The Zen of Moving: 4 Steps to Avoiding Stress

It’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the work that goes into a move. However, while the process can be complicated, it doesn’t always have to be stressful. Here are a few moving tips and tricks to help you get ready for your new home without losing your cool.

Plan Ahead

The sooner you start to get things ready, the less you’ll have to scramble at the last minute, and the more thorough your pre-move preparations are, the less you’ll have to figure out on moving day and after you’ve moved in. If you’re hiring a mover, contact the company as early as possible—waiting until the last minute will likely leave you both flustered and without a truck. It’s also helpful to keep a checklist for moving that you can refer back to at different stages of the move; knowing that everything is on track and accounted for will definitely help you breathe easier. Finally, label all your boxes according to what they contain and where they should be unpacked so that the stress of moving isn’t exacerbated by the helplessness of not knowing where to start unpacking.

Stock Up on Equipment

Just like the planning stage, it’s never too early to start gathering supplies together. You can avoid the panic of having too much to pack and too few places to put it by collecting boxes as soon as you can; if your friends can’t lend you any, try speaking with a store manager—it’s likely that they’ll have leftover boxes for you to use. Stock up on packing tape, too. It’s also important to remember that moving is far more stressful on your own—calling a few friends to help you move boxes or lend hand trucks can turn a hectic move into a more cheerful one.

Purge While You Work

It’s far less taxing to pack up all your things when you’ve taken the time to get rid of what you don’t need. While you sort through your belongings before the move, consider whether you really want or need everything you’re taking with you. If the answer is no, set aside a pile of things to donate or recycle. Do your friends need those dishes or sweaters you don’t care for? Does your local library accept second-hand books? Clearing out your spaces before you move can cut down on moving time and help the whole process go more smoothly.

Keep a Backup Suitcase

Remember to allow yourself access to things you need, like clothes and medicines, over the course of moving; getting caught without the clothes or prescriptions you need in the middle of the room can be nerve-wracking for even the most coolheaded homeowner. Keeping an easily accessible suitcase on hand full of toiletries, medications, and as many changes of clothes as you need will save you the stress of having to unpack and repack whenever you need something you’ve already stashed away, and you won’t have to spend time looking through your boxes for the things you’ll need immediately after moving, either.

Moving doesn’t have to be a trying experience—and you don’t have to undertake it alone. Keeping your move organized on your own will help you stay relaxed and focused, but a moving company can give you the support you need to make your move as smooth as possible.