Moving is a constant list of tasks that goes on forever, from what to pack to whether everything will fit in the new place.
There is the emotion of saying goodbye to what is familiar and the uncertainty of beginning again in a different place.
With the right strategy and a little support, you can make that transition very smooth. This guide is here to take you through what works with tips and advice that will truly improve your experience of the whole thing.
1. Rent Out Extra Space for a Temporary “Transition Zone”
As you go into a smaller space, or if you just need a bit of extra room, renting out extra storage space is a game-changer. This temporary “transition area” helps you to better manage the flow of the move.
Instead of going all out and filling your new home at once, you can gradually put boxes and furniture into a rented space (like a storage unit or a friend’s garage). This allows you to:
- Sort at Your Own Pace: On your first day, you won’t be surrounded by boxes. Take it slow and easy as you put things into your new home.
- Prepare for an Easy Setup: As we get the larger pieces and non-essentials out of the way, it is easier to focus on the living room or kitchen.
2. Incorporate a “Moving Micro-Project” Mentality
Moving is also a very stressful time with the many tasks that accumulate. But you can deal with it by breaking the large tasks into smaller, doable projects.
For instance, rather than trying to pack the whole house at once, do this:
- Pack the Kitchen: Start with the one that isn’t the most emotional for you.
- Organize Documents: Go over important files, which you should either pack away properly or digitize.
- Clear Out the Garage: Give some time for the garage to get in order before you are overwhelmed by it.
3. Take Advantage of a “Pre-Move Declutter Challenge”
Decluttering before a move is a known practice, but you can add a fun twist by turning it into a challenge. Here’s how you can include declension in your move:
- Set a Goal: In the weeks before your move, which end up being daily, think of 50 things to declutter each day. Also, you can turn this into a daily challenge for yourself or a fun competition with your family and roommates.
- Create Categories: Each week, devote yourself to a certain category of items, such as clothes, old books, kitchen appliances, etc. This will keep things organized and make the task less overwhelming.
- Incorporate a ‘Memory Lane’ Moment: As you sort through your items, think for a second. This will help you in the decision of what to keep and what to let go of.
4. Outsource the Packing and Unpacking of “Sentimental” Items
As it is stressful to pack in general, so is the task of putting together what sentimental value to take with you. From family heirlooms to photos and childhood memories, which you have to choose from to bring along, these items require special care.
Consider passing off the task of packing and unpacking those precious items to a professional moving company that specializes in delicate or valuable pieces. This will:
- Protect Your Memories: Experts use custom crating, premium materials, and extra care for fragile and irreplaceable items.
- Save You Time: The emotional impact of dealing with those items is great, which is why it’s best to leave that to the professionals and instead focus on other aspects of the move.
5. Use Virtual Reality for Visualization
Moving into a new home presents a blank canvas and endless what-ifs, but out of that also comes the issue of how to fit your old furniture. Virtual reality can give you:
- Virtual Staging: Some applications and services that you can use to upload floor plans and play around with different arrangements before you move in. This allows you to determine the placement of large furniture items and to best use your space.
- Avoid Mistakes: VR can help you avoid putting large items in a space that ends up looking crowded.
6. Consider “Reverse Unpacking” for Speedier Settling In
The issue with the unpacking is that it may be just as overwhelming as packing. Instead of going all out to unpack everything at once, try a “reverse unpacking” approach.
- Start with essential items: Go through what you will need to bring in, like kitchen tools, personal care items and bed linens.
- Leave Non-Essential Items for Later: Items like extra clothing, books, or decorative pieces may be packed later.
- Avoid the “Packing Chaos”: Through a step-by-step process, you will also find you are not as easily overwhelmed and that you instead integrate into your new home better.
7. Avoid the Heavy Lifting with a Full-Service Packing and Delivery Experience
If it is at all possible for you to avoid the physical work of moving, go for full-service moving services. This is a step above the usual moving services that provide full support with:
- Packing: The packing company does it all, from taking apart the furniture to wrapping up delicate items.
- Delivery & Placement: They will also set up your furniture as you wish in your new home.
- Unpacking: Many that provide full service will do the unpacking for you, which includes not just putting your things out of the boxes but also arranging everything in your place.
Conclusion: Own the Move And Your Space
Moving is a great opportunity to start over; don’t treat it as a to-do list. With the right strategy, the process doesn’t have to be a mess. Break it down, create a plan, and get the help you need. This is not just about the transit of your things; it is also about creating a space that is functional for you.
So take charge, stay organized, and have your every move count.
Frequently Asked Question Regarding Moving (FAQs)
- What are some packing hacks to save time and space?
Use storage boxes for your clothes to keep them from wrinkling. For fragile items that don’t require bubble wrap, use towels or linens. When packing dishes, put them vertically like records; do that to reduce the chance of breakage. For large items like comforters and jackets, use vacuum seal bags.
- How do I find free moving boxes?
Check out local grocery, liquor and book stores for free boxes. Also, try out Facebook Marketplace and Nextdoor for free moving supplies. Some moving companies also have boxes at a discount.
- How do I handle fragile or valuable items?
For delicate items, specialty boxes for dishes, glass, and art can be used. Mark these boxes as “fragile” and put them well secured in the moving vehicle. As for precious items, we recommend you transport them separately or get insurance for them.
- How do I keep my pets comfortable during the move?
During the packing stage, keep your pets in a quiet, secure room. On move day, have a familiar person care for them or transport them separately. Upon arrival at the new home, set up their space right away and, as much as possible, maintain their routine.
- How can I stay organized throughout the move?
Create a task action plan that includes deadlines. Use a spreadsheet or an app to log inventory and apply consistent labels to boxes. Also, do a regular check-in with your progress to stay on schedule.
Ready for your move to go off without a hitch? Share your tips, tricks, or moving story with us as you tag Movin and Removin on Facebook. We can’t wait to see how you’re making your transition smooth!