Moving is a part of life. Whether you have relocated several times, or this is your first time packing up all of your belongings, it can be enormously stressful, taking a toll on the best planners. Fortunately, we now have some simple and effective hacks for making a cross-country move smooth and stress-free. Follow these tips for a seamless move from start to finish:
1. Prepare yourself.
Make a “to-do” list if you have to. Call utility companies and let them know that you are moving. If possible, set up new utilities before arriving so you don’t have to deal with that as you are unpacking. Hire a mover and communicate your moving date. Set your budget for moving, and don’t forget that there will be extras and incidentals that you’ll have to factor into your final cost. Arrange to give away or donate items that you will not be taking with you ahead of time so you’ll have less to pack. Assemble your packing supplies. Do your research on the area where you’re moving, scoping out neighborhoods, the local job market, and more. Planning to join us in the Gem State? Check out this site for an awesome, comprehensive guide on moving to Idaho!
2. Start packing.
We may not all have the budget for a moving service that also packs up belongings. You can start doing it yourself or ask help from family and friends to save both time and money. Pack items in boxes according to what room they were in and label boxes immediately after filling them. Label them according to where you would like them to go in your new home. Use towels and clothing to wrap breakable items, and avoid packing items that are bulky, fragile, or difficult to handle. Remember to pack a last-minute essentials bag with all of the things that you will need for the last night in your old home.
3. Organize everything on moving day.
Pack a cooler with snacks and water bottles so you can stay hydrated and energized throughout the day. Provide enough for family, friends, and even movers as they help you make the magic happen.
Have a plan for your kids and pets. For children that are too young to help out, it might be a good idea to line up childcare or have someone to watch them while the moving is happening. Pets should also either be contained or supervised to avoid injuries and accidents as a result of their being underfoot.
4. Know where you are going, and communicate this!
A cross-country move may require some shipping out items ahead of time. If you have movers that are handling things before you arrive at your new destination, make sure you have communicated with them what their timeline is, as well as provide an address where items should be delivered. If you have a caravan traveling with you, have a plan for pit stops and rests, and make sure everyone knows what to do if you get separated. Provide everyone the address of your new home so that, regardless of what happens in transit, you can all arrive at the same destination.
5. Try not to unpack everything in one day.
Have a plan for unpacking and moving items into your new home. Establish this with movers, family, and friends; bring labeled boxes and furniture into designated rooms and pack against one wall for later distribution. Set up a makeshift rest area for people to come and eat, drink, and recharge. With a little bit of planning and some luck, you’ll arrive with everything intact and get through the day.
6. Celebrate!
The hard work is over. Now is time to celebrate your arrival and take steps to set up your beautiful new home. Look forward to the opportunity to create your new home and new memories with the friends and family that helped you get here – relatively stress-free!
