Moving is often an exciting experience! You’re starting somewhere fresh, with the promise of new memories, and a chance to change things up. But with this, of course, comes the stress of all the planning, packing, and organizing that isn’t always a breeze. As someone who has moved twice in two years (and several times before this), here are some tips for moving that are always on my list. I hope they will help get you started on your moving journey!
It’s Never Too Early for Prep!
Make a game-plan list of all the things you will need to do leading up to the move, and how you want to go about packing. This may include buying moving supplies, switching your address at the post office, and how you want to approach boxing everything up (whether room by room, section of house, or by category of item).
Donate, Sell, and Give away!
This is your chance to de-clutter and renew, allowing for your new destination to not be filled with items that you have no idea what to do with. Grab a few boxes or large bags and sort through any outgrown or unwanted clothing or toys. Now, you can decide if you’d like to give to someone who may get use out of them, or make a few dollars on FB marketplace! And of course, those random puzzle pieces and socks that are hanging on by a thread (literally) can go right into the garbage. Doing even a minor cleanup will ensure you are starting your new journey with a refresh!
Book and Pack Early
Make your arrangements as early as you can, to avoid any book-outs (especially if you are moving during a peak season like summer). Lock in your moving help (whether you are hiring or asking friends or family to help) and secure your truck rentals. If you are going with an official moving company that does it all, make sure you compare pricing and receive a few quotes before locking in your rate. These, from personal experience, can often vary widely.
Pack away anything that you know you won’t use. Like clothing that is off-season or kitchen appliances you only take out during the holidays. Slow but steady is often less overwhelming than waiting until the last minute to do it all.
A Few Reminders…
- Update your subscription services to your new address.
- Update your contact information with your employer, bank, and government agencies (ex. DMV).
- Cancel/transfer/start all the utilities you will need or not need.
- Create an ”Unpacking Plan” and have a sense of how you want to go about setting up your new place.
And of course, take a breather and relax. Everything will work out, and everything will get done.
Happy Moving!
