It’s no secret that moving can be a really stressful experience. After all, you have to pack up tons of items, pack them up, put the items on a moving truck, and drive to your newest destination. It’s enough to instill a high level of anxiety in anyone.
However, there are ways to get through the process without losing your mind. Consider these top seven moving tips to keep your relocation stress-free.
1. Start in advance.
Do not make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to pack. That is the easiest way to stress yourself out. Instead, start the packing and planning process at least six weeks in advance. Even if you start two months in advance, you can easily do a little bit of packing each day. Know where you’re moving to. Make sure that the new place is ready for you to move into.
2. Pack strategically.
Start by packing the items that you use the least, but still need. You don’t want to pack up your kitchen a month in advance because you’ll still need to cook meals throughout that month. Also, when you are packing, always label the boxes.
Make sure to pack fragile items with proper installation so that the items don’t break. You don’t have to buy all of your boxes either. You can also go around to different grocery stores and ask for the free boxes they have once they stock the shelves. Additionally, make sure that you get heavy-duty masking tape to keep your items secure.
3. Declutter.
It’s important to take a look at everything you own and what you practically use on a regular basis. Now is the time to declutter and get rid of items that you don’t need. You can take certain items to the thrift store. You could have a garage sale a month in advance. You can donate certain items to local charities. You can even decide to give certain items to friends and family. Ultimately, make sure that you don’t move unused items into the new house. Whatever can’t be given away or sold, recycle it or throw it away.
4. Hire movers.
Don’t underestimate the amount of work moving takes. If you want to keep your stress level low, it’s always a good idea to hire movers to handle the heavy lifting. Because they are professionals, they do this on a regular basis.
They know how to efficiently and effectively move large items within a quick turnaround time. Set aside the money for the movers and give yourself some peace of mind.
5. Create a meal plan.
Plan your meals in advance. Purchase pre-prepared salads and entrees so that you don’t have to do as much work in the kitchen. Utilize your rice cooker and crock pot so that you can have home-cooked meals without slaving over a stove.
As you begin to pack up your kitchen, set aside money so that you can order takeout. It’ll only be for a short period of time.
6. Set aside a specific moving budget.
You don’t want this to be a time where you’re stressing out about money. Once you decide your expenses and create a budget, prepare an emergency fund. In the case that something happens you didn’t expect, you’ll be able to financially cover it.
7. Arrange breaks.
Within the final days of the move, you’re going to be a little tired. Find ways to get away from the mayhem and take breaks. It might be that you schedule a yogurt break or get a massage at the end of a crazy packing day. Once you insert some of these nice experiences in the midst of the move, you’ll be able to enjoy it a little more.
If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to get through the move without increasing the number of gray hairs on your head. Even if there are a few hiccups, you’ll be able to safeguard your mental sanity by preparing in advance and following these guidelines.
Before long, the move will be complete and you’ll be able to settle into your new home.