Would you believe that I have moved over 25 times in my 32 years? Moving is one of the most stressful events in life, almost as stressful as a job loss. Not only is your entire life placed in turmoil as you pack up, but you must coordinate two moves: the one from out of your old place, and the one into your new place. And often, these don’t happen in the same day. In order to maintain your sanity, you’re going to need to do some advance preparation.
Here are 6 tips to help the ease the stress of moving and making the transition easier.
Buy labels to label each box. They should not only list what room it’s destined for, but exactly what is inside. For example: KITCHEN—Utensils Drawer. On moving day each box can immediately be moved to the pertinent room. You’ll realize how important this when your new home is in chaos.
Toss it, don’t pack it. The time to clear your clutter is not after you’ve moved. You may have good intentions, but it just won’t get done when you’re faced with unpacking 80 boxes. Clear your clutter before you move. You’ll also save money, as you won’t have to pay for your moving companies to transport stuff that you’re only going to toss anyway.
Consider donating furniture to charity. Many charitable organizations are willing to visit your place, see if what you have is suitable, and if it is, they’ll even haul it away for you. It’s a great way to clear out stuff you no longer want, and it benefits people too.
Start packing as soon as you know you’re moving. Do not leave it for the day before your big move! You’ll have to put your life on hold, until you move. Make a commitment to pack at least ten boxes a day. You should have nearly everything packed up two weeks before your big move. Only leave out last minute items that you’ll still need, such as clothing, cosmetics, and dishes .
Moving can be stressful for pets too. If you have a rescue, they may become anxious if they see you packing up boxes. It could be associated with a prior abandonment. That’s one of the reasons why you may wish to slowly pack up boxes and place them in one room. If you can, close the door so they’re out of sight and mind for a bit. Your pets won’t be overwhelmed with you trying to pack it all up in one day. Try to keep to as normal a schedule as possible, and give your pets plenty of reassurance.
Commit to one day of notifying everyone of your big move. Include friends, family, work, bank, and utility companies in on the details. Do as much as you can online. Often banks allow you to switch contact information through their website. Send out a mass email to friends and family.
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The more you plan your move in advance, the easier the transition will be from home A, to home B. Moving is never fun, but once you’re in your wonderful new place, you’ll realize that the effort was more than worth it and these tips for moving and making the transition easier will definitely help!
I thought I was the only one who had moved that much! Great to hear from someone who understands. And I definitely echo the part about rescue dogs getting “abandonment issues” during the transition of a move. I’ve found it’s best to let “Grandma and Grandpa” babysit if at all possible.
You sure seem to have a lot of experience with moving and traveling, but also a lot of experience and helpful information with the AllConnect company. This might just been what I have been looking for to help with my moving plans!Thank you Jennifer!
These are excellent tips! Preparing for the move well is really important and a person should start early with it! When I moved house last year, I started too late with the packing and when I realized how many things that I don’t need have, it was horrible! Before the move everybody should go through their stuff and see what they can sell, donate and toss. After that the grand packing must start! 🙂 Thank you for the post!