9 Tips To Make Moving Less Stressful

Moving into a new home can be exciting but also overwhelming. Between packing up your life, coordinating logistics, and making sure that nothing gets left behind, moving can feel like a full-time job. You’re likely juggling emotions, too, as you say goodbye to what’s familiar and step into the unknown. Fortunately, with the right strategies in place, you can turn a chaotic process into a manageable, even empowering, transition. Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, these top tips will help you take the stress out of moving, one step at a time.

A successful move begins with a well-thought-out plan. Without structure, you’ll quickly find yourself buried under boxes, forgotten deadlines, and missed details.

Begin by setting your move-out and move-in dates, and then build a timeline backward. Identify what needs to be completed each week — from securing packing supplies to scheduling movers. Break larger tasks into smaller, more achievable steps, and give yourself buffer time for any hiccups. A digital calendar or moving app can help you stay organized and on track. The more thoroughly you map things out early, the fewer last-minute surprises you’ll face.

There’s no better time to let go of items you no longer use or need. Before you pack a single box, go through your belongings and be honest about what you actually want in your new home. Ask yourself: Would I buy this again? Have I used it in the last year? If the answer is no, it’s time to donate, sell, or toss it. Not only does decluttering lighten your moving load, but it also saves you time, effort, and money — especially if you’re hiring movers who charge by weight or volume. Think of it as curating your future space, not just packing up your old one.

Few things add stress to a move faster than running out of tape halfway through a packing session, so make sure you’re fully stocked before you begin. You’ll need a range of sturdy boxes in different sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, markers, and labels. Consider specialty boxes for fragile items like dishes or hanging clothes. Don’t forget essentials like scissors, zip-top bags for small parts, and stretch wrap to secure drawers or bundle cords. Investing in quality supplies upfront can prevent headaches later, especially when you’re trying to avoid damage in transit.

Labeling might seem like a small task, but it makes a noticeable impact. As you pack, clearly label each box with the room it belongs to and a short description of what’s inside. For extra clarity, use color-coded tape or stickers for each room. This helps both you and your movers know exactly where everything should go when you arrive. You can even number the boxes and keep a primary inventory list if you want to stay extra organized. It takes a little more time during packing, but it’ll save you hours of frustration in the unpacking phase.

The first night in your new home will likely be chaotic, and the last thing you’ll want to do is dig through a dozen boxes to find your toothbrush or phone charger. That’s why an “essentials” box — sometimes called a “first-night box” — is a game changer. Pack it with items you’ll need right away: toiletries, medications, chargers, a change of clothes, basic tools, paper towels, snacks, pet supplies, and important documents. Keep this box with you during the move so that it’s always within reach. You’ll thank yourself when you’re too tired to unpack.

If you’re working with professional movers, don’t wait until the last minute to schedule them. The best companies get booked weeks — or sometimes months — in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer. Do your homework: read online reviews, and confirm that the company is licensed and insured. Ask detailed questions about what’s included in their services and get everything in writing.

If you’re tackling a DIY move, reserve your truck or trailer early and recruit helpers ahead of time. Clear communication and preparation make the process smoother for everyone involved.

Before disassembling electronics or moving fragile items, take a few quick photos. For electronics, snap pictures of the back of your TV, Wi-Fi router, or gaming console so you know exactly how to reconnect everything later. For valuable items, photos can help document their condition in case anything gets damaged during the move. These images serve as both a visual reminder and a useful reference — especially when your memory is clouded by a dozen other tasks.

Changing your address isn’t just about forwarding your mail — though that’s an important first step. You’ll also want to update your billing address for credit cards, subscriptions, banks, and insurance providers. Notify your employer, update your driver’s license and vehicle registration, and let your doctors or healthcare providers know about your move. Set aside an hour to go through your accounts and check off everything that needs attention. This is a small but critical step that helps ensure a seamless transition to your new location.

A move doesn’t end the moment you unload the last box. Give yourself grace as you settle in. It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and exhaustion. Don’t expect to have everything unpacked and perfectly arranged right away. Instead, start by setting up the spaces you use most — like your bed, bathroom, and kitchen. Focus on creating comfort, not perfection. Gradually, you’ll begin to feel at home as you unpack and personalize each room. Remember, your new home is a work in progress, and that’s perfectly okay.

Moving doesn’t have to be a whirlwind of stress and overwhelm. With the right mindset, a solid plan, and a few smart strategies, you can approach your next move with clarity and confidence. Embrace this moment as the start of a new chapter, and give yourself permission to let go of what’s behind while welcoming what’s ahead. You’ve got this — one box, one room, and one day at a time.

If you’re ready to begin your home-buying journey, The MacDonald Team is by your side. Reach out today.