While change is invigorating, it can also be taxing. Packing your belongings and moving to a new area can be stressful, we get it! Your moving and self storage facility experience can set the precedence for the remainder of your move and we want to help. Stress less with these top 10 tips for a simplified moving day.

Move Smarter, Not Harder

Thoughtful Planning

In the weeks leading up to your move, organize your possessions into four categories:

1. Items you are taking with you to your new home.
2. Items to go in your storage unit. These are things that you want to be near you, but maybe don’t fit in your new home.
3. Items you want to sell. There’s nothing like moving to a new area with a little extra cash in your pocket!
4. Things you are giving away. Remember, this category includes gifts to friends, donations to non-profits, and future items earmarked for the dump. Let it go…let it go…

Think About Downsizing

Use your packing as a way to chuck unnecessary or unwanted items. Set a goal to get rid of a percentage of your stuff and stick to it! Less items to pack mean less time packing. If you’re moving from a mountain town to a beach town, maybe you don’t need those extra skis – you know, the pair you outgrew 5 years ago.

To Hire or Not to Hire:

Give careful consideration as to whether or not to hire professional movers to help you complete your transition. Think about your budget and the value of your time. Friends are helpful, but unless you plan on supplying pizza and beverages, moving can be a big burden to put on your acquaintances. Pro tip: add pepperoni to the order and you may lock down a few extra helping hands.

Master the Art of Packing Smarter

It’s simple: the better you pack, the easier it is to unpack.

• Start by packing the things you aren’t using and won’t need until after you move.
• If you are making multiple trips, think about moving your storage container items first.
• Use towels, blankets, sheets, and t-shirts to pad each box as you pack. (The more delicate the items, the more padding required.)
• Pack boxes firmly, but don’t overload them with too much weight.

Mark Each Box

As you seal each box, list its contents and which room or storage bay it belongs to on the side of the box – you will be SO glad you did this later. Use a good labeling system and stay consistent. Better yet, take a photo of each box and the items packed in it to keep on your phone for reference. Don’t forget to mark “fragile” and “open first” on the appropriate boxes.

Pack Electronics with a Purpose

We all know setting up a TV, stereo, or surround sound system can be a pain. So, when unplugging your electronic systems, do so with the intention of setting them back up in mind. Group all parts together and wrap the cords so they don’t dangle. Most importantly, a picture is worth a thousand words. So take a photo to see how everything reassembles.

Pack a Suitcase

Each member of the family should have a suitcase of easy-to-reach, important items. Pretend you are going on a 3-day vacation and pack changes of clothes, medications, eyeglasses, toiletries, etc. Don’t forget your running shoes if you want to squeeze in a quick workout!

Take Care of Yourself!

Nobody likes the after effects of moving; a sore back, kinked neck, or tired legs. In addition to being smart about your packing, (i.e. heavy items in small boxes and no more than 30 pounds per box), take some time to think about your loading and unloading. Consider borrowing or renting a dolly, as they will ease the pain of moving boxes and cut your time in half. Once you’ve arrived, use a cleared table or counter to unpack your boxes and eliminate bending over as much as possible.

Small Victories For the Win!

Think about completing small tasks as you unpack. Perhaps you can focus on setting up the kitchen to prepare a meal, or make your bed to sleep in the first night. What’s important is setting small goals you can achieve quickly to keep your spirits up.

Let People Know

If you want to continue to receive your mail, don’t forget to change your address with your local U.S. Post Office. The last thing you want is to miss out on bills (or birthday cards.)

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