Moving can be a stressful process, but it doesn't have to be. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can make the process easier and less overwhelming. Here are 30 tips to help you make your move easier. Notifying important contacts of your new address in advance is a great way to start.
This will ensure that all your important mail and packages will arrive at your new home. Keep your movers informed of any changes or updates. Whether you're doing a DIY move or hiring professional movers, it's important to stay on top of the process and avoid common mistakes. If you're moving to a city, take advantage of the 19-gallon blue bags that are available for only 99 cents each.
These bags are a great bargain and can fit many items. Schedule an hour or two of unpacking every day for the first 10 days after you move. This will help you stay organized and make sure everything is in its place. Set a budget for your move so you know what you can afford.
This will help you decide if you need to hire professional movers or if you can do a DIY move. If you decide to hire professional movers, research the top moving companies and get referrals from friends and family. Compare quotes from multiple companies before making a decision. Moving is the perfect time to clear out any items that you no longer need or want.
Sort through all your things and donate or throw away anything that isn't necessary. This will save you time when packing and give you more space on the moving truck. If you're renting, ask your landlord if there are any repairs that need to be done before you leave. You may need to remove nails from walls or fill in gaps before painters come in.
Schedule a visit with the landlord before leaving so you can ask about deductions from your deposit and when you can expect it back. Some cities have strict rules on returning deposits, so make sure to check those out ahead of time. Visit your new home or neighborhood as often as possible before the move. This will help create excitement for the move, especially if there are fun destinations nearby like parks or ice cream shops.
If you have kids, check out our Moving with Kids Checklist or The Ultimate Guide to Moving with Kids for more tips on how to make the process easier for them. Pack a weekend bag for everyone in the house with their change of clothes, toiletries, phone charger, etc., so there's no confusion when it comes time to move. Pack a laundry basket with essentials like coffee maker, coffee, cream, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils, snacks, water/juice, sheets, TP, soap, etc., so that when you arrive at your new home, all these items are easily accessible. Save time packing winter clothes when moving in summer and packing early summer clothes during a winter move.
Gather all the information you need ahead of time so that when it comes time to move, everything is ready and organized. Reassure yourself mentally why moving is important and why now. Research companies eight weeks before the move and get quotes and hire them at least seven weeks before the move. Download MoveAdvisor's mobile application with built-in features like a moving schedule, home inventory, and moving company locator.
If your children are moving to a new school district, notify the school about the move and search for a school in your new area. Moving Tips Summary
Moving doesn't have to be stressful if you plan ahead and prepare properly. Notify important contacts of your new address in advance, keep your movers informed of any changes or updates, take advantage of 19-gallon blue bags if available in your city, schedule an hour or two of unpacking every day for the first 10 days after moving, set a budget for your move so you know what you can afford, research top moving companies and get referrals from friends and family before making a decision, sort through all your things and donate or throw away anything that isn't necessary before packing up, ask your landlord if there are any repairs that need to be done before leaving, visit your new home or neighborhood as often as possible before the move if possible, download MoveAdvisor's mobile application with built-in features like a moving schedule, home inventory, and moving company locator if needed, notify the school about the move if children are involved in the process.
