Moving can be exciting, but it’s no secret that the logistics are daunting. Between wrapping up one home and setting up another, there are a lot of details to juggle. Fortunately, with some foresight and advanced planning, moving day doesn’t have to be stressful! Here are ten tips to get you on your way.

1. Start Sorting Ahead of Time

Well in advance of moving day, start sorting and purging. Moving is a great time to evaluate all the extra clutter you’ve accumulated and to get rid of things you no longer need. You won’t miss it if you haven’t worn or used it in over a year.

2. Decide How You Are Moving Everything

Decide if you are using a moving company or moving yourself. The latest data from Angi puts in-state moving costs between $920-$2530, and long-distance or cross-country moves are running $2700-$10,000, with the high end being around $15,000. If you do hire a moving company, be sure to give them a complete list of all your items and have them give you an estimate. Be sure it includes a USDOT number, which verifies they are registered with the US Dept. of Transportation and are bound by safety standards, ensuring your things are protected.

3. Not Using a Moving Company? No Problem.

If you decide to move yourself, reserve a truck well in advance, and make sure it has a ramp. You’ll also want to rent a furniture dolly, pads, covers, and tie-downs for securing heavy items. 

4. Measure Everything

Take measurements of the new house and make sure your furniture will fit. If not, it might be worth selling oversized items and replacing them with ones that fit better.

5. Switch Over Records and Bills

If you have children, arrange for school records to be sent to the new school, and make sure they are enrolled. Complete a change of address form at the post office and be sure your utilities are transferred from the old homeowners to your name at your new house.

6. Get the Right Packing Materials

Consider using plastic bins instead of boxes for items that are breakable or need special care. For example, art should be handled carefully. Be sure to put a masking tape X across the glass, wrap it in paper, cloth or bubble wrap, and then put it into its carrier.

7. Pack Smarter, Not Harder

Pack heavy items such as books and dishes in smaller boxes that are easier to carry. Dishes should be individually wrapped, stacked, and taped together in smaller bundles (or purchase special dish or glass packing kits). If you stack plates vertically, they are less likely to break. Lighter items like pillows and bedding can go into larger boxes. For hanging clothes, consider wardrobe boxes that won’t require taking them off the hangers. Keep each room separate and label and tape everything well.

8. Keep Smaller Items Together

Use sandwich bags to keep screws or other small items together. Tape them to the furniture they belong to.

9. Take Plenty of Photos

Take photos of how your electronics are put together for easy reference when setting them back up.

10. Clean Out That Fridge

Use as many food items as possible and defrost your freezer a couple of days before moving.