7 Ways To Make Moving Less Stressful

Moving is stressful, however, it could be a lot less so with clever planning. While you may not have thought of moving to a new home as enjoyable, it is transformative and challenging for most of us.

Leaving the familiarity of the home you know and transporting your possessions to an unfamiliar destination is scary for many people. There will be items moving companies won’t transport, and knowing how to get those items to your new property will add to your stress.

With excellent preparation, most eventualities can be managed without stress. For some of us moving is all about the excitement of starting a new chapter in a new home and location.

In this article, we will explore seven key moving preparations to make the experience bearable, maybe even enjoyable!

Move Preparation

You may think the best starting point to getting your stuff sorted for the move is working out what items are going with you and what items will go elsewhere. However if your home has been lived in for some time there is going to be some clutter that prevents you realising what you need to sort. For example are you using a room, cupboard, maybe even the garage as storage?

Many households use their garage for storing items they’re not using but don’t want to give up.

Just thinking about sorting through your stuff can be overwhelming. The best order of tasks for your move is as follows:

• Declutter and organize
• Create a moving checklist
• Find a moving company
• Pack and label
• Organize family
• Notify service providers
• Finalize admin and payments

1. Declutter and Organize

Before you begin packing for your move, it’s crucial to declutter your belongings. Take inventory of your items and carefully evaluate what you truly need and can let go of. This step helps you streamline your possessions and reduces the overall volume of items you’ll need to transport, making the moving process more efficient.

Consider donating or selling unwanted items to lighten your load and earn some extra money. For a comprehensive guide on decluttering and identifying items that moving companies won’t transport, I recommend checking out this helpful resource, which provides valuable insights and tips to assist you in decluttering.

2. Create a Moving Checklist

A moving checklist is an invaluable tool that can help you stay organized and on track throughout the entire moving process. Begin by compiling a comprehensive list of all the tasks that need to be completed before, during, and after the move.

Divide your checklist into different sections, such as:

• 3 lists – items to take with you, donate, trash
• Contact utilities and service providers
• Change of address for deliveries
• Cleaning

With a checklist in hand, you can prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and ensure that nothing important is overlooked or forgotten. By following your moving checklist diligently, you’ll be able to navigate the moving process with greater efficiency and peace of mind.

3. Research Moving Companies

If you opt to hire professional movers for your relocation, conducting thorough research before making a decision is essential.

Start by seeking recommendations from friends and family who have had positive experiences or explore online reviews to find reputable and reliable moving companies in your area. It’s advisable to obtain multiple quotes from different movers and compare their services, pricing, and insurance coverage.

Verify that the company you choose is licensed and insured, which ensures they meet certain standards and provides you with protection and peace of mind throughout the moving process. Taking the time to research and select a trustworthy moving company can greatly contribute to a smooth and successful move.

4. Pack Efficiently and Safely

The most time-consuming stage of moving is frequently packing. Start packing well in advance to avoid last-minute rush and stress.

Use strong boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap to safeguard fragile things. Making unpacking simple by clearly marking each box with its contents and the place it belongs in. For valuable or sentimental items, consider carrying them with you personally to prevent any potential damage or loss.

5. Notify Utilities and Change Your Address

To ensure a smooth transition, inform your utility companies about your move in advance. Schedule the disconnection of utilities at your current home and arrange to connect services at your new address. This covers cable, internet, power, gas, and water services.

Additionally, update your address with the post office, banks, insurance companies, and any other organizations or subscriptions you’re associated with.

6. Take Care of Legal and Administrative Matters

Moving to a new location may require handling certain legal and administrative matters. Research the requirements of your new city or state and ensure you have all the necessary documentation. This may include transferring your driver’s license, updating your vehicle registration, registering to vote, and notifying relevant government agencies about your change of address.

7. Plan for Pets and Children

Moving can be a stressful experience for both pets and children. Make appropriate arrangements to minimize anxiety and ensure safety during the move.

Consider boarding your pets or asking a friend or family member to look after them on moving day. For children, create a safe and comfortable space where they can play or rest while the moving process is underway. Pack a bag with essential items like snacks, toys, and extra clothes to keep them occupied.

Final Thoughts

Careful planning and preparation are necessary when moving to a new residence. Following these seven key moving preparations can minimize stress, stay organized, and make your move as smooth as possible.

Remember to declutter and organize, create a moving checklist, research moving companies, pack efficiently and safely, notify utilities and change your address, take care of legal and administrative matters, and plan for pets and children.  Don’t forget to clean the property you are leaving for the next owners or tenants.

By taking these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of moving and start your new chapter on the right foot. Happy moving!