Whether you’re moving for the first time or you’ve done it countless times, you probably know that moving to a new house is a complex process. With all the tasks and steps involved, there is no guarantee that you won’t encounter any hiccups as your moving day approaches. Fortunately, there are ways how you can avoid unnecessary stress as you prepare for moving day.
Depending on where you are moving, hiring reliable professional removalists is one of the best ways to provide you and your family with a stress-free moving experience. However, this is not always an option if your budget for the move is limited or you’re not comfortable with entrusting your belongings to strangers.
If you’re opting to move on your own or with the help of loved ones, here are some tips for a successful moving day:
Start planning early
The earlier you start planning, the more time you will have to get everything done and the less stressful moving day will be. Take some time to go through each room in your home and note which items you will take with you during the move.
When possible, include decluttering in your schedule. It may seem like a tedious task, but it will help a lot in reducing the number of items you need to pack. This can also reduce the amount of packing materials that you will need to properly wrap and pack your belongings to make them less susceptible to damage, especially as boxes and containers are lifted and moved from one location to another.
Create a moving day to-do list
It is expected that you will only become busier as your moving day approaches and are likely to forget even the simplest tasks. As you plan your move, create a to-do list that you can use to navigate through the moving process. Depending on how much time you have, you can create a timeline on when certain tasks must be accomplished, prioritising the most crucial or time-consuming tasks. A clear schedule and detailed to-do list for all moving-related tasks will help you stay organised and make sure that you don’t forget anything important.
Pack early and efficiently
Pack your belongings in a way that will make them easy to transport and unpack. One of the most common techniques for preparing items for the move is packing seasonal and non-essential items first.
Hire professional movers if you can
As mentioned above, hiring professionals will save you time and energy on your moving day. Consider organising garage sales to generate additional funds for your move. The upfront payment might seem more expensive but it can significantly reduce the stress of moving, especially if you’re moving with your entire family.
Have a plan for your pets and children on your moving day
Accomplishing all moving-related tasks will be more challenging when you have children or pets moving around. Having kids running around as you lift and move boxes/containers from one location to another can be dangerous. To keep your children safe, make sure they are safe and supervised at all times. When possible, ask friends or family members if the kids can stay with them whilst you do the work.
Be prepared for unexpected delays
Things don’t always go according to plan on your moving day, so it’s important to be prepared for unexpected delays. Always have a backup plan in case it becomes impossible to complete your move in your expected time. Prepare an essentials bag or box which contains enough supplies for the whole family. Pack some clothes, toiletries, medicine, and food that will last for a few days, as well as items that you or your children might need.
Take breaks throughout the day
Moving can be a lot of work, so it’s important to take breaks throughout the day to stay hydrated and energised. A few days before your scheduled move, prepare healthy snacks and drinks that are easy to consume. It is highly recommended that you choose energy-giving snacks instead of junk food so you will get the nutrients that your body needs to restore your energy.
Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment
Moving to a new home is a big accomplishment, so take some time to enjoy the feeling of accomplishment when it’s all over.
Here are additional tips for a hassle-free move:
- Have cash on hand to tip your movers
- Have a plan for where you will stay the night before and after your move
- Don’t forget to change your address
- Take pictures of your belongings before you pack them. This will help you keep track of everything and make sure that nothing gets lost in the move
- Label all of your boxes. This will help the movers know where to put your belongings and make it easier for you to unpack
Moving day can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can make your moving day as smooth and stress-free as possible.
