1. Preparing for Moving Day

Packing all your possessions into boxes, bags, and more can be overwhelming. Make it a little bit easier on yourself by cutting back on clutter as much as possible. Before you pack a single box, do a merciless purge of unused or unnecessary items. You’ll have less to pack, less to move, and less to unpack — and you’ll start life in your new space with a clean slate.

2. Make a Checklist

A moving checklist may seem tedious, but it works. Writing or typing your to-do list helps commit it to memory so you do not waste precious time trying to remember what you have to do. This is especially helpful if you’re moving abroad.

Things to put on your checklist include:

  • Contacting utility companies to schedule shut-off service
  • Setting mail forwarding serves
  • Ordering packing materials
  • Any task or item you do not want to forget to do
  • As you complete an item, stay on track by crossing it off.

3. Set Your Budget

Moving can be expensive, but setting a budget can help you save money on your move. Your budget will help determine if you can afford a full-service move or if you need to make a DIY move. A realistic moving budget will ensure that your move will not cost you more than you can afford.

4. Hire a Mover or Plan a DIY Move

Once you set your budget, you’ll know whether or not you can hire professional movers or if you’ll make a DIY move. If hiring movers, it’s time to research the top moving companies. Start by getting referrals from friends and family. Compare quotes from several companies before you make a decision. For different types of moves you may want to consider a specialized moving service, if you’re moving 150+ miles or out of state, researching the best cross-country movers will give you more options.

5. Pack as far in advance as possible

Ideally, you’ll know about a move (even if you’re not sure of the final destination) weeks or even months in advance. Start by packing off-season items and the items you won’t miss. If you’re moving in summer, you can pack winter coats in advance — and likely books and other once-in-a-while items. When it’s finally time to move, many items will already be ready to go, giving you less to stress about.

6. Book early

If you’re hiring moving services, renting supplies, or hiring professionals such as painters or cleaners to work on the house, book early. Waiting to do so could mean paying a higher price, or not being able to get a truck or movers at all, particularly if it’s peak moving season.

7. Schedule utilities for your new place

Once the dates are finalized, contact your utility providers to schedule service at your new home. You don’t want to arrive there, tired from the move, only to find that the electricity, water, or heat is off. Schedule it ahead of time, and keep records of your requests in your moving folder. At the same time, request service stops for your move-out date at your current home.

8. Keep the essentials with you

On the night before the move, tuck everyday essentials — a change of clothes, a toothbrush, must-have stuffed animals or toys for the kids, medications, paperwork, etc. — into a suitcase or bag you’ll keep with you in the car, the truck cab, or on the plane. If catastrophe strikes and the moving truck gets lost, at least you’ll have some essentials with you.

9. Invest in equipment

A few days before the big move, stock up on supplies. The last thing you want is to have to make a run to the store while you’re packing moving boxes or making sure everything is out of the house. Order or purchase box cutters, adhesive bandages, permanent markers, packing tape, paper towels, and garbage bags. (If they aren’t all used during the move, they’ll still be useful afterward!)

For larger moving equipment, consider renting moving tools from a moving company. (If you hire a moving service, they’ll likely have their own.) If you move very frequently, you may be better off purchasing these tools. Either by buying, renting, or borrowing, make sure you have a furniture dolly, furniture pads or covers, and tie-down straps or rope at your disposal during the move.

10. Have a Plan Set for Young Children and Pets

Arrange for offsite babysitting and pet sitting moving day. All the activity will stress out your animals, and the kids will most likely be bored. Save yourself from the stress by making alternative arrangements for them.