While moving is exciting at times, packing and unpacking is always a tedious chore. There are lots of ways to reduce the anxiety of moving so you can enjoy the moment, look forward to the change and know that this move can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help make your next move stress-free.
Ask Local Retailers for Boxes
Moving can be costly, so it’s crucial to save every dollar when you’re on a budget. Buying boxes isn’t cheap, and there are many ways to get free boxes for your move. It’s a good idea to start saving boxes six months in advance. The fruits and vegetable department of your local grocery store is an excellent place to ask for free boxes. Usually, they have an abundant supply folded up in the back and are recycled or thrown out anyway. Ask your friends, family, and co-workers to save boxes for you as they come across them. You could also check out local online classifieds like Craigslist to see if people or businesses are giving away boxes.
Label All Boxes
Every box needs to be labeled clearly before leaving the house. Labeling ensures your move will go smoothly and nothing gets misplaced. You’ll be able to easily find what you need when you reach your new location. Think about creating an ‘open first’ box so that you know which ones have more essential or commonly used items. Rent.com explains, “You can give each box a number to make sure all have arrived, or color-code your labels based on the particular room it goes in.”
Insurance
There are many types of insurance, such as renters insurance, that can cover your possessions during your move. If you are worried that your possessions may either get damaged or stolen during the process of your move, you can find an insurance policy that will be able to cover it, effectively eliminating your worry.
Small Stuff Goes with You
Pack valuables and fragile items with you. Your jewelry, important paperwork, and other small breakable items are safer if kept with you in your vehicle. Go through your belongings and look for anything particularly valuable and breakable that you’d rather hold onto during the move. Knowing that your grandma’s priceless vase is safe can help to take a lot of the worry out of moving. Obtaining peace of mind during your move could be the critical difference between a good or a bad move. It’s also a good idea to pack your dishes in several layers of magazines or newspaper, and fit them in the box on their edge instead of flat-side down. If something bumps or jostles the box, they’re less likely to break.
Hire Professional Movers
If you have room in your budget for it, hiring professional movers will take a big load off your back. They will handle the heavy lifting, help you pack, and safely transport your fragile items. Make sure to hire a company that has a proven reputation and is trustworthy, reliable, and carries insurance. Read reviews, ask social media, compare your options, and get quotes to find the best option for your circumstances. Remember to tip your movers!
Something will always go wrong on moving day, so it’s important not to sweat the small stuff and let it derail you. Moving may not be enjoyable, but it’s doesn’t have to be stressful either. Throughout the whole process, remind yourself why you’re moving so you can reflect on this exciting time. Planning early, organizing often, and cutting out the excess will help make your move a lot smoother.
