Getting ready for a move?
When moving, it is easy to get lost in a sea of overflowing boxes and end up overwhelmed.
Many people opt in to hiring professionals, I can tell you from experience that it can be both wildly costly and a liability for your grandma’s old bookshelf (that is priceless to you). And I am sure we have all seen a movie where the moving truck is behind schedule… yipes!
A DIY move can be a budget-friendly and surprisingly empowering alternative, especially if you know all the right hacks.
This won’t be your typical moving guide; I am going to dive-in to the world of do-it-yourself tips for a smooth transition to your new home.
Here are some clever tricks and time-saving strategies to keep you organized, efficient, and (relatively) sane during your next move.
Packing Perfection
For anyone, even someone who doesn’t usually thrive in the DIY realm, these packing tips will arm you with a fool-proof strategy for packing your belongings. Making their transition to your new home a smooth one.
Free Moving Boxes: Instead of purchasing boxes, check your local business to see if they have boxes that they need to get rid of anyways. For one thing, you’re reusing (go green) – but also these boxes are often better quality then the ones you can purchase.
Color-coding the Chaos: Assign a color to each room and use colored tape (or markers) to label boxes accordingly. This simple system will make unpacking a breeze and prevent the dreaded “where does this even go?” moment. Wont it feel good to have everything in its rightful place, instead of a mountain in the main hallway?
Clothes Conundrum Solved: As a previous boutique owner, I love this one. I have used it many times myself. Don’t empty your closets! Instead, keep your clothes on hangers, cover them with a garbage bag, and transport them directly to your new closet. Voila!
Dish Duty Demystified: Wrap those delicate dishes and glassware in packing paper and then place them vertically in boxes. This minimizes shifting and breakage. Bonus tip: Use dish towels and oven mitts as extra padding.
The Essentials Box: Pack a box with all the essentials that you’ll need immediately in your new home: toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, phone chargers, and maybe even a bottle of celebratory champagne. This will save you from rummaging through countless boxes on your first night. Bonus Tip: Label it with big bold letters “MVP”
Label Like a Boss: Don’t just label the contents of the box; also label the room it belongs in. And be specific! “Kitchen – Utensils” is much more helpful than just “Kitchen.”
Secret Weapons for (Physically) Moving
This is the secret sauce for movers, use your strength but also follow these amazing tricks to smooth out the process.
Furniture Gliders: These will be your back’s BFF. Invest in furniture gliders. They will make moving heavy items across floors a breeze and prevent scratches on your new floor.
Plastic Wrap: Use plastic wrap (yep, I mean the kind you use in the kitchen) to secure drawers in furniture and keep items in place. I promise, from experience, you will want to be sure to do this. It’s also great for wrapping open bottles of liquids to prevent spills.
Get Some Wheels: Use a hand truck or a dolly for moving heavy boxes and furniture. Your back will thank you later!
Strategic Staging: Before you start loading the moving truck, stage boxes in each room, closest to the door. This will make loading and unloading much more efficient.
Unpacking Unveiled: Unpack that MVP box of essentials first. Then, go one room at a time, starting with the bedroom and bathroom. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and make the whole unpacking process less daunting.
Manage the Chaos & Maintain Sanity
As we’ve discussed, moving can be a huge stress factor – follow these tips to minimalize the pressure and maximize your metal and physical well-being:
Declutter Before You Go: The less you must pack, the less you must move. Use this opportunity to declutter and donate or sell the items you no longer need.
Enlist Your Crew: Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for help. Pizza and beer can be excellent motivators!
Take Breaks: Moving is exhausting. Don’t try to do everything at once, and take breaks to rest and recharge.
Stay Hydrated and Fed: Keep snacks and drinks on hand to keep your energy levels up. Throw a pack of granola bars and some water in the moving truck to have on hand.
Remember to Breathe: Moving can be stressful but remember that it’s also an exciting new chapter. Try to enjoy the process (as much as possible!).
Are you ready to put these DIY moving hacks to good use?
With them, you’re going to tackle your next move like a seasoned pro. You’ll save time, money, and most importantly your sanity.
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