The housing market was in an absolute frenzy last year. Home sales hit an all-time high in 2021 of $6.1 million.
Though it has dropped this year, there’s still a large number of people moving out of their homes and into new ones. If you’re one of them, you’re in the right place.
Packing up your entire life and hitting the road is an exhausting process. But, we have some tips on how to make moving less stressful.
This article helps you know where to start. We highlight important reminders and offer a recommendation for licensed Chicago movers. Read along to find out!
1. Get Organized
Start your moving process with a to-do list, plan, and timeline to reduce stress. Moving becomes hectic when you’ve left things until the last minute.
It’s easier to stay on track when you’ve developed a timeline by which you want each part of the process completed. Map out a schedule, and add it to your calendar.
There’s more to moving than packing and loading boxes. You need a to-do list that includes everything. This means researching full-service movers to shutting off utilities.
There are plenty of moving checklists floating around the internet. Pick one that best fits your situation and the number of rooms you have.
Get organized by buying all the necessary moving supplies before you start packing. You need things like…
- Boxes
- Bubble Wrap
- Tape
- Marker
- Box Cutter/Scissors
- Labels
- Moving Blankets
- Mattress Bag
- Ratchet Straps
It’s more efficient for the entire process if you gather everything you need before you start packing. It’s defeating to begin and realize you have to stop to go to the store.
2. Create a Labeling System
Labeling your boxes makes your job that much easier when you reach your destination. As you pack your boxes, keep track of what’s inside them on a separate sheet of paper.
Coordinate that box with a number, letter, and/or color. Then, you can reference your sheet to find out what exactly is inside that box.
For example, you can label all kitchen boxes in pink with a K. Number each box as you go, and you’ll know what’s in each box and which room to drop it in.
Be sure to label the top and all of the sides. You never know what side will be facing you in the shuffle of loading.
If you have the finances, clear storage boxes make the unpacking process smoother as well. You can clearly see what’s in them. Use painter’s tape to mark specifics.
3. Start Small and Pack One Room at a Time
If you’re a person who finds it difficult to start a task, take a little bit at a time. Slowly wade into packing by starting with a closet or drawers.
Maybe begin by packing up one single room. Box up rooms with items you don’t use often first. This way you’re not digging back through boxes you’ve already sealed.
It’s also easiest for your labeling system to stay in one room at a time. But, there are a few items you won’t be able to pack until the week you move.
If you’re not sure if you’ll need something, leave an open box. You can wait until moving day to seal it.
4. Choose the Right Boxes
Unless you are using a packing company, try to use boxes that are all similar-sized. This helps when loading the moving truck.
It’s always a little like playing Tetris when fitting your boxes into the truck. Similar-sized boxes mean better stacking and less wiggle room.
There are specialized boxes now. Use dish boxes for dishes to avoid broken plates and glasses.
There are TV boxes to prevent breaking or scratching. Protect your valuables by choosing the right boxes and packing materials.
5. Move Boxes From the Truck to Their Room
When moving in, don’t just drop boxes anywhere. Take them to the room where they’ll live.
This keeps your new living room from becoming overcrowded with boxes because you said, “Put them anywhere.” Hopefully, you’ve utilized a labeling system that makes it easy for anyone to know where the boxes should go.
Keep your hallways clear. It’s difficult enough carrying heavy boxes without having to avoid ones on the floor.
6. Keep Important Items with You
Keep important documents, small valuables, and anything else you don’t want to be lost or stolen with you. Things like your passport, insurance papers, and deeds should be safely stored in a folder in your bag.
You may have small valuables you don’t want to be lost or stolen. Things like diamond jewelry, gold, or other precious items.
Pack them in something that stays in the cab with you. It’s best to keep your eyes on them.
7. Don’t Forget About Utilities & Mail
Communicate with utility and internet providers ahead of time. Let them know your end date at your current location and your start date at the new one.
Follow the instructions for a change of address. This way you don’t lose important mail.
These details easily fall through the cracks. It’s annoying when you’ve paid for something that you shouldn’t have.
8. Hire a Professional Moving Company
Hire a professional moving company to have a stress-free move. Some full-service movers take care of everything.
They pack your belongings and load them up. They drive to your destination, unload, and unpack.
You can handle as much or as little of the move as you’d like this way. Some even have storage services!
Final Thoughts On How to Make Moving Less Stressful
Remember to take care of yourself during the moving process. Get enough sleep, take breaks, and ask for help when you need it.
Pack an essentials kit for the day of the move. Include things like snacks, toiletries, and chargers.
Keep your expectations realistic. Be as prepared as you can!
Hopefully, this has helped you learn how to make moving less stressful. If you are looking for moving services in Chicago, we can help!
Moovers Chicago offers moving, packing, and storage options. Check out our Chicago moving services here!