Pack an overnight bag.
After a long, tiring day of moving, you’ll want to have your essentials easily accessible. Include a change of clothes, toiletries, chargers, a laptop, or anything else you think you’ll need right away.
Pack the items you will need first in a clear plastic bin.
This includes things like a box cutter, paper towels, trash bags, eating utensils, select cookware, power strips, toilet paper, tools, etc. The clear bin allows you to see inside; it also separates itself from the myriad of cardboard boxes.
Label boxes with room they go to & use a color system.
Pick a color code for each room and label that room’s boxes accordingly. Label the door of each room with the corresponding sticker or tape so that movers know where to place the boxes.
When you arrive at your new home, unpack by room. The unpacking process will feel more manageable. And remember to label the sides of the boxes, not the tops. This way, you’ll be able to identify them even if they’re stacked.
Number your boxes and create an inventory.
Make a detailed corresponding list of what’s in each box by number. This makes it easier to make sure you didn’t forget any boxes. Plus, if there’s anything valuable in there, you won’t be broadcasting it to the world by writing it down right there on the box.
Pre-clean your new home, if you can.
Start with the bathrooms & kitchen first. Then sweep, mop, and clean windows and sills if you have time. Put up a new shower curtain liner and stock some new bath towels and toilet paper as well. You’ll want to take a hot shower after a long day of moving.
Change your address at least two weeks prior to moving.
This might seem like a no-brainer for important things like utilities and cable, but don’t forget the small stuff. You’ve also got Amazon, PayPal, credit cards, your bank, magazine subscriptions, and your mail to worry about.
Make your last grocery trip two weeks prior to moving.
The more food you end up using before moving, the less you’ll have to throw out.