10 Practical Home Moving Tips
The big word: moving. It is a stressful time for everyone and tensions are running high. You are trying to cram everything into boxes and just get the heck out of there and into your new place.
Maybe you are just going to the other side of the city, maybe you are going to an entirely different state, but regardless of the distance the process is still just as stressful. Although home moving will never be easy, there are top 10 moving tips that can make the process a little simpler and a little less stressful.
1 Create an A-Z plan
This is probably the biggest thing you can do to make your moving transition as seamless as possible. Think about what needs to be packed first, what needs to be packed last, what is the most important, and what is the least important. Once you know this, you can pack much better because you know what can be carried off first and what you will need to keep with you.
You will also be able to pack your boxes and suitcases with the more important things on top so when you get to your new place you are not rummaging through everything just to find a glass to have a drink of water.
Also when it comes to planning, having a strict itinerary in your mind and following that can make a world of difference. Set yourself deadlines and set yourself goals on how much you want to pack up in a day. If you don’t, you will find yourself running around like a headless chicken not even knowing where to begin. Plus, when you get to check that off your list you will feel accomplished and better about everything.
2 Make a checklist
Have a checklist of everything you want to get done. There is more to moving than just packing. You also have to make sure everything is in good shape, everything is cleaned, that you have not forgotten any last minute things; the list goes on. Make yourself a checklist and check everything off as you go. It will make sure you will not forget anything important.
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3 Pack boxes by room
The biggest mistake you can make is to pack multiple rooms’ items into the same box. This only causes confusion and when you get to the other end there is no organization and it will only stress you out more. Stick to boxes from living room, boxes from kitchen, boxes from bathroom, etc.
4 Wrap breakables in clothes
To save on space and to protect your breakables, opt to wrap them in clothes rather than bubble wrap. Takes up the same amount of space and you are saving on space in your suitcases. This can include anything from vases to dishes, glasses and casserole dishes.
5 Pack an overnight bag
There is nothing more stressful than just wanting to take a shower and not being able to find the shampoo or a clean pair of underwear. Pack an overnight bag with all the essentials you use daily and make sure you keep that with you. If you can go a couple of days without anything in the boxes it will make unpacking significantly less stressful.
6 Label Boxes Clearly
While it might seem obvious, labeling boxes with clear, detailed descriptions can save you a lot of hassle. Instead of just writing “kitchen” or “living room,” add a brief note about the contents, such as “Kitchen – Utensils and Glassware.” This helps you know exactly what’s inside and allows you to prioritize which boxes to unpack first. Consider using colored stickers or tape to easily identify different rooms’ boxes.
7 Declutter Before Packing
Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. Go through each room and sort your belongings into categories: keep, donate, recycle, or toss. By minimizing what you pack, you’ll save time, reduce moving costs, and ensure a fresh start in your new home with only the items you truly need.
8 Take Photos of Electronics and Furniture
Before you pack away electronics, take photos of how cords are connected to devices like TVs, gaming consoles, and routers. This will make setting them up in your new home much easier. For furniture, take pictures of any disassembly steps or hardware placement to avoid confusion when reassembling.
9 Keep Important Documents Handy
Pack essential documents like IDs, passports, medical records, and financial papers in a separate, clearly labeled folder or bag. Keep this folder with you throughout the move, rather than placing it in a moving truck. This ensures you have immediate access to vital information if needed.
10 Notify Utilities and Change Address Early
Ensure you contact your utility providers (electricity, gas, water, internet) to schedule disconnection at your current home and activation at your new one. Additionally, update your address with the post office, banks, and subscription services well in advance to avoid missing any important mail during the transition.
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Packing is a stressful process and it is okay to feel that stress, but doing everything you can to make the process seamless and stress-free will make everyone happier. With these couple of tips you will be packed up and in your new home smiling in no time.
