Getting ready to move? Help make the special milestone as stress-free as possible.
Moving marks the end of a chapter, and the start of an exciting new one. The anticipation of living in a new home brings endless possibilities – but the process to get there can feel overwhelming.
Here are 10 pointers to help make the moving experience as smooth and stress-free as can be.
1. Book movers in advance
Once your move-in date is set, secure a moving company as soon as possible. Booking early will avoid the hassle of having to make last-minute arrangements and give you a better selection of options that suit all of your moving needs.
2. Notify utility providers
Inform your utility providers about your move in advance to ensure essential services like water, electricity and Wi-Fi can be used in your new home starting day one. This will also prevent you from being charged for utilities at your old address after you’ve moved out.
3. Declutter before you move
Evaluate the layout and size of your new home and decide what items you truly need. Moving is the perfect opportunity to do a purge of possessions you don’t use or want anymore. You’ll be surprised by how much you choose to donate or throw away. Purging pares down the volume of things that need to be moved, and also sets the stage for a fresh start in a well-organized, clutter-free space.
4. Start packing early
Packing usually takes more time than anticipated, so starting early is essential. Begin by packing lesser-used items and tackle the task room by room. Breaking it down into manageable chunks and packing a little each day will help you stay organized and on schedule, making the entire process more efficient.
5. Label boxes clearly
Properly label each box with its contents – and make note of the room into which it will go. This will make unpacking and sorting much easier, ensuring everything ends up in the correct place.
6. Pack boxes strategically
To ensure your belongings stay safe and secure throughout the move, pack heavier items at the bottom of boxes to create a stable base and prevent lighter items from being crushed. Make sure each box is filled to capacity to avoid shifting during transit. Choose boxes of the right size for your items and use packing paper or crumpled newspaper for cushioning to provide extra protection.
7. Keep the essentials accessible
Consider setting aside a dedicated bag or suitcase for daily essentials you’ll need right away, such as toiletries, work supplies, electronics, and a change of clothes. This will make your first few days in the new home more comfortable, enabling you to settle in while you finish unpacking.
8. Create a special plan for delicate items
Carefully wrap valuable, breakable, or delicate items with materials like bubble wrap and towels for extra padding, and make sure to mark these boxes as “fragile.” Use smaller boxes for delicate items to minimize potential damage. If you’ve hired movers, inform them that these boxes require special handling, or consider transporting these items yourself to ensure they arrive safely.
9. Organize important documents
Keep vital documents like birth certificates, passports and checkbooks secure in an easily accessible place. And, store important papers in clearly labeled files within a container.
10. Reflect and celebrate
Your home is more than just four walls and a roof – it’s a special place filled with memories from a meaningful chapter of your life. Moving means saying goodbye to the past while welcoming new experiences and opportunities.
Take some time to reflect on your old space. Consider hosting a farewell dinner with loved ones, or simply have a quiet moment of reflection and gratitude before you embark on the exciting journey of moving into a new space.
Ready to start your next chapter in a new home? Search for properties on remax.com and connect with a local RE/MAX agent today.
Article originally appeared on RE/MAX.com.
