12 Tips for a Smoother Move

Moving into a new home is an exciting chapter, but the process itself can be quite stressful. Whether you're relocating within the same city or across the country, these expert tips can help make moving day easier.

1. Plan Your Move Early

   • Book your moving company weeks in advance to ensure availability.
   • Inform them about any large or heavy items to ensure they bring the right equipment and enough personnel.

2. Consider Professional Packing

   • If your budget allows, hire professional packers. They're efficient and skilled at securing fragile items.
   • Packers usually pack a day before the move, so you can use your essentials until the last moment.

3. Schedule Utilities and Services

   • Arrange for the transfer or setup of services such as power, water, trash, internet, gas, lawn care, pool service, and security monitoring at your new home.

4. Get Your New Home Cleaned

   • Ensure your new home is professionally cleaned before moving in, especially if the seller hasn't arranged for it.

5. Prepare a Moving Supply Box

   • Pack a box with essentials for the first few days, including toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, tools, snacks, bottled water, and disposable dishes.

6. Set Up Your Bed First

   • Assemble your bed and make it up as soon as it’s off the truck. This way, you’ll have a comfortable place to rest after a long day of moving.

7. Pack Towels and Soap with Bedding

   • Keep bath towels and soap with your bed linens so you can easily freshen up after moving.

8. Plan for Your Pets

   • Arrange for pets to stay with family, friends, a pet sitter, or a boarding facility to reduce their stress and prevent them from getting lost.

9. Accept Help from Others

   • Delegate tasks to family and friends, such as laying shelf liners, unpacking kitchen items, babysitting, making beds, cleaning, breaking down boxes, and organizing the garage.

10. Hire a Sitter for Young Children

    • Have someone look after your children to keep them entertained and safe while you focus on unpacking.

11. Hire Help for Hanging Art

    • Consider hiring a handyman to hang artwork and window treatments. If you need help with placement, a decorator might be a better choice.

12. Check Out of the Old House

    • Submit a change of address form with the post office and leave keys, garage door openers, and any remotes for the new owners.
    • Clean out all storage areas, and consider having the home professionally cleaned for the new residents. Leaving a list of recommended local services can be a nice gesture.