The best strategy to pack for moving is to start early, but there are several things you can do before you even start packing to help facilitate an easier move.
Start off by calling the utility companies and get services transferred over for the day of the move. This way you move in with the lights turned on, and won’t forget to do it later.
Next, set your budget. Moving can get expensive, and you don’t want to end up with sticker shock on top of everything else. Make a list of what you’ll need and how much it will all cost, then follow this plan to stay on budget or below.
Plan what packing supplies you will need per room. This way, you can be sure to get what you need on the first run to the store.
Eat up! It’s often best to bring as little perishable food as possible. So get creative with recipes using the rest of what you have or may need before the move and plan out meals so there isn’t much leftover on moving day.
Declutter and organize your belongings. Toss, recycle or donate what you don’t need instead of lugging it with you to your new home.
Do a closet purge. If it doesn’t fit, is out of style, and/or you haven’t worn it in a year, get rid of it. Make donation pick-up or drop-off arrangements with family, friends, or local charity groups. You can also post your items on social media sales pages.
Consider short-term portable storage. If there are some items that you just can’t commit to getting rid of yet but you’re not sure you need, you may want to put them in a short-term storage unit and then evaluate later on.
Research and moving tips and hacks to incorporate into your plan. Moving day itself is tiring and stressful. Moving tips and hacks will help you get through it easier. We offer plenty of advice on our blogs and social media. Here are a few to start with.
Pack a cooler the day before. Stock a cooler with easy-to-grab items that can keep your strength up throughout the day, like water bottles and quick snacks, and low-carb foods. Move it with you in the car instead of the moving truck so you can access it easier when you need to.
Have a plan for children and pets. If your kids are too young to help on moving day, your best bet is to have them spend time at a friend or family’s home to relieve a bit of your stress and keep them safe. You might also consider getting a babysitter for the day if everyone else is busy or helping you with the move in other ways. The same goes for pets. If you can arrange alternate plans for your little ones and your furry ones, you’ll all be happier.
Be packed up the day before moving day. Last-minute packing can slow down your entire day. Be packed and organized before your movers arrive or it’s time to pick up the rental truck. That way, you can focus right away on accomplishing the next tasks at hand.
