Over this summer, I moved out of my dreaded NYC apartment that I had only been in for less than a year. It managed to kill most of my plants due to lack of light. I shudder at the thought every time I think of my beloved plants, but I am now in a place where they are thriving and my family is happy.
Moving can be stressful, but even moreso without hired help. Shelling out that extra money can be a lot for some families, so if you want to pocket it and put that toward expenses in your new home here are some of the tips to help make things move like a military captain.
Organize Your Move
There is no way around it. This is not a time in your life to wing it. There is no going around it, because you are doomed to fail at making your move work. Packing can take longer than you think, so grab a notebook, a board or use your phone to create your timeline for when each room should be complete. I encourage going by room, because it keeps you focused on the task at hand in a particular space without being pulled in every direction. The last thing you want is to feel anxious and overwhelmed because you are not as far as you planned. This strategy will be a life saver.
Declutter, Donate, Discard
Moving is a great opportunity to really take a look at your belongings and assess whether you really need an item or not? Does that item bring joy and does it hold any sentimental value that you would like to bring to your new space? You may also be asking yourself, does this go with the new style that I have in mind? With these factors in mind, go ahead and determine what finds a home in your new space, or what gets thrown out or donated. This not only means that you're able to make space for the the things you want in your rental truck, but you're also setting up a home that is not burdened with stuff you do not need, which in turn means less cleaning time. The benefits are huge.
Get all hands on deck
When I said organize like a military captain, I was not joking. Packing can take longer than you think, so it means, all hands on deck. Get everyone from the adults to the little people in your household to participate. You can also try to get help from family and friends to assist in the process. For children, I strongly encourage making these times a great way to connect and create excitement surrounding the move. It's a great opportunity for them to have their questions answered. Not only do they become familiar with the keep, donate and trash piles, they get a chance to to exercise their decision making skills surrounding their belongings. Moving is a big change, so having all hands on deck can also create a moment where all hearts can connect.
Categorize Your Boxes to Make Unpacking Easier
Be sure to get your packing supplies at least four weeks ahead whether you're trying to gather free boxes or purchase from moving companies. Your marker will become your best friend, so be sure to label every box. The last thing you need is to play the guessing game when you're unpacking. Pay special attention to breakable items and plants that need to be transported.
Get help to pack and unpack the truck
When moving day arrives, you will need lots of help. Don't try to do this alone, because you can severely underestimate how much time and effort it takes to get it done right. I strongly encourage using help from family and friends or hiring help which is usually offered by major truck rental companies. You will be so happy that you did, even though you decided to forego having movers take care of the entire process of moving for you. I was grateful to see hands show up on moving day at both the old and new residences. Also, be sure to follow the recommendations on the box of how to pack your truck. Start with heavy bulky items and distribute the weight evenly.
Show Yourself Grace
Moving without having a company take over from start to finish is the stressful. It is not for the faint at heart, because it will test everything in you, mentally, emotionally and physically. I recommend prioritizing some rest once you get to your new place. Everything can wait other than food and a good shower. You have done so much work to make this possible. At this moment, remember, tomorrow is another day and you will get to it then.
(Photo Credit: Deposit Photos, Schleppers, Unsplash, bernadbodo/Adobe Stock, Annie Spratt/Unsplash)
Have you moved recently and what was your experience? What other recommendations do you have?