Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but it’s no secret the process can also be quite stressful. We’ve compiled a list of 6 moving tips to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. Every move is different, but by following these generalized guidelines, you can focus on the excitement of your new chapter without unnecessary worry.
1. Plan Ahead
The key to a successful move is careful planning. Create a detailed moving timeline that includes tasks like packing, notifying utilities, changing addresses, coordinating with your moving company, etc. Remember that procrastinating will only raise your stress as your move date quickly approaches. Be aware of your limitations. If your schedule is too busy or the list is too long for you to complete, don’t be afraid to ask for additional help from professionals, like a downsizing or packing service.
2. Declutter Before Packing
Moving is an excellent opportunity to declutter your belongings. Go through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Less clutter means less packing and unpacking, which saves time, effort, and money. Paying movers to move something you may throw away later or don’t have the space for is silly. Ensuring you have the time to go through things before packing is the best way to help yourself and the movers.
3. Pack Strategically
To efficiently pack for your move, begin early, tackling one room at a time. It’s important to stay focused. If your mind wanders, try setting a timer to keep yourself on track or snap yourself out of distraction. Use sturdy boxes and packing materials to safeguard your belongings. Clearly label each box’s destination to ensure movers deliver boxes to the appropriate room.
4. Prepare a Personal Bag
Contents of a personal bag or suitcase will vary depending on whether your move is one day or multiple days, but the premise is the same. Anything you need or want to keep close during the move should be in the bag or suitcase. Pack things you may need to access throughout the day, like medication, a checkbook, personal effects, and important documents.
While your belongings are safe with us, we understand the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly where certain items are if they are in your own vehicle and instantly accessible. Moving companies should be more than happy to load your personal effects in your car if you didn’t get the chance or if it is heavier than you thought.
5. Hire Professional Movers
Enlisting the help of a reputable moving company can relieve significant stress. Professional movers have the expertise and equipment to handle your belongings more safely and efficiently. Be diligent by checking reviews and asking a friend or realtor for recommendations. Realtors usually have one or two companies they strongly recommend, or at least one to avoid.
During your estimate, ask more than the basic questions. Ask the deeper, tougher questions, i.e., how they handle damage claims or how they find their employees. There are many business models, and while there is no right or wrong business model, a company should take pride in its image. It’s a tough line of work, so there’s a premium for educated, clean-cut workers. Unfortunately, the most reliable and trustworthy moving companies aren’t the cheapest. Like most things, you get what you pay for. If you’re stuck with damaged furniture and scratched walls, you will probably agree that the cheapest option was the wrong one.
6. Communicate Effectively
For a successful move, it’s essential for everyone to be on the same page. When the crew arrives, the initial step is to perform a walk-through. Ask questions and let the moving crew know about any concerns or obstacles, whether it be a dresser with a bad leg or a tight doorway at the new house.
Communication within the household is also key. During the unload, one person cannot direct everyone at once. So, having more than one person know where your belongings go will be greatly beneficial and will save the moving crew time and you money.
Have a Top Notch Moving Experience
In summation, a stress-free moving day is achievable with proper planning, organization, and communication. Following these moving tips will make your transition to your new home as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Our goal is to make our guidelines suitable for everyone.
If you are interested in more moving tips, we have posted a few specific scenarios that will reiterate and give more relevant and detailed insight into different circumstances, i.e., moves to senior living communities, apartment moves, etc.
Please reach out to Top Notch Moving if you have a specific concern or question. We are happy to help in any way.
Wishing you the best with your move,
