Make Your Move A Breeze: 6 Easy Packing And Moving Tips

Making the big change from one house to another can be a huge headache, especially if you are not only packing for yourself, but for kids as well. However, proper planning can help make a move run very smoothly. Before you plan out your next move, keep reading for some useful tips on how to make your move less stressful.

1. Make A To-Do List

Trying to remember everything can be a big stressor both on your mind and your body. When you plan to move, sit down and make a big list of everything that needs to be done beforehand, such as changing your address on important documents, setting up utilities and forwarding your mail. This way you can schedule when you need to each task, and nothing will get left behind. Keep the list with you or on your phone so that you can make additions to it if you think of something on the go.

2. Stock Up On Packing Supplies

You may think you have enough boxes, but chances are: You don’t. Sometimes, you just don’t realize how much stuff you really have – until after you start loading it into boxes.

Before you do anything, make sure you have a large supply of different sized boxes, packing tape, Bubble Wrap or packing paper, and printer paper for labeling. The fewer trips you can make to the store the better; plus, you usually receive discounts if you buy in bulk. For free packing supplies, visit your local grocery store, bookstore or liquor store to ask if they have any extra cardboard boxes that they can spare.

3. Pack Ahead And Label Everything

Whatever you do, don’t leave your packing until last minute! Scrambling to pack up everything in an untimely manner will leave everything disorganized and then make imminent unpacking also stressful. If you know that you are moving, start packing right away – even if it is just a few boxes a day.

Start with the things you don’t really need to access such as movies, old documents and home décor. Clearly label each box and sort the boxes either by item type or by room. Sorting items by room might be a bit harder to pack up, but it will make unpacking a breeze and will expedite the process if you are using movers. 

4. Keep An Overnight Bag

Sometimes moving can take a lot of time, and you might be at an awkward transition between two houses. Having to search or unpack boxes just to find something decent to wear to work is not a fun experience.

To make your life easier, pack a small overnight bag with some clothes and toiletries so that no matter where you are, you will be prepared to get ready and face the day.

5. Comparison Shop For Movers

If you have a lot of large-sized furniture in your house, you’ll either need to find some burly friends to help you out or hire some movers. Movers are often very good at what they do and can move your entire house much quickly than you could on your own. While this will be an extra expense, it will certainly make your move less stressful on your body.

Before deciding on movers, be sure to check each company’s reviews and prices. Movers are often paid by the hour plus tips, so good movers will work fast to get to the next job in hopes of making more money through the tips alone. Be sure to treat your movers well – offer them food and water, and they’ll be even more motivated to do their job well for you.

6. Truck Or No Truck?

Moving trucks can be expensive to rent, but you don’t always need a large truck. If you can gather a few friends with mini vans, you can probably move most of your house in cars alone. Large items like beds, couches, tables and wardrobes will likely have to go on a truck.

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful – just plan ahead! Start way earlier than you think you need to and you will thank yourself later. What’s more, you don’t need to do it alone. Offer to buy a few friends some dinner in exchange for a few extra helping hands on moving day. Stay calm and plan ahead, and your move will run as smooth as possible.