Moving is exhausting, stressful, and a pain in the butt. However, with a solid plan, you can make it suck way less. Think of these tasks as leveling up your moving game – less stress, more sanity, and a smooth start in your new space. Let’s tackle this!
1. Declutter ruthlessly.
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Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of all the junk you’ve accumulated over the years. Don’t waste time and money packing and transporting things you don’t need or want. Go through your belongings with a critical eye and be honest about what you really use and love. Donate, sell, or toss anything that doesn’t make the cut. And don’t fall into the trap of thinking you’ll deal with it later – if you don’t need it now, you probably never will.
2. Start packing non-essentials EARLY.
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Books, off-season clothes, extra kitchen gadgets – box those up weeks in advance. Label EVERYTHING clearly, with the room it goes in and a brief list of contents. Future-you will be SO grateful you weren’t scrambling to find your favorite sweater amidst a mountain of boxes. This also makes those last few days pre-move way less hectic.
3. Create a master moving binder.
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Organization is key when it comes to moving. Create a binder with all the important information you’ll need throughout the process. Include things like your moving budget, a timeline of tasks, contact information for utility companies and other service providers, and an inventory of your belongings. Having everything in one place will save you a lot of stress and frustration down the line.
4. Change your address everywhere.
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Don’t wait until the last minute to let people know you’re moving. Start updating your address with the post office, your bank, your employer, and any other important contacts at least a month before your move. This will ensure that you don’t miss any important mail or payments during the transition. And while you’re at it, set up mail forwarding so you don’t have to worry about stragglers.
5. Pack an “Open Me First” box.
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The last thing you want to do after a long day of moving is to dig through boxes to find your toothbrush and pajamas. Pack a box with all the essentials you’ll need for your first night in your new place. Include things like toiletries, a change of clothes, bedding, and any medications you take regularly. Label the box clearly and keep it with you during the move so you can access it easily.
6. Take photos of how your electronics are wired.
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Before you start unplugging and packing up your electronics, take photos of how everything is connected. This will save you a lot of frustration when it comes time to set everything up in your new place. And while you’re at it, label your cords and cables so you know what goes where.
7. Plan for your pets.
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Moving can be stressful for pets, too. Make sure you have a plan in place for keeping them safe and comfortable during the move. If you’re driving to your new place, make sure you have plenty of water and food for them, as well as any necessary medications. If you’re flying, research the airline’s pet policies and make sure you have all the necessary paperwork.
8. Research moving companies.
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Not all moving companies are created equal. Don’t just go with the first one that pops up on Google. Do your research and read reviews from past customers. Get quotes from several different companies and compare their services and prices. And don’t be afraid to negotiate – many companies are willing to work with you to get your business.
9. Measure your furniture.
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There’s nothing worse than realizing on moving day that your couch won’t fit through the door of your new place. Avoid this nightmare scenario by measuring your furniture ahead of time and comparing it to the dimensions of your new space. If something won’t fit, you’ll have time to sell it or make other arrangements.
10. Pack a cooler.
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Moving day is exhausting, and the last thing you want to do is try to find a place to eat in your new neighborhood when you’re hangry and tired. Pack a cooler with easy-to-eat snacks and drinks so you can refuel throughout the day. And don’t forget to pack some paper plates and utensils so you don’t have to dig through boxes to find them.
11. Schedule utility hookups.
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Don’t wait until moving day to set up your utilities. Contact your new providers at least a week ahead of time to schedule hookups for things like electricity, gas, water, and internet. You don’t want to spend your first night in your new place without power or running water.
12. Clean your old place.
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Don’t leave a mess for the next tenants or owners. Take the time to give your old place a thorough cleaning before you leave. This includes things like wiping down surfaces, vacuuming carpets, and cleaning the oven and fridge. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it can also help ensure that you get your security deposit back.
13. Say goodbye.
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Moving is bittersweet. You’re excited about your new adventure, but it’s also hard to leave behind the people and places you’ve grown to love. Take some time before the move to say goodbye to your favorite spots and the people who have made your time there special. Have a farewell party, take some photos, and make some lasting memories.
