A move may be both exhilarating and frightening at the same time. Even the world’s best planners have trouble sorting and packing, particularly if organization isn’t your strongest skill.
The good news is that you can help this daunting process go more smoothly if you follow the advice of those who’ve seen it all when it comes to moving. Not every move has to be stressful!
Listed here are the top six most useful moving suggestions to help you with your next relocation.
1. Start Packing Early and Strategically
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Planning in advance is essential, but it doesn’t mean that you should also begin packing at that time. Depending on the size of your current home and how much stuff you own, packing should start 6–8 weeks before your moving date. Remember that being strategic when it comes to the packing process is essential. Make your packing smart, not exhaustive. If you start packing three months before the move, you will only end up packing all over again, as you’ll most likely still need your stuff in day-to-day life.
Once you start, begin with rooms that you don’t use often and stuff you don’t use frequently. Pack a box here and there when you have time, but don’t fret about it too much. As moving day approaches, keep frequently used belongings nearby and pack them last so they’re easier to find.
Packing an overnight bag with necessities for your final night at home and the first few days at your new home can also save you a lot of trouble.
2. Purge Your Items
I can’t stress enough how important it is to declutter and purge before making your move. The idea is simple and clear: the fewer belongings you keep, the less you will have to box, transport, and arrange, making your moving process less headache-inducing.
Begin by categorizing your possessions into three groups: sell/donate, keep, and throw away.
According to NDMS, the general rule of thumb is to discard things you haven’t used or worn in the last year or wouldn’t buy again.
If you have some time, yard sales are a terrific way to get rid of unwanted clutter, provided the items are still in decent shape. Plus, it never hurts to have some extra cash. After all, relocation is an expensive endeavor.
3. Sometimes the Lazy Way Goes a Long Way
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Even if it seems intuitive to just pack everything in piles of boxes, sometimes there’s a much simpler — and more logical — way to pack certain items.
For example, why would you unpack your dresser drawers only to find yourself packing them back in once you move? An easier way is to just leave everything inside, but make sure you remove the drawers from the dresser. Wrap the drawers in some plastic wrap (or sheets for a more eco-friendly option), and they’re good to go!
Leave hanging items and clothes on their hooks and wrap clothing in garbage bags to keep them from getting scattered. This will allow you to effortlessly remove garments and hang them up while unpacking your belongings at your new home.
4. Utilize Packing Supplies You Already Have
Midway through the packing process, it’s likely you’ll realize how many packing supplies you actually need. And once it happens, it’s best to be prepared. Start collecting packing supplies at least a week or two before you start packing.
While it is possible to get everything you need in a store, it’s almost always unnecessary — both to the planet and to your wallet. It’s tempting to just shop for everything at once and get it over with, but it’s better to get a bit creative and do your best with what you already have on hand.
To save money, store your items in duffel bags, laundry baskets, and any other storage containers you may find. Ask your local supermarkets for any boxes that were left from the previous day. In most cases, they’ll be delighted to get rid of them.
Instead of a plastic wrap, utilize towels, sheets, and blankets for wrapping fragile items. Use suitcases, drawers, pots, and cubby boxes to pack items in.
The one supply item that you will have to purchase is tape, but everything else you either already have, or you can get for free at your local grocery store.
5. Hire Professional Movers
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The decision to hire professional movers or DIY your move is a huge one. There are big advantages and disadvantages to both options.
Hiring movers is pricey, but keep in mind that it will relieve you of a great deal of headaches. Also, if you move a lot of heavy furniture or you’re relocating across the state, you may not have any other option but to hire help. Most professional movers offer full service and can handle everything for you — from packing to transporting.
If you have a small apartment and few belongings, or if saving money is your highest priority, this option might not be cost-effective. Look for ways in which you can take action on your own or with the help of your friends and family.
6. Pack an Overnight Bag
An overnight bag is a lifesaver when it comes to moving. Gather all the items you’ll require on the moving day and a day after; store them in an additional suitcase or bag. The last thing you want is to dig through boxes in search of your toothpaste at 2 a.m. on your first night at the new place.
If you have kids or a pet, pack their favorite toys and food. After a long and exhaustive moving day, you will want to relax and recuperate by taking some time off.
Follow These Packing Tips for a Seamless Move
Moving doesn’t need to be stressful. All it takes is some smart planning, strategic packing, and thinking ahead of time! Of course, it is still a time- and energy-consuming process, so don’t get frustrated if everything doesn’t go according to the plan.
The goal of these tips is to make the entire procedure as simple as possible for you. Following them will lead to a seamless and calm move, leaving you to enjoy your new home in peace and to start settling in quickly for a fresh start!
