We’ve never heard of anyone having fun while moving. So many boxes to pack, pieces to sort, and the overall stress of having to unpack them once you arrive at your destination site can make you rethink your decision to move. However, we’re giving you not one, but ten simple hacks to make your next move simpler and smoother.
Inform the utility company
Whether your move is planned or impromptu, don’t forget to cancel your utilities and move them to your new home.
Make a budget and get a mover
Moving can be expensive, depending on the number of belongings, distance, and location. Before you call a moving company, do the math and figure out how much you’re willing to spend. Get a pen and paper, and call to compare moving companies. Many have different rates for different things you will need, so know what you are going to need before you call. (Will you need packing supplies/how many men will you need?)
Consume the consumables
Food is a significant problem when moving. If you have a stocked fridge or a pantry sprawling with food, throwing everything out isn’t a great idea. You can eat the perishables like fruits and vegetables while boxing up canned or packaged foods to go.
Don’t take clothes off the hanger
Leave your clothes on the hanger. Take a sheet from your bed and lay them in the sheet in a deep, single line. Fold the sheet over and tie the ends up like a tootsie roll. This not only keeps them clean, it makes it easier for you to hang them up when you arrive at your new home as opposed to folding and boxing them prior to hanging them up again.
Take pictures
You can take photos of things like TV or computer wiring if you’re unsure you’ll be able to hook them up once you move.
Label
We know this one sounds like a given, but not only should you label what’s in the box, you should label what room it is going to so the movers can take it directly there without waiting for your direction.
Pack early
Don’t wait till the morning of to make finishing touches. Have everything packed and ready to go on the day of the move. Make sure you have a bag of toiletries, clothing, and tech you will need for the first couple of days in your new home.
Book an early move
Don’t wait until the last minute to book a move later in the day. Start early in the morning – some moving companies that book you in the afternoon usually book jobs in the morning, and sometimes they don’t show up to you on time because they are still working the other job.
Unpacking
Focus on one room at a time. Unpack the most important rooms to you first. Don’t overwork yourself and give yourself a deadline box by box. This is a good time to go through your things a second time to see what you can get rid of.
Recycle
Moving boxes and other plastics should be recycled. Instead of using packing paper for some of your items, try using wash cloths or hand towels.
Moving can be a nightmare when done abruptly or without a plan. However, using any of these hacks will lessen some of the burden and keep you sane through the entire process.