Moving home is notorious for being one of the most stressful things you can do. Regardless of whether you’re moving down the street or to an entirely new country, there is always potential for problems, complications and stress. From the planning and packing in the weeks and months beforehand, to the logistics of the day itself. There is a huge amount to remember. However, this doesn’t mean that the stress can’t be kept to a minimum with the right advice, planning and practical help. You may not be able to make it a completely smooth transition, but the following advice will help you reduce stress as much as possible.
Get to know your new home & surrounding area
One of the best ways to avoid nasty surprises on the day is to visit your new home and the surrounding area a few times before the big day. This will help you to familiarise yourself with the layout of the street, the parking options and nearby amenities and shops you might need. The parking is particularly important as you want to be sure that the moving van will be able to get close enough for easy unloading.
Hire a Removal Company
Making sure that you have the right equipment and help on the day can be invaluable so you may want to consider hiring a professional removal company. They will be able to help with planning and will have a big enough vehicle to be able to move everything at once so you don’t have to think about multiple trips. They will also bring enough employees to complete the move as speedily as possible which really help you to relax.
Contact a few companies well in advance of your moving date to ensure you get your preferred date and compare the quotes you receive so you can get the best deal.
Book the time off work
While it may be surprising, many people don’t book the time off work for their move until it’s too late or they will only book the day itself. Even if you have hired a removal company it’s best to still be present to oversee what’s happening. In addition, you may want to take a day or two either side of the day itself so you make sure everything is ready and then to settle into the new home before you go back to work.
Create a packing list
Packing can be one of the more stressful parts of moving home and while a removal company can help you, at the end of the day the possessions and furniture are yours and you’ll want to be involved. You can make a moving house checklist which lists everything you need to take with you, anything you can sell and anything you just want to be rid of. There are lots of charities which will take furniture, clothes, toys or other items.
Remember to pack a bag or box of essentials such as toiletries, a few clothes, phone chargers and anything else you’re likely to need soon after you arrive. You may even want to put in some drinks and snacks – especially if you’re moving with kids!
