- Research Your New City and Neighborhood Online
- Declutter by Donating or Selling What You Don't Need
- Make a List
- Get Boxes for Free and Pack in Advance
- Pack Smart
- Label and Color Code Your Boxes
- Change Your Address
- Set Up and Transfer Services
- Take Notes and Make Measurements
- Clean and Paint, Before Unpacking
Let's face it, moving can be chaotic, but it certainly doesn't have to be. As a military child, I frequently relocated from state to state, so moving has become second nature to me. As an adult, I've modeled some military hacks my family taught me, making moving to a new neighborhood nearly seamless. Here are some tips and tricks I've picked up from my childhood, along with some expert advice that will make your next move a lot less stressful. Before you know it, you'll have your feet kicked up, enjoying your new crib.
1. Research Your New City and Neighborhood Online
It's never too early to put on your FBI hat and investigate your new city. Look into traffic times, staple attractions, school districts, happy hours, shopping districts, and of course, the weather. It's best to know what to expect before you settle into your new home. Getting to know your new city or neighborhood is a must.
2. Declutter by Donating or Selling What You Don't Need
Before you even start the packing process, it may be best to downsize. Since most families don't do annual spring cleaning, make sure you declutter before your move. Consider donating unwanted furniture, clothing items, and miscellaneous goods that no longer serve you or your space. Some items can go to charity, while others can be sold online. The best rule of thumb is to get rid of things you haven't used in the past two years. If it's collecting dust, give it up! The last thing you want is clutter in your new place. Consider this move as a fresh start.
3. Make a List
It's easy to forget things during a move. First things first, stay organized by having a custom inventory and moving checklists on hand. You can easily find these checklists online or get creative and make your own. Check off the things you've packed as you go to make your move a lot easier. Be sure to make this list weeks before the initial move-out date so that you won't be frantically curating a list the day of your move. You'll never miss a step with the list method. Be sure to take photos of your furniture and delicate items in case they get damaged during the move. Taking video footage is also handy if you think separate images may be too time-consuming.
4. Get Boxes for Free and Pack in Advance
Why pay for something you're going to recycle once you're done moving anyway? Head to your local grocery, big-box store, or even the liquor store a few weeks before your move and ask if you can help yourself to some of their leftover boxes. They'll usually have them in the back or outside by the dumpsters. Just make sure the boxes are clean with no sticky residue before you take them home. Plastic bins are also useful since they’re super sturdy and waterproof — the choice is yours. For all the procrastinators out there, try your best to pack in advance. Packing last minute can add unwanted anxiety. So, slowly pack up small items throughout the weeks leading up to moving day. For each day of the week, pick a room to complete. Monday may be for packing the dining room, whereas Tuesday can be for the kids’ room. Before you know it, the entire house or apartment will be packed and ready for the big move
5. Pack Smart
Packing smart also means having some necessities within arm’s reach. If you have a long trip ahead, you'll need easy access to food, drinks, hygiene supplies, medicine, and a change of clothes. Pack an "open me first" box full of essential tools and cleaning supplies that you'll have on hand if your moving truck is delayed. At least you'll have some of the essentials with you until the movers arrive to unload. Packing smart also means packing efficiently. Roll up clothes to save space for items that can easily fit in suitcases. Have Ziplock bags handy for smaller things you might lose track of in boxes and keep clothes on hangers for an easier unpacking process when you arrive at your new place.
6. Label and Color Code Your Boxes
The labels on each box don't have to be detailed. You could simply use symbols or abbreviate what's inside the box. The color-coding method is also helpful. Use different color tape for each room or just tape colored paper to the boxes. For example, consider using green on boxes in the kitchen, yellow for the main bedroom, red for the living room, etc. It's also helpful to label those delicate items so you and your movers will know what's fragile. This helps prevent your priceless items from getting destroyed during the move. Avoid packing objects from multiple rooms in one box; that tends to get confusing during the unpacking process.
7. Change Your Address
Changing your address is a critical part of your move and can be easily handled online or in-person through the United States Postal Service (USPS) at least seven to ten days before your move. If you don't change your address in time, you could miss out on some important mail. You'll receive confirmation immediately after submitting your address change, and a USPS packet of useful coupons will be courteously delivered to your new humble abode.
8. Set up or Transfer your Home Services
Check to see if your existing home service providers are available in your new area. If so, schedule a service transfer. If not, you are going to need to find a new one. Check online to see which TV, Phone, or Internet service providers are available in your new neighborhood. Make sure you set your cancellation date for the day you move out and your install date for the day after you move in. This way, you aren't going too long without service, but you also don't have to deal with it during the pandemonium of your move.
9. Take Notes and Make Measurements
Head to your local home improvement store and find reasonably priced measuring tape or check out your phone's app store for one. Don't be discouraged; you don't have to be Bob the Builder to take measurements. Measuring the width of doors and hallways is the best way to prevent nicking walls and woodwork while carrying large objects, like furniture, through your new spot. Also, be mindful of what goes into each room before moving everything in. Craft a blueprint of where you want furniture placed to make it easier for yourself and the movers.
10. Clean and Paint, Before You Unpack
Do another walkthrough of your new digs to make sure it's up to your standards. Finish any painting and cleaning before you unpack your boxes and situate your furniture. That way, your house is thoroughly cleaned, and you won't have to cover your furniture to keep it pain-free.
Go into moving with an open mind and a positive outlook. Whether you're embarking on a new adventure to a new city, country, or simply moving across town, moving can be an exciting endeavor. Have your favorite playlist and plenty of chilled water bottles on hand, then roll up your sleeves— it's time to move!
