Moving house can be pretty overwhelming and stressful, as well as exciting and full of promise for the future. With some careful planning and organisation, though, you can make the process a lot less daunting. Here are some top tips to help make your move smoother and more enjoyable.
1. Plan Ahead When You’re Moving House
Create a Timeline: Start planning your move as soon as you know it’s happening for sure. Create a detailed timeline of tasks to be completed each week leading up to moving day. This should include booking removals as soon as possible, notifying utility and other important companies, and packing non-essential items so you can start clearing the decks.
Set a Budget: Moving can be expensive, so try and get an idea of costs then set a budget early on. Include boxes and other packing materials, removal services, and any potential self storage fees. This will help you avoid any financial surprises along the way.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Sort and Streamline: Go through each room and decide what you want to keep, donate, sell, store, or throw away. Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter so you only take what you truly need and love to your new home.
Use Self-Storage: For items you want to keep but don’t need immediately, consider renting a local self-storage unit. This is especially useful for seasonal items, furniture, or sentimental belongings that might not have a place in your new home right away.
3. Gather Your Supplies For Moving House
Get Quality Packing Materials: Invest in good quality carboard moving boxes and packing supplies, including bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. This will help ensure your belongings are well-protected either during the move or while stowed in your storage unit.
Label Everything: Clearly label each box with its actual contents and the room it belongs in. This will make unpacking much easier and help everyone know where to place each box in your new home.
4. Pack Strategically
Start Early: Begin packing non-essential items several weeks before your move. Seasonal clothing, books, and decorative items can be packed well in advance, reducing the last-minute rush.
Room by Room: Pack one room at a time to stay organised. This method also makes it easier to keep track of what has been packed and what still needs to be done.
Protect Fragile Items: Take extra care when packing fragile items. Use bubble wrap or packing paper to wrap each item individually and label these boxes as “fragile” for special handling.
5. Hire Professional Removals
Removals Priority: If you plan to hire removal professionals, do your research and book early. Look for reputable companies with good reviews and get quotes from multiple providers to find the best deal.
Communicate Clearly: Make sure to communicate clearly about your needs and expectations. Provide them with detailed instructions and any special requirements you might have.
6. Take Care Of Utilities and Services
Transfer Utility Accounts: Contact your utility providers well in advance to schedule the disconnection at your old home and connection at your new one. This includes electricity, gas, water, internet, and any cable services.
Update Your Address: Notify important contacts and services of your change of address. This includes your bank, employer, doctor, dentist, subscription services, schools, pension companies, local council…it’ll be different for everyone but it helps to make a list so you don’t forget anyone. Don’t forget to tell your friends!
7. Prepare An Essentials Box When You’re Moving House
Pack Daily Necessities: Prepare a box with all the essentials you’ll need for the first few days in your new home. This should include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, chargers, basic kitchen items, and any medications as well as food plans for the first night.
Keep it Handy: Make sure this box is easily accessible and keep it with you during the move. This will ensure you have everything you need without having to search through boxes on your first night.
8. Set Up Your New Home
Clean Before You Unpack: Everyone likes to start in a fresh, clean space. If you feel any cleaning needs doing, do it before you start unpacking.
Unpack Essentials First: Put your first attention on kitchen items, toiletries, and bedding. The rest can wait – even until the next day if everyone is tired.
Organise as You Go: As you unpack, put things where they belong straight away. This will help you create a functional living space from the start.
And finally, in the midst of all that needs doing, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Take regular breaks, stay fed and watered (it can help to make a packed lunch the day before so you can eat without the prep) and try not to overexert yourself. Ask for help if you can, even it’s just an hour or two of childcare or help moving furnishings and boxes.
Approach it like the exciting new chapter of your life that it is, and take everything in your stride. It’ll get done eventually so try not to stress too much. A bright new future awaits. Enjoy your new home