Moving is the start of an exciting new chapter. That said, it can also be a stressful and even overwhelming process. That is unless you take the right steps to prepare for your big move.
If you haven’t moved in a while, or even ever before, you might feel like you have no idea where to start. With countless things to pack, logistics to figure out and the emotional process of moving, there’s a lot on your plate. However, you shouldn’t let that stop you from enjoying the experience. Using this guide to prepare for your big move, you can make relocating less stressful and feel confident about your decision.
Create a To-Do List
To overcome that feeling of being overwhelmed by everything you have to do, get it on paper so you can see that there is, in fact, an end to the madness of moving. To help you get started, here is a general overview of some of the most important pre-moving to-dos:
- Figure out your moving timeline: Whether you’re moving in days, weeks, or months, this will help you establish urgency for each of the items on your list.
- Schedule a time to pick up your keys and do your walkthrough: Check in with your landlord to set a date and time for picking up your keys and doing an official walkthrough. If your move is farther out, just getting the official move-in date should suffice for now.
- Figure out the logistics of your move: Will you be renting a moving truck, or are you going to hire a relocation company, or are you going to do everything yourself? Creating a moving budget will help you figure out which option is best for you.
- Order packing supplies: Pick up or order any packing supplies you’ll need, including boxes, tape, packing paper, bubble wrap, etc.
- Start the packing process: Packing is a big task to undertake, so getting an early start is a good idea, even if it’s just taking inventory of what you have, organizing your belongings, and starting to downsize.
- Contact utility companies and start setting up services: From electric to the internet, there are quite a few services you need to switch over when you move. You want to make sure to do it ahead of time so that you’re not stuck going without when you arrive.
- Clean everything (and clean it again): Whether you’re moving out of a rental or selling your home, it is imperative to leave it as clean as possible. Do a deep clean and make sure to keep on tidying up every nook and cranny until move-out day.
- Confirm all the details of your move: Even though you’ve made all your appointments for key pickups, walkthroughs, movers, and service setups, it’s important to confirm just to make sure. The last thing you want is to end up scrambling on moving day.
Start Downsizing
One of the most important things you can do when preparing for a move—especially if you’re going a far distance—is downsizing. Not only is it the most time-consuming aspect of moving, but it’s also one of the most emotionally difficult. Plus, no matter how much of a minimalist you are, it’s highly likely that you have quite a few things you could part with to make packing up easier.
Start by categorizing your items into groups, one for things you’ll keep, one for things you’ll be throwing out, and one for things you’ll be donating. If you find yourself reluctant to categorize anything other than “things to keep,” it’s time to get tougher on yourself. Keep in mind that you’ll have to pack, unpack, and find space for everything you decide to bring.
It might be hard to part with your belongings at first, but it can make a world of difference in your move’s difficulty. If you need some extra motivation, remind yourself that you’ll likely be getting a few new things to make your new place feel like home.
Get Ready Emotionally
One of the most overlooked aspects of moving is the emotional preparation that goes into it. Whether you’re simply saying goodbye to your college apartment that you’ve been renting for the last four years or you’re moving across the country for a job opportunity, there’s a lot of sentimental processing that you need to take time to deal with.
While you’ll be busy getting ready for the move, make sure to take time for relaxation and reflection. Try to enjoy the time you have left in your home or city—go to your favorite places, spend time with people you won’t see as much, and enjoy your home.
You also want to make sure you give yourself time to rest between moving responsibilities. Get enough sleep, give yourself breaks, and treat yourself to some me-time. Doing so will allow you to enjoy the process more and prevent yourself from getting burnt out before moving day even arrives.
With these tips in mind, you can prepare for your big move and make your move more manageable.
Featured Image by FABIANNE SIBBIO from Pixabay
