There are few life events as stressful as a relocation. Regardless of how far you’re moving, the process requires planning and preparation. There’s also the physical labor to consider.
While there are some aspects of a move that just can’t be changed, these tips can help you reduce the stress of your move, allowing you to get to your new home a little easier.
1. Schedule Time for the Move
Making the preparations for your move and packing everything up is as time-consuming as it is frustrating. In addition to the three to six days it will take you to pack, you’ll need time to switch the utilities over to your new home, submit your change of address, and take care of the dozens of small details that go along with a move.
Taking care of items as they come up will decrease all you will have to worry about on moving day.
2. Create a Relocation Budget
The cost of moving is a major cause of stress, so building a budget will help. For variable costs, such as fuel and meals, try to estimate the cost as closely as possible. The less you leave to chance, the better your move will be. Your budget should include everything from the cost of hiring movers to the lodging you’ll need on the road. Once you have accounted for everything, you can look for ways to trim your budget.
3. Research Your New Area
Another stressful factor about moving is relocating to an unfamiliar neighborhood. If your new home is within driving distance, make a road trip of it and visit the neighborhood in advance. If this is a bigger move, you can use Google Maps and other online resources to explore the area. An online search can tell you everything about the city from its economy to its crime rate.
4. Leave a Safe Haven
As you start packing, choose one room that will remain untouched until the last possible moment. This can help your children, pets, and even yourself feel comforted. Consider this place a sanctuary, where you can get away from relocation concerns.
5. Ditch the Clutter
When it is time to start packing, try to throw away what you don’t need. The less you take with you, the less of a mess you’ll have when you start unpacking. If you start going through things soon enough, you can sell those items and add the money to your relocation fund.
6. Hire Some Help
You shouldn’t try to do everything yourself. There’s no shame in hiring professional movers to take a huge burden off your shoulders. Most moving companies offer packing services as well, so you can concentrate on taking care of other details. Movers have the training and experience to know how to pack furniture and fragile items. They also take on the physical labor involved in moving, using tools to do the job easier than you could do by yourself.
In conclusion
Moving to a new area is exciting, but the uncertainty, planning, and tasks associated with it also make it a stressful experience. By taking the time to prepare and plan, you can alleviate much of the worry associated with the process.
Some stressful moving situations can’t be changed, so try to take control where you can. Once you get to your new home, you’ll be able to distress and relax with the relocation behind you.
