54 Hacks to Moving: The Ultimate Guide to Moving

Introduction: How to Prepare for a Move

Moving to a new home or office can be an exciting yet daunting task. Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition. At Chap's Professional Movers, we understand the complexities of relocating, and we're here to guide you every step of the way. In our guide, we offer comprehensive insights and practical tips to make your move as seamless as possible. From decluttering and organizing your belongings to choosing the right packing materials, our guide covers all the essential aspects of moving preparation. We also provide advice on creating a moving timeline, selecting a reputable moving company, and handling special items like fragile antiques or heavy furniture. Our expert team at Chap's Professional Movers In Atlanta, GA has years of experience in the industry, and we're committed to making your move a success. Whether you're moving across town or across the country.. Trust us to help you embark on this new chapter of your life with confidence and ease.

Were you looking for more than 54 tips and tricks? We love this guide made by Laura Mueller, which is 94 Moving Hacks for Faster, Easier, Less Stressful Moves. Click here.

Looking for something shorter? See our 17 Proven Strategies Smooth Move.

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Getting Ready:

1. Determine the Logistics:

‍Will you move yourself, or do you need professional assistance (click here)?

Check out this guide (click here) to help you decide.

Deciding between a DIY move or hiring professionals is crucial. For instance, if you have a lot of heavy furniture, professional movers can help prevent potential injuries. The benefit of making an informed decision is that it can save you time, money, and stress. However, not considering the logistics can lead to unexpected challenges and expenses during the move.

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2. Compile a Moving Checklist:

‍Outline all the tasks you need to complete.

A detailed list ensures you don't miss any essential tasks during the moving process. For example, noting down utility transfers can ensure you're not left without electricity in your new home. Having a checklist provides a clear roadmap for your move, ensuring you stay organized. Neglecting to create a checklist can result in forgotten tasks, leading to last-minute chaos.

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3. Establish a Budget:

Know what you can spend on the move.

Setting a clear budget helps you manage moving expenses and avoid unexpected costs. If you're moving long-distance, for instance, fuel or accommodation costs can add up. By budgeting, you can allocate funds appropriately and avoid financial strain. Without a budget, you might find yourself overspending or facing financial surprises.

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4. Organize Your Packing Supplies:

‍Plan what you'll need to pack your belongings.

Preparing in advance ensures you have all the necessary materials to safely pack your items. Think about bubble wrap for fragile items like glassware. Having the right supplies on hand ensures your belongings are protected during transit. Failing to organize packing supplies can result in damaged items or additional costs to replace or repair them.

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5. Consume Remaining Food:

Eat up what you can before the move.

Try to eat perishables and reduce grocery shopping to minimize food wastage during the move. For instance, plan meals around what's left in your freezer and pantry. Consuming food before moving reduces wastage and the weight of items to move. If you don't plan, you might end up throwing away a significant amount of food, which is both wasteful and costly.

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Decluttering:

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6. Sort Through Each Room: ‍

Examine your belongings room by room.

For instance, in the living room, decide which furniture pieces will fit in your new space. Sorting helps you identify items you truly need, making your move more efficient. Without this step, you might waste effort and space moving items you'll eventually discard.

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7. Purge Your Closet:

Remove unwanted clothing.

Consider if you've worn each item in the past year. Regularly purging your closet ensures you only move items you love and wear, freeing up space. Neglecting this can result in unnecessary clutter in your new home.

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8. Dispose of Unwanted Items:

‍Get rid of anything you wouldn't purchase again. (click here if you need junk removal services)

For example, an old blender that's been collecting dust might be better off recycled. Disposing of unnecessary items reduces moving weight and helps you start fresh. Holding onto clutter can make unpacking more challenging and time-consuming.

9. Arrange for Donations:

‍Schedule a pickup for items you wish to donate.

Think about those shoes you never wear; someone else might cherish them. Donating is a great way to give back and reduce the volume of your move. Without arranging donations, you might end up with items that take up space or get thrown away.

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10. Think About Short-Term Storage:

‍Consider temporary storage if needed.

For instance, if your new home isn't ready yet, storage can be a lifesaver. Utilizing short-term storage ensures your items are safe until you're ready. Not considering this option might leave you in a bind on moving day.

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11. Engage a Junk Removal Service (click here if you need junk removal services):

Hire professionals to remove unwanted items. For example, old mattresses can be tricky to dispose of on your own. Using a junk removal service ensures proper disposal, recycling, or donation. Without this service, you might struggle with disposal, leading to potential fines or added stress.

Ways to Save Money:

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12. Obtain Multiple Quotes:

Get estimates from at least three moving companies. (If you need professional help, click here.)

For instance, while one company might offer a lower hourly rate, another might include packing materials at no extra cost. Comparing quotes ensures you get the best value for your money. Not shopping around could result in overpaying for services.

13. Explore Moving Options:

Consider all available moving methods. Think about the differences between full-service movers, truck rentals, or portable containers. Exploring all options ensures you choose the most cost-effective and convenient method for your needs. Settling without research might lead to unnecessary expenses or inconvenience.

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14. Seek Free Packing Materials:

‍Look for boxes and supplies at no cost. Local stores or community groups might have boxes they're discarding. Acquiring free materials can significantly reduce your moving costs. Failing to seek out these resources might mean spending more on packing supplies than necessary.

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15. Remain Flexible:

Be open to changes to save money. For example, moving on a weekday might be cheaper than a weekend. Flexibility can lead to cost-saving opportunities, such as off-peak discounts. Being rigid with your plans might mean missing out on potential savings.

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Packing Guidelines:

16. Create a Packing Area: ‍

Designate a space for packing. For instance, using a spare room or garage can help keep things organized. Having a dedicated area streamlines the packing process and keeps your home functional. Without a specific area, you might find your entire home in disarray, causing stress.

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17. Pack Packing Supplies Last:

‍Save these for the end. Think about it: if you pack your tape and scissors early, you'll be searching when you need them. Keeping packing supplies accessible ensures a smoother process. Packing them early can disrupt the flow and slow you down.

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18. Utilize Soft Items:

Use linens and towels for packing. For example, wrap dishes in towels for extra protection. This method not only saves on packing materials but also ensures fragile items are cushioned. Neglecting to use these soft items might result in breakages.

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19. Fill Your Suitcases:

Use them for storage. Consider packing books or heavy items in rolling suitcases for easier transport. Utilizing suitcases maximizes space and makes transporting heavy items easier. Leaving suitcases empty is a missed opportunity for efficient packing.

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20. Assemble Boxes as Needed:

‍Put together boxes when you need them. This way, you don't have a pile of empty boxes taking up space. Assembling on-the-go ensures you use space efficiently and stay organized. Pre-assembling all boxes can clutter your packing area and become overwhelming.

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21. Color-Code Boxes:

Use colors for easy identification. For instance, mark kitchen items in blue and bedroom items in green. Color-coding simplifies the unpacking process, ensuring items go to the right rooms. Without a system, you might waste time searching for items or misplacing them.

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22. Label Boxes by Room:

Mark them according to their destination. This way, movers know exactly where to place each box. Proper labeling speeds up the unpacking process and reduces confusion. Failing to label can lead to misplaced items and added work during the unpacking phase.

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23. Indicate Fragile Items:

‍Mark delicate items clearly. This ensures that anyone handling the box knows to be extra cautious. Properly indicating fragility reduces the risk of damage during transit. Not marking boxes can result in mishandling and potential breakages.

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24. Photograph Box Contents:

‍Take pictures for reference. If you have a box of electronics, a quick photo can remind you of its contents. This method aids in tracking items and ensures you remember the contents of each box. Not doing so might lead to confusion when searching for specific items.

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25. Prepare a Moving Essentials Kit:

Have necessary items handy. Think of it as a travel bag with essentials like toiletries, chargers, and important documents. Having an essentials kit ensures you're not rummaging through boxes for daily necessities. Neglecting to pack one might leave you without crucial items on your first night.

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26. Keep Hardware in Plastic Bags:

‍Store small parts safely. For instance, when disassembling furniture, keep screws and bolts in labeled bags. This organization ensures easy reassembly and prevents lost components. Without proper storage, you might misplace essential parts, making reassembly challenging.

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Want to see an unpacking guide? Check out this article by the spruce.

Bathroom Moving Tips:

27. Pack Essentials Last:

Keep necessities accessible. For instance, you'll want your toothbrush and toiletries handy on the first night. Packing essentials last ensures you have immediate access to daily necessities. Packing them deep within boxes might lead to discomfort or inconvenience.

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28. Maintain a First Aid Kit:

‍Have it handy. Accidents can happen, and having a kit with basics like band-aids and antiseptic can be a lifesaver. Keeping a first aid kit accessible ensures you're prepared for any minor injuries. Not having one could exacerbate small accidents.

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29. Secure Items That Might Spill:

‍Use plastic wrap. For example, place wrap under the lids of shampoos or lotions to prevent leaks. Securing potential spillables protects other items from damage. Failing to do so might result in messy leaks and ruined belongings.

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30. Wrap Fragile Items with Towels:

‍Protect them. Use towels to cushion items like glass perfume bottles. This not only saves on packing materials but also ensures fragile items are cushioned. Not using protection might lead to breakages.

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31. Line Boxes with Towels or Bags:

‍Adds protection. This extra layer can prevent any accidental spills from damaging other items in the box. Lining boxes provides an added layer of security for your belongings. Skipping this step might expose items to potential damage.

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32. Store Jewelry in Egg Cartons:

‍Keeps it organized. For instance, earrings can be kept in individual compartments to prevent tangling. Using egg cartons helps keep jewelry organized and prevents loss or damage. Not using an organizational method can lead to tangled or lost jewelry.

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Kitchen Packing Hacks:

33. Store Small Items in Pots:

‍Utilize space. For example, spices or utensils can be stored inside larger pots. This method maximizes space and keeps related items together. Not using available space might result in inefficient packing and wasted space.

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34. Pack Plates Vertically:

‍Prevents breakage. By stacking plates on their sides, like records, they're less likely to break. Packing plates vertically reduces the risk of damage. Traditional stacking might increase the risk of breakages.

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35. Place Essential Appliances in Laundry Baskets:

‍Keep them together. Items like toasters or blenders can be grouped in baskets for easy transport. Using laundry baskets ensures easy access to essential kitchen items upon arrival. Not grouping essentials might lead to a longer time setting up your new kitchen.

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36. Stack Pots and Pans:

Save space. Nesting them conserves space and ensures they're transported safely. Stacking efficiently maximizes box space and protects items. Not nesting them can waste space and potentially damage handles or lids.

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37. Use Dividers for Glasses and Stemware:

Prevents damage. Cardboard dividers can keep glasses from knocking into each other. Using dividers ensures your fragile items are protected during the move. Without dividers, glasses are at a higher risk of breaking.

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38. Wrap Utensils and Knives:

‍Use trays and dish towels. This keeps sharp items secure and prevents damage. Wrapping sharp items ensures safety and prevents potential injury. Not securing knives might lead to accidents during unpacking.

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39. Clean and Defrost Your Fridge:

‍Prepare it for the move. A clean fridge prevents mold growth and unpleasant odors. Cleaning and defrosting ensure your appliance is ready for immediate use in your new home. Neglecting this step might lead to mold or damage to the appliance.

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40. Prepare Large Appliances if Moving Them:

Disconnect and clean. For instance, ovens should be cleaned and secured. Properly preparing appliances ensures they're safe to move and ready for use. Not preparing them might lead to damage or complications during installation.

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41. Pack Liquids Together:

‍Prevent spills. Group items like oils or sauces in one box. Packing liquids together contains potential spills, protecting other items. Mixing them with other items might result in damage if a spill occurs.

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42. Use Plastic Bins for Liquids:

‍Contain potential leaks. Plastic bins provide an added layer of protection against spills. Using bins ensures that, even if a spill occurs, it's contained. Not using protective containers can risk damage to other items.

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Bedroom Moving Tips:

43. Leave Items in Dresser Drawers:

‍No need to empty them. For instance, clothes in drawers can be left as they are, saving packing time. This approach reduces the number of boxes needed and speeds up the unpacking process. Emptying every drawer can be time-consuming and unnecessary.

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44. Keep Clothes on Hangers:

‍Makes unpacking easier. Instead of folding, transport clothes directly on hangers, perhaps in garment bags. This method simplifies the unpacking process, allowing you to hang clothes directly. Removing clothes from hangers and refolding can be a tedious task upon arrival.

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45. Roll Instead of Fold Clothes:

‍Saves space. Rolled clothes often take up less space than folded ones. This technique maximizes suitcase or box space and can reduce wrinkles. Folding clothes traditionally might consume more space and leave clothes more wrinkled.

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46. Use Large Garbage Bags for Protection:

Handy for clothes and shoes. Slide a garbage bag over hanging clothes as a makeshift garment bag. This protects them from dust and dirt during the move. Not using protection might expose your clothes to potential dirt or damage.

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47. Protect Shoes with Sturdy Boxes:

Liquor store boxes work well. These boxes are often more robust and perfect for protecting footwear. Storing shoes in sturdy boxes ensures they maintain their shape and are protected from potential damage. Using flimsy boxes might result in crushed or damaged shoes.

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48. Cover Your Mattress:

Use a fitted sheet to keep it clean. This simple step can protect your mattress from dirt and dust. Keeping your mattress clean ensures a good night's sleep the first night in your new home. Not covering it might expose it to dirt or potential stains.

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Living Room Packing Tips:

49. Inventory Valuable Electronics: ‍

List and label them. For instance, cataloging items like gaming systems or sound equipment ensures you keep track. Taking inventory ensures you have all your valuable items accounted for upon arrival. Not doing so might lead to confusion or potential loss.

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50. Label Cords and Manuals:

‍Keep them organized. For example, using labeled zip-lock bags for cords corresponding to specific devices can be a lifesaver. Properly labeling ensures easy setup in your new home. Mixing up cords or losing manuals can lead to setup headaches.

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51. Backup Your Computer:

Save important data. Before moving, ensure all essential files are backed up to an external drive or cloud storage. Backing up safeguards your valuable data against potential damage during the move. Not doing so risks losing irreplaceable files or data.

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52. Photograph Your TV's Back:

‍For setup reference. A quick snapshot of how cords are plugged in can simplify the setup process in your new home. Having a reference photo ensures a hassle-free setup. Without it, you might spend unnecessary time figuring out connections.

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53. Protect Your TV:

Use a moving blanket if the original box is unavailable. Wrapping your TV can prevent scratches or damage. Proper protection ensures your electronics remain in top condition. Not protecting large electronics might expose them to potential damage.

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54. Remove Light Bulbs and Parts from Large Items:

Take them out for safety. For instance, removing bulbs from lamps ensures they don't break during the move. Taking precautions with fragile components ensures they arrive intact. Not doing so might lead to broken parts or additional replacement costs.

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