Moving day can sneak up on you, can’t it? One minute, you’re searching for free cardboard boxes, and the next, you’re counting down the hours until a crew of professional movers is ringing your doorbell. If your mind is in a whirl, you’re definitely not the only one. Whether it’s your first move or you’re a seasoned nomad, a little prep before the big day can save you a mountain of stress (and probably a couple of bucks too).
Tidy Up and Let Go
First thing’s first: take a good look around and be honest. Do you really want to lug that broken lamp or your high school yearbooks across the city? Now’s the perfect time to trim down. Set aside items to donate, toss, or hand off to friends. Clear away the things you know you’ll never use in your next place.
Start in the spots where clutter hides—the infamous junk drawer, the bathroom under-sink world, your old shoe rack. Not only will you have less to pack, but you might also feel lighter (in every sense). The Spruce has a great checklist for decluttering before a big move, in case you need a push.
Organize and Pack Like a Pro
Now comes packing, unless you hired your movers to do literally everything (which, honestly, is a treat but not always in the budget). Box up things by room and label them clearly—you’ll thank yourself later when you’re dead tired in your new home and need your coffee pot ASAP.
Pro tip: mark boxes with what’s inside and where you want them to go. Color-coded tape or a fat marker works wonders. Don’t forget to pack a “first night” bag with toiletries, chargers, meds, and a change of clothes. Even if you’re the most organized person ever, stuff gets lost on moving day. Good Housekeeping offers packing and labeling guidance that’ll keep you from last-minute freak-outs.
Handle the Awkward Bits
Take down wall hangings, unhook curtains, and empty out appliances like the fridge or washing machine—you definitely don’t want to show up at your new place with a puddle of melted ice cream. Disconnect electronics and bundle cords with rubber bands or twist ties. If you’re moving plants or pets, figure out a comfy spot for them so they’re not in the way or freaked out by all the commotion.
It’s also helpful to clear hallways and doorways to give the movers a straight path. Remove floor mats and roll up rugs so nobody takes a tumble. You could even snap some quick photos of your furniture setup for easy redecorating at your new place (saves time and arguments).
Paperwork, Tips, and the Little Things
You’ll want to have a folder or envelope ready with moving paperwork, contacts, and any keys you need to hand over or keep handy. If you’re working with professional movers, check your contract details for anything you need to prep—sometimes there are rules about what they will or won’t move, or forms to sign.
Leave out water bottles and maybe some snacks for the movers (a little kindness goes a long way), and keep your phone fully charged. That way, if plans change or someone gets lost, you’re good to go.
You’ve Got This
Moving day is always a wild ride, but laying out these basics means you show up feeling ready—not frazzled. Trust yourself, take a deep breath, and before you know it, you’ll be making new memories in your fresh space.
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