Moving house can be pretty chaotic, and there’s almost no avoiding some level of stress and frustration.
However, some careful planning and consideration ahead of time could really make matters easier, more affordable and far less traumatic as you get closer and closer to moving day. If you have a big move coming up, here are six things you can do to make it easier for yourself.
Book Everything Early
First of all, start researching the best moving companies, scheduling inspections and other important things as soon as possible. Moving companies can book up pretty fast, so getting yours scheduled will help ensure that you secure a date with a great company before it’s too late and you have to choose from less reputable options.
Pick from the top moving companies reviewed by This Old House, and schedule your move as far in advance as you can.
Make a Budget
Budgeting for every aspect of your move is an important step to take to avoid blowing your entire salary. Consider everything you’ll have to spend money on during the moving process. Make sure you include all the regular moving expenses and leave some wiggle room for extra costs too.
These extra costs could be things like three nights of takeout in a row while you figure out your new kitchen, and a six-pack of beer for that friend who helped you out.
Create a Moving Schedule
Making a schedule is a great way to stay on top of things and help you manage everything a little better. Make a list of everything that needs to get done leading up to the big day, and then schedule out these tasks week by week.
You can also create a plan for when and how you will pack your boxes for the move. Start around six weeks ahead of time, packing only unnecessary items like out-of-season clothes and books you won’t be reading.
Plan Your Meals in Advance
Moving with food is never an easy thing to juggle – especially if you’re moving long-distance. Take a look at all the food in your fridge, freezer and pantry around two weeks before your move and start planning meals that will help you work through all of it.
Dry, pantry items are less of a problem here. You’ll want to focus on clearing out frozen meat, veggies, etc. and eating all the food in your fridge that won’t travel well.
Ask For Help
Don’t be shy to ask for a friend or family member to lend a helping hand with your move.
Especially if you’ve decided not to work with professionals, you’re definitely going to need extra manpower to get through the heavy lifting. Remember to thank your friends for their help with a small but thoughtful gesture.
Let it Go
Finally, just accept that things will be a little chaotic. There’s only so much you can do to get organised and stay on track, and it’s almost inevitable that certain things won’t go to plan.
Do your best, take a breath and let it go.