer and pack for an hour a day.
Don’t bite off more than you can chew. When it comes to packing, break down your packing into steps. If you procrastinate and try to pack everything the night before, you’ll likely become overwhelmed with stress.
7. Pack a moving essentials tote.
When you first move into a new home, it’s unlikely the first thing you’re going to want to do is to unpack clothes, do laundry, and go grocery shopping. Moving can take a lot out of your family, which is why creating a moving essentials tote ahead of time is tremendously helpful.
8. Great Tip! Give each room a different color packing label.To stay organized, print off multi-colored packing labels or use different colored masking tape and give each room its own color. Label the contents of each box and include the room it belongs in. Then in your new place, use colored tape to mark entrances to rooms.
9. Don’t leave empty spaces in boxes.
Fill in any gaps with packing paper, clothing or foam peanuts to prevent items shifting around during the move. Use tape to close the bottom and top seams and around the edges where stress is concentrated.
10. Bundle the breakables.
For any fragile items you pack, use plenty of bunched-up paper and padding. Never place these items in boxes freely without some extra cushion. Spend the time packing these items correctly to save you stress in the long run.