Moving can seem like a daunting task, with the planning and packing that must be done before you even begin to transport your belongings. To make matters worse, there never seems to be enough time or resources for everything that needs doing.
That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 essential tips and hacks for making moving easier — so you can spend less time stressing out about the move and more time ready to enjoy life in your new home!
From smart packing solutions to technology-driven services, these helpful tricks will save valuable hours of energy and give you peace of mind throughout the process.
1. Start with a plan
As soon as you know that you’re going to be moving, create a checklist to help you stay organized throughout the process. Your list should include all major tasks and deadlines that must be done before your move, such as notifying your landlord, transferring subscriptions or memberships, etc.
2. Purge the extras
Moving is a great opportunity to declutter and get rid of items you don’t need or no longer use. Go through your belongings room by room and make three piles — donate, sell, and trash. It will help reduce the amount of stuff you have to move and make it easier to pack.
3. Use the right tools for the job
If you plan on doing some heavy lifting yourself, ensure you’re using the right tools to get it done safely and efficiently. Investing in a good set of moving straps can help transfer large items and furniture more easily, plus dollies or hand trucks to move boxes and other items.
4. Label your boxes
Labeling your boxes will make unpacking a breeze, especially if you’re having movers transport them for you. When labeling each box, including the room it is going to and a list of the contents inside. Color-coding each label or number system can also help keep things organized.
5. Pack an overnight bag
Don’t forget to pack a separate bag for all your essentials, such as toiletries, medication, phone chargers, pajamas, and some snacks. This way you won’t have to worry about rummaging through boxes in search of important items during the move.
6. Don’t forget the furniture
It’s easy to overlook your larger furniture items when moving, but it’s important to make sure they are properly packed and protected for transport. Wrapping upholstered pieces in plastic wrap and padding sharp corners with bubble wrap will help ensure your furniture arrives safely at its new home.
7. Take advantage of technology
Instead of relying on traditional moving companies, try out several tech-driven services that streamline the process and make it easier to coordinate all aspects of your move. Hire a moving company that uses technological advancements like tracking applications, online payments, and estimates to make your move more efficient.
8. Gather boxes for packing
Start collecting sturdy, clean boxes in all shapes and sizes to use for packing up your belongings. Ask local stores or check online classifieds sites like Craigslist for free moving boxes given away by people who recently moved.
9. Pack smart
As you start packing items into boxes, use packing paper or bubble wrap to protect fragile items and newspaper for padding. To save space in each box, consider using plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes.
10. Utilize suitcases
If you have large suitcases laying around, don’t forget to use them! Fill up the suitcase with books, linens, or other items that won’t be damaged by being compacted. You can also use them to transport clothing if you don’t have time to unpack and hang them up in your new home.
11. Take pictures of electronics
Before unplugging any electronic devices, take a picture of the connections so you can easily set them up in your new home. It will save you time that you may otherwise waste making the wrong cable connections.
12. Separate important documents
Place all crucial personal and financial documents such as birth certificates, passports, insurance paperwork, etc. in a separate box or folder so you know exactly where to find them when you need them.
13. Change of address
Don’t forget to fill out a change of address form and mail it to the post office. It will help ensure all your mail is forwarded to your new address when you move.
14. Set aside items for cleaning
Before leaving your old home, set aside any cleaning supplies and tools you’ll need such as mops, brooms, dusters, and sponges. It will make it easier to tackle any tasks that need to be completed before handing over the keys.
15. Use garbage bags for clothing
If you’re in a pinch for time, use large garbage bags to quickly pack up your clothes instead of traditional boxes or suitcases. Garbage bags are lightweight and can easily be transported.
16. Take measurements
Before you move, measure the doorways and stairwells in your new home to ensure large furniture items can fit through them when being moved in. It will save time and energy if you need to return oversized pieces from whence they came.
17. Use blankets for padding
If you run out of bubble wrap or packing paper, use old blankets or towels to provide a layer of protection for fragile items in transit.
18. Label the boxes by room
When loading boxes onto the truck, clearly label each box with its designated room (kitchen, living room, bedroom). It will make it easier for movers to know where each box should go when they arrive at your new home.
19. Disassemble items when you can
When you load your furniture and other bulky items onto the truck, disassemble the larger items like beds and couches if possible. It will save space and make them easier to maneuver when moving.
20. Color-code your keys
If you have multiple sets of keys for various doors and locks, consider using different colors of nail polish to differentiate between each set. It will help keep you organized when it’s time to start unlocking all the new doors in your home.
These tips and hacks will help make your next move easier, quicker, and less stressful! Best of luck on your journey to your new home. Happy moving!
About InterWest Moving & Storage
InterWest Moving & Storage, an agent of Atlas Van Lines, has been delivering high-quality transportation services to our customers since 1956. Apart from residential packing and moving, we also provide domestic and international corporate, art, and government relocation services. You can call our toll-free number (800) 877-1091 to book your services and get a free quote.
