1. Build Up That Motivation!
First off, the more pleasant the result of the move, the more motivated you will be to get out of the old place! Use that positive strong energy whenever it's there when packing up.
2. Get Free Moving Boxes
Why pay for moving boxes, when you can get them free from a lot of stores? Ask your local grocery in the morning when they are first unpacking products to score quite a number of sturdy boxes. I also have gotten boxes from local pet stores and even the thrift store, where people deliver donations in boxes that will be trashed once the donations are put on the store shelves. Some recycling places may also let you take some of the boxes they received if you ask nicely! Sometimes you can get free moving boxes on Craiglist as well. Do these things for a couple of days in a row and you'll have plenty of moving boxes free of charge!
3. Organize!
I am a little OCD when it comes to packing, but it helps me to put everything in the right spot and find my stuff once I get to my new place. First, I go room by room and item type by item type. Secondly I pack the things that I don't use much. That way, they are out of the way. The most used and daily use items will go in the last boxes I pack, just before and on the day of the move. What goes on the truck or trailer last comes out first and is right there when you need it!
4. Pace yourself!
Don't overexert yourself on the last few days before the move! Instead, as soon as you know the approximate moving date, begin packing bit by bit, whenever you have a spare 15 minutes and the energy to do it! by the time the moving date comes around, you will have a pretty stress-free time, just moving boxes from one place to the next. Since you organized everything in first place, you may even be able to throw a little housewarming party the same day with friends who helped you move!
5. Label Boxes!
There are quite a few things you can do, when it comes to labeling. Most people designate boxes by room, like kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Others may label them by item type, like books, pans, DVDs, etc. You can also use a room and level of importance description, like "office-important" or "kitchen-miscellaneous". A less utilized, but effective method is to label boxes with numbers, and assign 3x5 cards with a detailed list of items to each numbered moving box. Label the boxes as you go. That way you won't forget what's in them!
6. Protect Your Valuables!
Keep valuables with you at all times, or pack them safely and know where they are. Label them with a code name, so that only you know what it is and in which box they are. That way they don't get lost or stolen!
7. Call Utility Companies Ahead Of Time!
Call utility companies like the power and phone company, the waterworks and post office ahead of time to transfer services to the new residence. You wouldn't want to get to your new home without being able to turn on the light, heat or a/c, take a shower or make a phone call! It's also nice to have TV and Internet at the end of moving day to relax.
8. Enlist Help For Moving Day & Confirm!
Now you know that everything will be ready for the move. But how many trips will it take to move all your possessions and furniture to your new place? Do you have a truck, a trailer, or a U-haul moving van? Of course you can hire professional movers, but most of the time it's less expensive and much more pleasant to have friends to help you move! Make sure to see who is available to help on the date of the move, for how long, and their lifting capabilities in regards to heavy items like living room furniture. Does anyone you know have a trailer or truck you can borrow free of charge or by paying for fuel alone? Are there any extra drivers available to move additional vehicles besides your car and truck?
Friends that help deserve lots of thanks! Maybe there are items you were planning to leave behind. Some of the friends helping you may appreciate a little token of thanks just like that!
9. Prepare Portable Food And Beverages The Night Before Moving Day!
Moving won't allow you to cook a lot of food and stop by a lot of places to get groceries without leaving your possessions alone temporarily. It is best to prepare an adequate supply of food, such as sandwiches, snacks and portable beverages for you, friends and movers. Have a cooler and ice on hand for when the fridge is no longer an option. It cuts down on time, and you won't go hungry or thirsty in all the excitement.
10. Get A Good Night's Sleep And a Good Breakfast!
You will need all the energy you can get on moving day. Go to bed early and have a plan laid out for the day of the move. It will take things off your mind that might otherwise keep you awake and restless. A good breakfast takes care of physical stress and cravings while moving your belongings right from the start.
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