Taking the Stress out of Moving Home: How to Prepare

Every year, thousands of us move to a new home, each for one of many reasons. We may choose to relocate for a new job, a change of scenery or because we would like to be somewhere bigger or smaller. To relocate, planning is needed, but that can often cause a lot of stress.

To make moving less stressful, what can be done? With a little forward planning and some patience, you can move seamlessly from your old home to pastures new. Here are some of our top tips:

Make a List

Before you even think about packing, write a list of all of the tasks you need to do. At the top, you should put changing the address for your bank account(s), utility bills, internet and pay TV subscriptions, tax and payslips. The last thing you need is the stress of having to get your mail from your old address!

On that list, it is also worth making a note of what you need to pack, when to hand over the keys to the new homeowners and when you need to do each task by. Tick each task off your list when it has been completed.

Let People Know You are Moving

Going back to changing your address, you will need to let some organisations know that you are going to be living somewhere else. There are a number of groups you will need to inform about tax, driving licenses and healthcare.

Try to do this a few days before you move out – set aside a few hours to make those phone calls or edit your details on the relevant websites. That way, you will be less likely to forget as moving day edges closer.

Packing in Stages

Packing is by far the most stressful part of moving home. It takes up the most time, requires the most physical work and, if not handled with care, can cause all kinds of last-minute stresses and strains. To pack without a hitch, try to do it in stages. You could pack by room to be more organised.

Make sure to leave the essentials – keys, smartphones, the TV, bedding and clothes – until last, as you will need them until your last day in your soon-to-be ex-home. This can be transported in your car, if you have enough room in the trunk.

Take What You Need

To make packing even less stressful, look at what you no longer need. If it is good enough to sell, find a buyer on a website like Craigslist or eBay and then arrange to send it to them. You will need to find a parcel delivery service to save you from making a trip.

If you have any unwanted goods that cannot be sold, find a charity store or local church group that accepts donations. That way, you will be doing some good and making room for new stuff in your new abode.

Move in Stages

Finally, when taking your treasured possessions to your new home, try not to take too much in one go. If you have a few spare days, consider moving in stages. Start with the bulky equipment like furniture, then take the lighter stuff like gadgets and clothes in your final trip. To make this part less stressful, either hire a van or look for a local removal firm.