After months of searching, you’ve finally found that dream home or dream job or dream location. Now it’s time to start making plans to move, and you feel a little overwhelmed — that is entirely normal. Moving is a big deal, and there is so much to figure out in a short time. Try to focus on the positives.
You’re embarking on a new adventure. That’s exciting!
You will have a new home to add your special touch to.
You have a perfect opportunity to dejunk and declutter.
To make your move as smooth as possible, try your hardest to stay organized. Here are seven ways to keep organized to ultimately lessen your stress level during the moving process.
1. Formulate a Plan
Making a plan is an essential first step to staying organized while moving. Put together a schedule. Which tasks will you complete each day? Creating a plan helps to evenly disperse your work to get it all done in time. You might make a spreadsheet, a Google Doc, or just a good, old-fashioned written checklist. Create a timeline and stick to it. If you’re adamant about sticking to your schedule, you’ll feel a lot more organized and in control.
2. Don’t Skip the Labeling
If you feel rushed and think you’ll just throw everything in boxes and sort through it later, think again. You will regret that decision. Labeling takes very little time and will save you time sorting through boxes and getting frustrated. Make sure to create a labeling system. Whether it’s written labels, colors, numbers, or letters. Labeling one of the easiest ways to stay organized while packing. A great way to label boxes is to write the contents on the box along with their destination. Add an extra mark for fragile items so you and your movers know to be gentle with certain boxes.
3. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Pack
Are you a natural-born procrastinator? Try to fight the urge when it comes to packing. Packing always takes longer than you think, so give yourself plenty of time to get it done. Nothing is more stressful than waiting ‘til the last minute to pack. Start packing ahead of time and give yourself enough time to do a bit each day so you don’t get too overwhelmed. Start packing at least two weeks before your move and start with things you don’t use every day and won’t need to fish out of a box after it’s tightly secured. Save your more frequently used items for last.
4. Seek Help from Friends and Family
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. We all need help sometimes. Maybe you need help packing, dropping stuff off at a donation center, or watching your kids. Whatever it may be, you don’t have to feel weird asking your friends and family to help you out. People are usually very willing to help, making your life easier during the moving process. You can even host a packing party with snacks, packing, and fun conversations.
5. Take it Room by Room
It’s easy to get sidetracked and move from room to room while packing. However, it’s easier to stay organized if you focus on one room at a time. Pack the rooms that get the least use first, such as the guest room or dining room. Once you start a room, stick to it. Hopping from room to room can lead to disorganized packing. Don’t mix up your boxes. Pack the most used rooms last, such as your bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. Make this part of your plan to know how you’ll pack each room.
6. Hire a Moving Company
Chances are there are some great local moving companies near you who will make your move as easy and seamless as possible. Hiring a reputable moving company will take a burden off your shoulders and may be more affordable than you think. Professional packers and movers have an efficient system and will get the job done quickly. It’s worth the cost and will help you stay organized and less stressed. It’s well worth the investment.
7. Don’t Forget the Overnight Bag
When all your things are in boxes, it can be a straight-up nightmare to dig through everything to find your pajamas, bathroom cosmetics, and other essentials. Don’t forget to pack overnight bags for you and your family for the first night in your new home.
Moving can be overwhelming, but you can minimize the stress with some simple planning and organization. If you do your part, we’ll take care of the moving and help you to stay organized along the way. Your move will be smooth sailing.