Moving house is often considered one of life’s most stressful experiences. It’s not just the packing and unpacking that can overwhelm you – the entire process can feel like a never-ending task, from organising logistics to ensuring everything runs smoothly on moving day. The excitement of a new home can quickly turn into a whirlwind of disorganisation and last-minute chaos. But here’s the good news – with a little forward thinking and the right approach, you can make the move less stressful and ultimately, far more enjoyable.
Start with a clear plan
To avoid feeling overwhelmed, make a plan from the start. You need a comprehensive timeline that covers everything from packing to changing over utilities. Write down the tasks you need to complete and give yourself specific deadlines.
Start with the essentials, like packing, arranging transport, informing your utility companies, and any other critical elements. Map these out on a calendar, noting when certain jobs need to be done. If you give yourself clear deadlines for tasks such as notifying the council of your address change or confirming delivery dates for your new furniture, it becomes easier to stay on top of everything.
Tackle packing in stages
Packing can often feel like the most time-consuming and disorganised part of the moving process. However, breaking it down into stages can make things far more manageable. Instead of thinking you need to pack everything in one go, take it room by room. Start with the least-used spaces, such as the attic or spare rooms, and work your way towards the more frequently used areas.
Make sure you label each box clearly. This will save you countless hours later when you’re unpacking. Knowing exactly what’s in each box means you won’t waste time searching through everything. Additionally, set aside an ‘essentials’ box with all the items you’ll need on moving day and immediately after, such as toiletries and important documents.
Sort out transport early
Sorting out how you’re going to transport your belongings is crucial – and waiting until the last minute can cause unnecessary stress. Hiring a van well in advance, or arranging for a one-day car insurance policy to someone’s vehicle, ensures that you have everything in place on the big day. If you’re able to borrow a family car for the move, that can help reduce the cost of hiring a van, though be mindful of space limitations.
Take time to assess how many trips you’ll need to make and whether you can recruit some extra hands. Knowing you have the right vehicle for the job means you won’t be stuck worrying about how to move your furniture at the last minute.
Look after yourself during the move
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of moving and forget to take care of yourself. Moving can be physically demanding, so remember to pace yourself throughout the day. Schedule regular breaks and make sure you stay hydrated. Packing up and carrying heavy boxes is hard work and taking the time to rest will help you maintain energy levels.
Moving with the help of others is always beneficial, so don’t hesitate to ask friends or family to pitch in. At the same time, don’t be afraid to delegate tasks – sharing the load will prevent you from burning out.