11 Tips To Make Moving Less Stressful

Moving homes is often seen as an overwhelming task, steeped in a swirl of emotions, from excitement to apprehension. A new poll suggests that moving houses is one of the most stressful experiences a person can go through. It's not just about the physical exhaustion but also the emotional toll, the upheaval, and the feeling of leaving behind familiarity. Thankfully, with the right tips and strategies, it's possible to make this journey much more bearable.

It's essential to recognize that feeling stressed during the moving process is a natural human response. When faced with significant life changes, like relocating to a new space or changing jobs, it's only natural to feel a mix of emotions. The moving stress one feels is akin to the emotions experienced during other stressful life-changing events. However, by acknowledging this as a normal part of the journey, one can start to find tips for making moving less stressful and approach the task with a more balanced mindset.

One of the primary factors that can lead to more stress during a move is the rush against time. Giving oneself enough sleep and enough time to tackle the entire process is crucial. Whether it's deciding when to start packing, when to hire professional movers, or when to rent a moving truck, having ample time reduces the chance of feeling overwhelmed. With enough time, one can slowly tick off tasks from their moving to-do list without feeling the need to hurry through everything.

Crafting a detailed plan is one of the most effective ways to ensure a stress-free move. By listing down every step, from securing moving supplies to labeling boxes, one can stay organized throughout the entire process. The moving checklist will not only serve as a guide but also as a marker for making progress. Every time an item on the to-do list gets checked off, it's a step closer to the new location and a step further from moving stress.

The idea of packing up an entire house can be daunting. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the enormity of the task, start small. Begin by packing items that aren't used daily, like books, seasonal clothes, or cleaning supplies. With each packed box, there's a sense of achievement. And remember, it's okay to ask for help, whether from a family member, friend, or professional movers. Every bit of assistance can make the move less stressful and even introduce opportunities for fun things like making new friends or finding creative ways to reduce stress.

One of the most effective tips for making moving less stressful is to approach the task one room at a time. The thought of packing up an entire house can be overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable parts can significantly reduce stress. By focusing on one room, there's a sense of making progress with every box packed. It also allows one to stay organized, ensuring that no essential items are overlooked. Celebrate the small wins with each room completed—it's all part of the journey to the new space.

Organizing can feel like a breeze when there's a labeling system in place. Labeling boxes according to their contents or the room they belong to can be a game-changer in the moving process. Not only does it make unpacking in the new location more straightforward, but it also reduces the anxiety of not knowing where things are. Plus, when one needs specific items during the move, like cleaning supplies or particular documents, labeled boxes can save the day. If you want to take it a step further, you could number your boxes, and make a list of their contents on a searchable file on your phone, tablet or computer. This allows you to search the box contents from anywhere - and you can even loop in your family members so they can search box contents as well!

Starting packing ahead of time is a vital step in ensuring a stress-free move. Last-minute scrambles can add more stress, so it's beneficial to begin packing items that aren't needed daily well in advance. This approach offers the luxury of time, allowing one to make sure everything is packed securely and systematically. And, as the moving day approaches, the moving to-do list becomes less daunting, and the path to the new home feels clearer.

When the weight of the move feels too heavy, it's a wise decision to hire professional movers. They bring expertise to the table, knowing the ins and outs of the moving process. From safely transporting furniture to efficiently loading a moving truck, professional movers can turn the ordeal into a more streamlined experience. Plus, while they handle the heavy lifting, it offers an opportunity to focus on fun things, like planning the decor of the new space or making new friends in the neighborhood. Hiring a moving company might be an investment, but it's one that promises a smoother transition to the next chapter.

It's a natural human response to feel like tackling challenges on our own. Yet, asking for help can be one of the most potent tips for making moving less stressful. Family members and friends often understand the weight of the moving process and are usually more than willing to lend a hand. Whether it's helping to start packing, lending moving supplies, or just being there to offer emotional support during stressful events, their assistance can be invaluable. Embracing your support system can truly make the entire process feel less daunting.

After a long day of moving, the last thing anyone wants is to rummage through countless boxes looking for essentials. Packing an overnight bag with necessary items like toiletries, a change of clothes, and essential documents can offer a touch of comfort amidst the chaos. It's a small step, but it ensures that the first night in the new space feels more like home and less like a maze of cardboard boxes. If you know it will take more time for you to get started with unpacking, pack enough essential items for a week.

Moving can be both an emotional and physical challenge, making it crucial to prioritize enough sleep. Amid the hustle and bustle, it's easy to forget the body's need for rest. However, ensuring a good night's sleep can reduce stress levels and provide the energy needed to face the tasks ahead. Remember, a well-rested mind and body can handle the challenges of the moving to-do list with more resilience and clarity, turning a potentially overwhelming situation into a manageable one.

With two decades as a distinguished Boston real estate broker, Brenda has fostered deep connections ranging from first-time homebuyers to esteemed professionals like Boston Red Sox members and global CEOs, showcasing her expertise in diverse realty sectors from luxury homes to investment portfolios across communities like Newton, Brookline, Boston, Cambridge and beyond. If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Massachusetts real estate market, contact Brenda van der Merwe today.