Moving can be one of the most stressful things we do in our lifetimes. Reduce that with these 10 stress-free moving tips for your next house move.
While the prospect of moving to a new home may be exciting, the actual moving experience is rather stressful. There’s so much to do.
And there’s a lot to remember such as contacting your utility companies so when you move, you have your heat, electricity, and internet all working.
Then there’s the packing and unpacking. It’s exhausting work that can take several days to complete. But stress-free moving is possible.
It’s all about creating a working plan. We can help. Keep reading to learn 10 stress-free tips to help your move go smoothly.
- Stress-Free Moving Starts With a Plan
A stress-free move only happens when you plan ahead and plan properly. There are too many tasks you need to accomplish to rely on keeping it all in your head.
Make a list of all the companies you’ll need to contact regarding your move. That includes utility companies for heat, electricity, and water.
But don’t forget about your credit card companies. And the post office. For $1 you can do a change of address on their website, which saves you a trip.
Write down what tasks you need to handle and when they need to be completed. Then mark off each task when they’re finished.
- Create a Budget
Moving can get very expensive quickly. If you’re looking for a move that’s stress-free, create a budget.
See what you tasks you can do on your own. Check the grocery stores for free boxes. Use your sheets, towels, and blankets to wrap breakable items in.
Ask friends and family to help you pack and move. Don’t forget to budget in expenses you may need after you move such as new shower curtains.
- Hire a Great Real Estate Agent
Finding a new place to live is stressful. But when you work with a great real estate agent, he or she makes the process simple.
An agent can help you choose which area to move to. They can also help you find a place that’s within your budget. You can use this website to get started.
Trying to do everything yourself is stressful and difficult. Don’t be afraid to outsource tasks someone else can do better.
- Work With a Reputable Moving Company
If you’re short on time or energy, the smartest thing you can do is to hire a reputable moving company to help you move. Hiring stress-free movers is a great idea for anyone who wants to do as little work as possible.
Movers can pack up your entire home without you lifting a finger. And they can unpack your belongings in your new home.
- Start Early
The more time you have to plan out and execute your move, the more stress-free your moving experience will be. Don’t wait until the last minute, give yourself plenty of time to get everything done.
If you are packing yourself, give yourself time to go through everything. Take short breaks to ensure you don’t get worn out.
The earlier you start, the less likely unexpected problems will arise.
- Purge Throughout the Entire Process
The longer you live somewhere, the more stuff you’ll accumulate. Since you have to go through your stuff to pack it all up, you might as well start purging as you pack.
Do not bring anything with you that you no longer like, use, or need. If there’s no room for something in your new place, don’t bring it.
Find places where you can sell your items to help you finance your move. Donate, recycle, or trash whatever you can’t sell.
You’ll probably find more items after the move you find you don’t need in your new home. Continue to purge as you unpack.
- Expect the Unexpected
If you really want a stress-free moving experience, expect that something unexpected will happen. Accidents happen. People forget to bring items.
Your moving truck could get stuck in traffic. The cable person may forget to show up.
Bad or unexpected things happen. If you go into your move expecting something will happen, it makes it easier to process. Take deep breaths, handle what you can and then and then move on.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily
One way to ensure a stress-free move is to stay hydrated and eat healthy foods. Your body needs healthy foods to help it stay energized.
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Purchase bottles or jugs of water to keep on hand while moving. Pack healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables to grab when you get hungry.
Aim for eating a snack every few hours so you keep away cravings while keeping up your energy.
- Label Everything
There are fewer things more stressful than having no idea where any of your stuff is. Whether you let someone else do the packing or not, label everything so you know where it is.
Keep track of how many packed boxes you have for each room. Have a general idea of what’s in them.
That way, if you need something immediately, you know where to find it. Also, at the end of the move you’ll immediately know if something is missing.
- Pack a Box of Necessities
Even if you hire movers to unpack your items, there will still be at least two days where you don’t have access to most of your items. That’s why it’s so important to pack your own bag of necessities.
Anything you absolutely need access to should be packed in this bag. Here’s a general list of items you should pack separately and keep with you:
A few days clothing, including socks, underwear, and something to sleep in. Pack your cell phone and the charger plug.
Your toiletries such as toothbrush, glasses/contacts, feminine hygiene products (if needed), shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Any paperwork related to the move and cash for tipping or necessities should also be kept separate from everything else.
Items to Have in Your New Home
Before you move into your home, bring in a few items to ensure a stress-free move. A first-aid kit is a great idea to have handy in your new home in case someone cuts themselves.
Also, make sure you have soap, toilet paper, and paper towels handy in your new home. You’ll be grateful to have these items when you or the movers need to use the bathroom.
Think Positive
While 100% stress-free moving probably isn’t possible, there’s a lot you can do to manage your stress. Take deep breaths and frequent breaks so you don’t get overwhelmed.
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