Tips for Moving into a New Place

Moving is one of the most stressful things any human being can go through. Whether you are moving in with a significant other, to a new house or apartment, downsizing or just changing your address on all your bills and paperwork, it shouldn’t go without saying that everything will run smoothly! Disorganization doesn’t do anyone any good, especially when there are a dozen boxes unpacked and scattered across the living room.

Here are some tips to help ease your move-in process:

1) Pack a box of essentials for your first night at your new place, or until you can do a big grocery shop. This is especially important if you’re sharing a house with roommates, who will most likely have to meet you at the house with their own cars, so they can only bring so much. Such essentials usually include cereal bars (for easy breakfasts), milk (if you’re not picky about kind), fruit, drinks, chips/snacks of any kind, nuts (for snacking on if you get peckish), toiletries and a change of clothes.

2) Label your boxes, both with what room they go in and with a brief list of the contents. This not only helps when you’re unloading them, but it also makes it easier for you to find things when you’re unpacking – especially if you’re prone to forgetfulness (we all are sometimes).

3) Make a list of all the things you need to do in order to move in – from contacting your internet/cable provider to changing your address on your driver’s license and bank statements. This will help keep you organized, as well as ensure that you don’t forget anything important.

4) Be proactive in organizing things. A heap of clothes thrown on the floor or a box of items stacked on top of another is not okay. Not only will it stress you out when you’re trying to unpack, but it’s also an eyesore (especially if there are other people living with you). Take your time and put everything away where it belongs.

5) Have someone you trust to check over your new home before you move in. While places may look fine when you’re checking them out, there might be cracks in the walls, holes behind doors or other minor problems that are out of sight. The person can also help you unload if something is too heavy for you to move on your own.

6) Finally, take a deep breath and relax. Moving is hard, but it’s also an exciting time in your life. Soon everything will be unpacked, organized, and – most importantly – home sweet home!