Moving house can be stressful, but with careful planning, it’s easy to reduce stress for the move while you look forward to life in your new home.
1. Don’t move what you don’t need
There is no better time to cull belongings than before a house move. Over a year most of us inherit excess stuff and though the goal might be there, few people really commit to minimalist and clutter-free living. Chances are, there are plenty of possessions you’d rather not toss, donate or give to charity. You might be keeping them for a rainy day, but the reality is, you probably don’t need these right now.
If you are short on space, you might like to consider an out-of-home solution such as a high quality, safe and secure storage facility, provided by companies like Fort Knox Storage. When storing your precious belongings with a professional company, you can have the peace of mind that they will be well protected and easy to access. Find out more information here.
2. Don’t leave packing to the last minute
Few people look forward to packing up their belongings in preparation for a move, but failing to pack well is a sure way to raise those pre-move stress levels. Start packing as soon as your impending move is confirmed. By starting to pack small items, you won’t need to access in your pre-move weeks, you will have the opportunity to thoroughly sort through belongings and throw unwanted items. The biggest advantage of packing early is that you will not have to contend with the stress of a panicked last minute packing session.
3. Be ready for your first night in your new home
After a busy moving day, you’ll be stressed if it comes time for bed and you don’t have access to the items you need for a comfortable first night. Pack an overnight bag and include items such as toiletries, pyjamas, a change of clothes and fresh underwear. Also pack electronics, your phone charger or any other items you’d likely pack for a ‘trip away.’
4. Consider using professional moving companies
If your budget allows, hiring a professional mover will greatly reduce moving day stress. Shop around, compare prices and get multiple quotes. Also remember that moving companies are usually happy for you to provide friends and relatives to help with the moving process. This can greatly reduce time and the final cost of your move. Professional movers help reduce both emotional and physical stress on the day.
5. Let people know that you are moving
Let electricity, gas, phone, water and other providers know that you are moving (and remember this should be done for both the property you are moving from and the property you are moving into). Make a comprehensive list of all the people and service providers you should contact and cross them off as each is notified. Also be sure to have your mail redirected to your new address.
Bonus tip!
Make sure your bed is the first thing you make up in the new house. You won’t feel like making up your bed at the end of a long moving day, before you fall into it!
Few moves are completely stress-free, but with some advance planning and organisation, it is possible to feel both prepared and excited about your move and new life to come.
Obviously organisation is the key to any successful move. Are you a naturally organised person? Share your moving tricks in comments below.