Moving can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re relocating across town or to a new state, these moving hacks will save you time, money, and effort. With a bit of planning and some helpful tricks, you can make your move smoother and less stressful.
Moving Hacks Guide
**Click to auto scroll by section.
- Declutter Before You Pack
- Pack an Essentials Box
- Use Suitcases and Bags for Heavy Items
- Label Boxes with More Than Just “Kitchen” or “Bedroom”
- Take Pictures of Electronics Before Unplugging
- Protect Fragile Items with Clothes and Towels
- Use Trash Bags for Hanging Clothes
- Book Junk Removal Services for Unwanted Items
- Schedule Utility Transfers in Advance
- Pack a Cooler with Snacks and Drinks
- Make Your Move Easier with LoadUp
1. Declutter Before You Pack
Before packing a single box, go through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need. This is the perfect opportunity to declutter your home, reduce stress, and streamline your packing process. Donate, sell, or recycle unwanted items to lighten your load.
Not only does this make packing easier, but it also reduces moving costs, as fewer items mean less to move. Consider hosting a garage sale or listing items online to make some extra cash while decluttering.
2. Pack an Essentials Box
The first night in your new home can be a whirlwind, and the last thing you want to do is dig through multiple boxes to find essential items. Avoid this chaos by packing a box with the things you’ll need right away.
Moving essentials list
- Toiletries
- Medications
- Chargers
- Change of clothes
- Coffee maker and mug
- Plate and utensils
You can also throw in any important documents you may need for the first few days. Having this box easily accessible will make your transition into your new space much easier.
3. Use Suitcases and Bags for Heavy Items
Instead of packing books and other heavy items into cardboard boxes, use rolling suitcases and duffel bags. Not only are these much sturdier than traditional boxes, but they also make transporting heavy items much easier. Plus, they prevent boxes from breaking under weight, saving you from potential disaster during the move.
4. Label Boxes with More Than Just “Kitchen” or “Bedroom”
While it’s tempting to label your boxes with generic terms like “Kitchen” or “Bedroom,” this can make unpacking more difficult. Instead, be specific when labeling. For example, note what’s inside, such as “Pots & Pans” or “Coffee Maker & Mugs” for the kitchen box. This way, you’ll know exactly which box to open first, and your unpacking process will be much more efficient. You can also color-code boxes based on their destination room for even more organization.
5. Take Pictures of Electronics Before Unplugging
Before unplugging your TV, Wi-Fi router, gaming console, or other electronics, take a clear photo of the wiring setup for each device. This simple step will save you time and frustration later when you’re trying to reassemble everything in your new home.
Once unplugged, group and label the cords by device using ziplock bags or twist ties to keep them organized. That way, you’ll know exactly which wires go where, making it much easier to get your electronics up and running again without any guesswork.
6. Protect Fragile Items with Clothes and Towels
Rather than wasting space on packing peanuts or bubble wrap, try using your clothing and towels to wrap fragile items like dishes, glasses, and electronics. This eco-friendly approach not only saves space but also minimizes waste. Plus, it reduces the need for purchasing packing materials, saving you both money and resources.
7. Use Trash Bags for Hanging Clothes
Keep your wardrobe organized and easy to move by using trash bags for hanging clothes. Simply group clothes by type (shirts, pants, dresses, etc.), and slip a trash bag over them. Tie the top around the hangers to keep them secure. This method saves time, prevents wrinkling, and eliminates the need for costly wardrobe boxes.
Need to declutter before your move? LEARN MORE ❯
8. Book Junk Removal Services for Unwanted Items
Rather than hauling away old furniture, broken appliances, or bulky junk yourself, book a professional junk removal service like LoadUp. We offer convenient, upfront pricing and eco-friendly disposal options.
If you have items you don’t want to take with you, but can’t find a place to donate or recycle them, a junk removal service will ensure they are properly disposed of or recycled. Plus, having professionals take care of it saves you time and effort, so you can focus on more important tasks like settling into your new home.
9. Schedule Utility Transfers in Advance
Avoid moving into a dark, internet-free home by scheduling utility transfers ahead of time. Set up electricity, water, internet, and other essential services before your moving day. This ensures that you’re not left in the dark and can start settling into your new place right away.
10. Pack a Cooler with Snacks and Drinks
Moving is exhausting, so keep snacks and drinks easily accessible throughout the day. Packing a cooler with water, juice, sandwiches, and other easy-to-eat snacks will keep you and your helpers hydrated and energized. You’ll be able to power through your move without feeling sluggish or overly tired. You can even prepare a little snack station in the kitchen of your new home for when you finally get there!
Make Your Move Easier with LoadUp
Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. With these moving hacks, you can stay organized and make your transition smoother. And when it’s time to get rid of old furniture, mattresses, or appliances, LoadUp offers easy, affordable junk removal to help you clear the clutter before or after your move.
Need an extra hand on moving day? Our professional moving labor services can help with the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to do it all yourself. With LoadUp, you can count on a hassle-free move and eco-friendly disposal of your unwanted items.
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