Mastering the art of a stress free move: Moving Day
Moving into a new home marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in many people’s lives. Last week APDO member, Julia Jamieson shared her top tips for preparing to move so you can arrive at moving day with increased confidence and reduced stress.
In today’s blog, Julia addresses the elements of move day and putting your well-laid plans into action. Her top 10 tips will help you enjoy a smooth and efficient transition into your home.
1. Essentials Box
Before the moving truck arrives, ensure your essentials box is easily accessible. This box should contain items you'll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. I would recommend that this goes in the car with you.
2. Enlist Help and Stay Organised
If friends or family are there to help, provide them with a clear plan and specific tasks.
Top tip: Remember to keep out a supply of drinks and snacks to keep them going, they will appreciate it!
3. Protect Your Home and Belongings
Lay down protective coverings, like cardboard or drop cloths, to prevent damage to floors and carpets during the moving process. Having a stash of shoe coverings for people coming into the house can help to ensure there is less cleaning up to do.
4. Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Moving can be physically demanding, so it's important to stay hydrated and take short breaks as needed to avoid exhaustion. If you or someone you are moving with is elderly (or small children!) or suffers from a medical condition, make sure you have somewhere they can sit to take a rest. It’s always worth having a snack at the ready so everyone can easily refuel. Remember to make sure any medications are easily to hand to take throughout the day. The day will be busy so set alarms for the times medication should be taken to ensure you don’t miss a dose.
7. Communicate with Movers
If you've hired professional movers, maintain open communication with them throughout the day regarding timings for access. Share any specific instructions or concerns you may have.
8. Perform a Final Walkthrough
Before leaving your old home, conduct a final room by room walkthrough to ensure nothing has been left behind.
Consider whether you or a cleaning service might want to come in after and give the place a once over. I would always leave the old place how you would like to find it.
Top Tip: Clean as you are packing. Doing this as you go reduces the work on move day. Remember, the new buyers will be just as tired as you are when they move in so not having to clean up will be appreciated.
9. Secure Your New Home
Upon arrival take time to secure the property. Check that all doors and windows are locked, and you have keys and access codes as needed.
10. Relax and Unwind
After a long moving day, give yourself some time to relax and unwind in your new space. Your essentials box will come in handy until the rest of your belongings are unpacked. Why not pack a set of disposable plates and cutlery for the first night so that you can order in and put your feet up.
By following these moving day essentials, you will be better prepared to handle the challenges that come with the transition to your new home. Let the adventure begin!
Julia at Orka Living is a Professional Organiser and Declutterer based in South Lanarkshire. She helps busy families simplify their lives through decluttering, organising and improving their productivity. Julia is passionate about helping families make the most of change and helping them to start their next chapter in a new home on the best foot.
If you would like ot find your local Professional Organiser to support you with your move, visit our Find an Organiser page.
