Make Your Next Move Stress-Free: Proven Tips from 15+ Moves in 20 Years

Moving can be one of life’s most stressful events, but it doesn’t have to be. As someone who has moved more than 15 times in the past 20 years, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to make the process smoother and less overwhelming. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, these tips will help you tackle your move with confidence and ease.

1. Start Planning Early

One of the most common mistakes people make is waiting until the last minute to start organizing their move. The earlier you begin, the more control you’ll feel over the process. Create a detailed timeline and break it into manageable tasks. Think about when you’ll start packing, when to book movers, and when to notify utilities. By tackling small tasks over time, you’ll avoid the chaos of last-minute scrambling.

Pro Tip: Use a checklist to keep track of tasks and set reminders to stay on schedule. Starting early ensures you’ll be ready when moving day arrives.

Planning ahead also gives you the chance to secure reliable movers or rental trucks, lock in better rates, and avoid the stress of peak moving seasons. Plus, it allows time to handle unexpected surprises calmly.

2. Declutter Before You Pack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter your home. Go room by room and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or toss. Ask yourself, "Have I used this in the past year?" or "Does this item bring me joy?" Reducing the number of items you need to pack not only lightens your load but also gives you a fresh start in your new space.

Start with areas that tend to collect clutter, like closets, basements, and storage spaces. Decluttering these first can create momentum and make the rest of the process feel less overwhelming.

Bonus: Donating or selling items can make your move feel even more rewarding, knowing your belongings are getting a second life elsewhere. And as a bonus, fewer boxes mean lower moving costs!

3. Label and Organize Your Boxes

Proper labeling can save you hours of frustration when you’re unpacking in your new home. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. Consider using color-coded labels or tape for quick identification. For example, red for kitchen boxes, blue for bedroom boxes, and so on.

Pro Tip: Label the sides of the boxes in addition to the top, so you can identify what’s inside even when they’re stacked. Keeping an inventory list of your boxes can also be a game-changer.

Another helpful tip? Pack items you’ll need immediately in easily accessible boxes. For example, if you’re moving in winter, pack coats and boots in a clearly labeled box for quick access.

4. Pack an Essentials Box

An essentials box is your moving day survival kit. Pack it with everything you’ll need for the first few days in your new home: toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, chargers, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies like coffee and snacks. This ensures you’ll have what you need at your fingertips without rummaging through multiple boxes.

You can also include cleaning supplies and basic tools, like a screwdriver or hammer, to tackle any immediate tasks when you move in.

5. Hire Reliable Help

Having the right help can make or break your moving day. Whether you’re hiring professional movers or relying on friends and family, plan ahead to secure reliable assistance. If you’re going the professional route, do your research—read reviews, ask for recommendations, and confirm details well in advance.

Pro Tip: Always ask about insurance coverage and how movers handle fragile items to avoid surprises on moving day. If you’re moving long distances, ensure your moving company offers tracking services for peace of mind.

6. Take Care of Yourself

It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of moving, but don’t forget to prioritize your well-being. Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals, and take breaks when you need them. Moving can be emotionally draining as well, so give yourself grace if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Self-Care Reminder: Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s delegating tasks or simply taking a moment to breathe, taking care of yourself will make the process much smoother.

Consider rewarding yourself after a productive day of packing or unpacking. Treating yourself can help maintain motivation and keep spirits high.

7. Embrace the New Chapter

Moving is more than just a logistical task—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Instead of focusing on the stress, think about the opportunities ahead. What excites you about your new home or neighborhood?

Take time to explore your surroundings, introduce yourself to neighbors, and make your new house feel like home. Adding personal touches to your space will help you settle in and feel more comfortable.

Pro Tip: Create a "first night" box with items like bedding, pajamas, and your favorite snacks so you can relax on your first night without scrambling for essentials.

Why This Matters for Real Estate Sellers

If you’re planning to sell your home as part of your move, these steps can also help prepare your property for the market. Decluttering and organizing can make your home more appealing to buyers, while planning ahead ensures you’re ready to move out once your home sells.

As a real estate professional, I specialize in helping clients navigate these transitions seamlessly. Whether you’re selling, buying, or both, I’m here to provide guidance, resources, and support every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, mindset, and a few helpful strategies, you can turn what feels like a daunting task into an exciting transition. As someone who has moved many times, I understand the challenges—but I also know the rewards of starting fresh.

If you’re planning a move and need advice or help finding your next home, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help make your transition as smooth as possible.

What’s your best moving tip? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!