Designer Services

You have to go through all your stuff anyway to pack for the move. So instead of indiscriminately tossing everything into moving boxes, use this opportunity to set aside the things you no longer use or enjoy—and don’t be afraid to be a little aggressive. You will be glad you were when it comes time to unpack and you don’t have to spend hours sorting through junk you don’t even have a place for. And there are so many easy options for getting rid of belongings now you don’t really have an excuse not to. Donate to local charity, sell on eBay, Craigslist, or other apps like OfferUp, or even have a good old fashioned garage sale.

Starting to pack well-ahead of the move can dramatically reduce moving-related stress, and also ensure your stuff is better organized and more protected. Start with artwork and décor items. These are the least essential to your daily routine and because of their value and fragility they will likely require the most attention and care in their packing. Other items that can be packed weeks ahead of time include off-season clothes and books.

There’s so much to do to prepare for a move, this can be an easy task to overlook. But it’s an important one. So consider this your official reminder! You can start the process up to a month before your move. Start by filling out a change of address form with the United States Post Office. Contact your utility companies to let them know about your move and schedule times for them to end service in your current home and install service in your new home. Send out a friendly announcement to your friends and family members with your new address. And if you have pets who are micro-chipped be sure to let the manufacturer know too so they can make the update.

Toilet paper. Soap. Underwear. In the mad rush to get everything into boxes and onto the truck people sometimes forget to set aside the stuff they’ll want access to as soon as they get into their new home. It can be super unpleasant rooting through boxes at the end of a long, stressful, and exhausting day searching for something you need. We recommend packing a simple overnight bag as you would for any overnight trip. Then, stock another small container—transparent plastic bins work great—with other items you’ll want easy access to like bed sheets, towels, a shower curtain, water bottles, snacks. The small effort will go a long way in helping you feel comfortable the first day in your new house as you tackle the huge task of unpacking.