Change is something that is inevitable, and when it comes to a move, the amount of upheaval can be daunting. Whether you’re relocating due to an exciting job offer or just want a change of scenery—any move requires lots of effort and energy. As daunting as the process can be, though, there are plenty of ways to make the transition easier on yourself. If you’re in the middle of a move, here’s some helpful advice on how best to tackle it.
1. Self Storage is your friend
If you’re in the middle of a move, one thing that can ease some stress and make things smoother is to use self-storage. This gives you more flexibility with when and how much you want to move at any given time, without having to worry about whether or not everything fits into the car or if it will all fit in your new home. Having the option of using temporary storage also allows for an easy transition between homes, reducing the amount of time spent packing up and unpacking items multiple times. It’s also a great way to protect fragile items that can’t withstand the rigors of moving.
2. See what you can donate
There may be items you no longer want but are still in good condition that could help out someone else. Donating these items is a great way to declutter your home and help out the community. Doing this can also save you time and money when it comes to packing and moving, as you’ll have fewer things to worry about. Check online resources like Freecycle or Craigslist for local organizations that take donations, or contact places like Goodwill or Salvation Army directly.
3. Make sure you pack an essentials box
When you arrive at your new home, you’ll be relieved to have the items that are most important to you already out and ready to use. Pack a separate box with everything from toiletries, phone chargers, and paperwork to clothing, snacks, and toys for the kids. This will save you time and energy once you’re settled in. If you’re flying to your new home, it’s especially important that this box is accessible and easy to carry. While it’s always wise to be mindful of your possessions, especially when traveling, having some must-have items with you can make the journey much smoother.
4. Label each box with its contents
Not only will this help you stay organized, but it will also enable your movers to know exactly where each item needs to go. Label the box with its intended room (even if you’re not sure which one yet!) so that everyone is on the same page and there’s no confusion when unloading. Also, be sure to label boxes as fragile or heavy so your movers are aware of how they need to handle them. This way all of your items will arrive safely at their destination.
5. Don’t forget to take care of yourself
Moving is a stressful and exhausting process, so make sure to take care of your physical and mental health during the move. Take breaks, eat healthy meals and snacks, exercise regularly, and establish a good sleep schedule. Reach out to friends or family if you need extra support or just someone to talk to about your experience. Remember: You can’t pour from an empty cup! Taking the time to look after yourself will ensure that you stay on top of things during this hectic period of your life. It’s also important to give yourself plenty of time; don’t rush or try to do too much in one day.
6. Keep track of all expenses related to the move
Moving can be expensive, so it’s important to maintain records of all expenses related to the move. This includes things like professional movers, materials for packing and transporting your belongings, insurance costs, storage fees, and more. Not only will this help you keep track of what you have spent, but it could also come in handy if you need to file a claim or get reimbursed by an insurance company or moving company. Remember to save receipts for anything that is purchased for the move.
Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but by following these tips, you can make the transition to your new home easier. Whether you’re using temporary storage or decluttering with donations, packing an essentials box, or labeling each box with its contents, remember to take care of yourself throughout the process and keep track of all expenses related to your move. These tips will help ensure that your move is successful and stress-free.