A Dozen (almost) Stress-Free Moving Tips
Face it, moving can be a hassle. From the logistics to the cost, and maybe worrying about the kids’ transition to a new home and community, it’s no wonder relocating is so stressful. But what if packing and moving and unpacking were easier?  We found some hacks that will alleviate the overwhelming feeling that comes with doing every item on your to-do list.
1. Create a moving toolbox that contains scissors, tape, marking pens, lists, bubble wrap, and other items that you will keep you from needlessly digging among the scattered boxes around the house.
2. If you’re having trouble letting go of smaller items that will take up packing time and space, try following the $20 in 20 minutes rule. If you go without it, could you find a new one for under $20 in less than 20 minutes?  If the answer is yes, it might be worth leaving it behind at the old house.
3. Take a picture of every room before you even start to pack. That way, once you get into your new place, you don’t have to try to remember how you like everything arranged. Just look at your photos and let them guide you. This tip will help with the smallest details, such as the cords of the electronics, the way the toys and games fit in the closet, or the books on the shelf that fit so nicely.
4. Speaking of cords, store them in paper towel and toilet paper rolls to keep them from tangling. Keep them all together in a box so that it’s easy to get your hands on the right ones when it’s time to set things up and plug things in.
5. Clearly label your boxes on the side instead of on the top so that if they’re stacked, you’ll more easily and quickly find the one you need.
6. Avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box to keep you from doing more work than necessary when unpacking. Every box should be unloaded in its designated room or area.
7. Make carrying cardboard boxes easier by cutting handles into them.
8. Slide hanging clothes into garbage bags still on the hanger, creating several mini clothes travel bags.
9. Use suitcases, especially rolling luggage, as boxes. Rolling clothes instead of lugging them in boxes saves space and energy.
10. Another thought for clothing is to keep clothing items in their respective bureaus and dresser drawers to save time. Then plastic wrap your drawers with everything inside and move the dresser with a dolly. The wrapping will keep everything in place on the moving van.
11. Plastic wrap is also useful for liquids that are making the move to the new house. Unscrew the caps on everything from cleaning supplies to big bottles of soap and shampoo, cover the opening with plastic, then put the caps back on tightly. The time it takes to do that is less than the clean-up if there’s a moving spill that makes a big mess.
12. Pack a first night box that has everything you may want or need for your first night in your new home. You won’t have the energy to search for things like toiletries, clean clothes, linens, and even the coffee maker for the next morning.
Moving in the 21st century means there’s an app for that. Actually, there are several moving apps that can help keep your move be organized with checklists and timelines as well as additional tips and tricks. We found a few mentioned here that promise to take the guesswork out of making a move.
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