Yes, moving to a new home can be an exciting time, but it’s often shared with feelings of nervousness and stress. There are numerous things that need to get done beforehand, not to mention the laundry list of items to set up in your new home. With the right strategy and mindset in place, you can come out on the other side of the move feeling as best as you can. Use these tools to make your next move less stressful!
1. Organizational and Planning Tools
Being well-organized is essential during a move. Getting organized before you start packing any of your items will allow for a less stressful, more seamless experience. Keep track of all receipts, such as leases, mortgage papers, mover contracts, and other documents, in a centralized location. It may be best to have both a digital drive with these items as well as a physical location, such as a binder or folder. This will also help you stay on top of all moving expenses, some of which may be tax-deductible.
Keep a checklist to stay on top of all the items that need to be accomplished before you leave your current abode. For instance, it’s best to contact your current utility providers to schedule the shutdown of electric, gas, and water services a month or two before you plan to leave. If you’re moving within the same neighborhood, you’ll likely be able to transfer service to your new home.
Other items to include on a moving checklist include using a comparison tool to find the best security system pricing for your new residence, arranging for pickup of any oversized items such as mattresses that you’ll need to dispose of, and completing a change of address with the United States Postal Service. Although your to-do list may be long, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment each time you check one off!
2. Packing Tools
One of the most challenging aspects of moving is the physical labor involved. Whether you’re moving down the block or across the country, you’ll need to pack everything up from your current place. While this can be a daunting task, the right tools can simplify the process.
Instead of traditional cardboard boxes, consider clear plastic bins. This allows you to easily see the contents within the box, and they can be sturdier than cardboard. Wardrobe boxes let you move everything from your closet with the hangers, which can save you a lot of time both packing and unpacking in your new home. Vacuum storage bags can be used for bulkier items, such as winter sweaters and bedding, to condense the number of boxes you’ll need.
Color-coded labels are another great option. Assign a different color for each room, such as green for the master bedroom and red for the kitchen. When the movers arrive at your new place, you can tell them where to place the boxes based on the colored label.
3. Support and Service Tools
Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned mover or not, every move can present its own set of challenges. Local legislation may make it challenging to schedule a moving truck in a metropolitan area, for instance. Or perhaps not having any close family makes it more difficult to find childcare support so you can focus on the move. No matter what challenges arise or where you may be physically located, know that there is help available to you.
Enlisting the help of professional packers is a good option to consider if you’re stressed about getting everything done on your own. Donation pickup services can make it easier to get rid of clutter, up until the day that your packers arrive. Renting a portable storage container can help you feel less rushed in terms of deciding what to do with certain items.
4. Stress-Reducing Tools
When the last box has been packed and you’ve said farewell to your old home, the stress isn’t over. For some, this is when the overwhelm really kicks into high gear. Being in unfamiliar territory can be alarming and cause different worries. Getting your kids and pets adapted to their new spaces can trigger anxiety, as can establishing a routine in your new place.
Thinking ahead about what you can do to make the transition as stress-free as possible can do wonders for your nervous system. Instead of rushing to the grocery store when you move in, plan and order groceries to be delivered. Eliminating this one simple task can give you the time to slowly unpack and get organized without worrying about what to feed your family. Hiring a local handyman to hang up artwork, put together new furniture, and assist in other labor-intensive tasks can also be extremely beneficial.
5. Peace of Mind Tools
Settling into a strange setting can be unnerving. No matter how much research you’ve done about the new location, it’s normal to feel on edge the first few nights or even weeks of move-in day. There are some ways to feel more at ease, knowing you’re doing everything you can to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Purchasing insurance can protect you during this stressful time, providing financial protection for your valuables and possessions that may be damaged during a move. Consider buying new locks and installing them on day one. This ensures that only you and your trusted family members have keys and can significantly enhance your home’s security. And downloading a neighborhood app or joining a local Facebook group can help you feel more connected before you even arrive in the new area.
Final Takeaways
From the initial organization and planning phase to move-in day, your next move can go as smoothly as possible if you keep these five tools in mind. Remember, not everything will go exactly as planned. That’s part of the process! Keep your eye on the big picture, knowing that the hiccups you’re going through now will be well worth it in the end.