As exciting as moving can be, packing up your life can be chaotic and overwhelming, to say the least. However, with some planning and some tips and tricks, moving can be less stressful. Here’s a guide that can help you turn your move into a smoother transition while saving money:

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Create a Timeline:
Create lists and make a timeline for yourself. Although it sounds simple, breaking down the process into manageable steps can make moving less daunting. Steps like sorting your belongings, getting rid of unwanted items, hiring moving services, scheduling utilities, and updating your address can make moving less of a pain. The earlier you start, the better.

Declutter and Organize:
Before diving into the daunting task of packing up your belongings, kickstart your move by decluttering. Weed out any unnecessary or unwanted items, sorting them into piles for selling, donating (and remember, with ample notice, the Red Cross can conveniently pick up your donations!), or disposing of them. By lightening your load, you'll streamline the packing and unpacking process.
Once your belongings are boxed up, ensure a seamless transition by labeling each box with its designated room. The key to a smooth move is to stay organized!

Pack Essentials Separately:
Before everything gets packed up, set aside the essentials and belongings you know you’ll reach for within the next few days and pack them into an overnight bag. Things like important documents, a change of clothes, a toothbrush, and chargers will make life a lot easier. No need to sift through every box to find the necessities!
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Get A Few Quotes from Movers:
Interview more than one mover and have them come personally to see your space before providing an estimate.  Moving can get very expensive very quickly, so you’ll want to ask questions like: “How much can I save if I provide all the boxes and/or if I do all the packing?” - often, it’s substantial. Similarly, the mover you choose should know where you are moving to - details like where they can legally park their truck, how large the freight elevator is, and how far away the apartment is from the elevator- all may impact their final estimate.

Not everything needs to be purchased:
Sure, you’ll want boxes, packing tape, garbage bags, and bubble wrap. Proper packing and materials will protect your belongings throughout the move. The last thing anyone wants is to show up to a new place with broken plates! But many of these items you can find for free, whether it's going to a local store that would be happy to give you the boxes they’ve unpacked that day (think Pottery Barn or a local grocery store) or asking a porter in your current building to set aside a big stack of newspapers for you - typically Sundays are great days for this (newspapers in lieu of bubble work works great for dishes and other fragile items).

We all know that moving can put your life on hold and be expensive and stressful, but it’s essential to maintain a positive attitude and be flexible. Embrace the change and get excited for a new adventure!

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