30 Moving Hacks for Stress-Free Moving
Moving can be a stressful endeavor. However, being prepared and following these moving hacks will ensure that you have a stress-free and efficient process. Whether you're embarking on a last-minute move or have plenty of time to get organised, you’ll benefit from these tips and tricks for your move.
We’ve gathered 30 moving house hacks that you need to know before packing for your move. This moving checklist will ensure that you have an efficient process and get settled in with minimal delay.
Preparing to Move
Making sure that you are prepared before you move will mean that your goods are packaged properly. It will also ensure that your move goes smoothly. Here are the moving house tips to keep in mind when preparing to move:
1. Declutter
Decluttering before you move will mean that you are getting rid of any belongings that you don’t want or need after you move. Not only will this mean that unpacking is more convenient, but you can also save money on your removal company. This is because you won’t be moving everything. You can choose to sell your unwanted goods, gift them to family and friends, or donate them to charity.
2. Plan your packing
Planning your packing in advance will save you a lot of stress as your move approaches. This is one of the best packing tips for moving house because it will ensure you are as organised as possible. Having a timeline allows you to clearly plan out your move. You’ll be able to arrange when to start packing each room and be able to stay on top of your move bit by bit.
3. Label boxes
When packing your belongings, make sure that you label the boxes as you go. Being as detailed as you can on labels will mean that you know where each box needs to go when you move. You can also request your movers to place the boxes in their allocated rooms.
4. Have an inventory
Make sure that you write up an inventory. Again, the more detailed this is, the better your move will be. You can split your inventory up by room. This will ensure that nothing is lost and you can keep a note of the item’s condition as well. Pakcing Pro is a useful moving house app that allows you to create an online inventory of your belongings.
5. Keep items in drawers
Keeping your items in their drawers means that you don’t have to worry about extra packing. Drawers are good because they can keep your belongings safe and secure. They also take away the inconvenience of packing and unpacking the goods. Make sure that your goods are sealed in the drawers before transit.
6. Hire a removal company early on
Choosing your removal company early on means that you won’t be worrying about trying to book one at the last minute. At Compare My Move, we can connect you with up to 6 removal companies who can help you with your move. You’ll be able to compare quotes and save money on your removal costs.
7. Use up food in the fridge and freezer
A trick that many people miss is using up the food in the fridge and freezer. Rather than have this food go to waste, use up the food before you move. Not only does this reduce your waste, but it will also save you money from having lots of takeaways in the run-up to your move.
8. Have a meal planned/takeaway for when you move in
Planning your meal when you move in means that you don’t have to stress once you are settled. Knowing what you will be eating the first night means that is one less thing to worry about.
9. Take meter readings and arrange utilities for your new home
Arranging the utilities for your new home in advance means that you have time to compare different companies to find the best deal. Also, taking meter readings means that you will pay a more accurate bill rather than an estimate from the energy company.
10. Pack a box to unpack first with things you’ll need that night
When you start your packing, make sure that you have a separate box with belongings that will need to be unpacked the first night you are in your new home. This means you won’t have to dive into various other boxes as your essentials will be in one place.
Compare Removal Company Costs
Save up to 70% on Removal Costs
During the Move
On the day of your move, you need to make sure that you are prepared. Moving day can be extremely chaotic if you are not prepared. Here are some tips to keep in mind during your move:
1. Have an early start
Waking up early will ensure that you can get started on any last-minute tasks before you embark on your move. You can get started on gathering essentials before the movers arrive.
2. Keep valuables with you
If you have any valuable or fragile items, you may want to consider keeping them on your person during your move. This is because some removal companies may not accept items over a certain amount. It is best to discuss this with your movers before you embark on your move. If you are keeping hold of valuable and fragile items, make sure that you package them securely.
3. Pack an essential box to stay with you
As previously mentioned, having a separate box for your daily essentials will ensure that you have everything to hand that you need for moving day. This can include daily bathroom items as well as belongings that you will need for your first night.
4. Inform the removal company of any changes to the timings
Making sure that you inform your removal company of any changes to moving day is extremely important. Your removal company will need to be updated if any changes occur to ensure that they arrive at the correct times. If they arrive early and you wanted to push the time back, you will be charged for that extra time.
5. Charge your mobile phone
Fully charging your phone for moving day means that you can easily be contacted when needed. Equally, you’ll be able to contact other relevant parties such as your movers.
6. Keep children entertained
If you have children, it may be a good idea to have them stay with family or friends on moving day. This will keep them safe from any potential accidents or injuries as you move your belongings from one property to the other.
7. Take pets to relatives or a cattery/kennel to avoid stress
This can also apply to pets. Your pet may feel scared or overwhelmed by the move, so keeping them with a family member or friend means that they are not in any danger. You could also send your pet to a cattery or kennel where they will be taken care of 24/7.
8. Have a moving day to-do list
Having a detailed to-do list for moving day will ensure that you are as organised as possible when it comes to moving day. You’ll be able to monitor what tasks have been completed and which jobs still need to be done. The more detail you include, the smoother your move will be.
9. Wear comfortable clothes
Wearing comfortable clothes is essential on moving day. Chances are you will be lifting boxes and handling large and small items. Make sure that you wear comfortable clothes with long sleeves and closed-toe shoes to ensure that you are as safe as possible.
10. Make sure the movers can access the property
You’ll need to make sure that your movers can easily access your property. This means making sure that there is a space for them to park and a path where they can move your belongings. This is especially important for those who have a lot of large items such as furniture.
Compare Removal Company Costs
Save up to 70% on Removal Costs
After the Move
Once you’ve moved in, there are moving tips to help you settle into your new home. Here are some moving hacks to carry out once you have moved:
1. Unpack your box of items needed for the first night
The first thing you should do is unpack your essential items that contain what you need for your first night. This should be items such as daily bathroom items and a change of clothes.
2. Clean before unpacking and putting items away
Before you put any items away, make sure that you clean the area. If you are moving into a property that has been empty for some time or an older property, dust can gather quickly.
3. Change address
You’ll need to make sure that you change your address with relevant companies and businesses such as your bank and energy provider. This will ensure that all communication is forwarded to the correct address and prevents any problems from arising in the future.
4. Take meter readings
Once you have moved into the property, you should take meter readings. This will ensure that your energy bills are as accurate as possible. If you don’t submit meter readings to your energy provider, they will take an estimate based on the average use in the area. This means you may be paying more than what you use.
5. Be prepared with cleaning supplies
Having cleaning supplies on hand means that you can clean each room as you unpack. Having cleaning supplies ready saves you time as you can focus on the job.
6. Go to local “tip shops” for paint supplies
For those who want to keep their costs low, taking a trip to the local tip shop for paint supplies is a great way to cut costs. Tip shops sell unwanted house-related items and supplies that are too good to waste. You should find plenty of paint supplies at your local tip shop.
7. Look on Marketplace/Gumtree for furniture/items for your home
Another tip for those wanting to reduce their costs is Marketplace and Gumtree, which have plenty of options for items of furniture for the home. You can find some great deals from sellers who are local to your new area.
8. Write up a food plan
We have discussed planning your meal for your first night. However, you should also write up an extensive food plan that covers your meals while you settle in and unpack. This can help you budget and ensure that you are getting into a new routine in your new home.
9. Unpack bit by bit
When you unpack your belongings, do it bit by bit rather than trying to get as much done straight away. Dedicating 15 minutes at a time will ensure that you get unpacked more efficiently and at a better pace. It can also help you to be more organised when you put goods away.
10. Explore the area
Lastly, take some time to explore your new area. This is a great way to take a break from unpacking. Moving house is an exciting time and if you are moving to a completely new area, you should get to know your new surroundings.
Compare Removal Company Costs
Save up to 70% on Removal Costs
Finding a Removal Company
At Compare My Move, we have a network of removal companies who are able to help you with your house move. We can connect you with up to 6 removal companies, allowing you to compare quotes and save money on your removal costs.
