How to Move House without Unnecessary Stress
Let’s be honest about moving: it’s stressful. With so many things to worry about and so many things that can go wrong, no wonder some people are ready to stay instead of moving to a better place only because they can’t deal with the stress of packing, transporting and unpacking. Luckily, such people are in minority.
Most of us understand the complexity of the task, but we also know that there is a very good reason why we want to move. Since so many people move house every day around the world, we are lucky to learn from their smart and not-so-smart ideas. So, here are the most commonly cited tips about making the moving experience much less stressful (or even fun).
Set a realistic date
It’s very important that you find the right date for moving. Don’t forget that you need some time to pack all your things, hire a van and do a dozen different things before the actual moving date. The problem is even greater if you have to adjust it with someone moving out of your future home. So, make sure you give yourself enough time. Also, it would be great if you could move on a day that is neither freezing, nor scorching, which might be a problem in places like Australia. However, people rarely have the freedom to choose the moving date according to the season. So, if you are one of them, you should feel blessed.
Leave furniture as it is if possible
If you have a dresser filled up with your clothes, don’t take them out and pack separately. Instead, ask your movers to wrap up the dresser and see to it that the drawers don’t move. That way, you’ll save a lot of time and effort when unpacking and you’ll know exactly where your favourite stuff is.
Similarly, leave everything on the hangers while moving and simply hang them once you move in. When it comes to the kitchen cabinet, if you’re using organisers, just leave everything in them. When you get to your new home, simply take them out of the box and put them into the right drawers.
Get what you need
Make sure you get enough boxes well in advance. Some Australians are only too happy to give their used ones for free, just to empty their garages or storage spaces. Also, you need to book a vehicle that would take your belongings safely and efficiently to the new home. It’s always a good idea to go for renowned experts, such as the well-established budget.com.au, since you don’t want an unreliable vehicle carrying your valuables. Finally, make sure there are enough people helping you pack, load and unload the van. Whether you rely on your friends and family or hired staff depends on many factors, but make sure there are enough people capable of carrying boxes on the day.
Think small
Some people prefer to put as much as possible into a box and they usually opt for larger boxes. Still, you have to know that they are much harder to carry and handle, which is why you should avoid using them whenever possible. Whatever can fit into a smaller box should be packed into one. Yes, you’ll have more items, but it will be much easier to carry them around. Finally, smaller boxes are much easier to unpack.
Labelling
Each box needs to be clearly labelled, so that you know exactly where to put it once you get to your new place. The more precise you are with labelling, the easier it’ll be later to unpack the boxes. You can also use a system based on colours, popular among Australians, where tapes or markers of different colours are used to provide visual assistance.
Food, beverages and entertainment
While not necessarily something you would associate with moving, these three things can really make the whole experience much more pleasant, especially if your friends are helping you out. Have some snacks ready in your new home for everyone helping you move house. Try to remember what your friends like to eat and drink and make sure it’s ready for them. Also, don’t forget that physically demanding tasks, such as carrying boxes, are always easier when accompanied by music. Create a playlist containing popular songs or songs you and your friends and family like to keep you motivated while working.
These are some generally accepted tips that work for most people. However, if you already have experience with moving and you know what works for you and what doesn’t, just stick to your guns. After all, the whole idea is to minimise the stress and increase the satisfaction with a job well done once you settle in your new home.