15 Moving Tips

Sometimes, you might need some guidance when it comes to moving, and the truth is told – no matter how many times you go through it, it doesn’t really get any easier. Moving your entire life’s worth of belongings includes some necessary steps such as packing and organizing the process itself, and while they are unavoidable aspects of your relocation, there are a few things you can do to simplify them and make your move a smooth venture that you will be happy with. We have gathered some of the best moving tips that can make your upcoming move organized and less painful than it needs to be.

1. Get rid of a lot of stuff

Most people hate getting rid of their belongings, and reasonably so. Some items might have sentimental value to you, or you simply think you are really going to need that one particular item one day that you actually haven’t seen in years. No matter the reason, every item that you choose to let go of is one item less that you will have to pack, have moved and unpack at your new home. This is one of the most important tips, which is why it’s number one – get rid of everything you no longer have use for. Start going through your belongings at least several weeks before the day of your move. Of course, this depends also on the number of items you own and how much time you plan to spend packing, but usually starting early means that you can do less work every day and still get the job done. Make three piles, toss, donate and sell. Toss the items no one would have any use for, donate items that can be recycled or used by someone, and sell items to gather some cash to fund your move.

2. Clean your new home

Once you get the keys to your new home, consider gathering your cleaning supplies and paying your future living space a visit. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to clean your new house while it is completely empty, and you will be able clean everything without having to move heavy furniture around, trying to reach those tedious corners, and it’s also a good stress reliever. It will also make the world of a difference when you actually move in.

3. Gather moving quotes

If you’re relocating by yourself, you’re probably only going to need a moving truck, so make sure to get a good deal on that by doing some research. If you are planning to hire movers, it is important to look for movers that are not only cheap, but have a good reputation as well. Finding the cheapest movers can seem tempting, but keep in mind that these movers might not have a license, or insurance, which could ultimately result in a terrible experience, loss or damage of your items, that will be much more expensive than hiring the most reputable movers in the area.

4. Packing supplies

You could always search on the internet, your local liquor store or the nearest grocery store for some free packing supplies. There is a good chance that you can find some free boxes, bubble wrap and other packing materials from these places. Also keep in mind that your packing supplies should be in good condition, as you don’t want to risk your boxes falling apart and breaking your items in the middle of your relocation.

5. Give yourself time to pack – or don’t

One of the more confusing, but more useful tips on this list – is that you should time your packing venture just as you see fit. Some people might feel more comfortable and less stressed by giving themselves weeks to pack and packing for an hour a day, and some people work more efficiently if they start a few days before their move. No matter the option you go with, give yourself as much or as little time as you need to make you comfortable with your entire relocation.

6. Leave your essentials out

There are some items that you will be needing once you arrive at your new home. Essentials are quite individual and vary from person to person, but keep in mind that these items should be packed in a separate box, clear box, tote or anything similar so you can have access to these items from the moment you arrive at your home. These essentials may include a box cutter, toilet paper, coffee, soap, medication and more. Keep in mind that you will need a change of clothing, so either pack that with the rest of your essentials, or pack a separate suitcase with your clothing.

7. Packing alternatives

You don’t have to pack everything you own into a cardboard box. There are other things you can use instead, such as suitcases, gym bags, trash bags, backpacks or laundry baskets. This can help you save some money when purchasing your supplies, and are good alternatives for the typical cardboard box. When packing a suitcase for example, fill smaller bags and purses with clothing before placing them inside. This way, you’ll also be saving space. Make sure to empty out your heavy furniture, to make it easier on your movers and speed up the moving process as well.

8. Padding

Instead of purchasing expensive padding materials, consider using your everyday items for some great padding alternatives. Clothing, towels, oven mitts, bed sheets, comforters and pillowcases are great padding options that you should use as cushioning between fragile packed items. If you’ve already purchased packing supplies and padding materials but have run out in the process, this tip can easily save the day.

9. Liquids

If a liquid spills in your box, it will fall apart and this can turn into a bad time really quick. You also don’t want your liquids to spill all over your other items, which is why there is a pro tip for preventing these situations. Take off the caps of your liquids and cover the opening with plastic wrap before closing it up again. Not only is this a good vacation packing hack, but it will also come in handy during your relocation as well.

10. Clothing

Instead of taking all of your clothing and placing them into boxes, consider giving your moving company a call and requesting a few wardrobe boxes on the day of your move. This will make for an easy transfer of your clothing from your wardrobe, into the boxes, and you won’t have to go through the hassle of having to fold them, pack them and unpack them once again at your new location. You can also opt to place your clothing inside a trash bag with your hangars. This will also make for an easy transfer once your relocation is completed.

11. Label everything

If you don’t want to go through the chaotic process of having to predict where your belongings are placed, and which boxes goes where, save yourself some time and the hassle by simply labeling every box you have packed with the room it goes to AND the contents. It’s an extra step, but it will make it a lot easier to unpack everything, and help your movers know where which box is supposed to go.

12. Door hacks

On the day of your relocation, consider using a rubber band or door stopper to make sure that you don’t have to dive through your bag to find your keys or even lock yourself out of your home. Keep in mind that your movers will be constantly carrying boxes in and out of both of your homes, so this is a good hack to have in mind at both locations.

13. Label your doorways

If you have decided to color code your boxes according to the room they go to, consider color coding your doorways as well, to further help your movers move your boxes more efficiently by knowing exactly where each box is supposed to go. This will speed up your moving process as well, save you time and money and make it a lot easier on yourself and your movers.

14. Take time to unpack

You might want to unpack the second you arrive at your new home, but it is completely normal to simply not have the motivation or energy to handle the entire process by yourself. Take one box, and instead of unpacking all at once, unpack one and place those specific items where they are supposed to go. This way you won’t have a lot of chaos around your home, and it will seem like and easier approach.

15. Just do it

Get your stuff unpacked as soon as you’ve gotten a good night’s sleep. Some people have a lot of stuff, therefore it’s a much longer process of unpacking for them, but that is okay. Keep in mind that your stuff should be unpacked within a week, as dragging out this stressful process can make you avoid it even more. Gather the energy and motivation and just get it done. The sooner your start, the sooner you will finish.