9 Tips To Make Moving Less Stressful

Moving can be a daunting task, with endless to-dos and the worry that something might go wrong at any step. That said, with proper planning and a few expert tips, you can smooth out the bumps and make your moving experience much less stressful. From organizing early to ensuring you have a comfortable first night in your new Los Altos home, read on to explore several valuable strategies that can transform the moving process from a chore into an exciting step toward your next chapter.

One of the key factors that can make or break the moving process is how well you organize and manage your time. Starting early is crucial. Ideally, you should begin planning your move at least several weeks in advance. This allows ample time to sort out the logistics, hire movers, and begin packing your belongings without pressure.

Begin by creating a moving checklist that outlines every task you need to complete week by week. Tackle the big decisions first, such as researching and booking a reliable moving company or deciding if you’ll move independently. This timeline should also include smaller tasks like gathering medical records, transferring your utilities, and updating your address with banks, employers, and other important contacts.

Moving is the perfect opportunity to assess what you truly need. Decluttering your living space before you start packing will save you time and effort and reduce your moving expenses. Go through each room, closet, and drawer and sort items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or throw away.

Consider donating items that you no longer need but are still in good condition. Clothing, books, and old electronics can find new homes through local charities. Selling items can be time-consuming, so start well in advance if you choose this route.

When it comes to packing, efficiency is key. Invest in high-quality packing materials to protect your belongings during the move. Utilize bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes in various sizes. Employ wardrobe boxes for easily transporting clothes, allowing them to remain on hangers and minimizing the risk of wrinkling.

Labeling each box clearly with its contents and the designated room in your new Los Altos home streamlines the unpacking process. This method makes it easier for movers to place boxes in the correct locations and helps you prioritize which boxes to unpack first.

For essential items like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and phone chargers, pack an "open-first" box. This box should be last on the truck and the first off so that you have everything you need for the first night in your new home without needing to rummage through dozens of boxes.

One of the last things you want during your first night in your new Los Altos home is to find out that the electricity or water isn't working. Contact your utility providers ahead of time to schedule service terminations at your old home and set up installations at your new one. This includes electricity, water, gas, and internet services. Making these arrangements well in advance ensures you aren’t left without essentials upon your arrival.

While it may be tempting to save money by moving yourself, hiring professional movers can be a worthwhile investment, especially for a complex or long-distance move. Professionals handle the heavy lifting, significantly reduce the risk of damage to your items, and can insure your belongings during the move. Obtain quotes from several moving companies and check their online reviews to ensure they are reliable and offer excellent service.

During the hustle and bustle of moving, important documents can easily get misplaced. Keep a folder safely containing all your essential documents, such as contracts, leases, passports, house deeds, and recent bills. This folder should be with you at all times during the move. Also, make digital copies of these documents as a backup and store them securely online.

If you have pets, moving can be particularly stressful for them. To help them adjust, try to maintain their regular routines as much as possible and ensure they are transported in a safe, comfortable manner. Arrange for your pets to stay with a friend or in a kennel on the moving day. On the moving day, ensure their comfort by keeping familiar toys and their bedding close by.

It’s easy to get caught up in the urgency and forget to take care of yourself. Moving is physically and emotionally taxing, so it’s important to take regular breaks. Set aside time to relax, enjoy a meal, or take a quiet walk. Keeping your energy up and stress levels down is vital for a successful move.

Once you’ve moved in, take a moment to celebrate. You’ve achieved a major undertaking! Unpack at your own pace and start exploring your new community. Grab a coffee from a local café, take a stroll in a nearby park, or simply unwind in your new space.

If you’re ready to begin that next chapter, get started in Los Altos real estate today with the Campi Group by your side.