Moving can be an exciting and adventurous time, and it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With over 87 years of experience moving memories, we know that handling the details can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, we’re here to help with 10 helpful tips on how to reduce moving stress.
Start Early
Create a plan of attack. Begin as early as possible — even as soon as you decide to move. This will give you the maximum amount of time to spread out tasks, leaving you with more time to relax closer to moving day.
Start small with easy tasks that excite you. If you begin slowly, you might find it easier to do more difficult tasks after you’ve gotten into the swing of things. Make a to do list, and try to mark off one item every day. The key to success is deliberate, everyday action!
Ask For Help
When faced with a huge task, one of the most difficult things to do is admit that you need help. Make a list of tasks you could use help with including a range of time commitments, effort, and skill sets. From taping and moving boxes, to cooking meals, childcare, and sorting through items, your friends and family can help you every step of the way.
Remember that your professional movers are ready to help. Whether you need a checklist to help you organize or extra help with packing and organizing, your movers can lend their expertise to make moving simple and straightforward. Ask your movers for packing materials, moving tips, or directions to make a move go smoothly, and don’t hesitate to depend on them to do the heavy lifting.
Have a Yard Sale
Sort through your belongings and set aside any items you don’t want to take to your new home, then host a yard sale. You’ll make a little extra cash, your items will go to a new home, and you’ll help your community. Post your sale on Craigslist, Facebook, and in your neighborhood to get the most traffic, and donate any unsold or unwanted items to charity.
Spend Time with Friends and Family
Ask your friends and family members for experience and advice. They may be able to help you avoid major issues and might even offer assistance. A little quality time goes a long way!
Stay Organized While Packing
Develop a system and stick to it. Keep a clear list or map of the rooms in your new place and label boxes accordingly to make moving day easier. Purchase labels that will come off cleanly. Pack similar items together in boxes, and ask your professional moving company if you need extra packing supplies.
Create a First-Nighter Bag
After a long day of moving, you’ll want to enjoy your first night in your new place — without digging through boxes to find your pajamas. As you pack, set aside a bag for the things you’ll need the first twelve hours in your new home. This could include clothing, toiletries, snacks, and a favorite family photo. Don’t forget to have your pillow and bed sheets easily accessible. If you have children, a favorite blanket or toy might help them feel at home in your new place.
Follow a Checklist
Find a list of recommended steps online or create one of your own. If you’re hiring professionals for an interstate move, talk with your national moving company to see if they have a checklist available. Make sure to cover all your bases, and work with a friend or family member to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything. Follow it closely, and check items off when you complete them.
Take Care of Yourself
In the midst of moving, remember to occasionally take a break to relax. Watch a favorite movie, spend time in the park with your pets, or curl up at night with a great book. Do something that will help you relax and destress. As busy as you may be, don’t forget to eat well, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep at night. Taking care of yourself is even more important than taking care of your possessions, and it’s one of the number one tips on how to reduce moving stress.
Create a Moving Notebook
Find a binder or portfolio to store all of your moving papers. Store receipts, contracts, phone numbers, and lists here. Keep everything in one place, so you’ll be able to find things when you need them. Print maps to your new home, lists of contact information, insurance paperwork, or other important documents in waterproof page protectors. On moving day, you’ll be happy to have everything organized in one place.
Be Flexible
Finally, be flexible. We can plan every aspect of moving day, but things don’t always go as we hope. Be prepared for last minute changes, and remember that your movers are there to help. Have contingency plans in case of accidental detours or unexpected stops. Before you know it, you’ll feel settled into your new home.
