Moving can be a mix of excitement around taking possession of your new home plus moments which are nerve-racking when you think about all that’s involved with m-o-v-i-n-g. Use these 10 hints to plan your stress-free move. Packing can be a chore but once you have a plan it’s really more manageable.

HINT 1: Start packing once you’ve set your moving date.

The philosopher’s have said the best way to tackle crossing over a mountain is one step at a time. As long as you’re moving towards the end goal, you are making progress. The same applies to moving. Rather than wait until a few days before your move-in date to begin packing, do a little each day. Use the weeks up to moving day to clear out, clean up, and pack items you’re not using on a daily basis. You will avoid the mad rush to push and get everything done at once. You will avoid packing things for the new home you no longer need or won’t work well in the new rooms simply because you’re in a hurry to get everything on the moving truck.

 HINT 2: Make moving day lists.

Before you begin packing boxes create a system for and make a list. The top organizers suggest numbering the boxes or using a color code. A streamlined system could be using “K” for Kitchen and numbering the boxes for this room, e.g. K1, K2, K3, etc. Keep a master list with the total number of boxes so you know if a box has gone wayward. On your master list if you want to note what’s inside a particular box you could include this such as K1 – cookware. Instead of writing your number or color code on only one side of the box write it on the top and sides. This way if a box lands upside down or is turned at a glance you will still be able to read your marking code.

HINT 3: Schedule utility connections and disconnections. 

When you’re planning the disconnection date for your current home use this time to coordinate hook-up connections at the new place. The services will be in place when you move in and you won’t have to concern yourself about doing this after you’ve settled.

HINT 4: Assemble your packing supplies.

Assembling boxes and packing materials is a known necessity. Keep in mind you probably have some materials going to the new home which can serve a double duty as packing materials. Bath and kitchen towels work well to pack around dishware and other breakables. Tablecloths and pillowcases wrapped around photo frames and other glassware keep these fragiles from bumping against one another. Rather than remove clothing from hangers to fold and pack reach for a large garbage bag. Cut a small hold into the bottom of the bag for slipping the hanger hooks through and instantly you’ve made an extra-large garment bag cover for these items. On moving day keep a few boxes and a marker for packing last minute items.

HINT 5:  Luggage, storage containers, and unconventional holders.

Use luggage, storage containers totes, and any other box type container going to the new home as a box. Fill it up to transport things from one house to the next. Everything must go so allow it to serve a double duty during the move.

HINT 6: Keep it together.

Keep “Likes” with other similar things. For instance, packing light bulbs with the lamps shade and bases along with extension cords has everything at your fingertips when you unpack in the new room. Wall art and pictures go with picture hooks and your level and hanging tools.

HINT 7: Safeguard your valuables.

It’s best to move your jewelry, heirlooms, important documents, and other similar valuables with you instead of placing these in any packing box. It’s worth reviewing your homeowner’s insurance for any guidelines about coverage during the move.

HINT 8: Clean as you go.

Once you’ve packed everything from a room take a moment to clean this room and close the door. This will save you time later on when all you want to think about is settling in to your new place. Also pack your cleaning supplies together for easy access when unpacking at your new home.

HINT 9: First night in the new home packing.

Pack an overnight bag fill with everything you may need on your first night in your new home. If you’re too tired to unpack everything on Day One you will only need to find this bag to have all you’ll need for a good night’s rest. Include your toiletries, pajamas, a fresh set of clothes for each person for the next day, and any special items required by family members. Even if you get all of your packing completed with furniture arranged and cupboards filled, this bag makes knowing your first night items are in one place…within easy reach.

Planning ahead makes your move stress-free. We work with buyers and sellers to help them incur as little stress as possible during their home transition. Don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you through.

Hillary Gaynor has real estate listings spanning the New Hampshire seacoast and Southern Maine area. The Bean Group has listings in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts. Hillary is happy to refer anyone outside her area to a trusted agent in her extensive network. Helping you find a good neighborhood is what we do. We pride ourselves in knowing the communities and guiding buyers towards their future homes. Schedule an appointment to get started.