By now, I've lost count of how many times I've packed up my life and ventured into the great unknown. Twice, I've tackled the challenge solo—once to a different state, and once to a whole new country. Whether I've had to juggle work commitments without a day off or enjoyed the luxury of a full week to prepare, one thing's for sure: every move has left me in a state of chaos, resembling a sobbing mess. But amidst the tears, I've gained invaluable lessons. So, without further ado, here are my top five survival strategies for the moving madness!
1. Find Essential Resources Early
There will come a time when these essentials become crucial, and moving to a new place impacts everyone differently. Trust me, it’s no picnic trying to locate these necessities when stress levels are high, and adjusting to a new environment is challenging. A sudden car breakdown or the realization that you’ve relied on the same dentist your entire life and now face uncertainty compounds the situation. Start your preparations as early as possible, research, seek recommendations and keep your eyes peeled for these essentials or anything else you might need!
• Grocery store
• Gas station
• Car repair
• Doctor
• Dentist
• Hair salon
• Nail salon
2. Prepare a Move-Ready Bag
Depending on the distance of your move, I have found it helpful to pack a travel bag or suitcase with all the essentials needed before, during and after the move for quick and easy access to these items and prevent them from being packed away by accident.
Possible Items to Pack:
• Clothes
• Toiletries
• Makeup
• Chargers
• Laptop
• Wallet
• Passport
• Paperwork
• Tool Kit (for disassembling furniture, removing screws, etc.)
• Pens, Sharpies
• Paper, sticker labels
• Scissors
• Tape Gun
• Cleaning supplies
• Patch kit for repairing holes
• Paper plates, cups and utensils (for packing kitchen items in advance)
3. Stock Up on Packing Supplies
Having been raised in the logistics world, I had “2-3 inches of bubble wrap” drilled into my brain from childhood. While budget constraints may arise, it’s crucial to adhere to this rule of thumb to safeguard your valuables during the moving process. I highly recommend investing in these items to ensure a well-organized and efficient move:
• Bubble wrap: Trust me, you'll need more than you think!
• Packing foam and packing paper: Essential for cushioning fragile belongings during transit.
• Packing tape: The glue that holds your moving boxes together
• Zip locks and zip ties: Handy for organizing smaller items and securing bags.
• Sharpies: Your moving day best friend for labeling boxes clearly and efficiently.
• Blank sticker labels: Make your boxes easy to identify at your destination. Whether you print them out or use a Sharpie, make sure they're adult-level legible.
• 33 Gallon Clear Trash Bags: An extra layer of protection for items inside boxes, especially useful for linens, towels, and clothes to shield them from water and dust.
• Specific packaging protection: Invest in covers for mattresses, couches, and other large items to shield them from dirt and damage.
• Specialty moving boxes: Opt for TV boxes, wardrobe boxes, or utility boxes tailored to fit specific items like brooms, mops, and lamps.
• Car cover (if moving or storing a car): Protect your wheels from scratches and dust during transit or storage.
Pro Tips:
• Shrink wrap: Seal bubble wrap with shrink wrap for a faster and more secure hold compared to packing tape (my favorite hack)
• 3 Inch Packaging Tape Gun: Level up your packing game with the tool the pros use. Avoid the crummy 2-inch tape guns that require multiple strips to seal one side of a box
• Apple AirTags: Splurge on peace of mind by tracking your high-value items and even the moving truck’s journey.
4. Establish a Moving System
Let's face it: this might be your first move, but it certainly won't be your last. It's time to establish a system that works for you. Whether you opt for an Excel spreadsheet, a notes app on your phone, or even resort to the ancient art of pen and paper sigh, create a comprehensive list of tasks for before, during, and after the move.
Organize your list to include tasks, space for notes, and deadlines. For added efficiency, centralize contact information and company details. In the whirlwind of moving, tasks often linger unfinished, requiring multiple follow ups. Creating a system tailored to your needs is key to staying on top of things!
Common tasks that might occur before, during or after the move:
• Update your address with the USPS
• Notify your leasing agent of your intent to move within the specified notice period
• Arrange and confirm moving logistics
• Return rented equipment such as wifi routers, ensuring to retain and photograph receipts for documentation
• Update your billing address for utilities such as electricity and gas
• Restore any original fixtures or items you replaced during your tenancy, such as light bulbs or shower heads, to their initial state
• Before moving day, thoroughly inspect cabinets and drawers, ensure all dishes and laundry are removed from appliances to prevent them from being overlooked during packing
• Empty and dry out appliances such as irons, steamers and kitchen appliances before packing them for transport
• Arrange and prepare your vehicle for transportation if moving across state lines
• Before leaving, document the condition of the premises for your records by taking photos
• Check your mailbox for any remaining mail and ensure it’s forwarded to your new address if necessary
• Return keys to the leasing office or landlord
• Have gratuity ready for movers as a gesture of appreciation, if appropriate
5. Be Kind to Yourself
When it comes to moving, the only thing within your control is how well you pack something (remember, 2-3 inches of bubble wrap!). But even then, once it leaves your hands, anything can happen. Expect the unexpected—movers may be late, you’ll forget to do something, or time might slip away. Embrace the chaos and be kind to yourself and those around you. Moving can often signify both endings and beginnings, so savor the transition and find joy in the journey. After all, how often do we get to experience new beginnings?