Avoid the Emotional Stress of Moving with This Packing List

Moving is never an easy thing to do – but you can make it more organized and orderly with a plan and the right time table. That’s why we gathered some great tips to help organize your move with ease.

8 Weeks Out: Start a File

Start a binder or file to keep all of your moving documents in one place. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

You’re going to have a lot of paperwork associated with your move, and it is best to keep all of it in one spot. We suggest getting a file folder or binder with pockets. Keep any notes and documents related to your move in this file – anything from the moving company confirmation, to the reminder to let your bank know you’ve changed your address. You don’t want an important piece of paper to get lost among the boxes.

For you more tech-centered movers you could use an app like Evernote or Trello to keep tabs of documents – even snapping a picture of the receipt and keeping it in your phone could be helpful – but if you run into a situation that requires the documents it’s best to have the originals ready.

7 Weeks Out: Get Copies

Get copies of school and medical records to transfer. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

If you’re moving out of your current town you might be changing doctors or schools – both are going to need the records. Arrange for these to be transferred to their new locations – make sure to jot down in your moving file the person you spoke with about the transfer and the date. This way when you arrive in your new home town you can follow up, armed with great information in case of any delays.

6 Weeks Out: Clean Up and Get Old Stuff Out

Start clearing out and removing things you don't need to prep for the move. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

We’ve said it many times in this blog – home buyers HATE clutter. Ideally this step should be done before you list your property. If you needed extra incentive, you don’t want to waste packing time with items you will not use in your new home. Plan a yard sale (we’ve got great tips on how to throw one) or arrange a charity pick-up. Extra stuff is just going to get in the way and will cost more to move.

5 Weeks Out: Stop Shopping

Stop shopping before your move and try to use up things like tolietries and food. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

You’re probably really excited to begin shopping for decor items for your new home, and we really can’t blame you, but try to wait until you’re in your new house. One of the things most buyers overlook is that you have to pay for every ounce you move – even if you’re moving yourself. Having less stuff means smaller trucks and shorter work times. Also, stop grocery shopping in bulk – just purchase what you family will actually consume while still living in this house.

4 Weeks Out: Gather Supplies

Make sure to gather enough boxes, packing tape, and packing paper. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

Start asking friends, family, and coworkers for boxes. Stock up on bubble wrap and boxes. You’re also going to want to confirm your movers. We’ve got great tricks for the actual packing of things on our Pinterest page. Start packing items you don’t use on a daily basis, and organize off season items like holiday decorations.

3 Weeks Out: Schedule Utilities

Schedule services like power, water, and cable to ensure smooth service in your new home. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

Schedule utilities to be cancelled a couple of days after you move out – they are typically required to be on during the walk through at closing. Make sure you contact all utility companies for your new home as well and schedule installation appointments.

2 Weeks Out: Use Up the Supplies

Use up food and other perishables - don't move them into your new home. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

Time to start planning meals based on what’s in the cupboard and fridge. Try your best not to go grocery shopping. This is also a good time to do one more sweep of the cupboard and see if there is any thing you can donate to a local food pantry.

1 Week Out: PACK!

Start packing at least one week out from the move. How to Not Stress Out During a Move Rose & Womble Realty Company

Hopefully you started packing during week 4 – if not grab some good friends, treat them to some pizza and get to work.

Bonus Tip!

Pack and load the essentials last on the truck – this way you can offload them immediately into your new home.